In a groundbreaking move for adaptive sports in Japan, Nishikawa Seiki Co., Ltd., based in Edogawa, Tokyo, has announced the launch of the
IBIS, a compound bow specially designed for archery enthusiasts. Set to hit the market on
October 1, 2023, this innovative product marks Japan's first entry into the world of compound bows, with a design that is not just a variation of traditional recurve bows but rather engineered specifically for compound use.
Background of Development
The initiative behind the
IBIS was fueled by the success of archery in promoting para sports, particularly highlighted during the
Tokyo Paralympics held in the summer of
2021. The compound bow's significance in the history of the Paralympics is profound, as it is recognized as one of the original sports since the first archery competition in
1948. The development of this bow aims to encourage more individuals with disabilities to engage in sports and elevate compound archery as a premier adaptive competitive discipline. Nishikawa Seiki's collaboration with various partners, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Technology Research Institute and Professor Toshihiro Irie from Nihon University, was pivotal in delivering a functioning prototype by
March 2023 through joint research efforts.
Understanding the Compound Bow
Originally invented in the
1960s in the United States, the compound bow integrates physical principles such as pulleys, cables, and levers, making it significantly more efficient than traditional bows. Unlike standard archery equipment, compound bows leverage a system that allows users to exert force more effectively when drawing back the string. The device is characterized by an important feature called
let-off, which provides a significant reduction in draw weight—typically between
50-70%. This is a huge advantage for archers, as it enables steady aiming and enhances accuracy, ultimately improving their chances of hitting the target.
Features of the IBIS Bow
The
IBIS, weighing in at
1,600g and measuring
26 inches in length, is notably lighter and shorter compared to existing models on the market. Designed specifically for beginners, women, and individuals with disabilities, it has a relatively low draw weight of
30 pounds, making it highly accessible. Nishikawa Seiki aims to redefine what it means to engage with archery equipment by adopting a
universal sports approach, ensuring that everyone, regardless of physical capability, can participate in the sport.
Pricing and Availability
The retail price for the
IBIS is set at
280,000 yen (excluding tax). It will be available through various archery shops across Japan, paving the way for a new wave of participants in the sport.
Manufacturer and Contact Information
The bearings used in the IBIS's cam and module components are supplied by Minebea Mitsumi Co., Ltd., showcasing the collaboration between leading manufacturers crucial for high-performance sports equipment. For more inquiries regarding
IBIS, you may reach out to Nishikawa Seiki Co., Ltd. at the following contact details:
Additional Resources
For further information about
IBIS and opportunities in adaptive sports, visit the dedicated website at NK Archery:
Through the development of the
IBIS, Nishikawa Seiki is not only providing a new sporting opportunity for disabled communities but also contributing to the growth of the archery community in Japan as a whole. It's a compelling step towards inclusivity in sports, reminding us all of the pioneering spirit embodied by the champions of archery, both past and present.