bows

Forget the rod and reel. Bowfishing is just that: fishing using a bow. Bowfishing bows can be traditional or compound, and the arrows used are typically heavier and stronger, are barbed so they do not pull out of the fish, and can be attached to a line so the fish can be reeled or pulled back to the archer. If you're interested in a different type of fishing, ask any of our helpful associates about bowfishing bows, arrows, accessories, and other helpful advice. 

Compound bows are hand-drawn, hand-held bows with a mechanical component that reduces the draw weight and increases the speed of the arrow. Cables and cams (or pulleys) ease the draw and reduce the bow’s holding weight (called let-off). These vary from traditional bows in that they have these added mechanisms, and are often heavier. Depending on your skill level, shooting interest, capabilities, and simple preferences, a compound bow could be the right type of bow for new shooters. Not sure? Ask an associate for assistance. 

A crossbow consists of a bow-like construction mounted on a stock and oriented horizontally. Crossbows can have a compound or recurve construction. Compound crossbows, much like compound bows, rely on a series of cams, or pulleys, to reduce the draw weight of the bow. On recurve crossbows, the tips of the bow curve away from the archer, which increases the speed of the bolt. Arrows, or bolts, are loaded on top of the stock. 

Recurve bows are a traditional style of bow with curved limbs at the ends of the bow, which help deliver more energy to the arrow, increasing its speed. These bows are popular in the Olympics and other competitive events. Want to try out a modern recurve bow? Just ask any of our helpful associates. 

Traditional bows are those that do not use a mechanical element, but instead rely entirely on the shooter's own strength and capability when it comes to drawing the bow. Additionally, traditional bows are typically lighter in weight than compound bows. Deciding which kind of bow to use--traditional or compound--really depends on your personal preferences and shooting styles. Some archers use both! Unsure what kind of bow you might be interested in purchasing? Talk to any of our helpful associates.