Bows for hunting, compared.
From the let-off ease of a compound to the pure instinctive craft of a longbow - and the whole crossbow family, from recurve to reverse-draw, with bolts and cocking aids covered too - each type is a different sport in accuracy, range, learning curve and legality. Here are all 12 explained: how each shoots, who it suits, how to choose one and set it up. Once you've picked, the bow-tuning guide and broadheads catalog take it from there.
⚠️ Draw weight, legality and safety. A hunting bow must meet your state's minimum draw weight and equipment rules - which vary widely and change - so confirm current regulations with your wildlife agency. Never dry-fire a bow, match arrow spine to your setup, and get a pro-shop fitting.
🎯 Modern bows Compound and adjustable youth bows - let-off, sights and the shortest learning curve.
🏹 Traditional bows Recurve, longbow, takedown and selfbow - instinctive, close-range craft.
🎿 Crossbows Recurve, compound and reverse-draw crossbows plus bolts and cocking aids - accessible, with their own legality and safety rules.
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A bow is only as good as its tune
Pick the bow here, then the bow-tuning guide dials in flight, the broadheads & arrows catalog arms it, and the spine selector matches shafts to your setup.