Recurve bows are a popular choice for archery enthusiasts and beginners. Not only are they easy to use, but they offer several advantages over traditional bows as well.
Recurve bow limbs can be made from wood, fiberglass, or carbon fiber and are curved to evenly distribute the draw weight of the bow.
Draw length
When shopping for a recurve bow, the draw length is an essential factor to consider. It determines how forcefully you need to pull back to full draw and helps determine accuracy. Furthermore, it impacts how quickly an arrow releases from its rest and how easily you can shoot with it.
When selecting the appropriate draw length for a recurve bow, your height and how you plan to use the bow should be taken into consideration. A bow that is too long may become difficult to hold at full draw and may even make aiming at your target difficult.
When purchasing a bow, the draw length can vary. However, you should ensure that it corresponds with your body and arm size so you get maximum benefit from using it effectively.
Measure the draw length of a recurve bow using either a measuring arrow or tape measure. Measure from the nock point on the string to where your bow grip pivots plus 1 3/4 inches.
Another method for determining the draw length of a recurve bow is by measuring its limbs and riser. Generally, these will be 25 inches or longer while the limbs themselves will be longer. So for example, short limbs with 23-inch riser will result in 65-inch bow, while medium pair of limbs plus 27-inch riser equals 70 inches in bow length.
Archers typically choose a recurve bow with a draw length of 28 inches or greater, which is ideal for most users. However, those of height may want to opt for a bow with an extended draw length.
If you’re uncertain about the draw length of a recurve bow, visiting an archery shop is always recommended. They can accurately measure the draw length for you and suggest which bow best meets your needs.
Weight
When selecting a recurve bow, weight is an essential factor to take into account. This is especially pertinent if you plan to hunt with it as making sure your chosen bow has sufficient power to dispatch any prey that tries to escape.
Recurve bows range in weight depending on their draw length and draw weight from 15 pounds to 70 pounds or more, making this an incredibly wide range for any archery bow. Before making a purchase, it’s important to consider what purpose you plan on using the bow for.
Recurve bows tend to be heavier than longbows due to the absence of a let-off feature, necessitating you to hold the bow for longer periods of time. While this can pose an obstacle for beginners, it is possible to become comfortable with this setup over time.
The length of a recurve bow can also influence its weight, as longer models typically feature heavier limbs. This is usually advantageous for hunters as arrows will fly much faster when using these types of bows.
Recurve bows can be more challenging to shoot than longbows due to the additional upper body strength required. This could pose a problem for novice archers who may not yet possess strong arms or shoulders.
Another factor is that recurve bow limbs can twist when not shot properly, leading to your arrows hitting the ground before they hit their target. Torquing can also contribute to uneven distribution of energy within a compound compound bow.
Unfortunately, this is a common issue with recurve bows and can be easily remedied through proper shooting technique. Longbow limbs don’t torque when not shot correctly.
Bowhunters must often adhere to certain draw weights due to legal regulations. This is an integral part of the process, helping you take out your quarry quickly and legally.
When selecting a recurve bow, consult your archery instructor about the appropriate draw weight. Target archers generally opt for bows with relatively light draw weights as this makes them more comfortable and reduces their likelihood of injuring themselves or others.
Bowstring
The bowstring is an integral component of a recurve bow. It helps transfer archer energy onto the arrow and holds it steady, so selecting the ideal bowstring for your needs is paramount.
Recurve bow strings come in a range of materials, such as Dacron and High-Modulus Polyethylene (HMPE). Both provide speed and strength to help you shoot faster.
These materials are lightweight and ideal for those who need to shoot at a rapid rate. Furthermore, they resist moisture – an essential trait in keeping bowstrings from deteriorating.
When purchasing string for the first time, it will often come coated in wax to hold its individual strands together and prevent them from unraveling. This makes the string easier to hold onto while increasing its lifespan.
It’s essential to regularly unstring the bow and restring it after shooting. Otherwise, the bowstring could become damaged or break, resulting in serious injury to the shooter. Therefore, investing in a quality bow stringer is recommended for this task; helping ensure proper care of your weapon.
Recurve bows come in two varieties: traditional recurves and modern recurves. A modern recurve looks similar to its wood counterpart but features metal risers that attach the limbs instead of wood. Some modern recurves also utilize carbon fiber limbs for increased durability and speed.
Another type of recurve bow is the longbow, which features a long and gradually curving back limb that forms an “D” when strung. When strung, the bowstring loops around these grooved limb tips, causing them to flex slightly.
Recurve bows can be used by either left- or right-handed archers, depending on where the arrow rest is situated. When choosing which hand to pull the bow, consider whether you have eye dominance as this could dictate which side should pull it first.
When purchasing a recurve bow, the draw length should be taken into account. Selecting an appropriate draw length that will fit your draw and provide comfort is key when making your purchase.
Archery accessories
Archery accessories can enhance your recurve bow shooting experience. Some are more common than others, but they all play an essential role in maintaining the safety and performance of recurve bows.
Bow cases are essential accessories for any bowhunter, protecting and storing your archery equipment securely. Most bow cases feature multiple compartments to accommodate various types of archery gear.
Arm guards are an essential archery accessory for both target shooters and bowhunters, as they protect the arm from injuries caused by string slaps when you release your arrow. These wrist slaps can be painful and even lead to scarring if not worn correctly.
Brush buttons are an essential recurve bow accessory, as they prevent debris from getting caught between the string and limb. Available in 11/16” and 7/8” sizes, brush buttons can be installed on any recurve bow string for added safety and convenience.
Fur silencers are an essential tool for recurve bows, as they reduce or eliminate string slap when you release an arrow. Typically made of beaver, otter, or muskrat fur, fur silencers help dampen shock from string slap.
Recurve bows must have stabilizers as they reduce vibration and shock after releasing an arrow, helping keep weight off the limbs for improved stability.
Arrows are an essential element of archery, consisting of long rods with feather attachments on the back and a sharp pointed tip at the front. Arrows come in many materials, but aluminum is usually chosen for its lightweight properties.
Archery requires selecting the proper type of arrow for your bow and use. Make sure the spine of the arrow matches up to your draw length and weight so it will be more accurate when shooting it.
Some recurve bows come equipped with a plunger, which helps absorb vibration when you release an arrow. This improves accuracy and keeps the arrow in position during shooting.
