Since we have now crossed the Atlantic with this discussion lets also cross the Pacific. It looks like Chinese crossbow tradition goes back quite a long ways.

Remains of ancient Chinese hand held crossbow, 2nd century B.C.

Hey all you archers, to hell with all archery equipment. Lets get real steeped in tradition and make our own spears and loin cloths.

Traditionally this is how it was done for thousands of years until someone invented fiber glass, perfected the lamination process, invented the steel mill, invented the modern textile mill, invented a way to use aluminum and carbon for arrows.

This thread gets funnier and funnier the longer it goes on.