26-Sep-2008
Recurve bows range in length from 1220mm (48 inches) to 1780mm (70 inches).Most target bows will average about 1675mm (66 inches) in length.As a rough guide to choose the length of a bow to suit you, a person with a draw length of less than 710mm (28 inches) could use a bow between 1575mm-1675mm (62 - 66 inches) and a person with a draw length of more than 710mm (28 inches) could use a bow between 1575mm-1780mm (66-70 inches).The draw weight of the bow is usually written on the back of the lower limb.The weight is noted in pounds (lbs) at a draw length of 710mm (28 inches),e.g. #20 @ 28which means at a full draw of 28 inches the force required to hold the bowstring at this length will be 20 pounds (approx. 9 kilograms).Bows for beginners should have a draw weight between 15-20 lbs. for the kids and between 20-25 lbs. for the adults.Most basic recurve bows are made from laminated timber usually with a clear finish on the riser and the limbs having a layer of fibreglass applied each side for strength.The types of timber used in the riser can vary, giving a multi-coloured appearance.The bow shown in the picture on the left is a one-piece bow.There is another type called a "Take-Down Recurve" which has a pocket at the top and bottom of the riser for the limbs to bolt into.This type of bow can be dismantled for ease of transport. The limbs, being seperate, can be replaced by limbs that may be slightly stronger or lighter.