recurve

A recurve is a type of bow design in which the limbs curve away from the archer when unstrung. The distinctive curvature causes the bowstring to bend around the limb tips when drawn, enabling the limbs to store more energy than a straight-limbed bow of the same length. This design allows a shorter bow to deliver higher arrow velocity and power.

Recurve bows have appeared in many cultures throughout history, including various peoples of Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. In modern sport archery, the recurve bow is the standard Olympic and World Archery Federation equipment. The term also covers a range of practical and traditional bows used for hunting, competitive shooting, and ceremonial purposes. The most common modern variant is the takedown recurve, where the limbs detach from a central riser for easier transport.

Construction and materials vary widely. Traditional recurve bows were made from laminated woods, sometimes combined with horn and sinew. Contemporary recurve bows commonly use fiberglass or carbon fiber laminates for the limbs, with a riser made from wood, aluminum, or carbon composites. Take-down models use bolted connections between limbs and riser, allowing quick disassembly for travel or storage. Linings, veneers, and modern fletching aids may be used, but the core principle remains the same: curved limbs that store energy efficiently and release it smoothly through the string.

Performance and technique: the recurve design provides a compact profile with strong energy transfer, contributing to stable arrow flight and relatively quick recovery after release. Shot accuracy depends on consistent draw, anchoring, and release, as well as appropriate draw weight and bow length for the archer. Recurve bows are versatile for field, target, and Olympic-style competition.