If you have an interest in archery and hunting, you will come across the question of whether recurve or compound bows are better sooner or later. Whether on blogs or talking to other hunters or when trying to find the best bow for yourself, you will find yourself involved in a discussion of whether a recurve or compound bow is best. The simple answer is that both are best – both types of bow have their own set of advantages and depending on what you want from your bow, both can be a good choice for a hunter.
Differences Between Recurve And Compound Bows
When you look at each type of bow, they look quite different from each other. Recurve bows closely resemble the traditional “bow and arrow” that most people think of when they think of shooting a bow, but the limbs curve away from the bow holder instead of towards. Compound bows come fitted with a cam pulley system that uses pulleys and strings to move the bow and assist in drawing.
Compound Bows For Long Draws And Difficult Shots
The cam system on a compound bow means that the hunter can hold a bow drawn back for a much longer time than could be achieved with a recurve bow. This system greatly cuts down on hunter fatigue as the bow is drawn, allowing you to build up and control more power. The build up of power also means a longer and faster shot than could usually be achieved with a recurve bow. These advantages make compound bows fantastic in situations where you need to draw for longer and hold the bow drawn such as in wooded areas where you need to wait for the perfect shot.
Recurve Bows For Speed Of Drawing And Fast Targets
Recurve bows are particularly suited to situations where you need to shoot quickly and often, such as when hunting small and fast moving game. Recurve bows don't lend themselves easily to long draw times, instead coming into their own when you are going to shoot quickly. Recurves often have a shorter draw to shot time, and are quicker to restring. All of that adds up to a bow that works well for quick, instinctual shooting. There is a strong element of skill in getting good accuracy with a recurve bow, which many hunters find appealing.
The Choice Is Yours
Both compound and recurve bows offer a distinct set of advantages and are particularly suited to different types of hunting, whether that's the long pursuit waiting for the perfect shot or the fast and rapid shooting of a quick moving target.
When it comes down to it, the choice of a compound or a recurve is a personal one and every hunter will find his or her own setup that feels and works just right. If you're looking for professional advice on finding the right bow for you, get in touch today and we'll help you find the perfect setup for your hunting needs.
