Unlike many LARPS, Fractured allows the use of real bows and arrows in combat. However, due to the limitations of these items, as well as an increased safety risk if they are used improperly, we require every player that uses a bow to undergo a mandatory safety training once a year. Further, there are some restrictions to the actual dimensions and pull of the weapons. These restrictions are for the safety of everyone involved, and will not be negotiated.

Bows: NO STRONGER than 30lbs

Crossbows: NO STRONGER than 25lbs

If you are unsure as to the pull of your weapon, and can not prove that it is within these requirements, we will not be able to approve it for use.

Additionally, a bow must be shot at a MINIMUM distance of 15 feet from the target. If a target is running and makes it within 15 feet before the shot is fired, then that is a disadvantage of the bow, and you should probably have a friend with a shield.

Finally, we ask that you do not blind fire, shoot directly into doorways, or aim at the face of any players. We know these are solid tactics for a real bow warrior, but the monsters aren’t really monsters and don’t deserve to catch an arrow in the face. Knees are still valid targets.

Arrows and bolts must be approved individually before each game by a plot member. We are very strict on the upkeep and safety of these weapons, so if there is any question whether or not they will pass, it’s safe to assume they wont. Please make sure your arrows or bolts are safe before arriving!

Here are some arrows that, if well maintained, are almost guaranteed to pass.

This brand is also generally acceptable, however, we may ask that you duct tape the head to the shaft to prevent accidents.

If you’re feeling crafty, this is a pretty good tutorial on how to make safe arrows. Make sure you use plenty of open-cell phone!

Crossbows are pretty cool. Unfortunately, finding a crossbow with a pull under 25 pounds can be difficult, and they tend to be some of the most expensive items. To help our players still have fun and live out their Van Helsing fantasies, we at Fractured allow the use of NERF and other dart crossbows, with some restrictions.

The crossbow must propel the dart or arrow by a string mechanism: plunger based mechanisms are not allowed. For instance, this is fine, while this would NOT be ok, despite looking like a crossbow.

All dart crossbows MUST be painted or modified to look more fitting to the game. Please do not bring in a stock, bright green and orange crossbow that has a giant NERF logo on it. For instance, this is acceptable aesthetically, this is obviously not.

Ammunition must be safe. Generally, all NERF bolts are safe enough for combat, but please check with a marshal if you are unsure.

Dart crossbows still follow the 15 foot safety rule mentioned above, even if they are significantly safer.

Crossbows are a unique weapon, and as such, have some unique rules attached to them. These rules may seem restrictive, but remember; a crossbow is a ‘free’ ranged weapon that requires no in-game skill to use (unlike Thrown), has unlimited ammo, and can be acquired cheaply (some NERF crossbows retail for under ten dollars now). These rules are in place to prevent Fractured from becoming a shootout in every battle.

When loading a crossbow, the player is required to count to 3 in a normal speaking voice (spoken as Reloading 1, 2, 3). This count should be three seconds long and represents not only the time required to load and prime a crossbow, but the noise associated in doing so.

Research into SQ crossbows can be performed by anyone, but tinkerers are likely to return different modifications than crafters. However, all SQ properties of a crossbow require at least one level in the Bow skill to utilize.