This bow is an easy build with minimal tools. This particular one is a Halloween prop, but still pulls about 25lbs.
With minor adjustments, this technique could easily be approved upon and you could have an awesome long bow (or even recurve) with a pull of atleast 45lbs for under $10!

Step 1: Materials and Tools

You will need the following:

-5 foot piece of PVC pipe. 3/4 inch is a good starting point, but use your own judgement for your project's needs.

-Small Hose Clamp

-Paracord (about 4 1/2 feet)

-File or hacksaw

-Twine, paint with sponge brush, and sandpaper for aesthetics. (Optional.)

Step 2: Making the Notch

Your bowstring needs a slight notch to sit in on your new bow. The process is super simple.

Measure up an inch from the bottom of your PVC pipe and mark it. Begin filing or using your hack saw here until your notch is deep enough for your paracord to rest comfortably. Contour your notch into a slight frown.

Repeat the same step on the other end of your pipe. Make sure to make your new notch on the same side!

Step 3: Make It Look Cool

Here is where your creativity can really shine. I wanted to go for a faux wood look, but the possibilities are endless.

For this look, give your PVC a good rub down with the sandpaper. Get rid of any of the printed ink on the pipe so your paint will look it's best.

I used shades of brown and a sponge brush to get the effect you see. This method is really forgiving. Don't like the way that last stroke looked? Go over it.

Step 4: String It

There are a ton of ways to string your bow. The easiest I found was to tie a bowline knot on one end.
Slide it into its notch and stretch it to the next notch.
Cut your paracord about 4 inches short of this second notch to get a good length.
Make a second bowline.
Stand your PVC pipe up with the side with the paracord on the bottom. (the PVC should be facing your back.)
Place your leg between the pipe and cord.
Flex the pipe down as your bring your loop up and into its notch you now have a strung bow!

(I couldn't get a visual of this step, but YouTube is a great resource.)

Step 5: Adding the Arrow Rest

I am not an archer and shooting without an arrow rest was a real challenge.

My easy fix was a hose clamp.

Hold your bow and find the naturally comfortable spot for your arrow. Add your clamp here and tighten. I wrapped the twine here for my handle using a few simple knots to get it to stay in place.

Step 6: Go Forth and Be Awesome.

Congratulations! You're the new owner of a one of the kind bow. I'd love to see what you come up with so be sure to comment some photos.

If you enjoyed this tutorial vote in the Halloween Props contest and Survival Ready contest.

If you really dig it do a little research and you'll find a ton of methods that include recurves, added fiberglass cores, etc all on a frugal budget.