What’s even more confusing when experienced archers talk about the draw length is figuring out whether they ask about your draw length or your bow’s. I already explained what the former means and how to measure it in a previous article.

Today, it’s time to speak about the draw length of your bow. Read on to find out more about it.

If the two values don’t match, the bow is inappropriate to use and, depending on circumstances, it can be either dangerous or detrimental for your progress.

In fact:

But how do you know your bow draw length?

This question should have a simple answer. Manufacturers specify the draw length on their bows. So, why should you bother measuring it?

Well, there are several reasons:

The old abbreviation is still used by some manufacturers, but regardless of how they call it, it means the same thing.

Now, although ATA could have made things straightforward and provide a simple measurement, they decided to actually use a calculation instead of it. Therefore, if you want to find out the ATA draw length of your bow, you’ll have to use the following steps.

1. Pull the string at full draw.
2. Measure the distance from the throat of the grip to the part of the string where the arrow is nocked.
3. Add 1.75 to the number achieved.

Check this number against your own draw length and see if it’s suitable for you.

Luckily, there is more than one you can use.

Archery pro shops, for instance, use bow draw boards that allow you to place the bow on a marked board and check the string extension. However, this method may give inaccurate results unless you’re indeed an expert.

The simplest method is measuring your bow draw length with a draw arrow.

A draw arrow is a simple device similar to a regular arrow but marked with measurements in millimeters and inches. The end of the arrow that comes in contact with the string has a peculiar shape that grips to the line for a more accurate and hazard-free measurement.

All you have to do is to fix the arrow on the string and pull to maximum extension. Read the measurement on the arrow at the throat of the nock and add up 1.75 inches to get an accurate ATA draw length value.

Things get complicated if you’re using a compound bow. Due to the construction of this type of bow, the weapon allows fine adjustments of the min and max draw length but allows no margin of error. That’s why it is relevant to measure both your draw length accurately and determine the real draw length of the bow you’re using.

Identifying the right bow draw length is essential if you want to get the most out of your archery experience. The process is uncomplicated, and now you should know all the steps to take to find the right bow for you.

A poorly-chosen arrow will only bring about the worst consequences: zero accuracy, zero durability, and zero safety. Your safety is at stake because that arrow will just fly erratically, hitting the wrong target more often than not. No archer wants that.

If you’re thinking about exploring archery as your major sport, hobby, or even a serious venture, then you deserve the perfect arrow to go with that majestic bow. Like any sport, archery has its own set of rules and objectives that add to its complexity. These require strategy, and a good strategy includes choosing the right tools and equipment.

It may seem like one of the most basic, seemingly negligible aspects of archery, but as with all other shooting sports, the ammunition is in fact one of its most vital elements. Here’s your guide on how to choose the right type of arrow that will best suit your needs.

First, let’s talk about the basic parts of an arrow. It is important to know the basic parts to able to foresee the quality of the arrows you pick and if they truly are appropriate for the kind of bow you have.

There are several options when it comes to arrowheads, each one with a specific function. These include: 

Now that you have an idea about what the basic parts of an arrow are and what type of arrowhead you should go for, here are some key things to consider when choosing the most suitable arrow for your shooting activity.

1. Arrow Material

The material can be wood, carbon, aluminum, or fiberglass. Each will have different benefits and drawbacks depending on the specific activity you’re interested in.

However, these are less durable—they’ll bend, break, and splinter after a few uses. And they’re not exactly uniform, which means each one could fly differently than the others. This is why wooden arrows are rarely used in professional circuits.

Plus, in case an aluminum arrow shaft gets bent, it can still get straightened provided the warp is not too severe.

However, when a carbon arrow does break, it can shatter, which makes it quite dangerous for the archer. So always check for cracks when you use them.

Depending on the type of material they’re made of, arrows will have different measurement systems. Check if your retailer has an arrow chart, or if the manufacturing brand provides a guide on their website. This will make it easier for you to scale your arrow according to your bow type, draw weight, and such.

There are two aspects in arrow spine: static spine and dynamic spine.

The former is how much bend an arrow has when weight is placed on its center, while the latter is the way an arrow reacts to the energy stored in the bow when it is released. You can adjust the dynamic spine through its weight, point weight, length, and other elements.

Spine also depends on the bow’s features. A bow with a higher draw weight would need a stiffer arrow, as these bows release more force, which would cause a weaker arrow to wobble too much and miss the target.

To determine the right arrow spine for your bow, you can use a spine selection chart or, better yet, get a test kit.

The weakness of an arrow depends on its length, and the weakest ones are always the longest ones.

The diameter is just as important in making sure the arrow successfully strikes the target. For example, penetration would be the main priority in bowhunting, so arrows that have a smaller diameter would best suit this purpose. Worry not in case the head is slightly larger than the shaft diameter, but always remember that it shouldn’t be smaller. This often leads to poor accuracy, light penetration, and less to no attachment to the target.

The rule is: the straighter the arrow, the more accurate your shot. There’s a straightness tolerance in +/- metrics. For instance, an arrow with a straightness tolerance of +/-.001 inches will be straighter than one with a +/-.003-inch tolerance.

Fortunately, nowadays, arrows sold on the market are quite straight, with minute differences in straightness across varieties.

It’s also important to note that straightness will affect the price—the straighter the arrow, the more likely it’s going to be expensive.

Always consider your target. For example, if you will be hunting small animals, a faster arrow will get you the results you want. Meanwhile, if you will hunt larger game, you should be less concerned about the speed and more focused on the penetrative quality of the arrow. A heavier arrow can increase the force of the arrow.

As with many aspects of archery, every shooter will have their opinions on the optimal weight for your shooting.

It’s recommended that you check if your retailer can weigh arrows on a specialized scale, so that you get an idea what weight is indicated in the standard weight system.

Aside from the shaft, the weight of your point also impacts the arrow flight. A heavy arrow point that isn’t proportional to the shaft can cause wiggling, so check the arrow chart when selecting points, and try a variety of points to find the best combination.

​There are a lot of things to consider when picking an arrow. And if you are just beginning to learn archery, remember that there’s really no such thing as a perfect arrow!

Although manufacturers will try to convince you otherwise, there’s actually no reason to break the bank (especially if you are a beginner) just to be on the quest for the perfect arrow.

Getting the right kind of arrow ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences. Also, with each feature, there will be a tradeoff. A lighter arrow may be faster, but it’s not going to penetrate as much as a heavier one. Wooden arrows are affordable, but less durable.

Always think about what type of activity you’ll engage in, and that will keep you informed on what to look for.

And as with most things in life, experience will be your best guide as to what features you should prioritize.

Nevertheless, this article is for those who want to find an answer to the question. So, let’s see how far you can shoot with a longbow.

Before talking about distances, let’s take a moment to analyze the factors that influence the shooting range.

We can divide them into factors dependable on the archer and on the bow. Regarding the archer, we can mention:

The level of expertise is perhaps the most crucial factor that can determine the shooting range. A novice lacks the knowledge of shooting afar and more often than not, will miss even the closer targets.

With expertise also comes the knowledge of adjusting the angle of aim. This is a tricky thing, as most books talk about an ideal 45° angle. What most books don’t tell is that perfect angle refers to ideal shooting conditions, which imply a vacuumed environment.

Now, when shooting outdoors, it’s improbable to be in a vacuumed environment. And here come into play the environmental factors which are the wind and the density of the air.

To maximize your shoot length, I recommend drawing the arrow at an angle lower than 45°, as the air resistance will stabilize it, making it travel farther. Just start at an angle of around 45° and try to optimize it until you achieve the best performance.

Regarding the bow, variables include the:

Optimizing these parameters to fit your exact needs is essential if you want to achieve shooting performance with a longbow, recurve bow, or any other type of bow you want to use.

Getting back to the question, how far can a longbow shoot? The issue has solid fundaments. We’ve all seen some medieval movie in which King Edward’s archers were shooting arrows at a distance of over 400 yards with their rudimentary longbows.

But the truth is that despite being rudimentary, they could make an arrow travel faster and further.

There is a massive difference between the medieval weapons and the modern ones, and as odd as it may seem, the modern ones don’t have the same shooting capabilities. On average, a medieval longbow could make an arrow travel up to 249 yards.

A longbow nowadays has a useful range of only 200 yards. Achieving this is far from easy. New archers could have difficulties in making their arrow travel to 20 yards, let alone two hundred. Yet, you could reach the threshold through hard work and commitment.

A mistake most rookies make is believing that fixing the target at their desired distance and obsessively trying to hit the bulls eye will help them improve their skills. I’m sorry to spoil it for you, but this training won’t help you develop your skills.

What you have to do instead is start from a short distance and gradually increase it to reach your goal.

If you’ve never shot an arrow before, my advice is to fix your target at a distance between five and ten yards. At this distance, missing the target is almost impossible, but that’s the point. You’ll learn how to hold your bow and how to pull the arrow, which angle works best for you, and how to aim.

Practice until you never miss the bulls eye, then move your target 5 yards further.

Repeat the process above, until your shooting at that distance is flawless, then move the target further by other 5 yards. Repeat these steps until your target has reached a range between 20 and 40 yards.

Now, the fun part begins. At this point, you should be confident enough to change the distance freely. For example, set your target at 50 yards but position it at an angle. Start shooting and keep practicing until your level of expertise allows you to make another change.

When you’re confident with the angles, start working on heights, by positioning the target lower or higher than usual.

At this stage, start alternating between shooting at an angle and at different heights. Get out there and start practicing on different terrains. Furthermore, start practicing in different weather conditions, mainly when it rains or in the wind.

Slow but steady training will gradually improve your shooting skills helping you use your longbow to draw arrows at more than 50 yards.

As a bottom line, although a longbow can shoot arrows at 200 yards, it’s very unlikely to reach that distance unless you work hard and practice daily. Above, I explained to you what to do to achieve performance, so there are no excuses. Now, get out there and start practicing.

In this guide, I aim to teach you the basics of shooting with a compound bow, to help you master the skills.

When choosing the string, also assess how much draw pressure you can handle.

This part is particularly important for the novice who could not be used to shooting a bow. If archery is new to you, get used to the bow first. Learn how to hold it and how to draw the string without the arrow.

For your first shooting attempts, I recommend using a compound bow you’re familiar with or that you’ve used before. Alternatively, ask an expert archer to pick the bow for you instead of buying it yourself; this will guarantee the bow is the size you need.

Then, pick your trainer with care. Make sure whoever is teaching you to shoot the bow has a host of experience in using compound bows, not another type.

You must keep a straight stance with your feet resting firmly on the ground with the toes facing the target and parallel to one another, positioned at least 17-25 inches apart. Like you could expect, you should face the target, but should look at it an angle of about 45 degrees.

When approximating the angle, have someone watch you or record a video of yourself. You’d be surprised to find how many people estimate a much larger or narrower angle is assuming it’s 45°.

Maintaining such a stance guarantees an easier drawing, a better aim, and a higher chance of hitting the target.

From an expert’s point of view, I can tell you there is no reason to be ashamed for using these slings. The point is achieving accuracy; shooting a compound bow is not the easiest task on earth and whatever you do to attain it is perfectly fine.

One thing to keep in mind is that you should never shoot with an open hand, as this could lead to fatal errors or severe injuries.

If you want to achieve the highest level of archery, make sure to anchor the string at the corner of your mouth or under your chin.

When the bow is aligned, just release the string smoothly by relaxing your fingers gradually until you completely release the string. A tensioned release can disrupt your aim and result in inaccuracy.

A mechanical release aid can help at first, but make sure your first attempts are assisted by an experienced archer.

And now that you know how to shoot a compound bow, all you have to do is get out there and start practicing.

Like with anything else, opinions are divided. Some bow hunters claim they would never start a quest with a recurve in their hands. Others praise the recurve’s capabilities. What’s the truth?

A question that lacks a universal answer. It depends. Is wine good for drinking? Is a cordless lawn mower good for your purpose?

But if you choose the right bow, the recurve comes with many advantages over all other types. The foremost important, it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver. Two things that ensure portability and shooting speed, both of which are important when wandering the wilds.

That said, a good recurve bow for hunting must come with essential features. Here’s what to look for.

The most important thing when picking a recurve bow for hunting is the draw weight. This weapon is built with the novice in mind and is really easy to use, but it also comes in multiple draw weights ranging from as little as 10 pounds to over 60 pounds.

But just because you selected a 40lbs bow, it doesn’t mean you can hunt all game. Before hitting the forests learn your weapon’s limitations. A 40lbs bow is only suitable if you’re going for small game like turkey or rabbit, but it’s improbable to kill an elk with it.

Larger prey needs larger draw weight. For versatility, a minimum of 50lbs is required. But in this case, you should make sure the bow is not too heavy for you to handle.

Every individual in this universe sees better with an eye than with the other. This is called the dominant eye and determines whether you need a left- or right-hand bow.

The triangle will align with your dominant eye, letting you know what type of bow you need.

A hunting bow has to withstand adverse weather and harsh environments. That’s why it is essential to invest in a weapon made from resilient materials.

Most recurve bows on the market are made of maple wood coated in fiberglass. However, pay attention to the product’s description before buying. Some manufacturers advertise their bows as maple and fiberglass, but the fiberglass has a decorative role solely.

You should also check the raiser. The best recurve bows for hunting come with a metal raiser that lasts years of use. But again, you should pay attention to how reliable the material is for your purpose.

Check the metal to have an anti-rust coating. Steel is your best bet, although galvanized aluminum can also work well.

Another thing to check regarding the construction is the flexibility of the bow. Rigid limbs can easily break, so you should make sure the bow can withstand bending without getting damaged.

On no bow are the accessories more critical than on a hunting recurve bow. And you’ll need plenty of them. Luckily, the market is full of bow hunting kits comprising the weapon and a bunch of needed accessories which are great for beginners.

If you also like the idea of bow fishing, make sure the weapon you choose is compatible with your preferred model of fishing reel and line, to ensure a positive experience.

So, are recurve bows good for hunting? I believe they are. Couldn’t advise though on what may or may not work for you. But since most archers start with this type of bow, my advice is to give it a try. If it doesn’t work for you, at least you can say you’ve tried.

Self-taught archers can attain proficiency if they are willing to practice and learn. Here, we will share some of the best tips to help beginners who wish to become accurate with a longbow. 

The easiest way to approach archery as a beginner is to work through a set of steps. This breaks down the act of shooting into a series of small actions which can be practiced and perfected over time. The main steps in archery can be broken down into the following: stance (or posture), nocking and aiming, release and follow through. We will take a close look at each step in turn.

Turn your head towards the target. This will bring your chin over the shoulder of your bow arm (the arm which is holding the bow). Feet, hips and shoulders should all remain at an angle of 90 degrees to the target.    

Your back and knees should be straight, and shoulders should be kept down. The idea is to allow the shoulders to move freely and fully as you begin to draw. Do not allow your lower back to arch, or thrust your chest or hips forward; doing so can put you off balance and reduce your ability to aim accurately.

Beginners often find that the correct posture initially ‘feels wrong’. This is because it is unfamiliar and uses muscles in ways they are not used in everyday life. It will take some time and effort to sustain the stance; try to be aware of your posture at all times until your muscles begin to learn the movements. There are exercises which can help to tone the correct muscles and make handling a bow slightly easier; practicing at home and strengthening your core will also help. 

Once you are sure of your posture, it is time to nock the arrow and begin your draw.

The odd-colored fletching, also called the index vane, should be placed so that it is facing you, away from the bow.

When the arrow is placed correctly, the nock will ‘click’ into place. It the arrow falls off or slips, it might mean that the nock is too large.

Three fingers should be placed on the string: index finger above the arrow and middle and ring fingers below it. If the arrow is nocked correctly there will be no need to hold onto it; your fingers should grip the string only. Beginners may start with three fingers below the arrow if it makes drawing easier. Your thumb and little finger should both be tucked in towards the palm of your hand, away from the string.

Your other hand will hold the bow. A correct grip will have your arm, wrist and finger all in alignment, pointing at the target. The grip of the bow will rest on the fleshy part of your hand, below the thumb, and your wrist should remain relaxed and not bent back. Fingers should relax and bend, and the grip should remain consistent throughout the draw and release stages.

If you find yourself needing to reposition your bow hand while drawing or aiming then you should relax the bow and start again. Once it is in the correct position, your hand should not need to move around on the bow at all until after you have released the arrow.   

At this time, take a few minutes to find a comfortable point to draw the string towards. Most archers will have a point on their face – chin, cheek or jaw – which is known as their ‘anchor point’. This point will not be the same for everyone but once you have found it, you should bring the arrow back to the same point every time you draw a bow. Your anchor point can make a huge difference to your aim so consistency here is key.

While your string arm is drawing back, your bow hand is moving forward. Do not over-straighten the bow arm; there should be a slight bend in the elbow at all times. This keeps tension in the shot even after you release the arrow and allows your arm to ‘push forward’ with the bow rather than spring back.

These big movements will feel strange to new archer and you might find yourself overcompensating for untrained muscles by adjusting your stance. Common problems at this point include tilting your head or pulling up your shoulders so it is worth taking a second or two to check your posture again. Keep your shoulders down while you draw the bow; your head should stay up and facing forward.  

When drawing, take care that the string is not able to get behind your armguard. You may need to twist your bow arm at the elbow to avoid being hit by the string but check your posture first: bending or slouching body can mean that the string is ‘aimed’ at your arm when you release it.

Aiming a bow requires focus. The best way to aim accurately is to look along the shaft of the arrow and find a point on the target to aim for. Try to focus on one tiny point rather than the whole target and take the time to line up your shot. Some archers worry about whether to close one eye while aiming. This will be a personal choice, so feel free to try both ways and follow your instincts.

Common beginner mistakes at this point involve moving the bow down or away before the arrow is fully released. Moving too soon can affect your aim and is a very bad habit to get into so do not be tempted to drop the bow, or move it to one side or the other so that you can watch the arrow in flight. Keep your bow up and your posture steady. A good rule is to hold your position until the arrow lands (hopefully in the target).

There are a lot of steps to learn and your muscles will need time to get used to the new demands archery will put on them. But practice need not be restricted to the archery ranger; there is plenty you can do whenever you have some spare time.  

Work through the shot in stages; picturing how each stage should look and feel before trying it. This can be practiced at any time, not just on the range. Get a friend or instructor to watch you and check your actions against your list. If you can, have someone film you so that you can watch yourself later.

New movements and muscles will soon become more familiar and, with practice, you will soon find that you have mastered the basics and are ready to tweak and improve your archery technique. 

When checking the draw length, there are two variables to consider. The first is your draw length, which determines the right size of the bow. The second is the bow’s draw length, which determines its suitability for the purpose.

This guide is dedicated to the former and aims to teach you how to measure your draw length in the comfort of your home.

Measuring the draw length is easy, and luckily there are various methods to use. Each archer ultimately develops their own approach. I find it really easy to determine this number with the method below.

As I said, there are several ways to measure your draw length. However, there is this one method that has been used for years and that I find quite simple. It also returns accurate results, which is essential for this purpose. The technique is called the ‘arm span’ and is just what it sounds, measuring your arm’s span.

There are a few things you’ll need:

Here’s how to determine your draw length with the ‘arm span’ method.

1. Look for a buddy. You’ll need someone to help you with the measurements for an accurate result. For all you DIY guys out there, trust me, rely on a partner for this one.
2. Stand upright holding your back straight against the wall and open your arms with both palms open. Your arms must be parallel to the ground and aligned with your shoulders, while the back of your palms must stay against the wall.
3. Ask your partner to mark the end of your hand on the wall by applying duct tape where your middle finger ends, on both sides of your body.
4. You can now step away from the wall and measure the distance from one duct tape to another.
5. Divide the number by 2.5 and voila! You have your draw length!

Now, you’ve got the draw length! How lovely is that? But perhaps you have no idea what to do with this number. Keep reading to find out what size bow you need.

For any aspiring archer, the fun part is about to begin. With your draw length, you get to choose your first bow. Use the table below to find the right size for you.

A side note for kids. If you measure your child’s draw length, don’t forget that kids grow. You’ll have to re-measure it regularly to make sure your kid has not outgrown the bow size they are using. When this happens, just move up one bow size.

In this regard, investing in a recurve bow for beginners with interchangeable limbs could be your best bet, as you’ll be able to only replace the limbs instead of the whole bow as the child grows.

Assessing your draw length with the method above is super easy, but some factors can have a negative impact on your measurements. The foremost important is an incorrect posture. Paying attention to where your partner sticks the duct tape is also important.

Inaccuracies translate into either a shorter or longer draw length that comes with subsequent negative points.

• Shorter draw length: If you don’t align your arms and shoulders perfectly, your measured draw length may result shorter than it really is. This results in picking a too small bow which may cause injuries due to its short string. Make sure your arms and shoulders are perfectly aligned and parallel to the ground to avoid unpleasant surprises.

• Longer draw length: This often happens because the duct tape has been attached too far from the tips of your middle fingers or because your posture was incorrect. Make sure you keep your back against the wall in a relaxed position and that your partner takes the correct measurement. If the resulted draw length is longer than yours, you could end up using a too large bow. This means you’ll be unable to pull the string all the way to the end, jeopardizing your accuracy. A larger bow is also heavier and harder to maneuver, especially by an inexperienced beginner.

Besides the above, there are many other factors which can influence your measurement. For instance, if you keep your back arched and not straight against the wall, this incorrect posture will affect your results. So will the palms of your hands if they are not open, or your wrists if you don’t keep them straight.

• Besides the size, it’s vital to choose the right weight of the bow, which will be determined by the strength of the individual who’s going to use it. This is especially important for beginners, so they don’t develop wrong shooting skills.
• When trying your new bow, remember to keep your chest open and place yourself in the shooting position, so that you can acknowledge the right scenario with your new equipment.
• Safety is crucial, so don’t let go of the string without an arrow, because this could cause damage to your body and to the bow.
• There are several kinds of bows that will work in different ways according to their material and weight. Choosing the right one will depend on your needs and coordination.

Target practice, bow hunting, and even bow fishing are all amazing recreational activities. But practicing them in the right way is crucial. Determining your draw length as accurately as possible is key to choosing the right bow, and this can make or break the deal.

Don’t forget that archery can be dangerous. To minimize hazards and prevent risks, you need to choose the right equipment.

When practiced wisely, archery comes with endless benefits; so measure your draw length, pick the right bow, and get out there to start exercising.

Archery comes with a huge advantage - anyone can practice it. There is no age limit or skill requirements. And regardless of your age, shooting arrows keeps you fit.

Not to mention that archery equipment is heavy. Carrying it around helps you burn further calories without even thinking of it. Equivalent with weightlifting up to an extent, archery is no doubt a full sport that can help you develop at all levels.

For instance, in most archery competitions the archers are required to walk up to 5 miles to achieve their goals and to score points. If you’re a hunter, you perhaps know already that what you see in most movies isn’t true.

Pray won’t just come to you. You’ll have to go and search for it. This means more walking, sometimes on rugged terrains. All this movement equals exercise which is often the equivalent of a gym session. Through this, archery improves your strength and lowers the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

You won’t hear the wind anymore, nor the voice of your buddy complaining about his life. When you’re shooting, all disappears. You learn how to focus on your target and aim with determination.

In real life, this translates into a major productivity. Your coworker won’t distract you anymore from your tasks. You’ll know that the YouTube video has to wait until later, and procrastination just won’t be part of the picture anymore.

Like most skills, coordination is something that develops over time. And archery can help you achieve your goals faster.

This sport helps you train your hand-eye coordination but also enables you to improve your estimation skills and mathematics, especially if you’re shooting at a moving target. Along with that, you’ll improve your accuracy and your multitasking skills.

Balance is a fundamental skill all archers need because you’ll have to hold yourself steady while aiming and shooting.

No doubt, archery is a sport with countless benefits, both physical and mental. It helps you burn hundreds of calories and look amazing in that tight outfit. Without realizing it, it builds your muscles and improves your strength, balance, and coordination.

Archery teaches you how to focus and boost productivity. And the best part, it can be practiced by anyone. Bows come in all styles and sizes that fit beginners and advanced shooters alike. You can enjoy archery alone or with your family and friends.

You can even practice it if you have disabilities, as most bows adapt to the archer’s needs. So don’t wait any longer. Get a bow, get some courage, and go out there and start shooting.

The recurve bow design is credited to the Mongolians, who invented the bow to be used for battle while riding horseback. Its design was markedly different from that of the longbow, which was found to be too cumbersome for horse-riding archers.

In around 1,000 BC, the archers in Central Asia invented the recurve bow, which could shoot further for the same bow length. Its popularity quickly spread from Central Asia to China and nearby areas like Persia (Iran) in West Asia. From there, the technology was brought to the Egyptians, Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, and Carthaginians.

Second, the curve of the bow’s limbs formed pads that stopped the string faster. This created a higher initial velocity for the arrow. Basically, the bow drew speed and power from the unique curve at the limb tips.

When deciding on which recurve bow to purchase, keep in mind that the best will depend on what you will use the bow for. It will also depend on your strength and fitness level, so make sure that you test the bow before making a purchase.

Here are the key features to consider when buying a recurve bow:

Before you go ahead and buy a bow, it’s important to focus on what your purpose for that bow will be. There are two general uses for bows: hitting targets and hunting.

Identifying your purpose or discipline will change some of the specifications of your recurve bow, so you have to be clear about this part before buying one.

If you are after hitting targets, most recurve bow models will work for this purpose. In competitive archery, there are two main types of recurves for target shooting—Olympic recurve and barebow.

The difference between the two is in the components used, with Olympic recurve having additional items like sight, stabilizer, and a clicker. These items may help with your consistency, but shooting with this bow is still just as challenging as shooting with a traditional barebow recurve.

As for hunting, a recurve bow might not be your ideal choice for this purpose. Most bow hunters prefer crossbows because they have more force in each shot.

The price is a significant factor for potential buyers, especially if you are looking to buy your first recurve bow.

Most archers begin with a simple and affordable bow that will introduce them to the basics of the sport. You’d be better off with something that’s not too expensive, as you still have to hone your skills with shooting.

You can transition to a more advanced bow as you develop a better form and you learn which features to look for to suit your own technique.

Of course, a more expensive bow will last longer and give a better experience overall. But for those who have a tighter budget, there are still a lot of great options to fit your price range.

These are only estimates, so it’s best to test the bows before you purchase to make sure you are capable of using the bow. Ideally, you should consider your own strength when determining the draw weight.

If you are just starting out in archery, it’s best to start at 15–25 pounds, depending on your fitness level and how often you plan to shoot. Even an extremely fit beginner should not start off at more than 35 pounds.

A big no-no is choosing too high of a draw weight when starting out. Sure, you could brag about your capacity being much higher than others, but in reality, this can only make it harder for you to shoot accurately. Remember, anyone who is really into archery knows that having a high draw weight actually means little in the sport.

For instance, compare two recurve bows that are both set at 30 pounds with a 24-inch draw length, but one has a brace height of 8 inches, and the other, 7 inches. If you shoot an arrow from both bows, the one with the 7-inch brace height will produce a faster shot than the other.

Meanwhile, forgiveness is about minimizing imperfections. Bows that have shorter brace heights tend to increase arrow speed, but they also give little forgiveness for mistakes in aim and draw.

This is because an archer has to maintain their form longer when using a bow with a short brace height. There’s greater likelihood that your form will strain as you release the arrow.

When you’re trying out different recurve bows, ask the retailer what the ideal brace height is for that specific product. It will usually fall at 7 to 9 inches, depending on what feels right for you.

Another way to get your bow size is to pull back the string of a bow in a proper firing position. Measure the point from the nock—where you notch an arrow on the bowstring—to the pivot point.

Here is a useful guide for matching your draw length to the right bow size:

Knowing your eye dominance is crucial in archery as bow manufacturers design recurves that maximize an archer’s visuals. There are left- and right-styled bows, and you have to choose which type fits you. Otherwise, you could have a harder time aiming properly. 

To test your eye dominance, try these steps:

In case you do not feel any strong preference for either eye, it’s recommended that you use your dominant hand to draw the bow.

Some provide a limited warranty, which covers a chunk of the costs related to parts replacement. It’s best to review the warranty specifications that come with any product, such as the warranty period and any caveats that will void the warranty.

It’s recommended that you purchase your recurve bow from an authority retailer with a good reputation when it comes to customer service, so you can be sure that they will address any concerns you may have about the product.

The recurve bow may no longer be used in warfare, but archers and shooting enthusiasts still appreciate its great qualities in terms of precision, handiness, and speed. Preferred in competitive arenas, the recurve bow is definitely an exciting option for those looking to start out in archery.

There are so many recurve bow models on the market for you to try, which means you have to look diligently to find exactly what fits your criteria.

Use the tips discussed here and test each recurve bow to get a good feel of the product. It will be a tedious process for sure, but all the effort is going to be worth it.

Once you find that special bow, you will have a more fulfilling time honing your skills.

For archery to be a safe sport, you need to follow proper safety protocols and rules. Below, you can read safety tips to help you prepare, fire and collect safely on the range.

For starters, you should never use a damaged bow or any damaged arrows. Check your arrows carefully, and discard those which show danger signs of wear. Sometimes wear and tear is not apparent. If you are in any doubt, there is an easy trick to checking the quality of your arrows. Try rolling one on a flat, smooth table or similar surface.

Likewise, the string on your bow should not be frayed or damaged in any way. If it is, replace it before shooting. Also, check the general structural integrity of the bow. If it snaps while you are trying to shoot, it could injure you or others. You should unstring your bow after each session. You do this so that the string does not exert continual stress on the bow when it is not in use. This should lengthen its lifespan and prevent stresses from gradually deforming it.

 If you are wearing accessories such as jewelry which could catch on the string, remove these items and set them aside.

It is important to remember that not all accidents with projectile weapons necessarily involve hitting a person or animal. If an arrow strikes an object which might shatter or explode, this too can endanger others (plus, you do not want to damage property). Stay aware at all times of such objects in your environment, and point your arrows away from them.

If you have any questions, ask an employee or volunteer at the range.

Even with sufficient clearance behind your targets, your archery range is still not entirely safe until you have installed a backstop of some nature. This provides an extra layer of protection for passersby. By containing the arrows which miss the target, it can also reduce your search time when you go to pick them up.

While you are at it, make sure that your grass is trimmed neatly. You do not want arrows disappearing into tall grass where they might go unseen or forgotten. If you have pets, keep them indoors while you are shooting and collecting.

You should also take the time to clear obstacles out of the range. If for example there are old tree stumps or roots, these can act as tripping hazards. You may feel safe as you know where they all are, but they could be easy to forget while you are focused on your archery.

1. Wait for the “all clear” before you nock the arrow.

At the range, there will be an attendant who gives signals to participants. You may only nock your arrow when the supervisor shouts “all clear,” or gives the equivalent whistle (typically a single whistle).

Some ranges require you wait for a second signal before you actually launch your nocked arrow. This might be two whistles together. So when the supervisor whistles once, you nock the arrow. When he or she whistles twice in a row right after that, you assume your position and fire.

This is why it is so important to learn the exact meanings of the signals at the specific range where you will be shooting. A signal which means “nock and fire” at one location could just mean “nock” at another.

Before you pull back on the string and release the arrow, do one more quick check behind and beside you to make sure no one is standing too close. Then check in front of you, aim, and release the arrow.

While you are shooting, you may sometimes hear a series of whistles in a row. A series of whistles is an emergency signal. Other ranges may have different ways of signaling an emergency.

Regardless of how the signal is given, it always means the same thing: “STOP SHOOTING IMMEDIATELY.”

If you do hear this signal, do exactly that. It will never be given unless there is a genuine emergency, such as somebody wandering out into the range when they should not be. If you continue to shoot, you may hit that person.

Even if you already have an arrow nocked, you must not let it fly. Instead, point your bow towards the ground. Return the string to a neutral position. Remove the arrow, and wait until you are again given the “all clear.” At that point, you may resume.

2. Wait for the “all clear” before you go to collect your arrows as well.

3. Do not rush out to the target. Take your time and watch the ground so you do not trip over stray arrows. Ask other archers for permission before you grab these.

If you walk slowly, you give others a chance to spot you before they do something foolish. You also give yourself time to look down as you walk. If you do not, you could step on an arrow. Naturally, that is something that you want to avoid if you wish to keep your feet intact.

4. Place one hand on the target when you extract the arrow. Before you pull, look over your shoulder to make sure you are by yourself. Pull directly outward (not at an angle).

Failing to brace yourself could also send you careening over backwards when you do get the arrow free from the target.

The reason you need to check over your shoulder is to ensure that nobody else is standing behind or beside you. If you do lose your balance or jerk your arm back, you do not want to topple into somebody or jab them in the face with your elbow or an arrow.

5. Carry arrows in a safe position.​

6. Discard damaged arrows immediately.

Just as you check your equipment before you begin to shoot, you should check it afterward as well. If any of your arrows have developed even superficial damage, should get rid of them and replace them with new, intact arrows. There is never any excuse to be shooting with unsafe equipment.

Notes for Adult Supervisors

While this guide is aimed at children, you may be reading it as an adult. If that is the case, here are a few additional tips to help you keep kids safe while they learn archery:

• Remember that things which seem obvious to you may not be obvious to a child. Never leave out safety tips or instructions because you think they are clear. Answer questions patiently.

• Kids often do not remember what they are told the first time they hear it. Do not be afraid to repeat instructions and do so often.

• Children each have different learning styles. What works for one kid may not for another. One child may learn best from verbal instructions, but another may need to see these safety tips written down. Still another may benefit from seeing a demonstration. If you are in a teaching role, tailor your methods to each child.

• It is easy for kids to get caught up in their emotions. You might never run out into a range to retrieve an arrow before a signal is given, but a child just getting into archery may get carried away by his or her excitement and forget. Be ready for incidents like this.

• Do not forget that archery is a great way to teach responsibility. As an adult, even if you have seen the stats on archery safety, you may still be nervous to hand a child a bow and arrows. Nonetheless, this is a wonderful opportunity for a child to train far more than eye-hand coordination. Handling a bow and arrow means taking responsibility for one’s own safety and that of others. Children who learn how to do this by practicing archery have developed essential skills and qualities for all areas of life.

You now have a comprehensive guide to archery safety. Since you are new to the sport, it is wise to review these guidelines and tips before heading out to the archery range each time you go to practice. It is not hard to stay safe while practicing with your bow, but it does require diligence on your part. Follow these tips closely, and you and others can continue to enjoy this wonderful sport safely.