What if you could connect with your hunt on a deeper, more primal level? Many archers dream of the quiet satisfaction that comes from using a traditional bow in the field. However, stepping into the world of hunting recurves can feel overwhelming. You face a maze of draw weights, materials, and limb designs. Finding the perfect balance between power for the harvest and comfort for long treks is a real challenge for hunters.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what makes a recurve a great hunting tool. You will learn about the crucial features that matter most when you are miles from the truck. Stop guessing and start preparing with confidence. Keep reading to discover the essential knowledge you need to select the hunting recurve that will truly enhance your next adventure.
Table of Contents
Top Hunting Recurve Recommendations
No. 1
Sanlida Eagle X9 New 58” RTH Standard Hunting Recurve Bow and Arrow Set for Adults and Hunters, Wooden Takedown Recurve Bows Package for Outdoor, Hunting and Practice (40 Lbs, Right Hand)
- 【World’s NO.1 Archery Kit Brand】 Sanlida's mission is to Build a Perfect World of Archery Recreation for All Mankind.
- 【Complete Full Kit Design; Matched Suitably; More Accurate】This can guarantee that the archers will get the proper level and quality of accessories easily, and the bow kit will be more matched and accurate!
- 【Standard Intermediate Hunting Recurve Bow Kit】Sanlida Eagle X9 is a standard hunting recurve bow kit. If you need the standard beginner recurve bow kit, please choose our Noble recurve bow kit (B0C1SDB6KW) for training practice and competition.
- 【Bow Specs】 Bow length is 58 inch, string length is 54 inch, brace height is 8¼ -9 inch, bow weight is about 2.2 pounds, draw weights options from 25lbs to 60lbs@28" draw length(each 5lbs Increments). Let everyone enjoy the fun of shooting archery!
- 【F2C from Manufacturer Business Model】 Sanlida Archery is the largest archery manufacturer in China with over 25 years’ history. Our Factory to Customers directly business model can guarantee that the archers will get the best bows at the lowest costs!
No. 2
Deerseeker Outdoor Archery 54" Traditional Bow Hunting Longbow with Bamboo Core Limbs Handmade Recurve Bow RH/LH for Targeting Practice Shooting Youth & Adults Bow Set (30lb, Right Hand)
- The Max Draw Weight 80LBS --Deerseeker Archery 54" one-piece recurve longbow is built for speed and value. An excellent choice for bowhunters, archery practice, and deer hunting. Various draw weight options are available, especially high draw weights of 75# and 80# that you can get from us. The bow length is suitable for teenagers and adults. Available in right-handed and left-handed options, it allows for easy carrying and accurate shooting.
- Snappy Design & Construction -- As a durable laminated reflex and deflex traditional bow, the limbs are laminated with a bamboo core and strong fiberglass. Reinforced tips support fast-flight bowstrings, and the tapered limbs make the bow quicker and reduce hand shock. The riser is made of Dymond wood and features a centered sight window.
- Features -- Draw weights range from 15# to 80" at 28" draw length, with 80lbs being great for bow hunting and traditional practice. Recommended brace height is 7.1–7.8 inches. The bow length is 54 inches, it weighs 0.95 pounds, and has a maximum draw length of 30 inches. Available for right-handed and left-handed users. The bowstring is made of twisted Dyneema material.
- Popular Bow Kit -- Everything you need to get started with archery. Includes a Dyneema bowstring, finger tab, stringer tool, leather arrow rest, and arm guard. These support smooth arrow flight and provide protection to prevent injuries during shooting.
- 100% Satisfaction Service -- We hope you'll love our products. Customer service is our focus. If you experience any quality issues, please contact us without hesitation. We’re happy to offer free guarantees and support.
No. 3
Samick Sage Archery Takedown Recurve Bow 62-inch - Right & Left Handed - 25-60lb - Archery Recurve Bows for Teens & Adults - Beginners to Advanced, Hunting & Target Practice
- 【Size & Strength】 The Samick Sage Recurve Bow has a length of 62" and a draw length of 28". Choose a draw weight between 25 and 60 pounds based on your strength and skill level to personalize your striking experience.
- 【Complete Archery Set】 The set comes with an assembly manual, a stick-on arrow rest for recurve, two fiberglass-laminated bow limbs recurve, and a 14-strand Dacron bowstring. The bow limbs can be bought separately and are interchangeable.
- 【Hand Orientation】 Use your left hand to hold the bow and your right to draw the string. Using your left hand, pull the string while holding the bow with your right.
- 【High-End Features】 Includes pre-installed brass bushings with threads for a variety of modifications and attachments, including a brass plunger, recurve bow stabilizer, recurve bow sight, recurve bow quiver, and bow limbs recurve.
- 【Ergonomically Designed】 Risers have an ergonomic grip and are made of lightweight maple wood, making them simple to grasp and preventing hand fatigue.
No. 4
Sanlida Eagle X9 New 58” RTH Standard Hunting Recurve Bow and Arrow Set for Adults and Hunters, Wooden Takedown Recurve Bows Package for Outdoor, Hunting and Practice (45 Lbs, Right Hand)
- 【World’s NO.1 Archery Kit Brand】 Sanlida's mission is to Build a Perfect World of Archery Recreation for All Mankind.
- 【Complete Full Kit Design; Matched Suitably; More Accurate】This can guarantee that the archers will get the proper level and quality of accessories easily, and the bow kit will be more matched and accurate, the archer will get the better records!
- 【Standard Intermediate Hunting Recurve Bow Kit】Sanlida Eagle X9 is a standard recurve bow kit for hunters, specially for hunting. If you need the standard beginner recurve bow kit, please choose our Noble recurve bow kit (B0C1SDB6KW) for training practice and competition.
- 【F2C from Manufacturer Business Model】 Sanlida Archery is the largest archery manufacturer in China with over 25 years’ history. Our Factory to Customers directly business model can guarantee that the archers will get the best bows at the lowest costs!
- 【Premium Materials】 Beautiful and attractive riser is crafted of American solid wood combination, lightweight and durable. Horse leather arrow rest is stick-on. Limbs are made of multi-layers of maple wood core and strong fiberglass, limb tips consist of laminated Bakelite, which provide stable, strong and durable shooting experience. Powerful 16 strands bow string is soft and endurable, best choice for wooden hunting bows.
No. 5
Black Hunter Takedown Recurve Bow, 60" Right Handed with Ergonomic Design for Adults Beginners to Advanced Outdoor Practice & Hunting (45 lb, Right Hand)
- Durable & Sturdy Bow: This recurve bow consists of an ergonomically designed wooden handle, 2 high-elastic fiberglass limbs (bamboo laminates technology) and black bowstring, each joint is fixed with sturdy screws.
- Specs & Uses: Draw weights:45lb. Draw Length: 28 inches. Perfect for hunting or target practice. Warm Note: We suggest removing the bow string after each use to protect the limbs from twisting.
- Easy to Assemble and Disassemble: Please keep in mind that using a stringer tool is the most safely way to properly take down and put together the hunting bow, it's easily dismantled for storage.
- Best Experience: With the Takedown feature you will always be able to change your bow limb to increase or decrease the weight to give to you to practice.
- Warranty: We offer a 12-month warranty and professional service to all customers who purchase recurve bow. we are dedicated to your satisfaction. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
No. 6
Sanlida Archery 60" Royal X8 One-Piece Bow Traditional Wooden Hunting Bow Handmade Hunting Bow and Arrows Kit for Adults & Traditional Archers, RH Only (45lbs, Dark Wood)
- 【World’s NO.1 Archery Kit Brand】 Sanlida's mission is to Build a Perfect World of Archery Recreation for All Mankind.
- 【Complete Full Kit Design; Matched Suitably; More Accurate】This can guarantee that the archers will get the proper level and quality of accessories easily, and the bow kit will be more matched and accurate, the archer will get the better records!
- 【Crafted Hunting One-piece Bow Kit】 Sanlida Royal X8 One-piece Bow is 60" AMO length traditional wood hunting bow, crafted from American solid wood, excellent central line, micro vibration and smooth arrow flight, great performance is suited for traditional Hunters.
- 【F2C from Manufacturer Business Model】 Sanlida Archery is the largest archery manufacturer in China with over 25 years’ history. Our Factory to Customers directly business model can guarantee that the archers will get the best bows at the lowest costs!
- 【Materials】 Laminated wood riser with solid wood from America, lightweight and durable. Limbs are made of multi-layers of maple wood core and fiberglass which provide stable, strong and durable shooting experience. Combined the different solid wood into the handle as well as crafted grip for soft and smooth shooting.
No. 7
Black Hunter Recurve Bow and Arrow Set, GLURAK 60'' Wooden Takedown Recurve Bows Package, Archery Bow Kit for Target Practice and Hunting, Right Hand, 45LB
- Complete Archery Set for Beginners & Pros: The Black Hunter Takedown Recurve Bow Set has all the key gear you need to start archery. It's perfect for target practice and hunting, suiting both newbies taking their first shots and seasoned pros seeking a dependable set.
- Ergonomic Design for Comfortable Grip: The recurve bow is equipped with an ergonomically crafted wooden handle, ensures a secure grip for reduced hand fatigue and improved shooting accuracy. With draw weights ranging from 25 lbs to 50 lbs,this bow adapts to different shooting styles, ideal for hunting, target practice, or recreational archery.
- Durable & Upgradeable Fiberglass Limbs: Built with high-elastic fiberglass and bamboo laminates, the limbs provide superior flexibility and strength for smooth, accurate shots. The takedown design allows you to easily replace or upgrade the limbs as your skill level increases, ensuring long-term use.
- Quick Assembly & Portable Design: The takedown recurve bow is easy to assemble and disassemble, making it perfect for compact storage and convenient transport. Whether you're practicing at home, heading to the range, or taking it on an outdoor adventure, this bow is built for portability and ease of use.
- Bow Specs and Warm Tips: Bow Length: 60 inches | Draw Length: 28 inches | Brace Height: 7 inches | Draw Weight: 25-50 lbs. Warm note: To maintain performance and prevent limb damage, we recommend unstringing the bow after each use. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
No. 8
Sanlida Eagle X9 New 58” RTH Standard Hunting Recurve Bow and Arrow Set for Adults and Hunters, Wooden Takedown Recurve Bows Package for Outdoor, Hunting and Practice (35 Lbs, Right Hand)
- 【World’s NO.1 Archery Kit Brand】 Sanlida's mission is to Build a Perfect World of Archery Recreation for All Mankind.
- 【Complete Full Kit Design; Matched Suitably; More Accurate】This can guarantee that the archers will get the proper level and quality of accessories easily, and the bow kit will be more matched and accurate!
- 【Standard Intermediate Hunting Recurve Bow Kit】Sanlida Eagle X9 is a standard hunting recurve bow kit. If you need the standard beginner recurve bow kit, please choose our Noble recurve bow kit (B0C1SDB6KW) for training practice and competition.
- 【Bow Specs】 Bow length is 58 inch, string length is 54 inch, brace height is 8¼ - 9 inch, bow weight is about 2.2 pounds, draw weights options from 25lbs to 60lbs@28" draw length(each 5lbs Increments). Let everyone enjoy the fun of shooting archery!
- 【F2C from Manufacturer Business Model】 Sanlida Archery is the largest archery manufacturer in China with over 25 years’ history. Our Factory to Customers directly business model can guarantee that the archers will get the best bows at the lowest costs!
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Right Hunting Recurve Bow
Picking the perfect hunting recurve bow can feel like a big task. This guide breaks down what you need to know so you can select a bow that helps you succeed in the field. A good recurve offers a quiet, natural shooting experience perfect for stalking game.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, focus on these main parts of the bow. They directly impact how well and how comfortably you shoot.
Draw Weight
- What it is: This is how much force it takes to pull the string back to full draw.
- Hunting Needs: For most North American big game (like deer), look for a minimum of 40-45 pounds (lbs) at your draw length. Smaller game allows for lighter weights. Always check local hunting regulations; they often set minimum draw weights.
Brace Height
- What it is: The distance between the bow’s handle (riser) and the string when the bow is unstrung.
- Why it matters: A proper brace height helps the bow shoot quietly and efficiently. Too short can cause string slap noise.
Limb Alignment and Tiller
- What it is: How straight the limbs line up and how evenly the limbs bend.
- Quality Check: Look for limbs that bend smoothly and identically on both sides. Uneven bending (bad tiller) makes the arrow fly crooked.
Important Materials That Matter
The materials used define the bow’s strength, weight, and how long it lasts.
Riser (Handle Section)
- Wood: Classic and beautiful. Woods like Maple or Ash offer good vibration dampening, making the shot feel softer.
- Metal (Aluminum/Magnesium): Modern risers often use metal. They are very strong, durable, and allow for easier attachment of sights or stabilizers if you choose to add them later.
Limbs
- Fiberglass/Wood Laminates: Most modern hunting recurves use layers of wood (like bamboo) sandwiched between strong fiberglass sheets. This combination provides excellent speed and durability without breaking easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Bow Quality
Some features make a bow a joy to use; others can frustrate you.
Factors That Improve Quality (Better Experience)
- Limb Pockets: How the limbs attach to the riser is crucial. Takedown bows (where limbs come off the riser) with strong, precise fittings ensure consistent performance shot after shot.
- Finish: A quality finish protects the wood and fiberglass from moisture, which is very important when hunting outdoors.
- Noise Dampening: Bows with built-in rubber or specialized materials absorb vibration, resulting in a quieter shot—a huge advantage when hunting.
Factors That Reduce Quality (Things to Avoid)
- Warped Limbs: If the limbs twist or curve unevenly, the bow shoots poorly, making accuracy difficult.
- Rough Edges: Poorly finished edges on the riser can catch your fingers or string, causing damage or inaccurate releases.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you plan to use your recurve.
Takedown vs. One-Piece
- Takedown: These bows break down into three parts (two limbs, one riser). They are easy to transport in a case and you can swap limbs to change the draw weight. They are excellent for travel and versatility.
- One-Piece (or “Stiff”): These bows offer maximum performance because there are no limb joints to potentially vibrate. They are heavier to carry and harder to pack away, often favored by traditional target archers or hunters who stay in one location.
Hunting Scenarios
- Blind/Stand Hunting: A slightly shorter, maneuverable bow works best here. You need quick, smooth movement.
- Stalking/Spot-and-Stalk: Lightweight bows are better. You carry the bow for long distances, so weight matters.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hunting Recurves
Q: What is the best draw weight for a beginner hunter?
A: Start lower, around 40 lbs, to build good form without straining. You can upgrade limbs later. Always confirm this meets your local game laws.
Q: Do I need sights on a hunting recurve?
A: Most traditional hunting recurves are “barebow,” meaning no sights are used. This relies purely on instinct and aiming skills, which is the spirit of traditional archery.
Q: How do I properly store my recurve bow?
A: Store it unstrung or with the string slightly loosened in a cool, dry place. Never leave it in a hot car or direct sunlight, as heat damages the glued layers in the limbs.
Q: Is a wooden riser less durable than a metal one?
A: Metal risers are generally tougher against accidental drops. However, modern laminated wood risers, when properly sealed and cared for, are extremely durable for hunting use.
Q: What kind of arrows should I use?
A: You need arrows matched to your bow’s draw weight and your draw length. Carbon arrows are popular for hunting because they are durable and fly consistently.
Q: What is “hand shock”?
A: Hand shock is a sharp vibration or sting felt in your hand after the arrow leaves the bow. Better materials and brace height usually reduce this annoying feeling.
Q: How often should I replace the bowstring?
A: Check the string regularly for fraying or fuzziness. A good Dacron or FastFlight string usually lasts many seasons unless you shoot hundreds of arrows every week.
Q: Can I use my target recurve for hunting?
A: Yes, if it has sufficient draw weight and you remove the stabilizers and sights to make it quiet and maneuverable for the field.
Q: What is the main benefit of a takedown recurve for hunting?
A: Takedowns are much easier to carry through thick woods and pack for trips. They also let you buy different weight limbs for different types of hunting.
Q: How do I measure my draw length correctly?
A: Have an experienced archer measure the distance from the string (when pulled to your anchor point) to the back of the bow riser. This ensures you buy the correct limb length.