Y.S. Hudiakov, K.Sh. Tabaldiev, A.Y. Borisenko, and K.T. Akmatov.
The article addresses the topic of composite bows from nomadic sites in Tien Shan and Zhetysu. Horn plates from bows discovered in 2008–2009 at Uch-Kurbu on the Tosor River, the Issyk-Kul Depression (Kyrgyzstan), are described and analyzed. The original design of the wooden core of the bow and the location of horn plates thereon are reconstructed. Based on our earlier classifi cation of weapons, these are composite bows of the Xiongnu-Xianbei period. Two subtypes are identifi ed, based on the design of plates at the ends of the bow. Evidently, composite bows with end, medio-lateral, and medio-frontal plates were the most effi cient range weapon of the period.
Keywords: Composite bows, horn plates, nomads, Issyk-Kul Depression, Tien Shan, Kyrgyzstan.
