How to Buy a Used Recurve Bow

A recurve bow has tips that curve away from the shooter when the bow is strung. This feature imparts more kinetic energy than that of longbows or self-bows, resulting in longer arrow flight and better accuracy at close range. A variety of recurve bows are on the market, and these can be expensive. For those wanting to save a little cash, buying a used recurve bow is an option to consider. Several details must be checked on a used recurve bow before you should purchase it.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape Measure
  • Tillering tree
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Instructions

    • 1

      Inspect the bow for any visible signs of damage. Take note of the limbs and look to see if any splitting is evident. Faulty fiberglass bows generally have cracks that indicate splitting or significant wear. Faulty wooden bows will have hairline fractures along the length of the bow where wood and glue is coming apart.

    • 2

      Inspect the string for any damage. Frays or weak points are generally evident on older strings. Feel the string to ensure that wax has been applied. If you notice wax build-up, this is a sign that the string has been used significantly, and will eventually need replacement. Note that when buying a used recurve, getting the bow re-strung is ideal for both safety and performance.

    • 3

      Check the bow for proper tillering. This is known as evenness of bending for both limbs. In order to check tillering, you can use a tillering tree. Set the bow string-side down on top of the tillering tree, connect the rope-pulley to the string and pull the rope down in one-inch increments. Ensure the limbs are bending evenly each time you pull on the rope. If the tillering is off, then the bow will not perform well.

    • 4

      Identify your personal bow draw length and weight. Extend your arms straight out to the sides, palms facing forward. Measure the space between the tips of your middle fingers. Divide the measurement by 2.5 to get your draw length. Your draw weight is up to personal arm strength. Generally, most bow hunters use a bow between 50 and 70 pounds of draw weight. Ensure that the used bow corresponds to your needed measurements and weight requirements.