Do you dream of the quiet thrill of the hunt, relying only on your skill and a bow you truly trust? For many hunters, the recurve bow offers that pure, classic connection to the wild. It’s a primal experience, but choosing the right gear can feel like a maze. Modern technology throws so many choices at you—which limbs are best? What draw weight matches your strength? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and worried about spending money on a bow that won’t perform when it matters most.
Finding a recurve hunting bow that balances power, durability, and comfort is the key to a successful season. This guide cuts through the noise. We break down everything you need to know, from materials to tuning, so you can confidently select a bow that feels like an extension of your own arm. Get ready to stop guessing and start shooting with precision.
Table of Contents
Top Recurve Hunting Bow 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
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. 3
Black Hunter Recurve Bow 60" Right-Handed Bow Ergonomically Designed for Comfortable Grip Suitable for Beginners and Longbow Enthusiasts to Train Or Hunt (40LB Bow Belt Arrow Set)
- 【Package List】 Black hunter longbow、fur arrow rest、bow string silencers、archery finger tab、bow stringer
- 【Sturdy And Durable】 The handle of this recurve bow is made of technology wood, which has the advantages of being very comfortable, not easy to deform or crack, not easy to fade, and beautiful texture. The black hunter limbs are made of imported maple wood and fiberglass laminated process, with strong tensile strength and high toughness, and can be used for a long time
- 【Specifications and Applications】 The black hunter recurve bow has a length of 60 inches, a handle length of 15 inches, an overall weight of 2.2 pounds, a maximum pull distance of 32 inches, and a weight of 30/35/40/45 pounds to choose from
- 【Easy to assemble】 Please use the bow striker for installation and removal, which is a safe and convenient method
- 【KIND REMINDER】 Do not dry fire (there are no arrows when shooting arrows)! This will damage the bow and harm yourself and those around you. We support 24-hour response to answer questions related to this black hunter longbow
No. 4
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. 5
Black Hunter Takedown Recurve Bow, 60" Right Handed with Ergonomic Design for Outdoor Training Practice (35lb, Right)
- 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:35lb. 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 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. 6
53" Handmade Longbow, Left/Right Hand Recurve Bow Set, Traditional Laminated Hunting Horse Bow for Youth & Adults Targeting Practice Shooting and Hunting 40-50lbs (50LBS)
- 【HIGH PERFORMANCE】:This Longbow manufactured by GQT provides you with an excellent shooting experience and reaches accurate targets easily. The bow limbs are Made of fiberglass and bamboo laminated, and wrapped in microfiber leather with upgraded quality to withstand more power. Faster and smoother, suitable for horseback archery or daily archery activities.
- 【ERGONOMIC DESIGN】:Ergonomic handle for a comfortable feel. Fast shooting speed, low vibration, stable arrow flight, which brings you an excellent shooting experience. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, this recurve bow can meet your various shooting needs.
- 【SAFE&DURABLE】:We have improved the product material, from laminated fiber bows to locust wood and high-strength transparent epoxy bows to make it stronger and increase its durability, so that it can withstand greater force to ensure safety. It's a good helper for your riding and shooting practice.
- 【MULTIPLE SCENES】:Archery longbow tip surface is polished and painted, round and smooth, reducing the friction and damage to the bowstring, can be used by both right and left handers. Whether you're hunting game or honing your archery skills, our recurve bow is a versatile choice. Target practice, and deer hunting.
- 【INSTRUCTIONS&SERVICE】: GQT wooden traditional bows are beautiful in appearance and reliable in quality, a surprise gift for adults and archery enthusiasts! If you have any questions about purchasing or using it, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help you and will do our best to resolve it.
No. 7
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. 8
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.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Recurve Hunting Bow
Choosing the right recurve hunting bow matters. A good bow helps you hunt successfully and safely. This guide breaks down what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
A recurve bow has limbs that curve away from the archer when unstrung. For hunting, certain features make a big difference.
Draw Weight
- What it is: This is how much force you need to pull the string back completely.
- Why it matters: Hunting requires enough power (draw weight) to push an arrow through game. Check your local hunting laws; they set minimum draw weights. Beginners should start lower (30-40 lbs) and work up slowly. Too heavy a bow leads to poor form and injury.
Brace Height
- What it is: This is the distance from the string to the deepest part of the bow grip when the bow is strung but not drawn.
- Why it matters: A proper brace height affects speed and noise. Taller bows often have a higher brace height, which can be more forgiving for new hunters.
Limb Alignment and Takedown Ability
- Takedown: Most hunting recurves are takedown bows. This means the limbs detach from the riser (the handle). This makes the bow easy to transport and store safely.
- Limb Alignment: Good bows allow you to adjust the limbs so they are perfectly straight. This ensures even power delivery.
Important Materials That Build Quality
The materials used directly affect how long your bow lasts and how well it performs.
Riser Materials
- Wood: Traditional bows often use hardwoods like Maple or Bamboo laminate. They offer a classic look and good vibration absorption.
- Metal (Aluminum/Magnesium): Modern risers use strong, lightweight metals. These risers are very stiff, which means more arrow speed. They usually allow for more accessories.
Limb Materials
- Limbs must be strong but flexible. Many good hunting limbs use layers of fiberglass bonded to a core material like wood (bamboo or maple). High-quality fiberglass is essential for durability and smooth drawing. Cheap plastic limbs break easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the price tag. Look closely at how the bow is put together.
Factors That Improve Quality
- Limb Tips: Strong limb tips hold up better against string wear and tear.
- Finish: A durable finish protects the wood and fiberglass from moisture and scratches in the field.
- Riser Features: Sight window cut (deeper cutouts usually mean better arrow flight) and precise machining on metal risers show high quality.
Factors That Reduce Quality (What to Avoid)
- Warping: If the limbs twist or warp (often due to improper storage in heat or moisture), the bow shoots poorly.
- Vibration: Cheap materials often transfer a lot of vibration to your hand after the shot, which is uncomfortable and can hinder accuracy. Good bows use dampeners to stop this.
- Inconsistent Draw Cycle: A quality bow draws smoothly. A low-quality bow might feel jerky or stack weight very quickly near the end of the draw.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the bow affects your choice.
Hunting in the Woods
If you walk long distances, you need a lighter, takedown bow. Camouflage finishes or natural wood stains help you blend in. Maneuverability is key in thick brush, so shorter bows (under 64 inches) work better.
Target Practice at Home
For practice, you might focus more on accessories like stabilizers and sights. A slightly longer bow offers more stability for longer target shots. Noise reduction is less critical here than in the field.
Always test-shoot a bow if possible. How it feels in your hand during the draw and release is the most important factor for long-term satisfaction.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Recurve Hunting Bows
Q: Is a recurve bow hard to learn for hunting?
A: Recurves require more practice than compound bows because they do not have let-off (holding power at full draw). However, they are simpler mechanically, which some hunters prefer.
Q: What is the best draw weight for a beginner hunting recurve?
A: Most experts suggest starting around 30 to 40 pounds for beginners. This lets you focus on form without overexerting yourself.
Q: Do I need a sight on my hunting recurve?
A: Many traditional hunters shoot “instinctively” without sights. However, adding a simple pin sight greatly increases accuracy, especially for longer shots.
Q: How should I store my recurve bow?
A: Always store your bow unstrung if possible, or strung with a low brace height. Keep it away from extreme heat (like a hot car) or cold, as temperature changes warp the limbs.
Q: What is the difference between a traditional wooden recurve and a modern takedown?
A: Traditional bows are often one piece and heavier. Modern takedowns use laminated materials and separate metal or wooden risers, making them easier to travel with.
Q: Can I use carbon arrows with a recurve bow?
A: Yes, carbon arrows are very popular because they are light and durable. Make sure the spine (stiffness) of the arrow matches the draw weight of your bow.
Q: What is “stacking” when drawing a recurve?
A: Stacking happens when the weight increases very rapidly near the end of the draw cycle. This usually means the bow limbs are not designed well for your draw length.
Q: How do I keep my bow string in good shape?
A: Apply bowstring wax regularly, usually every couple of weeks if you shoot often. This protects the strands from fraying.
Q: Are recurve bows quiet enough for hunting?
A: Recurves are generally louder than compound bows. Adding string silencers (small rubber or wool puffs) significantly reduces the noise made by the string slap.
Q: Does camouflage pattern matter on a hunting bow?
A: While not as critical as camouflage clothing, a non-shiny, muted finish helps break up the bow’s outline, making you less visible to wary game.