flatterbowed

Flatterbowed is a term sometimes used in archery to describe a bow with a limb profile that is relatively flat on the belly (the side facing the archer) and gradually tapers to a narrower tip. This contrasts with more traditional bows that might have a more rounded belly or a more pronounced recurve. The flatter belly of a flatterbowed design can influence the bow's energy storage and release characteristics. While not a universally standardized term, it often implies a modern construction or design philosophy aiming for specific performance attributes. The precise definition can vary among archers and bowyers, but the general concept centers on the shape of the limb's inner surface. This shape affects how the limb bends and stores energy during the draw cycle. A flatter belly might contribute to a smoother draw feel or a faster arrow release depending on the overall bow design. The term is more descriptive of a visual characteristic than a strict technical classification.