The origins, evolutionEvolution, and widespread use of historicalHistorical reenactment bows are presented, emphasizing the variation in design (self-bows, composite bows, longbows). BowBow construction is briefly summarized. The influence of bowBow geometryGeometry on theInternal ballistics internal ballisticsBallistics is discussed. Arrows need to be matched to the bowBow, to ensure a smooth launch and flight. The trifecta of Eurasian SteppeSteppe geography, horses, and composite bows is introduced. The profound and destructive influence of horse-archerHorse-archer nomadicNomad, nomadic pasturalists (Huns, Mongols) on Eurasian historyHistory, Historian is emphasized. A simple model of bow physics explains many observed features of bowBow dynamics: draw weightWeight, arrowArrow launchLaunch speed speedSpeed, efficiencyEfficiency, performancePerformance differences between types of bowBow. English and Japanese longbows, and their influence upon historyHistory, Historian, are contrasted. The Archer’s ParadoxArcher’s paradox is discussed and resolved.