Archery has been a part of human society for tens of thousands of years. For a long time the bow and arrow was one of the best tools around for hunting and warfare. Recurve bows are one of the best ways to keep in touch with the ancient roots of archery while benefiting from the advances of modern materials and design. Today we’re covering some of the best recurve bows on the market to help you find one that works well for your needs.
Contents
- 1 Best Recurve Bows
- 1.1 Bear Archery Grizzly Recurve Bow
- 1.2 PSE Razorback Takedown Recurve Bow
- 1.3 Buffalo Hunting Bow
- 1.4 Samick Sage Takedown Recurve Bow
- 1.5 Southwest Archery Spyder Takedown Recurve Bow
- 1.6 Southland Archery Supply Spirit 66″ Take Down Recurve Bow
- 1.7 Southland Archery Supply Explorer Metal Riser Takedown Recurve Bow
- 2 Best Recurve Bow Comparison Table
- 3 Buyers Guide to Buying the Best Recurve Bow
- 4 Top Recurve Bow Video
- 5 FAQ – Best Recurve Bow
- 6 Final Thoughts
Best Recurve Bows
- Bear Archery Grizzly Recurve Bow
- PSE Razorback Takedown Recurve Bow
- Buffalo Handmade Recurve Hunting Bow
- Samick Sage Takedown Recurve Bow
- Southwest Archery Spyder Takedown Recurve Bow
- Southland Archery Supply Take Down Recurve Bow
- Southland Archery Supply Explorer Metal Riser
Recurve bows offer an excellent compromise between the traditional bows of the past and the latest compound bows. They offer excellent accuracy and power without giving up the feel of a classic wood bow and arrow.
If you plan to go into competition archery recurve bows are the only way to go. Just about every major competition, including the Olympics, requires the use of a recurve bow.
Our list was put together with some of the best recurve bows across a range of features. You’ll find beginner bows, hunting bows, and recurve bows that seasoned archers would be proud to own.
Bear Archery Grizzly Recurve Bow
Ever since I embarked on my outdoor adventures, the charm of archery always held a special place amidst the hiking trails and camping nights under the stars. The Bear Archery Grizzly Recurve Bow seemed like the perfect companion to blend my love for the traditional with the modern-day hunting spirit. As a fervent admirer of time-tested designs, the continuous legacy of this bow since the 1950s intrigued me.
- Built for high performance
- The pinnacle of fit and finish
- User friendly design
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Upon arrival, the swift delivery by Mike’s Archery was a pleasant surprise, as the bow found its way to my door in just two days. The anticipation as I carefully sliced through the packaging was like a child unwrapping a long-awaited Christmas gift. The emblem of Bear Archery was a promise of quality and tradition.
Drawing the bow from its cocoon, I was greeted by the graceful marriage of natural maple and fiberglass, a sight to behold. The texture and look of the wood, akin to light cedar with streaks of red, were like holding a piece of the wilderness in my hands. The allure of its aesthetics was only matched by its sturdy feel, a testament to the thoughtful engineering behind it.
I opted for the 60 lbs draw weight, a bit challenging for my frame at first, but an enticing motivation to build my strength with every draw. The Dacron Flemish bow string felt reliable, and the bear hair arrow rest was a nostalgic touch, reminiscent of a time when every aspect of hunting was an art.
The first few shots were smooth, an echo of tradition resonating with each arrow released. However, amidst the classic charm, there were a few modern-day disappointments. The craftsmanship, especially around the bushings and the emblem on the riser, lacked the finesse I expected from a $400 bow. They appeared hastily installed, the edges of the bushings were splintered, and the emblem sat askew. Furthermore, the bow arrived with minor blemishes, like the two white square marks possibly from storage. These nuances, although not affecting the bow’s performance, did take away from the unboxing experience, making it feel less pristine than anticipated.
The one-piece design, while adding to its traditional allure, does pose a challenge in transport and storage, especially when juxtaposed against the more compact, modern recurve designs. Yet, it’s a minor inconvenience I’m willing to overlook for the sheer joy of owning a piece of living archery tradition.
In conclusion, the Bear Archery Grizzly is more than just a bow; it’s a bridge between the timeless art of archery and my modern-day outdoor escapades. Despite the slight blemishes in craftsmanship and the initial challenge with the draw weight, it’s a journey I am thrilled to embark on, one arrow at a time. Each draw is not merely about hitting the target, but about embracing the wilderness and the age-old tradition of archery. It’s not just a bow; it’s a companion in my outdoor adventures, a beautiful blend of the past and the present, promising many exciting hunts ahead.
Pros:
- Historic Design: Continuously available since the 1950s, embodying a rich archery tradition.
- Material Quality: Combination of natural maple and fiberglass offers durability along with a beautiful natural wood grain aesthetic.
- Customization: Available in left or right-handed versions with draw weights ranging from 30 lbs to 60 lbs, catering to different preferences and skill levels.
- Smooth Performance: The bow provides a smooth shooting experience, encouraging daily practice and strength building.
- Accessory Inclusion: Comes with a Dacron Flemish bow string and a bear hair arrow rest, enhancing the traditional archery experience.
Cons:
- Craftsmanship Concerns: Some elements like the bushings and emblem on the riser lacked finesse, showing signs of hurried installation.
- Minor Blemishes: Arrival with minor marks and a slightly loose strand on the bow string, although not affecting performance, detracted from the unboxing experience.
- Transport and Storage: Being a one-piece bow, it poses challenges in ease of transport and storage compared to modern recurve designs.
- Price Expectation: The craftsmanship and minor defects were a bit disappointing for the price point of around $400.
PSE Razorback Takedown Recurve Bow
The PSE Razorback is a value priced takedown style recurve bow. It’s made from walnut, burma White, and beech Wood with limbs crafted from fused natural maple and fiberglass.
- 15 Razorback Takedown Right Hand 62
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This gives it great resilience and strength plus a really attractive fusion look. It’s 62” long and offers between 25 and 50 lbs of draw weight. This lets you customize your bow for your strength and shooting style.
As a takedown style bow the limbs are attached to the riser with an easy to remove limb bolt for easy storage and transport. It comes with predrilled holes for sights, balancers, and other accessories.
All in all the PSE Razorback is an excellent starter bow for archers just getting into the sport or those who want an inexpensive bow to practice with.
Buffalo Hunting Bow
The Buffalo Hunting Bow is a one piece heritage style bow designed to look and function like the composite bows of the past. It’s an ambidextrous bow with a multi toned appearance.
You can choose from a draw weight of 35 lbs on up to 65 lbs and change the length as well. The riser is much more traditional than on most modern recurve bows and doesn’t have an arrow nocking position. It also lacks places to attach things like sights, balancers, and other accessories.
This is a good bow to use for target shooting or other practice archery but isn’t really as versatile as more modern hunting bows. If you’re just looking for a fun recurve bow to practice with though it’s a good and affordably priced option.
Samick Sage Takedown Recurve Bow
The Samick Sage is a 62” long takedown style recurve bow designed for beginner to intermediate archers. It’s made from laminated maple, olive, and dymondwood with fiberglass reinforced maple limbs.
- ERGONOMICALLY DESIGNED - Samick’s risers are manufactured with imported Maple wood, for lightweight and highly durable bows, with a comfortable ergonomic grip.
- FEATURES - Pre-installed threaded Brass Bushings for various attachments and upgrades, such as, Brass Plunger, Stabilizer, Sight, Quiver, Bow fishing reel.
- HAND ORIENTATION - Right Handed - Hold the bow with your LEFT hand and pull the string with your RIGHT. Left Handed - Hold the bow with your RIGHT hand and pull the string with your LEFT.
- INCLUDES: Riser - 2 Fiberglass laminated limbs (Choose from 25 lbs - 60 lbs draw) - 14 dacron bowstring - arrow rest. Limbs are interchangeable and can be purchased separately.
- THE CHOICE OF CHAMPIONS - SAMICK products are well proven by archery champions throughout the world in records. Our professional staff and high quality manufacturing system produces high performance products
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It comes in a variety of draw weights and lengths to fit any skill level. On feature we really love is the ability to buy more powerful limbs as you improve your strength and technique. The riser is available in either a right hand or left hand version. It also includes copper bushings for mounting various accessories.
Overall the Samick Sage offers great value for your money and is especially useful for beginning archers.
Southwest Archery Spyder Takedown Recurve Bow
The Southwest Archery Spyder is a takedown style recurve bow designed for target shooting and hunting. It’s available in draw weights ranging from 20 lbs all the way up to 60 lbs.
- SPECIAL PRICE FOR LIMITED TIME – Designed by the engineers and developers of the original Samick Sage, we’ve combined four naturally sourced woods to create this beautiful bow that is the perfect choice for just about anyone!
- SPECS – Available in both Left Hand and Right Hand with draw weights of 25lb – 55lb (5lb increments). Features preinstalled threaded bushings for various accessory upgrades such as mechanical rests/plungers, sights, quivers, and stabilizers/bow fishing reels. Reinforced limb tips allow bow to be Fast Flight and Flemish string compatible.
- INCLUDES – one handcrafted riser (LH or RH), one pair of matching limbs (upper and lower), one 14 strand Dacron string, one stick on adhesive arrow rest, and detailed step by step instructions with photos.
- OPTIONAL – If you do not already own a stringer tool, please select the option to have one included (color may vary). Keep in mind that using a stringer tool is the ONLY safe way to properly assemble and disassemble your bow!
- DARE TO COMPARE – Extraordinary quality at an affordable price and backed with an industry-leading warranty. All Southwest Archery bows include a 1-year manufacturer warranty when registered online after purchase! Don’t hesitate to check out our storefront to see all our other amazing products
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This makes it usable for everyone from new archers just learning the sport all the way up to experienced bow hunters. The riser is made from white oak, dymond wood, and padouk. It’s prefitted with bushings for a range of in-demand accessories like stabilizers, quivers, sights, and bow fishing rigs.
You can choose either a right hand or left hand riser and pic from various packages of gear. One of the most basic includes a stringer tool to help you quickly and safely string the bow.
The Spyder is a versatile bow that will work for a lot of different archers. It’s also pretty affordable, especially given how many features it provides.
Southland Archery Supply Spirit 66″ Take Down Recurve Bow
The Southland Archery Supply Spirit 66” is a takedown recurve bow designed for beginner archers. It’s available in both right hand and left hand variants and offers draw weights of between 20lbs and 34 lbs.
- Strong fiberglass limb
- Made of Maple laminations
- Recommended shooter heights up 6
- Both Right hand or Left Hand Available
- Length: 66 in
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That’s right where your average adult archer should look for a first bow. It gives you acceptable power for target shooting and lets you get the fundamentals down without straining your body.
The Spirit 66 is made with laminated fiberglass and maple limbs that attach to a riser made from chuglam, gmelina arborea, and beech wood. These give your bow a lovely creamy yellow look and help it stand out from the dark browns and mahogany hues common to traditional recurve bows.
If you’re looking for the perfect bow to introduce a teen or adult to archery, the Southland Archery Supply Spirit 66 just might be it.
Southland Archery Supply Explorer Metal Riser Takedown Recurve Bow
The Southland Archery Supply Explorer is a beginner bow fitted for archers with longer draw lengths. It uses a machined aluminum riser and is available with draw weights of 22 lbs to 34 lbs.
- High Strength Casting Aluminum Riser
- Carefully Polished Finish Riser
- Strong Fiberglass Limb Made of Maple
- Right hand only
- Recommended shooter heights up 6 foot
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It’s available in right hand draw only and comes in either red or blue. The limbs are easy to slot into place and are made from fiberglass reinforced maple. This gives them plenty of strength and a very nice snap to each shot.
Overall it’s got a really nice look to it and is easy for beginners to get used to archery with. The lower draw weight allows them to practice hard without immediately getting worn out.
The Southland Archery SUpply Explorer is an alternative to more traditional recurve bows. Its aluminum riser gives it a really cool futuristic look that’s great for younger archers.
Best Recurve Bow Comparison Table
| Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Top
Top | Bear Archery Grizzly Recurve Bow Right Hand, 40# | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | |
Top | PSE Archery Razorback Traditional Takedown Recurve Recreational Shooting Bow, Right, 62"- 20 | Prime | Buy on Amazon | |
Top | Samick Sage Takedown Recurve Bow (25 LB, Right) | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | |
Top | Southwest Archery Spyder XL 64 Takedown Recurve Bow -25R-with Stringertool | Prime | Buy on Amazon | |
Top | Southland Archery Supply SAS Spirit 66" Take Down Recurve Bow (22 Lbs, Right) | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | |
Top | Southland Archery Supply SAS Explorer Metal Riser Takedown Recurve Bow (Red, 30 Lbs.) | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon |
Buyers Guide to Buying the Best Recurve Bow
Archery is an extremely precise sport, and not just when it comes to accurately shooting your arrows either. There are several key measurements that will determine what bows will work for what archers.
The most important ones to keep in mind are draw weight, draw length, and your intended use of the bow. Once you get past that you’ve just got a few preference type choices to make.
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Price
We’ve got good news and bad news. The good news is you can start shooting with a recurve bow for a very affordable price. Entry level bows are right around $100 to $200 and offer pretty good performance, especially at the lower draw weights common to beginners.
For a quality recurve hunting bow you’ll need to spend a bit more. Think on the order of $500 or so to get a pretty good bow.
The bad news is that once you really get into the sport you can expect to drop some serious money. Competition recurve bows consistently cost over $1,000, with olympic level ones going as high as $2,000+.
Draw Length
The draw length of a recurve bow refers to the distance from the nock point to the throat of the grip plus 1.75 inches. It plays a major role in how comfortable and safe you’ll be when using a bow.
If you’ve never shot a bow before you probably don’t know what the best draw length for you is. Don’t worry, there’s an easy way to find out.
Start by extending your arms out to either side of your body with your palms facing forward. Have someone else take a length of string and measure from the tip of one middle finger to the tip of the other across your chest and divide this total by 2.5.
This gives you the approximate draw length that will work best for you. It’s never a good idea to try and force yourself to shoot a bow with too great or too short a draw length.
A best you’ll reduce your accuracy and at worst you can hurt yourself.
Bow Length/Height
The overall size of recurve bows starts at about 48 inches and goes up to around 72 inches. That’s a pretty big range and can be confusing for new archers.
Thankfully it’s a lot easier to figure out than you’d first think. The length of your bow is going to be heavily dependent on your draw length.
As long as you know what your draw length is, it’s easy to convert that into the correct bow length/height.
Draw Weight
Draw weight is just about the most important factor to consider when choosing a recurve bow. The draw weight of a bow refers to the pounds of force it takes to effectively draw and shoot.
The best draw weight for you is heavily dependent on your age, size, and physical condition. For children just starting out with archery we recommend a draw weight of no more than 15 lbs.
Most women of small to medium build will be able to handle a bow of at least 25-35 lbs, while larger women and most average men can use one of about 45-55 lbs.
Not able to draw a bow powerful enough for your intended activity?
Start with a lower draw weight recurve bow and work your way up. As you practice your arm muscles will get stronger and stronger.
Riser
The riser is the heart and soul of modern recurve bows. It’s the centerpiece of your bow that the limbs connect to. It’s also where you grip and nock an arrow.
You can choose from a variety of different materials and styles for your riser depending on your activity and budget. They’re available in wood, composite materials, aluminum, and carbon fiber.
The riser is also where just about every archery accessory goes. If you plan to add on a sight, stabilizer, or a quiver this is where it will attach. Look for risers that come pre drilled for common accessories.
Limbs
The limbs of a recurve bow are what most laymen would think of as the bow itself. These are the curved strips of various materials that bend and snap back to provide the actual power behind your shots.
They’re made from a variety of different materials such as laminated fiberglass, carbon fiber, or wood. The more exotic the materials the greater the cost goes up.
When choosing a recurve bow there are two major varieties; take down bows and one piece bows. Take down bows have limbs that screw into place on the riser and break down into three or more pieces for easy storage and transport.
One piece bows look very similar to take down bows but are a single continuous piece of material from limbs to riser. These are a lot less common than take down bows but are still used by some bow hunting traditionalists.
Bow String
Bow string plays an important role in how effective a bow is. The vast majority of modern recurve bows use twisted polymers such as Dacron or Dyneema. They provide significantly greater rigidity and strength than natural materials and don’t stretch out nearly as quickly.
If you’re using a traditional recurve bow you can sometimes find heritage bow strings made from things like linen, hemp, flax, etc, though these are far weaker and less effective than modern bow strings.
Hand Orientation
Most recurve bows aren’t ambidextrous. Make sure you double and triple check that the bow you order is available in either a right handed or left handed version.
Intended Use
When we’re talking about recurve bows how you plan to use them is a big part of picking the best one. If you’re just looking for a bow to shoot at targets you can pick just about any recurve bow on the market.
Draw weight and isn’t a major factor if you just need an inch or so of penetration. For hunting bows you need something with more oomph.
It’s very important that you be able to penetrate the fur, skin, muscle, fat, and sinew of your game animal. The minimum draw weight you should consider is 40 lbs, with 45-50 more appropriate.
If you’re hunting large game or game with an especially thick hide it’s important you scale up your bow’s power accordingly.
Extras
Once you’ve picked out your favorite recurve bow it’s time to customize it! The bow itself is just the starting point of a prepared archer’s kit.
Some of the most important accessories to consider include bow sights, bow slings, and bow releases. These all significantly improve the effectiveness, accuracy, and safety of your archery.
Once you’ve gotten deeper into the sport you’ll find that the accessories just get more and more interesting. Ever wanted to try bow fishing? We know we did.
Top Recurve Bow Video
FAQ – Best Recurve Bow
Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section of our comprehensive guide on the “Best Recurve Bow” for camping, hiking, and hunting enthusiasts. If you’re a nature lover seeking a versatile and reliable archery companion for your outdoor adventures, a recurve bow might be the perfect fit. Designed with a rich history dating back centuries, the recurve bow combines simplicity, portability, and power, making it an excellent choice for various outdoor activities.
In this FAQ section, we’ll address common queries that arise when selecting the right recurve bow for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned archer or a curious beginner, we’re here to provide you with valuable insights to enhance your outdoor experience. Let’s delve into the essential questions surrounding recurve bows, their suitability for camping, hiking, and hunting, and the necessary accessories and maintenance tips to ensure you get the most out of your bow.
Discover the world of recurve bows and unlock the potential of traditional archery in your wilderness pursuits. Read on to find answers to questions that will help you make informed decisions and embark on an exciting journey with your chosen recurve bow.
What is a recurve bow?
A recurve bow is a type of traditional bow that has curved limbs that curve away from the archer when unstrung. This design allows the bow to store more energy and deliver higher arrow speeds compared to a straight-limbed bow.
Why choose a recurve bow for camping, hiking, and hunting?
Recurve bows are popular among outdoor enthusiasts for several reasons. They are lightweight, portable, and easy to maneuver in various terrains, making them ideal for camping and hiking trips. Additionally, recurve bows are known for their simplicity and reliability, making them an excellent choice for hunting small to medium-sized game.
What draw weight should I choose for camping and hiking?
For camping and hiking, it’s best to choose a recurve bow with a moderate draw weight. A range of 25 to 35 pounds is generally sufficient for recreational shooting and hunting small game. This weight provides a good balance between ease of use and shooting performance without causing excessive strain during extended outdoor activities.
Can beginners use a recurve bow?
Yes, recurve bows are suitable for beginners, and they are often recommended for those new to archery. Their simple design and lack of complicated accessories allow beginners to focus on developing proper shooting form and technique. Start with a lower draw weight and gradually work your way up as you become more comfortable and skilled.
What are takedown recurve bows?
Takedown recurve bows are designed with detachable limbs, which can be easily removed from the riser (handle) of the bow. This feature makes them convenient for camping and hiking because they can be disassembled and packed into a compact size for easy transportation and storage.
Are recurve bows suitable for hunting larger game?
While recurve bows can be used for hunting larger game, their effective range and power are limited compared to compound bows or crossbows. It requires a high level of skill and precision to take down larger animals with a recurve bow. Therefore, for hunting big game, experienced archers might prefer other bow types with higher draw weights and more advanced technology.
What accessories do I need for my recurve bow?
For camping, hiking, and hunting with a recurve bow, you’ll need a few essential accessories, including arrows, an armguard to protect your forearm, a finger tab or glove to protect your fingers, and a bowstringer for safely stringing and unstringing the bow. Additionally, a bow case or bag can help protect your recurve bow during transport.
How should I care for my recurve bow during outdoor trips?
To ensure your recurve bow remains in good condition during your outdoor adventures, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or moisture. After each use, wipe down the bow to remove dirt and debris, and store it in a dry place. Regularly check the bowstring for signs of wear and replace it if necessary. Proper maintenance will extend the life of your recurve bow.
Can I use a recurve bow for target shooting?
Absolutely! Recurve bows are excellent for target shooting, and they have been used in archery competitions for centuries. They offer a challenging and rewarding shooting experience, promoting better accuracy and focus.
How much does a quality recurve bow cost?
The cost of a quality recurve bow can vary depending on the brand, materials, and features. Entry-level recurve bows suitable for beginners can be found in the range of $100 to $300. As you move up to higher-quality bows with better performance, expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $800 or more.
Remember, investing in a durable and well-crafted recurve bow will enhance your outdoor experience and provide years of enjoyment in camping, hiking, and hunting activities.
Final Thoughts
Archers searching for the best recurve bow have no lack of excellent choices. Hunters can benefit from the power and traditional styling of one piece bows while modern competition archers will love the convenience of take down bows.
Make sure you keep your desired draw weight, length, and intend use in mind and it’s easy to find the best recurve bow for your skill level and needs.
