Hi Mr Cornwell, I have just spent an enjoyable Medieval Day in Cheshire and had the opportunity to speak to an archer who was kind enough to explain the workings of an Italian yew longbow and the arrows he used. (He could actually draw a full pull on the bow!). It was amazingly light to hold considering its size. I thought that it might be of interest to you to know that he explained that the Italian yew staves had to be supplied to England in at least 6 foot lengths because under that length incurred a tax! Kind Regards Tony