Types of Compound Bow Risers

Compound bow risers serve as the mounting point for the bow's hand-grip, arrow rest and sights. They are made in two distinct styles: the reflex riser and the deflex riser. Both terms refer to the shape or geometry of the riser. On compound bows, risers are normally made from a small variety of materials. Selecting the correct riser for a compound bow depends on the archer's skill level and purpose, and to a lesser extent, their available budget.

  1. Reflex Riser

    • The shape of the reflex riser moves the pivot points of the limb pockets further away from the archer. This means the bow string must be drawn a greater distance on bows with a reflex riser installed. Compound bows using a reflex riser tend to be more powerful. However, in the hands of less experienced archers, this increase in power is likely to come at the cost of decreased accuracy.

    Deflex Riser

    • The deflex riser's shape moves the grip closer to the string. This means a shorter draw length. Compound bows with shorter draw lengths are easier to fire and tend to be more forgiving when it comes to accuracy. This increased accuracy comes with a trade-off; namely, a significant reduction in the bow's power.

    Riser Materials

    • Both reflex and deflex risers are available in several materials. Among these are aluminum alloy, magnesium and tubular carbon compound. The most common material used is aluminum alloy. It is strong, lightweight and fairly inexpensive. Magnesium risers are lighter than their aluminum counterparts, but are often bulkier. The extra size in necessary to achieve the needed strength. Tubular carbon compound risers are extremely strong and lightweight. However, these high-tech wonders are far more expensive than the aluminum or magnesium versions.

    Choosing a Riser

    • The correct choice of riser for a given situation depends on three main criteria. First, how much experience does the archer have? All the power in the world is useless if the target doesn't get hit. Secondly, is the extra power really needed? It is one thing to want extra power and another to actually need it. Finally, which choice best fits the budget? If money is no object, then go for the top of the line. Otherwise take time to consider other useful items that will enhance the archery experience, instead of that top-of-the-line bow with the carbon compound riser.