Compound Bows – A Full Guide

Depending on the uses you want to make of your bow, different styles of bows might be more appropriate than others. If you’re going to have a bow that is particularly easy to operate but that at the same time can provide you with some high speed and accuracy, you should think about picking one of the types of compound bows that are available in the market. Such bows are preferred by many experienced archers for good reasons. We collected some information about this bow style, which might help you in making a decision.

But first, let’s define some key terminology that might come handy when reading this article, especially if you are new to archery.

Some Key Terminology

Brace Height – It refers to the furthest point between the bow grip and the string.Bowhunting – A form of archery that involves hunting prays using a bow instead of a gun.Draw length – the distance at which the string can be pulled back when the bow is loaded.Draw weight- the amount of force you need to pull the string back.Limbs – the bottom and upper parts of the bow.Target Archery – a form of archery that involves shooting at stationary targets such as bullseyes.

What Are Compound Bows?

A compound bow is relatively easy to use because it makes use of pulleys and levers to bend the limbs while the string is pulled back by the archer. Such bows look a bit different compared to traditional bows, as they make use of some modern technology for improved efficiency. The limbs of compound bows store energy when the bow is loaded, which is why they are made of durable fiberglass material, that can withstand compression and tension.

Usually, the rest of the bow is made of carbon fiber and other lightweight materials, with a built-in system of levers and pulleys resting on one of the limbs.

Also, the strings of compound bows are thicker, which results in higher speed of the arrow compared to traditional bows.

For all these characteristics, compound bows are one of the most popular styles of bows adopted in modern archery. Thanks to their versatility and usability, they can perform well in bowhunting or target archery. For a better experience, compound bows for bowhunting are shorter, to facilitate transport, while they tend to be longer for target archery, to increase accuracy.

 The Advantages In Using Compound Bows?

Many archers prefer using compound bows because they do offer many advantages over traditional bows. They tend to be lighter and allow a better focus on aiming the target rather than having to think about sustaining a heavyweight on your shoulders. These bows can provide you with better accuracy, also because of the higher speed given by energy stored in the limbs, which is then transferred to string and the arrow. Faster arrows fly with a straighter arc, which makes it more likely to hit the target if aimed correctly.

Apart from the greater accuracy, another significant advantage in using compound bounds lay in the facility to operate them. Such bows tend to require less strength. While in traditional bows, the draw weight needs to be supported by the archer, compound bounds have limbs that hold on the draw weight, which makes these bows easier to handle, even when loaded.

How To Choose The Perfect Compound Bow

As with other types of bows, the size of your bow will depend on the specific use you intend to make of it. The major factors to consider the one that suits you better will be height and weight. Also, you have to test out the draw length and your comfort in pulling the string back.

Another essential factor to take into account, which is often overlooked, is the bow’s brace height. Beginners might consider sticking to a higher brace height, which will be easier to operate, while archers with a bit more experience can be better off with the increased speed given by a lower height brace,

The Bottomline

Of course, as with any other types of bows, you will get better at using compound bows with practice, and nothing is for free. However, all in all, they are easier to use than traditional bows, which make them a good choice if you are new to archery.