A very popular choice of bow in modern archery. A compound bow requires a levering system to pull back the rigid limbs. This system is usually cables and pulleys that mechanically assist the archer in their draw. Compound bows are faster and typically more accurate than other types of bows and they also generally require the use of a release aid over the more traditional release with a finger tab. The addition of pulleys and cables to a compound bows construction also removes the possibility of overdrawing the bow. Once set to the archers draw length the levering system tapers off the draw to allow the archer to comfortably anchor and it reduces the holding weight of the string.
Another popular type of bow in modern archery. A recurve bow is more or less a string between two taut limbs. It comprises of a few more removable parts then a compound and can be packed up smaller for easier transport. The chosen bow for the Olympics it is decidedly less precise than a compound bow. Recurve bows however do not offer the archer any assistance in the draw as the archer must draw, hold and stabilise while holding the full weight of the bow on their fingers using only a finger tab. Recurve bows are often seen with 3 stabilisers on them to help balance the bow during shots.
Longbows have become more popular in recent years and they are the easiest to setup. Identified by the fact they are one solid piece from top to bottom, the only necessary add on being the string. They are un-sighted and are seen more and more in competitions.
Barebow recurve bows are the primitive forms of a recurve bow. Barebow recurve bows are comprised of a riser, a set of limbs and a string. They can sometimes have added weight for more mass but there are strict limitations on what can be modified or added. They are un-sighted and like longbows are gaining popularity in competitions.
