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What is a Recurve Bow?

What is a recurve bow?  First and foremost it is the most popular bow in use today.  Its history goes back 1,000's of years, as far back as 2,000 years B.C.  History has traced its roots to Egypt, the Middle East, and Asia.  You can find evidence of the recurve bow used by the Roman Empire, from there it spread throughout Europe and finally to our American ancestors.  Today it is the bow of choice for most beginners.  It is commonly found in competition such as the Olympics, and widely used for hunting in general.  Properly used it is extremely accurate and very deadly.

Its name "recurve bow" comes from the way it appears when viewing from the side.   The "recurve" as it is commonly referred to, it has a very unique design.  This style of bow curves away from the archer.  This design results in a speeder and more forceful arrow, allowing for better accuracy and a deadly kill.  The string is not connected to its tips like in other bows but to its limbs.  When the string is drawn, the limbs of the bow curve back towards the archer before snapping into position again when the string is released.  This type of bow is the only one allowed in the Olympics and in most other types of competition.  They come in different sizes and makes, including aluminum, magnesium, and carbon-aluminum.  The recurve bow is made up of three parts: the "riser" (handle) and two "limbs" which slot or screw into the riser.  Many advances have been introduced with modern sophisticated technology making the recurve bow extremely reliable, in order to give the customer the best performance at a reasonable cost.

Risers or handles will have a center shot design;. This cut-out or sight-window allows the arrow to lie in the direct center of the handle in direct line with the string path.

The ability to set the arrow in the center shot, and to adjust the center shot is critical when trying to increase accuracy.

Bow Length It is critical to ensure an archer shoots with a bow which is of proper length for their height and draw length (how far back they can draw the string back).

The bow length is measured between the shoulders of the Bow Nock where the string contacts the bow when it is strung. Most bows are marked, usually on the bottom limb, with the bow's length.

Bow Weight When starting out use a bow less than 20lb in weight, only light draw weight bows should be used. The recurve bow should never be too "heavy" (in draw weight), as this will cause fatigue and inaccuracy in a student's ability to control the bow at Full Draw.

As the archer becomes more efficient they should increase to a heavier bow weight, but never use a bow that is to "heavy" in bow weight for their ability.

When purchasing your first recurve start with a light weight bow that is comfortable to handle, and that you are able to shoot all day without getting fatigued. As you practice, gain strength and ability, you should slowly increase your bow weight over time.

Choosing a Recurve Bow You will need to find the one that is best for you regarding draw length and weight. You should measure your arm span accurately. To find your arm span hold out your arms out to your sides with the palms facing forward without stretching and get someone to measure the length from one middle finger to the other. The draw length is then your arm span divided by 2 1/2. Now you need to find the correct recurve bow length. For a draw length less than twenty eight inches choose one that is between 62″ and 66″ long. For a draw length of more than twenty eight inches choose a bow that is between 66″ and 70″ long.

Finding the Best Draw Weight This is the force needed to pull back the bowstring completely. For hunting a higher draw weight is recommended. The force that you need also depends on your strength and size and will be different for children than for adults. You should be able to pull back the bowstring and hold it for at least 8 - 10 seconds. If you can hold it easily for much longer then the draw weight is too light and you should try a different one.

These guidelines may help you to choose the correct draw weight. For a small woman 25-25lbs, a small man, 45-55 lbs, a larger woman 45-55 lbs and a larger man 65-75lbs. Remember these are general guidelines.

Conclusion

Archery is great fun. A recurve bow is the best choice for trying archery in general.  Archery is fast becoming a family affair.  Give it a try I think you'll be glad you did.  Happy shooting!

About the Author

Frank Malone

Recurve Bow

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