User blog comment:Runner225/PLEASE HELP!!! BIG TIME!!!/@comment-1845073-20130223051745
Warning: I'm still searching for a way to reverse this process, so use at your own risk.
The only way to remove the bow is through the use of a glitch, I've used this method myself so it's tried and tested.
Step 1: Map the bow and the "Horse Whistle" tools to your quick selection wheel (any of the slots will do).
Step 2: Equip the hidden blades and have the bow selected as your current tool.
Step 3: Press Q to begin taking out your bow(Or if you're on a console, the button you use for using/taking out your currently selected tool) and then very quickly press the button you mapped the "Horse Whistle" to. If done correctly the bow will be stuck in Connor's hand. Note: This may take you a few tries, but it's definitely doable.
Step 4: Make sure the bow is good 'n stuck by sliding out your hidden blades, if the bow remains in Connor's hand you've done it right.
Step 5: Find yourself two very unfortunate guards, and proceed to do a running assassination on them from the sides (the one where he leaps on one from the side, and spins to stab the other).
If you perform all of these steps correctly, you'll now be able to play around with no bow. To show it can be done here's some proof.
Enjoy.