Handling is an important consideration when selecting a bow. It refers to the rate at which a weapon fires and reloads; the faster it can handle, the quicker you’ll be able to fire and reload at will.
Accuracy begins with how you hold the bow. Proper gripping helps eliminate unwanted torque during shots and keeps you in proper shooting form, which may affect arrow flight.
Bow limbs are typically constructed of fiberglass or other composite materials, with some pieces being single solid pieces and others consisting of multiple layers laminated together. Solid limbs tend to be more vulnerable to failure (cracking, splintering or breaking), while split designs tend to warp less and wear differently which could affect arrow flight and accuracy.
Pernambuco wood for bows is a widely sought-after material due to its superior strength and stiffness. This hardwood can be found primarily in the center of a pau brasil tree that grows along Brazil’s Atlantic coastline, offering an abundant supply of dense, strong material that has been used for centuries in bow-making.
Brazilianwood is another popular wood for bows. This outer sapwood of the pau brazil tree has similar strength to Pernambuco but not quite the same rigidity. It’s more commonly used as a cheaper cello bow due to its responsive qualities but not quite as stable or strong as Pernambuco.
Carbon fiber is another popular material for bows, although it’s relatively new to the market. This strong and lightweight material boasts resistance to humidity and temperature changes which could otherwise cause bows to degrade.
When selecting a bow, the axle to axle length of the weapon should also be taken into account. A long bow may not be ideal when hunting from a blind, while one that’s too short could compromise your accuracy when in a treestand.
When selecting the length of a bow, there is no right or wrong answer; everyone has their own individual preferences. If you’re uncertain which length works best for you, try out several different bows before making a final choice.
As a general guideline, select a bow with an axle-to-axle length that feels comfortable in your hands. This will enable you to maintain consistent and accurate draw weight – the most crucial aspect of archery – which will enhance performance.
Finally, selecting the proper material for your bow is essential. Bows come in a range of materials and can be quite expensive.
Bows are commonly made out of pernambuco, Brazilwood and carbon fiber. These materials offer the greatest durability and dependability when it comes to bows.
