10 of the Best Recurve Bows for 2024

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It’s difficult to say definitively which is the best recurve bow for 2024 or for any year for that matter! Different people want different things.

Hunters want different things to those target shooting. Like the challenge of more traditional archery? Or do you need sights, stabilisers, upgradeable limbs?

Do you want a takedown recurve bow or a one piece? How much do you want to pay? All these things have an impact on your decision.

If you’re just starting out you might be interested in our feature on the best beginner recurve bow or you’re looking for a bow for your child, then our roundup of the best youth recurve bows will suit you. The best bow overall is a tough call, and we’ve by no means tested all the bows available in the market today, only a small cross-section but you can’t go wrong with our ‘all-rounder’ pick from Southwest.

Find your draw weight, your ideal bow length, your handedness and then… take a look through our reviews below.

What's the best recurve bow?

Best Recurve Bow Picks

Note: Our individual reviews are below, but you can also click any of the links above to check current prices on Amazon and other retailers

The Best Recurve Bows

Southwest Archery Spyder – Best All Rounder

This bow is great for beginners because of its low price and incremental bow weight. You can start your target practice with a low bow draw weight and work your way up as you get more experienced. It’s even a good bow for a child or adolescent who’ll be increasing in strength as they grow. It also comes with a bow stringer, so it’s good for learners.

The riser has a beautiful wood finish and is naturally sourced. You must assemble the bow by attaching the limbs to the riser. It’s easy to do, but you do need an Allen key. The string also doesn’t have a pre-installed nocking point. These are easy enough to buy and put on yourself, but it is a strange thing to be missing on an otherwise great starter bow.

The grip is comfortable, and the bow shoots quietly. Even if you’re a beginner, you can still plan to take this bow out hunting once you get your aim down.

Southwest Archery includes a one-year warranty with the Spyder.

Specs
Price rangeLow
HandsBoth
Bow Weight2.5 lbs
AMO Length62 in
Draw LengthsBetween 22-28″
(for draw length 29″+ look for the Spyder XL variant)
Riser FinishWood
Draw Weight Range20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 lbs
Brace Height7.5 in
Is This A Takedown Recurve Bow?Yes – With Allen key

What we liked:

  • Great price
  • Stylish wood finish
  • Large draw-weight range
  • Easy assembly
  • Comfortable grip
  • Quiet shot
  • One-year warranty

What we didn’t:

  • Allen key required
  • No nocking notch

Ayden unboxes a Southwest Spyder and takes it for a whirl

Warden (Cabelas)

If you’re a regular Cabela’s customer, you might feel more comfortable going to them for a bow as well. The Warden is one they’ve made to meet expert use with great value.

The riser of the warden is a multi-laminate design, much like many of the other takedown bows in this roundup. This lamination offer strength and also makes for a nice looking bow that uses walnut, white oak, hard maple and garin wood.

The draw-weight range is small, and starts at 40 lbs with 45 and 50 lbs also available. This does however center right around where you need it to hunt medium to large game. For the low price, the accuracy is top notch, similar to that of expensive models. Where it lacks is silence. It can vibrate when you shoot it. Adding string silencers is a recommendation if you’re looking to quiet this bow. You might also consider upgrading the string.

Also good for hunting, the Warden has pre-drilled holes for accessories like sights, a quiver or a stabilizer.

The takedown requires an Allen key, but Cabela’s ships one along with the bow. Unfortunately, the limbs feature the model name in bright yellow. Some people don’t mind this, but to others it detracts from the traditional look of a recurve.

One other thing to mention is that with Cabelas you’re purchasing from a large specialist outdoor retailer, so after sales support and service are probably as good they’re going to get.

Specs
Price rangeLow
HandednessLeft or right handed version available
Bow Weight2.4 lbs
AMO Bow Length62 in
Riser FinishWalnut, white oak, hard maple and garin
Draw Weight Range40, 45, 50 lbs
Brace Height7.5 in
TakedownYes – With provided Allen key

What we liked:

  • Low cost
  • Accuracy
  • Pre-drilled holes for accessories
  • Easy takedown with provided hardware
  • Great after sales service and support

What we didn’t:

  • Small draw-weight range
  • Yellow logo on limbs
Daric Huth demonstrates shooting with Cabela’s Warden recurve bow

Samick Sage – Best for Beginners

The Samick Sage has been known for a long time as a go-to recurve for beginners. Its low price combined with its high quality construction make it easy to learn on for someone new to the sport. It’s also a great bow to have in your arsenal to practice on even if you’re more experienced.

Like any good beginner bow, the Sage has a wide range of draw weight. However, it does lack the extra low 20-lb weight of the Spyder.

Also ideal for someone just taking up archery, this one is an easy tool-free takedown bow.

The riser is beautiful and has a great classical bow look. It’s also durable thanks to its hard maple wood design. Unfortunately, there’s no material grip, but the wood grip is comfortable enough.

The limbs are durable and upgradable, so you can stick with this bow even as you improve your skills. That makes it an even better value than it already is.

Specs
Price rangeLow
HandednessAvailable for both left or right handed
Bow Weight3.4 lbs
AMO Length62 in
Draw LengthSuitable for between 22-28″
(for draw length 29″+ look for the Samick Journey variant)
Riser FinishWood and Hard Maple
Draw Weights25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 lbs
Brace Height7.25-8.25 in
TakedownYes – Tool free

What we liked:

  • Great price
  • Classical look
  • Durable hard maple riser
  • Large draw-weight range
  • Tool-free takedown
  • Upgradable limbs

What we didn’t:

  • No material grip
  • Heavy
3D Archery takes a look at the Samick Sage, including setup and target practice

Bear Archery Grizzly – Best Recurve Bow for Hunting

As you might guess from the name, the Bear Archery Grizzly is a powerful bow designed as a hunting recurve. The lower AMO length allows for quieter, more accurate shots necessary for taking game. Plus, it’s easier to move around the woods.

The bow is one piece, so there’s no option for takedown. This one-piece design is sturdy, however, and Bear has been using the same blueprint since 1964 including a manufacturing process they developed in 1970 to make “futurewood.” Futurewood is flexible yet durable and gives the bow the power to hunt. They stand behind this design with a three-year warranty.

Keeping with the classic look and feel, the arrow rest is made of bear hair, and the riser protector is made of leather. It’s truly a beautiful thing. If you’re a hunter and want to get a more traditional bow, this is a great choice.

Specs
Price rangeHigh
HandednessAvailable for both left or right handers
Bow Weight2 lbs
AMO Bow Length58 in
Draw LengthMaximum draw length 29″ (estimated)
Riser FinishFuturewood
Draw WeightsRight-hand: 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 lbs
Left-hand: 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 lbs
Brace Height7.5-8.5 in
Takedown No

What we liked:

  • Made for hunting
  • Quiet and accurate
  • Historic design
  • Beautiful craftsmanship
  • Flemish twist string
  • Three-year warranty

What we didn’t:

  • Higher price tag
  • No takedown
Merlin’s Archery Adventures reviews the Bear Archery Grizzly

PSE Razorback

As a University of Arkansas alum, I might be a bit biased, but the Razorback is a really cool bow.

This is an inexpensive option great for someone starting out. It comes in light draw weights, and there’s even a youth model that’s ideal for younger people getting into archery. If you think you’ll want to move up to a heavier draw for hunting, though, you’ll have to spring for a different bow. The Razorback only goes up to 35 lbs of poundage.

PSE is the country’s largest archery equipment manufacturer, and you can see that expertise in the construction. The riser is strong and the wood and fiberglass limbs keep it accurate at its low draw-weight. However, note that the limbs are white, another reason this isn’t a first-choice hunting bow.

If you’re a beginner and want to introduce yourself to other archery equipment like sights and stabilizers, this bow also comes with the mounts for them.

Specs
Price rangeLow
HandednessLeft or right hander version available
Bow Weight2.2 lbs
AMO Bow Length62 in
Draw LengthUpto 28″
Riser FinishHardwood
Draw Weights20, 25, 30, 35 lbs
Brace Height7.5-8 in
TakedownYes – Tool free

What we liked:

  • Low price
  • Available youth model
  • Reliable manufacturer
  • Strong riser
  • Tool-free takedown
  • Sight and stabilizer mounts

What we didn’t:

  • Low draw-weight range
  • White limbs
Kyle goes over assembly of the PSE Razorback along with components and shooting

Southwest Tigershark

This is another good starter bow due to its low price and large range of draw weight. It was designed by engineers who also worked on design the Samick Sage. It maintains those same great characteristics and quality in a sleek new look.

If you’re just getting started but plan to work your way up to hunting, this could be the recurve you’re looking for. The wood grip remains warm in winter, so you can firmly hold the riser and get an accurate shot. However, we do suggest that once you’ve got the technique down and move up to higher draw weights, you replace the included string with one of higher quality.

The takedown is easy, so the Tigershark is extremely portable. It’s easy to get to the range or out into the wilderness. It does require an Allen key to remove the limbs, though.

Overall, Southwest Archery makes great products that they proudly manufacturer and support in the USA. With the Tigershark you get a one-year limited warranty and easily accessible customer service.

Specs
Price rangeLow
HandednessRight or left handed version available
Bow Weight3 lbs
AMO Bow Length62 in
Draw LengthUpto 30″ (estimated)
Riser FinishSatinwood
Draw Weights25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 lbs
Brace Height7.75-8.5 in
TakedownYes – With Allen key

What we liked:

  • Large draw weight range
  • Creative design
  • Thermostatic grip
  • Easy takedown
  • USA-based customer service
  • One-year warranty

What we didn’t:

  • Poor-quality string
  • Allen key required
Wingman115 tests out the Southwest Tigershark and gives you his thoughts

Keshes Hunting Bow

The first thing we noticed is the draw-weight range. It dips down to a really low draw weight of 15 lbs that’s hard to find on other bows. This makes it not just a great option for beginners but good for children. The takedown is tool free, so a newbie should have no trouble assembling and disassembling it.

The draw-weight range is large, too. It goes up to 55 lbs. That enters the range of serious hunting power, but this bow is really more geared towards people starting out and learning to shoot accurately. Strangely, the bow weight is actually a little high for something otherwise ideal for kids.

Keshes even sells this bow with some accessories. You get a stringer tool and an eye sight. Plus, there are threaded brass bushings to install more accessories down the line.

Keeping with the beginner theme, it comes a great low price and has a 100% money-back guarantee.

Specs
Price rangeLow
HandednessBoth
Bow Weight3 lbs
AMO Bow Length62 in
Riser FinishWood
Draw Weights15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 lbs
Brace Height7.75-8.5 in
TakedownYes – Tool-free

What we liked:

  • 15-lb draw weight available
  • Tool-free takedown
  • Comes with accessories
  • Low price point
  • 100% money-back guarantee

What we didn’t:

  • Heavy bow weight
  • 60-lb draw weight not available

TopArchery Traditional Recurve Bow – Best Budget

TopArchery means “traditional” when it comes to this bow. It features a minimalistic design that looks similar to a medieval longbow, albeit with recurves.

There’s no pre-installed arrow rest or ergonomic grip, but that’s the style they’re going for. If you want a modern design, this bow isn’t for you. However, if you want to get down to the roots of archery for a good price, this could be the one.

Impressively, the draw weight ranges from 30-50 lbs despite the bow’s small size and light weight. Even though it’s a really basic bow, it’s good for target practice, serious archery, and even hunting.

The wooden riser has a faux leather grip that’s comfortable, and the limbs are made of flexible fiberglass. It’s a nice first bow and would make a great gift for someone considering getting into archery or wilderness survival.

Specs
Price rangeVery Low
HandednessN/A (works for either / both)
Bow Weight1.9 lbs
AMO Bow Length53 in
Riser FinishWood
Draw Weights30, 35, 40, 45, 50 lbs
Brace Height6.25-7 in
TakedownNo


What we liked:

  • Traditional design
  • Good draw-weight range for design
  • Light weight
  • Compact size
  • Comfortable grip

What we didn’t:

  • No arrow rest
  • Limbs have potential to separate from riser
Svet69 tells you what he likes and doesn’t like about the TopArchery Traditional Recurve

SAS Explorer – Best for Taller People

For starters, this bow is 66 in. It’s a good bow for taller people who usually have trouble finding budget options.

Its low price and simple tool-free takedown also make it good for beginners. Additionally, the four-pound incremented draw weights are on the low side. If you have a child who’s considering archery, a bow like this could teach them to shoot while outlasting their next growth spurt.

The bow doesn’t come in any draw weight above 34 lbs, though, so if you are looking to go game hunting for large animals you should probably look elsewhere. It’s adequate for hunting small game, but given the colored aluminum riser, it’s probably more suited to target practice.

Speaking of the riser, the aluminum keeps the bow light but durable. For the price you can expect this bow to last a while. And you can get the riser in red or blue to fit your particular tastes.

Specs
Price rangeLow
HandednessRight handers only
Bow Weight2.4 lbs
AMO Bow Length66 in
Riser FinishPolished aluminum
Draw Weights22, 26, 30, 34 lbs
Brace Height7.5-8.25 in
TakedownYes – Tool-free


What we liked:

  • 66-in AMO length
  • Low price tag
  • Tool-free takedown
  • Durable aluminum riser
  • Comes in red or blue

What we didn’t:

  • No left-hand option
  • Low draw weights
TheCrossbowStore introduces the 2016 SAS Explorer Recurve

SAS Spirit

Consider the SAS Spirit if you want a low cost straightforward option to get you used to shooting before moving on to fancier, more expensive recurves. The price is hard to beat, and the assembly and takedown are a breeze.

The riser has a classic wood finish made from three different Asian tree species: chuglam, gmelina arborea and beech. It’s pretty, it’s strong, and perhaps most importantly, it has a comfortable grip for a new archer.

The draw-weight range is really low but highly customizable in increments of two pounds from 18 to 36. Again, this is what you want for target practice, but it falls short of the force necessary to hunt big game.

Finally, you can buy with confidence thanks to a three-year warranty from SAS. That’s reassuring for a bow in the budget market.

Specs
Price rangeVery Low
HandednessLeft or right
Bow Weight2.5 lbs
AMO Bow Length62 in
Riser FinishChuglam, Gmelina Arborea, Beech
Draw Weights18, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 lbs
Brace Height7-7.5 in
TakedownYes – Tool-free

What we liked:

  • Low price point
  • Tool-free takedown
  • Strong wooden riser
  • Comfortable grip
  • Comes in two-pound draw-weight increments
  • Three-year warranty

What we didn’t:

  • Low draw-weight range
  • White limbs
Andrew H. does some target practice with his SAS Spirit

SinoArt 68″ Recurve

If you’re on the taller side but don’t feel like forking over piles of cash for an expert bow, this may be your answer. It might even work for you if you’re over six feet tall.

Besides its length, this recurve also has a unique design. The all-wood riser is snazzy, and the limbs have been rounded for a sleeker look.

Keep in mind that even though it’s big, this is a starter bow. It has a large range of draw weights from 18 to 36, and you can get it in two-pound increments so you it’ll be just what you need to hone your skills. However, since it’s unavailable in any draw weight over 36 lbs, you can’t hunt medium to large game with it.

To further the bang for your buck, you get a bunch of accessories with the SinoArt 68. In addition to the bow, it comes with a bow stringer, an arm guard, a finger tab, a sight and an arrow rest. The holes are pre-drilled for these accessories, so it’s hassle free.

Specs
Price rangeVery Low
HandednessLeft or right
Bow Weight2.6 lbs
AMO Bow Length68 in
Riser FinishWood
Draw Weights18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 lbs
Brace Height7.1-7.9 in
TakedownYes – Tool-free

What we liked:

  • 68-in AMO length
  • Sleek look
  • Available in two-pound draw-weight increments
  • Comes with several accessories
  • Tool-free takedown

What we didn’t:

  • Low draw-weight range

Recurve Bows Comparison Chart

Recurve comparison chart
Sortable list of recurve bows and their specs

Our recurve comparison chart shows you all the top level specification data about all the bows we’ve reviewed (and some we haven’t), once you know what you are looking for in terms of AMO length, takedown, handedness, finish, draw weight etc, this chart should allow you to narrow down your choice quickly.

What size of recurve do I need?

The length of your recurve bow should be your draw length plus 40 inches. Your draw length is the point where your draw of the bowstring hits the draw weight of the bow. That’s where it maximizes both accuracy and force. You can estimate it quickly by measuring your arm span and dividing it by 2.5.

For example, I’m 6’3″ with a 80-in arm span. Therefore, my estimated draw length is 36 in, and I need an inconveniently massive bow of 72 in. Don’t worry, I’m used to it. I can’t find shoes that fit either.

Many bows come in youth sizes as well, which just means they have a shorter length. The same rules apply to children as adults, so get out the measuring tape. Most youth sizes come in under 54 in.

You can find more detailed guides on bow sizing and draw length, along with just about everything else recurve related, on our resources page. Make sure you read up before making your first purchase. A well-sized bow makes a big difference.

How far can a recurve shoot?

The farthest recorded distance a modern recurve bow has shot an arrow is 1,336 yards, but that isn’t accounting for accuracy. The effective range depends on the bow, but it’s usually somewhere around 40 yards. Most recurve hunters wouldn’t take a shot at more than 30 yards. Target shooting in Olympic recurve competitions is at a length of about 76 yards (70 meters).

To find your specific bow’s effective range, you’ll have to do some trial and error. Set up some target practice and keep moving farther from the target by one yard each shot. When the drop of the arrow becomes too much to shoot accurately, you’ve hit your effective range.

If you use your recurve bow for hunting, make sure you figure out your effective range specifically in regards to the kill zone of your game. For example, a white-tail deer has a kill zone eight inches in diameter, so you have to test your effective range with a target that size.

What poundage or draw weight should I get?

Simply put, smaller people need lower draw weights, and larger people need higher draw weights. Match your frame, weight and gender up with this chart to find your suggested poundage.

Gender/FrameBody WeightSuggested Draw Weight
Small child70-100 lbs10-15 lbs
Large child100-130 lbs15-25 lbs
Small woman100-130 lbs25-35 lbs
Medium woman130-160 lbs25-35 lbs
Small man120-150 lbs30-45 lbs
Medium man150-180 lbs40-45 lbs
Large woman160+ lbs30-45 lbs
Large man180+ lbs45-60 lbs

Of course, these are rough estimates. Someone may be stronger or weaker than their size suggests. It’s best to take as many factors into account as possible to find the best draw weight. Remember that if you’re just starting out, you should err on the side of lower poundage.

Are recurves better than compound bows?

In most categories, compound bows beat out recurves. They’re more powerful, more accurate and more compact. They’re technologically more advanced. However, people still love to use recurves because they’re challenging and stylish. They carry the mystique of the master archer, and you will generally see elite world-class archers using recurves.

In the end it depends on your preferences and what you plan to do with the bow. Recurves do have practical advantages like easier maintenance and lower cost. Take everything into consideration when you pick. Of course, no one said you can’t use both.

What are the best brands?

In the recurve world, Samick probably gets the most lip service. Their Sage recurve bow model has long been one of the best-selling on the market. The company is based in Korea and sells popular models all over the world.

Lately, Southwest Archery has been making a splash thanks to engineers who previously worked to design the Samick Sage. They take that same expertise but manufacture and support their products in the USA making them a bit more accessible for American archers.

Despite Southwest Archery’s success, Precision Shooting Equipment (PSE) Archery remains the largest archery supply manufacturer in the United States. Their story began in 1970 with Pete Shepley. He was a product engineer for Magnavox but decided to use his talents to make bows, his true passion. They currently operate out of Tucson, AZ.

Bear Archery is another American manufacturer with a long history. They began manufacturing quality bows in 1964 but are best-known for the technique they developed in 1970 to make “futurewood.”

Southland Archery Supply (SAS) is a name you’ll hear a lot on the archery scene. They make tons of different products, not just bows, and those products frequently reach best-seller status. They bring that same quality to their recurves.

How much should I pay?

It’s a sad fact of life that for most of us price is a factor in most everything we do, we can’t all afford the best of everything. Price has to be a factor in your choice of bow. How much you spend isn’t something we can advise on. Different retailers have different prices at different times and for this reason you’ll be unlikely to find any actual prices listed on our site but we do try to list the price point or range of prices of various bows so you can make a comparison. 

A roll of dollar bills

What draw weight should I choose?

We’ve a guide to finding your draw weight, that depends on your sex, build and general strength so take a look at that, but in general you don’t want to go heavy unless you’re experienced. A draw weight that’s too high will result in you being ‘Over Bowed’ (the bow is overpowering you). This will affect your technique. You need a weight that you can comfortably draw with good form. One you find yourself familiar at a weight only then you may want to consider moving up to something more powerful. A bow with interchangeable limbs that can be upgraded with differing draw weights is always a good choice.

If you’re a hunter then you’re probably going to want to look for a higher draw weight. The higher the weight the more powerful the bow and the more potential you have to produce a lethal shot at further distance. There are more factors involved in a well penetrating shot than just the bows draw weight. The weight of your arrow and your draw length with also affect the amount of kinetic energy you impart onto an arrow. The tip of your arrow also has a bearing. Lots to think about, however a good rule of thumb is that a hunter should be looking for a draw of 40 lbs or greater.

Fore and Draw Curve for 28" Recurve
Fore and Draw Curve for 28″ Recurve

You can start target shooting at 70 m (Olympic distance) with anything from a 25 lbs draw weight up-to the maximum available. Male Olympic archers can draw anywhere from 45-55 lbs and females 40-50 lbs. A final thought however on draw weight is that you need to be sure that you can draw the weight comfortably. You need to control the bow, not the other way around!

Every bow draw weight is measured at a specified draw length, i.e. 50 lbs @ 30″ draw. The further you draw past this length the more force you will impart but it will stack. As a general rule of thumb each inch you overdraw a bow would add somewhere in the region of 2 lb to the draw weight you will end up pulling.

What is AMO length?

Bows are nomally sized in AMO length. AMO (the Archery Manufacturers Association), is a standard that defines the length of the string a bow takes. If you have a 60″ AMO bow, you can buy a 60″ AMO string and be sure that it will fit. The actual size of a 60″ AMO string is probably around 56″-57″.  This length as well as being a way of ensuring you order the correct replacement string for your bow is an indication of the size of the bow.

A larger bow will give you a longer maximum draw length and some say a more forgiving shot. You don’t know your draw length, use our guide.

Does bow weight matter?

How physically heavy the bow is in your hand will only have a bearing on your choice if you are yourself of a slight build OR your intention is to use and carry the bow for extended periods of time. You’re raising the weight of the bow in one outstretched arm so they are generally built to be as light as possible. 

What materials are good?

A wooden riser will be cheaper than a metal one unless you are purchasing a quality traditional bow. Wooden risers are usually a lot nicer to look at than metal ones. Well at least that’s my preference!

The riser of the bow can also come pre-drilled for a variety of accessories such as a stabiliser, arrow rest and sight. Wooden risers that aren’t pre-drilled can by DIY drilled, but this may void your warranty. Knowing what types of accessory you want to use on your bow is a good idea. Are you a bowfisher? A hunter who needs a quiver attachment? A target archer who wants stabilizers? Do you want to shoot barebow or use a sight?

Which handedness should I pick?

Left handed vs right handed bow
Left handed vs right handed bow

Some bows only come in right hand variations, and some one piece bows available in both handedness will restrict draw weights on one hand or the other. Ensure your bow comes in the right handedness for you. See our left or right handed bow guide to find which you need.

What about styling?

How your bow looks is going to be down to personal choice, unless you’re a hunter who doesn’t want white limbs covered with lettering and a bright blue riser you’ll find the overall aesthetics is a personal choice thing. So go there with something you like and something you’ll be happy seeing in your house.

Do I need a takedown bow?

Bows are pretty large things and they need to be unstrung to be stored, you shouldn’t store your bow with the string under tension. When a bow is unstrung it gets even bigger! With that in mind you’ll find that unless you have a lot of room, or a wall to hang your bow on a takedown recurve will be a good choice. Then you’ll be able to purchase a carry case and store your bow  somewhere. Some takedown bows can be assembled without tools, whether you prefer this option or not is really down to personal preference, will you always remember to take the necessary tools everywhere you take your bow?

Takedown bows (bows that can be assembled and disassembled into parts) can normally have their limbs replaced. Replacing the limbs of a bow is cheaper than buying a whole new bow and this is also a way of increasing or decreasing the draw weight. Buying a bow with readily available limb replacements that lets you progress from a lower to a higher draw weight is a good idea if you are a beginner, or if other people will use the bow. Or maybe if you just aren’t sure exactly which weight is right for you.

What’s a good warranty?

There are many ways you can damage a bow, stringing it incorrectly or without a stringer (don’t do this)… This will most likely void any warranty you may get. Dry-firing or shooting it without an arrow (don’t do this either), and just general misuse and abuse.

Different manufacturers give different warranty periods with their bows and will generally only ever cover the riser and limbs and not things like strings or arrow rests. Bows can have quality issues, limbs may break earlier than expected due to a manufacturing defect so a warranty is a good idea. Manufacturer warranties can be full for a period and limited for a period after that. A limited warranty will usually cover part of the cost of replacing the defective component after a certain period. 50% limb cost after 12 months for example. Manufacturers warranties will also usually come with caveats which will void them such as dry-firing and misuse and abuse.

We’d always suggest purchasing your bow from a large online retailer with a good track record in customer service. That way, no matter what the manufacturer warranty, you can always return to the retailer if you have any concerns.

Garret

I'm a keen archer and hunting enthusiast. My grandfather taught me to hunt in the wilds of Minnesota and Wisconsin. I used to bow hunt with him on his farm and grew up deer hunting and fishing.

2 thoughts on “10 of the Best Recurve Bows for 2024”

  1. Hoping for some guidance. I’m interested in getting a good-quality, inexpensive bow. I’m 6’2” and measured my draw length to be 29.2 inches. Could I get away with using a standard 62” bow likeSamick Sage or Southwest Spyder because I’m so close to their recommended upper limit, or should I get an XL bow? Thanks.

    Reply

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