Recurve Bow : What is it?

Recurve bows are designed to curve away from the user when drawn, resulting in faster arrows and more forceful shots. They are made up of a riser with two limbs attached to both ends with a hinge. The limbs curve back when the string is pulled and snap back into position when released. This creates a sudden release of tension that propels the arrow with a force higher than the force used to draw.

A basic recurve bow is similar in principle to a longbow, but it is usually smaller. The limbs also curve outward when the bow is held in shooting position. This allows the string to be attached to the limbs themselves, rather than at the tips like other bow designs.

Recurve bows are the only types permitted in Olympic and competitive archery. These bows have limbs made of layers of carbon fiber, fiberglass, or laminated wood cores. The riser is typically aluminum or magnesium, although newer risers use carbon-aluminum hybrids. Risers for beginners are usually wood or plastic.

Important information

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