Why a Short Bow? ~45 inches

 The short bow for the plains indians, was generally of a good wood, like Osage or elm, with sinew backing, but not always. 

The backed bow I use is of elm, with a solid sinew layer on the back. These bows are fast, reach a draw that is stronger than I can pull - wich is great as I can impove and the power can be regulated - are moble, hunting capable, and with great practice - accurate. They fire very differently than the long draw long bow. The feel of the shot is more like the sling shot than the bow; in time, you can master the instinctive aim. 

Shooting is fast. Like any archery, feel the arrow and use the power of the limbs to fire the arrow fast and deep.

The short bow is woods moble. Short and easy to maneuver.

It's important to back the short bow with sinew. Sinew gives it a desirable snap and speed when glued to a well made bow back; with many woods, this also includes heat treatment.