Recurve Techniques

The recurve bow is similar to the longbow but the bow tips curve away from the archer. The design adjustment adds power to the bow and speed to the arrow. The recurve is a standard design used in competition shooting and by hunters. The bow does not rely on mechanical devices like the modern compound bow but it is compatible with modern sights, stabilizers and other accessories. Shooting the recurve is similar to a longbow and compound bow with small variations that are unique to the design.

  1. Stance

    • The recurve stance is similar to the stance used with a longbow and compound bow. The stance does differ from a compound bow because perfect posture is necessary to hold the bow string and align the shot. The let-off on a compound provides room for slouching and awkward shot positions. Assume a stance with both feet shoulder width apart with your feet perpendicular to the target. You may stagger the feet slightly but do so on a consistent basis. Posture yourself with a straight back and keep your head level. Leveling your head is important for aiming.

    Nocking Arrows

    • The arrow must be properly nocked on a recurve bow. The bow string has a nocking point but you must align the arrow to prevent disturbance as it passes over the arrow rest. Place the arrow shaft on the arrow rest and rotate the shaft until the odd colored vein is horizontal and facing the grip side of your body. Compound bows use a vertical position with the index vein but the speed of a compound bow reduces the importance of arrow position. Align the index vein and press the arrow nock against the bow string to prepare for the shot.

    Draw and Aim

    • Grip the handle of the bow immediately below the rest. Press the handle between you thumb and index finger and lightly wrap your fingers around the grip. The crease between the thumb and index finger holds the pressure of the bow maintains the vertical position of the bow. Position your fingers on the bow string with a finger tab to protect your hand. Place the index finger above the arrow and the middle and ring fingers below the arrow. Raise the bow with the arrow pointing at the target and hold your grip arm straight towards the target. This preliminary draw is only used on the longbow and recurve bow.

      Draw the string by flexing your shoulder and back muscles. Bring your release hand to an anchor point on the corner of your mouth or lower jaw. Use the same anchor point on every shot. Your forearm is aligned with the arrow in a proper draw position. Aim by looking through the arrow and into the target. Focus on the central target area rather than a small point on the target. Compound bows use peep sights to focus on specific point but recurve shooting requires a general approach and instincts based on practice and experience.

    Release

    • The finger release on a recurve string is simple but often requires corrections. Simply relax and straighten the fingers while sliding them away from the bow. Do not make any abrupt motions during the release or your arrow will not fly straight. Allow the bow to fall forward as you relax the motion after the shot.

      The follow through after the release creates a smooth motion for consistent shooting. The follow through on a compound bow is a simple drop and a longbow requires a stiffer motion. The recurve follow through is a smooth transition between the release and the arrow striking the target.