Bow Skill Guide

Alright, I see a lot of post where people critique the combat. One of the bigger complaints I see is the bow skill line. TBH I think frustration with the bow is merited. I’ve beat a couple playthroughs where I gave up on using the bow all together. But since then I’ve learned a few things. On my first playthrough all the NPCs enjoyed mocking my lack of bow skills.

Disclaimer: I’m writing this from my experience, I doubt it is perfect. If you want to add or correct something feel free.

Here is what I have found to be really useful to understand. Find a bow trainer ASAP (Berthold or Nicolas), hunt using stealth, wear low noise equipment, make sure you have the stats to use your bow. If you are struggling with sway get a low stat bow till you pass Bow lvl 5.

Bows are better in conjunction with other skills/perks. Stealth, hunting, drinking, and alchemy for example. (Idk remember exact names of skills so sorry for that in advance.)

Crouching Chameleon= 30% improvement to stealth

Drinking Habit in conjunction with Bowmans Brew= plus 7 to bow skill and temporary 25% reduction to bow sway during under the influence.

Forester and Wild at Heart= sneakier in the woods and animals less like to run away

Savage= improved stats outside of towns/villages

Get the Reading skill line: there a 4 of each category of books but I found the strength, agility, stealth, and hunting books to be the most useful. The hunting books can be found at Game masters Nicolas and Berthold, Talmberg baths, and treasure chest 18.

Basic aiming tips figure out what your reticle is, I use the top of Henry’s hand or the tip of the arrow. Fully draw the arrow back, this effects trajectory/aiming. Until you are better with the bow Do Not move while shooting.

Here’s an response I wrote to someone else asking about bows, hopefully it helps.