Native American quivers can be seen in every Native Americans who own a bow and an arrow. They are strategically positioned at the back of the holder to for them to have ease of access to their weapons. The structure of a Native American quiver is highly dependent on the characteristics of the bow and arrows being used. As such, they are designed personally and are customized depending on the desires of the owner.
Native American Quivers – Users
There is no discrimination as to who can use quivers. Children of Native Americans are given the choice to own one as they practice their usage of bows and arrows. As mentioned, there is no standard way in which a quiver can be made. It is up to the owner on how he would design them, depending on what will make him comfortable. Quivers can be carried through the hip or it can placed at the back of the person carrying it. The position is designed to be strategic so that the users can easily grab the arrows when they are hunting or fighting. The acceptable time in which arrows could be accessed through the quiver is around 3-4 seconds. Beyond that, the quiver is already more of a hassle than an aid.
Native American Quivers – What They Are Made Of
An Indian quiver is usually made of either of the following: leather, bark, fibers, wood, furs, and any other form of natural materials. However, as Native Americans became accustomed to hunting, they have started incorporating animal skins in their quiver, especially those from fox, otter, deer, coyote and beaver. Animal made quivers are often common in tribes such as Navajo and Cherokee. What is important here is that the materials used for the quivers are strong enough for it not be ripped by the sharp ends of the arrows. At the same time, it should also be strong enough to survive longer hours of travel, considering that Native Americans are prone to travelling form one place to another. Also, most of the time, Native Americans design their quivers with medicinal wheel as a sign of them wishing for good health. Pelts can also be found in many quivers during the stone age, especially those coming from the north.
Native American Quivers – Design
As part of the need for accessibility, quivers are designed to be open, or if not, they are covered by “flip-back” which can easily be openned wherever and whenever. the bottom are is seamed. For carrying, the straps of quivers are made of high quality leather which are imbedded with partterns and designs that are handmade by the Native Americans. As such, these straps are considered one of the many evidences of the artistic skills of the Native Americans. Designs are maid through quillwork and beadwork, and there were also paints. There were designs that are exclusive to different tribes, with symbols that represent them. At the same time, it is usually common to see quivers with feathers as their designs.
