How to Make a PVC Bow and Arrow

Last Updated: August 10, 2021

PVC is a great material for bows because it is flexible and can hold tension well, plus, it is readily available and very affordable. With these simple instructions and just a few tools, you can create a bow and arrow out of PVC pipe in no time!

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Basic Bow

1
Take a long tube of PVC, and cut it into a piece about 4-feet long (120 cm) for a short bow, or 6-feet for a long bow.^{[1]
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2
Cut a small groove into the ends (to hold the string) with a hacksaw.^{[2]
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3
Take your string (preferably masonry twine) and tie a loop on one end. Then take the other end and pull it through the other groove.^{[3]
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4
Pull it tight, then cut the extra string off and leave room for a knot.
5
Tie a knot at the end to hold the string - then you're ready to shoot with your bow.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Heavy Duty Bow

1
Cut a line down one side of a 1/2-inch thick and 5-foot long piece of PVC pipe. Using a saw, try to cut the line as straight as possible.
2
Spray PVC pipes with WD-40. Spray inside each end of a 3/4-inch thick and 5-foot long piece of PVC pipe, and the outside of the piece you just cut.
3
Put the 1/2-inch thick PVC pipe inside the 3/4-inch thick piece. It will be a tight fit; you may need to use the ground for leverage. Be careful not to snap the pipe.^{[4]
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4
Measure and mark 3/4 of an inch down from each end of the pipe.
5
Drill a hole with a 1/8-inch drill bit at each mark. Be sure the holes are aligned and even on both sides of each end.
6
Saw through each end of the pipe down to the drilled holes using a hacksaw.
7
Smooth the cut sections with a metal file. You can also use rough grit sandpaper to make the cuts even smoother.^{[5]
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8
Clean the bow to remove any dust. You can spray paint the bow at this point, and attach a piece of pipe insulation with electrical tape for a handle.
9
Wrap a fiber glass rod (3/8-inch thick and 4-foot 5-inch long) with duct tape, and then with electrical tape.^{[6]
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10
Insert fiberglass rod into PCV pipes.^{[7]
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11
String the bow following steps 3 through 5 for the Basic Bow above, and you are ready to use your bow!

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

The Arrow

1
Take another suitable tube of PVC.
2
Take a dowel and cut a grove into the end with your hacksaw for the string.
3
Attach fletchings if you have any. If not, attach a nail to the end with duct tape to be a weight - it steadies the arrow.
4
Now you can shoot with your bow!

Community Q&A

Question

How long does it last?

Community Answer

It can last years if stored in optimum conditions, out of direct sunlight and in moderate temperatures.
Question

Can it be used for hunting?

Community Answer

Yes.
Question

Is the arrow dangerous?

Community Answer

Any arrow is dangerous when fired from a bow. Do not fire it at anything you do not intend to kill.

Warnings

Don't shoot at people - this bow can be very powerful (depends on the PVC).

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Don't shoot at any other living things (same as above).

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