Used for hunting and warfare by the ancient Egyptians around 3,000 B.C.E., archery is one of the world’s oldest practices. If you recently signed up for archery lessons or simply want to know more about the sport before researching classes in your area, take a moment to learn about four basic bow types. The right bow for you depends on why you want to practice archery and what you feel comfortable holding.

4 Archery Bow Types to Select From

1. Longbow

Also called a traditional bow, the longbow gets made from a single piece of wood, usually osage. The oldest and simplest option, it typically matches the height of the archer and features an “arrow shelf,” or flat area for arrow placement at full draw or rest. Modern versions feature more flexibility for faster draws. Originally for battle and hunting purposes, longbows are still used by native tribes all over the world. Work with a longbow once you have mastered other types since drawing and aiming take extra practice and patience.

2. Compound

Most commonly used for hunting, compound bows made of fiberglass, carbon composites, or wood also work for target practice at archery lessons. They are among the more intricate options and stay strung without the risk of excessive bending and other damages. Compound bows feature cables, pulleys, and cams or wheels that increase aiming time, so archers don’t experience serious muscle fatigue. And while they are ideal for perfecting your aim, the complex nature of these bows requires practice with other options first.

3. Recurve

Recurve bows are slightly smaller versions of longbows with one major exception: their ends curve outward and, therefore, store more energy than straight models. The bow of choice for Olympic archers, wooden recurve models also provide hunting benefits because they are lightweight and offer quick draw opportunities. Whether you want to use a recurve bow for athletic or hunting reasons, it provides an ideal choice for beginners.

4. Crossbow

Unlike the other bows on this list, carbon and fiberglass crossbows feature horizontal rather than vertical shapes and fire bolts instead of arrows. Bolts look like arrows except for their shortened appearance and get mounted to stocks. Like rifles, crossbows require firing a trigger instead of pulling a string taut. Work with a crossbow to perfect your aim since you won’t have to worry about muscle fatigue before graduating to other bows. Crossbows also come in assorted styles and shapes and make ideal big game hunting companions because of their quick assembly and fast delivery. 

Schedule archery lessons at M & M Archery Range and Pro Shop to perfect your aim. Serving Florence, KY, and the surrounding areas for over 20 years, this family-owned archery range and pro shop offers bow rentals and tuning among other specialized services. Call (859) 282-6333 today with archery lesson questions or visit the website for range information.