Imagine drawing back a smooth, wooden bow, feeling the natural pull as you aim for your target. For centuries, the longbow has been a hunter’s trusted tool. It connects you to history and offers a pure, challenging hunting experience. But when you step into the woods today, choosing the right longbow can feel overwhelming. Which draw weight is best for you? What materials should you look for? Many hunters worry about picking a bow that doesn’t perform when it matters most.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explain exactly what makes a great hunting longbow. You will learn about sizing, materials, and essential accessories that boost your success in the field. Stop guessing and start shooting with confidence. Keep reading to discover the secrets to selecting the perfect longbow that will serve you well on every hunt.
Table of Contents
Top Longbow For Hunting Recommendations
No. 1
Sanlida Archery 68” Royal X8 Longbow Traditional Wooden Hunting Bow Handmade Hunting Bow and Arrows kit for Adults & Traditional Archers, RH Only (45lbs, 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!
- 【Crafted Hunting Longbow Kit】 Sanlida Royal X8 Longbow is 68" 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. Supple leather grip and 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. 2
Black Hunter Takedown Longbow, GLURAK 60" Wooden Archery Bow Hunting Bow - Right Hand Longbow for Beginner Training Practice, 40lb
- Durable & Sturdy Bow: This longbow 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: The bow series draw weights of 25-60lbs. Perfect for hunting deer 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 after-sale 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. 3
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. 4
Black Hunter Archery Takedown Bow Longbow American Longbow Adult Right Hand Hunting Wood Bow 60",30-60lbs Target Practice
- Black Hunter Longbow: Ergonomically designed with Impressive rounded edges and a fine finished wooden riser,extremely comfortable grip
- Bow length:60inch;Draw length:28inch;Max draw length: 30inch;Brace height:7.5-8inchplease assemble and check the equipment before use to ensure normal use.
- High Quality:Limbs are Hard Maple with Black Fiberglass,Introduction of German laminate Technology, offer the best toughness and power for the archery bow
- Easy assembly :You can use the included tools to attach and detach the limbs; you can reduce or increase the tension by replacing the bow limb to meet different training needs.
- Multi-purpose: The takedown bow is used in various scenarios such as archery competitions, entertainment, target practice and outdoor hunting, and it is very versatile and will also be a great gift for anyone interested in shooting.
No. 5
Sanlida Archery 68” Royal X8 Longbow Traditional Wooden Hunting Bow Handmade Hunting Bow and Arrows kit for Adults & Traditional Archers, RH Only (40lbs, 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!
- 【Crafted Hunting Longbow Kit】 Sanlida Royal X8 Longbow is 68" 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. Supple leather grip and 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. 6
Black Hunter Archery Takedown Bow Longbow American Longbow Adult Right Hand Hunting Wood Bow 60",30-60lbs Target Practice
- Black Hunter Longbow: Ergonomically designed with Impressive rounded edges and a fine finished wooden riser,extremely comfortable grip
- Bow length:60inch;Draw length:28inch;Max draw length: 30inch;Brace height:7.5-8inchplease assemble and check the equipment before use to ensure normal use.
- High Quality:Limbs are Hard Maple with Black Fiberglass,Introduction of German laminate Technology, offer the best toughness and power for the archery bow
- Easy assembly :You can use the included tools to attach and detach the limbs; you can reduce or increase the tension by replacing the bow limb to meet different training needs.
- Multi-purpose: The takedown bow is used in various scenarios such as archery competitions, entertainment, target practice and outdoor hunting, and it is very versatile and will also be a great gift for anyone interested in shooting.
No. 7
Deerseeker Outdoor Archery 64" Traditional Bow Set Hunting Longbow Reflex Deflex One-Piece Long Bow Laminated Bamboo Core Limbs Right Hand/Left Hand for Adults Bow Shooting(Black, 30lb, Right Hand)
- High Reflex/deflex Hybrid Bow- The Deerseeker Archery Outlander is 64" one-piece traditional longbow. It features a slight reflex-deflex design and is built with multi-laminated, tapered limbs for durability and faster arrow flight. This bow is suitable for outdoor hunting and 9D target shooting.
- Riser- The riser is cut to the center sight window, constructed by the Ebony wood, and wrapped with real leather, the arrow rest is well ready for direct bow shooting. Availability for right-handed & left-handed archers.
- Limbs are laminated with layers of bamboo core and sturdy fiberglass materials, the reinforced bow tip supports fast-flight string. Bow length is 64 inches, draw weights range 25lbs, 30lbs, 35lbs, 40lbs, 45lbs, 50lbs, 55lbs, 60lbs, 65lbs, 70lbs, 75lbs, 80lbs.
- Longbow Kit - The flemish bowstring, archery glove, string silencers, and arrow rest. The twisted flemish string is weaved in brown and black colors, the brace height can be adjusted by twisting the string, the recommended brace height is 7.19". The string silencers are helpful in eliminating the hand shock from bow shooting.
- Once you have any quality issues with our products, contact us without hesitation, please. We'll be pleased to provide a free guarantee and service for you.
No. 8
60 Inch Black Hunter Longbow 20-60 Lbs Archery Bow with Stringer Tool Right Hand Hunting Bows for Adults Outdoor Shooting Target Practice (40LBS)
- SIZE: The Black Hunter Longbow is 60 inches long with a maximum draw length of 30 inches and is available in draw weight from 20-60 lbs. Suitable for beginners and professional archers.
- WHAT YOU WILL GET: 1X Bow riser, 2 X Longbow limbs, 1 X Bowstring, 1XBow stringer, 2 X Bowstring silencer, 2 X Limb silencer, 2 X String nocks, 1 X arrow rest
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN : Archery longbow risers have a smooth surface and rounded edges for a comfortable grip. Easily enjoy your recreational or training time.
- DETACHABLE DESIGN: the takedown longbow is easy to store and carry. You can change the bow limbs to suit your needs.Increase or decrease the weight to suit your shooting needs.
- EASY TO INSTALL: Installing a archery bow is very easy, just follow the video. Using a stringer tool is the easiest and most convenient way to install and remove a hunting bow.
Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Longbow for Hunting
Hunting with a longbow connects you to a long tradition. These bows are simple yet powerful tools. Choosing the right one takes some thought. This guide helps you select the best longbow for your hunting trips.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a hunting longbow, several features really matter. These elements affect how the bow shoots and how long it lasts.
Draw Weight
- Draw weight is how hard you pull the string back.
- Heavier draw weights (like 50 lbs or more) offer more power for bigger game.
- Lighter weights (under 40 lbs) are easier to hold steady for beginners or for smaller animals.
- Always choose a weight you can comfortably draw and hold for a few seconds.
Riser and Limbs Design
- The riser is the middle part you hold. The limbs are the top and bottom parts that bend.
- Look for a design that feels balanced in your hand.
- Some bows have a “shelf” cut deeper into the riser. This helps the arrow fly straighter.
Brace Height
- Brace height is the distance from the string to the deepest part of the bow’s grip when the bow is unstrung.
- A shorter brace height often means a faster arrow but can be louder.
- A slightly taller brace height usually makes the bow quieter and more forgiving.
Important Materials That Matter
The materials used build the bow’s strength and performance.
Riser Materials
- Wood: Traditional bows often use strong woods like Maple or Osage. Wood offers a classic look and good vibration dampening.
- Metal (Aluminum or Magnesium): Modern risers use metal for extreme durability and rigidity. Metal risers handle high draw weights well.
Limb Materials
- Limbs must be strong yet flexible.
- Fiberglass laminates over a wood core are common. This combination provides excellent speed and resistance to warping.
- High-quality limbs snap back quickly, which means a faster shot.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all longbows perform the same. Quality comes down to craftsmanship and material choice.
What Makes Quality Better?
- Tiller: A well-tilled bow means the limbs bend evenly. Even bending makes the arrow fly straight. Poor tillering causes the bow to “twist” slightly upon release.
- Finish and Sealing: Good weather sealing protects the wood and laminates. This keeps the bow usable in rain or humidity.
- String Quality: A good string (like Dacron or Fast Flight material) lasts longer and transfers energy efficiently.
What Reduces Quality?
- Cheap, soft woods lead to limbs that can break or take a “set” (stay permanently bent).
- A riser with poor machining or rough edges can cause poor arrow flight.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you plan to hunt.
Hunting Scenarios
- Thick Woods/Brush: Shorter bows (under 64 inches) are easier to maneuver around trees and thickets. Longer bows can snag.
- Open Fields/Long Shots: A longer bow (66 inches or more) is generally more stable and forgiving on aiming errors.
- Speed vs. Silence: If you hunt very close range, a slightly louder but very fast bow might be fine. For cautious game, a quieter bow is often preferred.
Comfort and Feel
- The grip shape is critical. Try holding several bows. Does the grip fit your hand naturally?
- Vibration dampening affects your arm after the shot. Wood and layered materials usually absorb shock better than solid metal risers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hunting Longbows
Q: Are longbows hard for beginners to learn?
A: They require more practice than modern compound bows. You must learn to aim without sights. Start with a lower draw weight to build form first.
Q: What is the minimum legal draw weight for hunting deer?
A: This changes by state and game type. Most states require at least 40 to 45 pounds for deer. Always check your local hunting regulations.
Q: Do I need to use specialized arrows with a longbow?
A: Yes. Longbows shoot best with wooden or carbon arrows that have a spine (stiffness) matched to your bow’s draw weight. Improper spine causes poor arrow flight.
Q: How do I store my wooden longbow when not in use?
A: Store the bow unstrung if possible, or strung loosely. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme heat. Heat warps wood.
Q: What is “tiller” and why does it matter for hunting?
A: Tiller describes how the limbs bend. A perfectly tillered bow shoots the arrow straight. Bad tiller causes wobble and missed shots, which is dangerous in a hunting situation.
Q: Should I get a take-down or a one-piece longbow?
A: Take-down bows let you remove the limbs. This makes them easier to transport and allows you to swap limbs for different draw weights later.
Q: Are longbows quiet enough for wary game?
A: Yes, especially traditional wooden models. They lack the mechanical noise of cams and cables found on compound bows.
Q: What is the effective range of a hunting longbow?
A: Most ethical shots are taken within 25 to 35 yards. Beyond that, the arrow loses too much energy, making a clean kill difficult.
Q: Can I add accessories like sights to a hunting longbow?
A: Traditional longbows are “barebow” (no accessories). If you want sights, look for a modern “recurve” bow, which is structurally similar but designed to accept them.
Q: How often should I replace the bowstring?
A: Inspect the string before every use. If you notice fraying or fuzziness, replace it. For regular hunters, replacing it every one to two seasons is a good practice.