Know Your Bow and Arrow

Modern bows can shoot arrows more than 200 yards, at speeds of more than 135 miles per hour. Any bow can be dangerous at any range and should be handled responsibly. However, the bow is a short-range hunting tool. Shots are usually limited to 40 yards or less; and at this range, the arrow penetrates and can even pass through an animal. Most shots are taken at 20 yards or less.

Common Bow Types

Proper bow selection and fit are essential to your accuracy and performance when bowhunting.

Longbow (Stick Bow)

• The "traditional" bow, which has straight limbs that form an arc when strung.
• Used by those interested in traditional shooting with little additional equipment.

Recurve Bow

• Much like the longbow, but the limbs curve back away from the belly of the bow, which can provide more power in a shorter bow than the longbow.
• A popular choice because it's smooth and quiet.

Compound Bow

• The most popular bow for both hunting and target shooting.
• A bow with many styles, but they work basically the same way; wheels and cables attached to the limbs make it easier to hold at full draw (pulled completely back) and able to propel an arrow faster than either a longbow or recurve bow.