Bowtypes

Bowtypes is a term used to describe the principal families of bows used in archery. Bows are classified by limb geometry, construction, and mechanism, and they vary in size, draw weight, and intended use. The major divisions range from traditional one-piece bows to modern compound designs.

Traditional bows include longbows and flatbows, as well as recurves found in many cultures. Longbows are tall with relatively straight limbs and a classical draw; flatbows have wide, flat limbs and can be simple or composite. Recurve bows have tips that curve away from the archer, which increases energy storage and smoothness of draw. Composite bows, built from multiple materials such as horn, wood, and sinew, were common in antiquity and deliver high performance for their size.

Modern architectures add takedown recurves and compound bows. A takedown recurve can be disassembled for transport while preserving a traditional feel. Compound bows use cams and a pulley system to provide high let-off, allowing a lighter hold at full draw while maintaining speed. They are widely used in sport archery and hunting for their accuracy and consistency.

Materials vary by type. Traditional bows commonly use wood, bone, or sinew; modern bows employ fiberglass, carbon fiber, aluminum risers, and composite laminations. Manufacturing considerations include limb geometry (straight, reflex, reflex-deflex), brace height, string material, and limb tuning.

Selection depends on goals, draw weight, and experience. Beginners often start with a readily available target bow or a takedown recurve before moving to higher-performance designs. Proper fitting, safety checks, and regular maintenance of strings and cables are essential across all bow types.