The recurve bow is the exclusive bow of the Olympics. The recurve name seems to come from the fact that the bow curves back out back again (or recurves). When the bow is strung, the string touches a section of the bow. The second curve goes against the natural curve of the bow and this gives the recurve bow greater energy. This extra energy due to the curve allows for a recurve bow to give more energy than a simple bow of the same length. This comes in handy for archers who can benefit from traveling with a bow that is not quite so difficult to carry through brush or some other conditions where length could be more of a problem.
The recurve bow can range in length from 48 inches to 70 inches. A typical target bow is around 66 inches long. For the sake of stability it is recommended that your recurve bow not be less than 58 inches. Choosing a bow length depends a lot on your draw length. If your draw length is less than 28 inches, you should choose a bow that is between 62 and 66 inches and if your draw length is more than 28 inches, get a bow that is between 66 inches and 70 inches.
Well that is great to know, you say. But how can I figure out my draw length? The easiest way is to measure the length of your arm span and divide that number by 2.5. Get a friend to help you. Spread out your arms, palms facing forward. Do not reach out by stretching but just hold out your arms and turn your palms so that they are facing forward. Have your friend measure from the tip of one middle finger to the tip of the other middle finger. Now divide by 2.5. The result is your draw length.
There are a couple of hints to help you know that you are right in your measurement. The length of your arm span is about the same as your height. If you are 5 foot 6 inches (or 66 inches) tall than your arm span will be about the same. If this is your arm span, then your draw length is 66 divided by 2.5 or 26.4. When you go to buy a recurve bow, you can double check on whether the size of the recurve bow is right for you. The people in the archery store would have a good idea if you have measured your arm span correctly.
Related Articles
History of the Bow and Arrow
By: Linda Barton | 04/05/2008 | Extreme Sports
The history of archery is an interesting one, by following the evolution of archery we also follow the history of mankind which is so closely linked.
The History of Darts
By: James Hunt | 29/12/2005 | Sports and Fitness
The sport of darts actually began as training for people who were interested in martial arts (archery). Darts itself began in Medieval England, and is still...
Days Out - Great Attractions, Activities and Things to Do
By: Synapse India | 12/04/2008 | Sports and Fitness
Primary activity days out provides the ultimate opportunities to interact amongst team members and have great fun by participating in physical, creative, cultural, and service activities
Five Important Tips for Organizing a Team Building Event
By: Synapse India | 01/07/2008 | Extreme Sports
Organizing a team-building event is an important process for the growth of a corporate establishment. It involves a series of activities partaking to methods that result in increased communication between the participants
A Look at the Exciting Sport of Archery
By: Mike Freemen | 12/03/2006 | Self Help
The sport of archery is certainly an exciting one, whether you are a hunter seeking the elusive buck or an Olympian seeking the elusive gold medal.
Activity Days are Fantastic Team Building Events
By: Synapse India | 17/04/2008 | Sports and Fitness
Basically, the idea of activity days is to offer golden opportunities for you or your guests to indulge in interesting activities that cannot be enjoyed on daily basis and are uncommon in nature
Enjoying Off Road Karting on Your Stag Weekend
By: Synapse India | 19/07/2008 | Extreme Sports
On his engagement, a man thinks about so many things like wedding costume, venue, ring and many such others. However, planning the stag weekend still remains to be one of the most important thing before he starts making preparation for his big day.
What is Archery?
By: Barney Garcia | 22/04/2006 | Sports and Fitness
Archery has been around for many years. Some researchers say that people began practicing it as long as 15, 000 years ago. Archery is the use of a bow to shoot arrows. In the past, archery was used for hunting and warfare, but today it has become a popular sport.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
How many non American players are there in the ...
By: fish | 10-06-2007
How many non American players are there in the NBA?
Sports in which old athletes are successful
By: French_Supermini | 19-09-2006
In which sport are old athletes most successful? I would have said chess, but I read an article about chess lately and it said that in recent years the young chess players are taking over. Could it be golf? Archery? Horse racing?
Q&A Powered by: