The 3 Types of Vertical Bows Longbow - Recurve bow - Compound bow

The "traditional" bow or long bow is very straight with no curve in the limbs until the string is attached. It is used by those interested in traditional shooting with little additional equipment. Draw weight increases with the distance the string is pulled. You will be holding the most weight at full draw.

A recurve is a type of long bow that has both of its ends curved away from the shooter. Recurved limbs can provide more power in a shorter bow than the long bow. Recurves are smooth and quiet shooting bows making them a popular choice. As with the long bow, draw weight increases with the distance the string is pulled.

The compound bow, using a system of cables and pulleys, is the most popular bow for both hunting and target shooting. The greatest advantage of the compound bow is its "draw weight let-off." As you draw the compound bow, you reach the "peak" weight before you come to the full draw. When holding at full draw, the weight you are actually holding is reduced by 50 to 90 percent on modern bows. For example, a 60 pound bow with a 50 percent "let-off" only requires you to hold 30 pounds of draw weight at full draw. This "let-off" feature of the compound bow is favored by bowhunters because it reduces muscle fatigue while the drawn bow is being aimed at game.