Recurve Bow

Recurve Bow

Recurve Bow History

There are a few different kinds of bow available and in fact throughout history. Recurve bows have proven to be one of the most popular throughout the ages. One possible reason for this is because these bows are more energy efficient than a standard longbow (straight bow). The reason for this is because the bow limbs are exerting some pressure away from the main string so the archer is in effect converting more energy into the bow limbs than is possible with a long bow.

Recurve Bow and Arrow

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One way to identify a recurve bow is by the position of the string; the string will at some point near the very ends of the limbs be touching the limbs. Another way to identify Recurve bows is by the shape of the limbs, if the limbs are pointing away or at least directly up and down when strung then it is most certainly a Recurve bow. A straight bow or longbow pulls the ends of the limb towards the archer when strung. It is very important that the new archer does not get confused and string the bow on the wrong side; believe it or not this is common. This type of bow is the only bow that is permitted in competition for events such as the Olympic games. Even hunters sometimes prefer it as it offers a more traditional style of hunting or in other words more of a challenge. It also has some practical applications over more modern bows such as compound bows as it’s far easier to dismantle for transport and to reassemble out in the field. It is almost impossible to do this with a compound bow. Other practice advantages include the fact that it has far less working or moving parts and is therefore far easier to maintain. Please note that Recurve bows should only be strung when it is being for immediate use, it should never be stored this way when not in use.

Recurve Bow or Compound Bow?

Recurve bows are “heavier” or harder to pull back the further back it is draw. The reason for this is because the archer is fighting against the curved limbs and is transferring his own energy into the limbs in preparation for release. A compound bow is hardest to draw at the beginning and gets easier as the cams hold the energy using pullies to do so.  This also can been seen as an advantage especially to young growing archers as it is not a requirement for the archer to be able to use the bow at its maximum draw weight which in fact is the case with a compound bow.

Recurve Bows Parts

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Both the recurve bow vs compound bow use a kind of flicking motion at the final stages of arrow release increasing the energy efficiency.  Both the bows are more efficient in this regard compared lets say to a longbow or straight-limbed bow. The main components of the bow are the riser; this is the middle piece that the limbs attach to. The limbs are the curved pieces that extend to the very top and bottom of the bow when it is being held upright.  The arrow rest is where the arrow sits; it is attached to the riser. The aiming device or sight is attached to the riser to help the archer aim. Strings, is the string that extends from limb to limb when strung.  The nocking point is the section near the centre of the string that is usually thicker than the rest of the string and usually has thread around the string; this is where the arrow is attached. In most cases the arrow should click onto the string so that the string with the arrows nock holds it. The handgrip is where the archer holds the bow usually in the centre or the riser.

Its important to note that the riser holds no energy when the bow is being drawn, neither does the bowstring, both pieces are just static and not dynamic. The riser only holds the limbs in place; all the energy is stored in the limbs. It is therefore vital for the limbs to be strong, this is usually achieved by using composite materials in a layer design, wood and fibreglass and the most common forms of materials used on the bow limbs. Check out the products above for more accessories.

Recurve Bow Price

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At Combat Australia we have a recurve kits for sale, what you choose is up to you. Check the range our above to see a recurve bow for sale. There are also bow packages available. 

The following video has further information on our range of bows. Buy them using them list above. It also contains helpful information when buying your kids a bow. Youth bows have slightly different parameters to adults bows.

 

 For more information on our products please check out our YouTube Channel.

Frequently Asked Recurve Bow Questions:

Can You Leave A Recurve Bow Strung?

Is A Recurve Bow Good For Beginners?

What Are Recurve Bows Used For?

Are Recurve Bows Better than Longbows?