As an expert in the field of archery and pop culture, I am well-versed in the various types of bows used by different characters in comic books, television shows, and movies. The character you are referring to, the Green Arrow, is a popular superhero from the DC Comics universe, known for his exceptional archery skills and use of a bow and arrow as his primary weapon.

In the television series "Arrow," which aired from 2012 to 2020, the character of Roy Harper, also known as Arsenal, is a protege of the Green Arrow and uses a bow as well. The show's depiction of archery has been a subject of interest and discussion among fans and archery enthusiasts alike.

In Season 2 of the series, Roy Harper, portrayed by Colton Haynes, indeed used a variety of bows. One of them was a Scythian Asiatic bow, which is historically known for its use by horseback archers. This type of bow is characterized by its distinctive shape and design, which allows for a powerful draw and release. It is a recurve bow, meaning that the limbs of the bow curve away from the archer when unstrung, which contributes to its efficiency and power.

Moving on to the current season, Roy Harper is seen using a recurve bow. Recurve bows are widely recognized for their performance in both traditional archery and the Olympics. They are named for the distinctive "recurve" in the limbs, which curves away from the archer at the tips. This design feature increases the speed and power of the arrow, making it an excellent choice for both hunting and competitive archery.

The show's production team also made a specific choice for another character, Malcolm Merlyn, played by John Barrowman. They opted for a compound bow for his character. Compound bows are known for their mechanical advantage, which allows archers to hold the bow at full draw for an extended period without as much fatigue. This type of bow uses a system of pulleys or cams to assist in the draw and release of the arrow.

Additionally, the character Nyssa al Ghul and the League of Assassins are equipped with the same modified PSE compound bow. PSE, or Pacific Sporting Goods, is a well-known manufacturer of archery equipment, and their compound bows are often used for hunting and competitive archery. The modification likely refers to custom adjustments made for the specific needs and aesthetics of the show, ensuring that the bows not only perform well but also fit the characters' personas and the show's visual style.

In conclusion, the bows used by the characters in "Arrow" reflect a mix of traditional and modern archery practices. The show's creators have made thoughtful choices in selecting bows that not only suit the characters' backgrounds and skills but also contribute to the overall narrative and visual appeal of the series. The use of the Scythian Asiatic bow, recurve bows, and compound bows showcases the diversity and richness of archery as both a sport and a means of storytelling.

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In Season 2, Roy/Arsenal used a couple of bows, including a Scythian Asiatic bow, which was sometimes used by horseback archers. This season, he uses a recurve. The production team wanted a compound bow for Malcolm Merlyn, and Nyssa al Ghul and the League of Assassins all use the same modified PSE compound.Oct 9, 2014read more >>