Only Twice in Six Movies Did Legolas Run Out of Arrows — And Here’s Why
No, he didn’t have a magical self-refilling quiver.
Legolas’ unerring aim in The Lord of the Rings made it seem like his quiver never emptied. But both Tolkien’s books and Peter Jackson’s films showed otherwise: on just two rare occasions, the elf ran out completely — and had to improvise
His Bow as the First Line of Battle
As the Fellowship’s deadliest archer, Legolas could strike from afar while others fought up close. But even he had limits — arrows run out. To me, that made him more compelling: not invincible, just resourceful.
Restocking the Quiver
After Moria, Legolas had only three arrows left. In Lothlórien, Galadriel gifted him a new bow and quiver of green-feathered arrows. Later, he replenished supplies in Edoras, Helm’s Deep, Minas Tirith — or by scavenging from the battlefield, even using Uruk-hai shafts when needed.
What the Books Say
Tolkien notes Legolas often retrieved arrows after battles, but at Amon Hen and Helm’s Deep, he too was forced into knife fighting. To me, these rare moments made his rivalry with Gimli’s axe count even more fun to follow.
Why No 'Endless Quiver'
Many fantasy settings give archers magical gear with infinite arrows. But Tolkien’s magic was subtler, rooted in nature rather than gimmicks.
