Combat archery in the SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism) is a form of armored combat that incorporates the use of bows and crossbows to simulate medieval warfare. It’s a unique and exciting blend of historical reenactment and live-action combat.
What Combat Archery Is
Combat archery involves fighters using specially modified, low-poundage bows or crossbows to shoot safety-tipped arrows or bolts at other armored participants during large battles or melees. It mimics historical battlefield conditions where archers played a pivotal role.
Equipment
- Bows and Crossbows: Must meet SCA draw-weight regulations
- Arrows/Bolts: Made with padded, rubber-tipped, or other approved “combat-safe” heads
- Armor: Archers must wear the same level of protective gear as other armored combatants, including rigid protection for the head, neck, elbows, knees, kidneys, and groin.
- Helmets: Must have face protection adequate to withstand a blunt arrow strike or rattan strike.
Rules & Safety
- Strict rules govern archery safety, including:
- Minimum engagement distances
- Prohibited aiming at faces unless well-armored
- No drawing the bow past a certain point to limit kinetic energy
- Marshals inspect all equipment and oversee engagements.
Where It Is Used
- War scenarios like Pennsic War, Gulf Wars, and regional events.
- Battlefield tactics often include coordinated infantry and archery units.
- Siege scenarios, woods battles, and castle assaults commonly feature combat archery.
What It Is Not
- Not target archery: this is not standing in a line shooting at bulls-eyes, that is part of the SCA, though is a separate discipline.
- Not LARP-style archery: the SCA uses a more structured, historical model with full armor and real contact rules.