Recurve Bow Shooting: How Frequent?

Recurve bows are a popular choice for archers, thanks in part to their use in films like The Hunger Games. But how often you can shoot one depends on several factors.

First, you need to choose the right bow for your body and purpose. Recurve bows are used for target archery or hunting, with the main difference being the draw weight – the power needed to draw the bow. For hunting, you'll need a higher draw weight.

You'll also want to select a suitable draw weight. For an adult beginner, this should be between 18 and 24 lbs, while children should start even lower. Choosing a low draw weight will result in less speed and power but will allow you to focus on your form and technique.

The length of the bow is another important factor. When placed on the ground, the end of the top limb should sit between your nose and forehead. For the average teenager and adult, a 66 or 68-inch bow is suitable.

You'll also need to decide on the type of arrow. Arrows are typically made from aluminium, wood or carbon, with fiberglass arrows used for youth bows and bowfishing. The heavier the arrow shaft, the deeper it will sink into the target. If you're using the arrow for hunting, you'll need something that can sink through skin and bone.

Other equipment you'll need includes a target, an armguard, a finger tab, and a bow stringer.

Once you have all the right equipment, you can start practising your form and technique. This includes finding the right stance, loading the arrow, pulling the bowstring back, taking aim, and releasing the arrow.

With the right equipment and regular practice, you can improve your accuracy and distance with a recurve bow.

How far can you shoot?

The maximum range of a bow is about 200 to 500 yards, but the accurate range for target shooting is 100 yards for most archers. If precision is not a factor, a recurve bow can shoot at greater lengths, even over 1000 yards. The accurate range for target shooting is between 60 to 100 yards. For hunting, the effective range of the recurve bow is somewhere between 20 yards and 40 yards, depending on the draw weight of the bow and the archer’s competency.

The distance an arrow can be shot depends on a number of factors, including the style of the bow, the draw strength, the type and weight of the arrow, and environmental conditions. The construction of the arrow is also a factor, with lighter arrows travelling further but being more susceptible to deflection by wind and obstacles, and heavier arrows being more accurate and delivering more impact.

The angle of the shot is another important factor. In most instances, a 90° angle is used, but shooting at a higher angle can increase the distance the arrow travels. In the past, archers would shoot at angles of 42° or more, allowing them to hit targets 300-400 yards away.

The environment can also play a role in how far an arrow can be shot. Windy conditions, humidity, rain, and other factors can affect the distance and accuracy of a shot. Shooting in a controlled environment, such as an indoor range, removes these variables and allows the archer's skill to be the main factor in determining the distance of the shot.

Practice is key to achieving longer-distance shots. An experienced archer will be able to calculate all the factors involved in a long-distance shot and make adjustments to improve their accuracy.

Choosing the right bow

When choosing the right recurve bow, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, decide on the purpose of your bow. Recurve bows can be used for target archery or hunting, and the main difference lies in the draw weight, which is the amount of power needed to draw the bow. If you plan on using the bow for hunting, you will need a higher draw weight.

Next, consider the draw weight that is suitable for you. For adults, it is recommended to start with a draw weight between 18 and 24 lbs, while children should start with an even lower weight. Choosing a lower draw weight will allow you to focus on developing proper form and technique. It is important to select a draw weight that is not too difficult to pull back, as this can affect your accuracy.

The length of the bow is another important factor. A good rule of thumb is to choose a bow that, when placed on the ground, sits with the end of the top limb between your nose and forehead. For the average teenager and adult, a 66 or 68-inch bow is typically recommended.

You also have the option of choosing between a take-down bow and a one-piece bow. A take-down bow can be dismantled for easy portability and servicing. It also allows for flexible draw weight, as you can adjust the draw weight by purchasing new limbs instead of a whole new bow.

When choosing a bow, it is advisable to try out different options at a local archery shop to find the one that suits you best. Consulting an expert who can fit you for a bow that takes into account your height, draw strength, and handedness is also highly recommended.

Other factors to consider when choosing a recurve bow include the weight of the bow, whether you want accessories attached to the bow, and the length of the arrows you will be using. Additionally, the riser, which is the foundation of the bow, is an important investment. Consider the material of the riser, such as wood, metal, or carbon, as each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Selecting the right arrows

Choosing the right arrows for your recurve bow is essential to ensure accuracy and safety. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting arrows:

Draw Length

The first step in choosing arrows is determining your draw length, which is the distance you can pull the bowstring back. To measure your draw length, stretch your arms out to the sides and measure the distance between the tips of your middle fingers. Then, divide that number by 2.5. Alternatively, you can stand sideways facing a wall, stretch out your bow arm with your fist clenched, and measure the distance from your fist to your anchor point (the spot on your face where you pull the bowstring). Your arrow length should be 1-2 inches longer than your draw length.

Arrow Material and Weight

Arrows are typically made of aluminium, wood, carbon, or a combination of these materials. Carbon arrows are durable, accurate, and safe, making them a popular choice for recurve bows. Aluminium arrows are heavier and suitable for hunting as they provide more impact. Wooden arrows are traditional but less durable and should only be used with low-power recurve bows or longbows. The weight of your arrows should correspond to the poundage of your bow. Lighter bows generally work best with lighter arrows, and vice versa. A good rule of thumb is to use approximately 10 grains of arrow weight per pound of draw weight.

Arrow Diameter

The diameter of your arrows depends on their intended use. If you're using your recurve bow for target practice or competitions, thicker arrows are preferable as they are more likely to strike the target's scoring areas. For hunting or outdoor target practice, narrower arrows are better as they are less affected by wind resistance and provide better penetration.

Arrow Spine

The spine refers to how much the arrow bends when loaded and during flight. A higher draw weight, longer arrow, and heavier arrowhead require stiffer arrows with less spine. Conversely, a lower draw weight, shorter arrow, and lighter arrowhead call for arrows with more spine.

Arrowheads

The type of arrowhead depends on your intended use. For target practice, bullet points or field points are suitable. For hunting, broadheads are designed specifically for this purpose and provide strong piercing power. For small game, use judo, field, or blunt tips to avoid excessive damage to the animal.

Stance and positioning

Square Stance

The square stance is the most common and recommended stance for recurve archery. It is simple and efficient, requiring minimal torso and abdomen rotation to achieve shoulder alignment. This makes it easier to learn and maintain correct posture, as it is generally easier to feel if you are leaning towards or away from the target.

To achieve the square stance, place both feet either side of the shooting line, with your feet parallel to the line and slightly wider than shoulder width apart. A line drawn through the balls of your feet should point at the target. Your hips should remain in line with your feet, and your shoulders in line with your hips.

If your stance is too wide, you will feel tension in your legs, and if it is too narrow, you will feel unstable and be drawn to lean away from the target. Adjust your stance until you feel your body weight transferring through your pelvis, legs, and down to your feet.

Open Stance

The open stance is a good option for beginners as it is easy to master and practice consistently. It positions your hips and shoulders in line with the direction you are shooting, with your torso perpendicular to the target.

To achieve the open stance, place one foot on each side of the shooting line, with your feet shoulder-width apart and parallel to the line. The foot on the same side as your bow arm (the arm holding the bow) will be in front, towards the target. Move this front foot back slightly and turn it 45 degrees towards the target.

Stand up straight, rotating your chin so it is over the shoulder of your bow arm. Flatten your back by moving your hips forward and tucking them under your upper body. This will help to relax your back, align your spine, and engage your core.

Closed Stance

The closed stance involves placing your foot farthest from the target a step back. This stance can help to relax your back muscles and improve shoulder alignment. However, it requires more torso rotation, so it is recommended to stick with the square stance unless you experience issues.

Rotated Square Stance

This stance is a combination of the square and open/closed stances, where you rotate either inward or outward while keeping the same foot positioning as the square stance. This stance is for archers who want to shoot with an open or closed stance but feel that the parallel foot position of the square stance provides more stability.

General Posture Tips

• Keep your legs straight with your weight slightly forward on the balls of your feet.
• Rotate your legs slightly so that you feel as if you are pushing your heels together and your toes apart, engaging your glutes.
• Keep your spine straight with a T-posture and no postural sway.
• Keep your back flat, shoulders neutral, and head neutral and turned fully towards the target.
• Pull your shoulder blades together to get both shoulders in a straight line with your bow arm.
• Keep your knees straight but relaxed. Avoid locking or overextending your knees, as this can cause instability and strain your back muscles.
• Keep your neck as straight as possible, turning your head about 60 degrees towards the target.
• Close your mouth, breathing through your nose.
• Aim your toes slightly outward to increase stability.

Technique and practice

The technique you use when shooting a recurve bow is critical to your accuracy and distance. Here are some key techniques to keep in mind:

• Stance: Stand side-on to the target with your feet shoulder-width apart, and keep your body vertical. Don't lean to one side. If you're right-handed, stand with your left hip pointing towards the target.
• Grip: Hold the bow with a firm yet comfortable grip. Keep your knuckles at a 45-degree angle and avoid a death grip, which will cause inaccuracy.
• Drawing the Bow: Lift the bow to shoulder height with a straight arm. Pull the bowstring back to your jaw, touching the corner of your mouth (this is called the anchor point). Use the stronger muscles in your back rather than your arm muscles.
• Aiming: Aim with your dominant eye, keeping the other eye closed. Line up your target using the notches in the sight if your bow has one.
• Releasing the Arrow: Relax your fingers gently from the string to release. Don't jerk the string back, as this will affect the arrow's flight. Stay in position until the arrow hits the target.

In addition to technique, regular practice is essential to improving your accuracy and distance with a recurve bow. Here are some tips for effective practice:

• Start with the basics: If you're a beginner, learn the fundamentals of archery, such as proper form, holding the bow and arrow correctly, and finding your dominant eye.
• Gradually increase distance: Start practising at short distances and gradually increase the distance as you gain control of your bow.
• Focus on accuracy: Ensure that your arrow hits the centre of the target. This will help you develop a consistent technique.
• Pay attention to your body: Notice how your body feels as you shoot at different distances. This can affect your ability to shoot accurately.
• Fine-tune your technique: As you gain experience, adjust your techniques to suit your unique body and shooting style. This may involve trying different stances and shooting styles.
• Invest in quality equipment: Using high-quality equipment can help improve your performance. Choose arrows of appropriate weight and length for your skill level and the conditions.
• Practice consistently: Archery requires unwavering focus and a commitment to improvement. Regular practice will help you master the skills and techniques needed to increase your accuracy and distance.

Frequently asked questions