The three types of bows : classic, longbow and compound
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 aluminium). The detachable models are stiffer and allow for greater precision during archery competitions.
The longbow: a 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.
The classic bow
The traditional bow is a more historical bow that comes in different sizes to accommodate a variety of archers.
The longbow
The longbow is also considered a traditional bow. It’s made up of a single block and is designed for advanced archers (no accessories can be added).
The compound bow
The compound bow is a powerful bow used mainly for competitions.
Which type of archery for your practice
You must then select between the two types of archery:
Target shooting, which can be practised indoors or outdoors. The distance for competitions varies between 18 to 70 metres. The target is usually a coat of arms, any image, or a 3D animal replica.
The goal is to hit the centre of the target as many times as possible, sometimes with a time limit. Traditional and compound bows are most common for target shooting.
Also for instinctive shooting: it’s an ancient shooting technique usually practised by experienced archers. The goal is to aim a longbow without a sighting system at a (sometimes moving) target.
What type of bow is best for beginners
Discover archery
If you’re new to archery and want to practise with friends or family,
head to the discovery section.
I can shoot with a bow
If you can already shoot with a bow and are starting to shoot in a club,
head to the discovery or club sections.
I’m mastering archery
If you can already shoot with a bow and would like to practise competitively,
head to the discovery or club sections.
What bow size do you need - portability
Size:
Your size will help determine the right bow for you. It’s measured in inches (1 inch = 2.54 cm), usually represented with quotation marks.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: draw weight
Measured in pounds (lb). It corresponds to the propulsion the arrow receives when the string is released: 1 lb = 453.5 gramsIt varies according to the type of bow used, most often between 15 to 60 lb.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.
Choosing how to shoot a 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 metres away, then close your left eye.
- Is your thumb centred 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.
