How to Choose a Bow

The three types of bows

There are many factors to consider when choosing a bow: the type, size, use, and strength of the bow.

There are 3 types of bows:

The classic bow (or recurve bow): the most common bow. It can be one-piece or detachable (limbs and handle). Beginners should choose a plastic or wood one-piece bow, while more experienced archers can opt for detachable ones, usually made of composite materials (steel or aluminum). The detachable models are stiffer and allow for greater precision during archery competitions.

The longbow: a simple and basic bow, mostly made of wood, like in the early days of archery. The limbs are straight and one-piece without an arrow rest on the handle. This bow requires the archer to have good control, especially for arrow placement.

The compound bow: Thanks to an ingenious pulley system that increases shooting power by 60%, the compound bow is extremely powerful. It can be used for target shooting and hunting. The handle is usually made of metal.

You must then select between the two types of archery:

Target shooting, which can be practiced indoors or outdoors. The distance for competitions varies between 18 to 70 yards. The target is usually a coat of arms, any image, or a 3D animal replica. The goal is to hit the center of the target as many times as possible, sometimes with a time limit. Traditional and compound bows are most common for target shooting.

Instinctive shooting: it’s an ancient shooting technique usually practiced by experienced archers. The goal is to aim a longbow without a sighting system at a (sometimes moving) target.

Portability

Size: Your size will help determine the right bow for you. If the bow is for a child, it’s possible they will outgrow it. Tip: it’s better to get a larger bow than one that is too small. It will be more flexible and easier to use

Size is dependent on two factors:

-The bow handle, available in several sizes according to the model. Comfort and ease of handling will help you make your selection.

-The limbs: your size and the strength of your bow will dictate which libs you choose.

Strength: This corresponds to the propulsion the arrow receives when the string is released. It varies according to the type of bow used, most often between 15 to 60 lbs. The more powerful the bow, the quicker your arrows will reach the target and with more precision over longer distances. However, it requires great physical strength to handle it.

We recommend a powerful bow for experienced archers.

If you are new to archery, select a a less powerful bow so you can learn from your mistakes without tiring yourself out. Your arrows won’t go as fast or as far, but the power of your bow will allow you to learn to adjust your shots and acquire good technique. Once you’ve mastered your movements, you can choose a more powerful bow.

Are you right- or left-handed?

Here is a simple way to know your dominant side: With both eyes open, point with your thumb at an object 5 yards away, then close your left eye.

- Is your thumb centered on the target? This means that you are aiming with your right eye. A right-handed archer aims with their right eye, holds the bow with their left hand, and draws the string with their right hand.

- Is your thumb to the left of the target? This means that you are aiming with your left eye. A left-handed archer aims with their left eye, holds the bow with their right hand, and draws the string with their left hand.