12 Best Recurve Bow for Beginners: A Buying Guide for 2023

Are you a beginner looking to get into archery? Are all the different types of recurve bows on the market too much for you? Don’t worry, we’ll take care of you!

We’ll help you find the best recurve bow for beginners by giving you an in-depth buying guide. We’ll talk about the things you should consider when choosing a recurve bow, tell you our favorites, and give you helpful tips for beginners.

By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to make an intelligent choice and start your archery journey on the right foot.

Our Top 12 Best Recurve Bow for beginners: A Detailed Chart in 2023

Image	Product Name	Product Details	The Best Price
	TIDEWE Recurve Bow	20-50lbs 29 Inch Draw Right Handed	Check Price
	SAS Spirit Jr	12-22lbs 28 Inch Draw Right Handed	Check Price
	Southland Archery Supply Junior	12-22lbs 28 Inch Draw Right Handed	Check Price
	Woarchery Combat	25lbs 28 Inch Draw Right-Left	Check Price
	D&Q Recurve Bow	30-70lbs 28 Inch Draw Right handed	Check Price
	Sopoger Archery	20-40lbs 28 Inch Draw Right-Left	Check Price
	Keshes Beginner Recurve Bow	15-55lbs 29 Inch Draw Right-Left	Check Price
	Tongtu Best Recurve Bow for Beginner	30-40lbs 29 Inch Draw Right-Left	Check Price
	Top Archery	30-40lbs 29 Inch Draw Right-Left	Check Price
	TOPARCHERY For Beginners	30-40lbs 28 Inch Draw Right Handed	Check Price
	Mxessua Bow for Beginners	16-20lbs 28 Inch Draw Right Handed	Check Price
	Steinbrucke Takedown Recurve Bow	30-40lbs 28 Inch Draw Right Handed	Check Price

1. TIDEWE Recurve Bow for Beginners

Material: Wood, Fiberglass and Carbon

• Right handed
• 20 – 50lbs
• 62-inch bow length
• 29-inch draw length
• Best Price
• Beginners Friendly

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The Tidewe recurve bow, a budget-friendly option that is designed with an adjustable draw weight to accommodate your growing skills.

The Tidewe Recurve Bow and Arrow Set is an excellent choice for both adult and youth beginners. This affordable set comes with everything you need to start practicing archery, including a recurve bow, two arrows, an arm guard, a target, a finger tab, and adjustable sights.

The lightweight fiberglass riser ensures durability, while the cushioned grip offers comfort during use. The adjustable sights assist in improving your accuracy, and the arm guard and finger tab provide safety and ease while shooting.

Perfect for learning the basics or enhancing your skills, don’t miss out on this fantastic archery set!

2. SAS Spirit Jr – Best Recurve Bow for Beginners

Material: Wood and Fiberglass

• Right and Left-handed
• 12 – 22lbs
• 54-inch bow length
• 28-inch draw length
• Affordable Price
• Best Choice for Beginners

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The SAS Spirit Jr. is a youth takedown bow that is easy for new archers to use and is made for people up to 5’4″ tall or younger.

This bow is a great choice for people who want to start shooting because it is well made, comes with brass bushings for accessories, and comes with a risk-free purchase promise.

The SAS Spirit Jr.’s stand is made of high-quality laminated wood, which makes it strong and stable while shooting.

The wooden handle gives the bow a classic look and makes it easy for young shooters to hold on to.

The limbs are made of thin layers of wood and strong European fiberglass, so they are both strong and flexible. With this combo, a beginner can fire easily and correctly without hurting themselves or moving their limbs.

The SAS Spirit Jr. Beginner Youth Takedown Archery Bow is a great choice for younger or smaller shooters.

Its higher-quality design, pre-installed brass joints, and risk-free purchase promise make it a reliable and easy-to-use option for newbies.

3. Southland Archery Supply Junior – Best Recurve Bow for Beginners

Material: Wood and Fiberglass

• Right and left-handed
• 14 – 20lbs
• 58-inch bow length
• 28-inch draw length
• Excellent Price
• Best Option for Beginners

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The Southland Archery Supply (SAS) Junior Takedown Recurve Bow is designed for youth and smaller-framed shooters.

It features a durable riser made from premium wood, hard maple, and black fiberglass limbs, and a draw weight range of 14–20 lbs. With a 58-inch length, it’s suitable for shooters up to 5.5 feet.

The bow has an industry-leading 2-year warranty and is easily customizable. Overall, it’s a reliable and user-friendly option for beginner to intermediate archers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

4. WOARCHERY Combat Takedown Recurve Bow

Material: Fiberglass

• Right and left-handed
• 25lbs
• 54-inch bow length
• 28-inch draw length
• Best Price
• Amazing Beginners Bow

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The Woarchery Combat Recurve Bow is a flexible and easy-to-use choice for archery fans, especially those who like fighting games, LARP events, and archery. With a draw weight of 25 pounds, it can be used by people with different skills and tastes.

The bow works well for both left-handed and right-handed shooters, so anyone can use it with ease. It has been approved by both CE and ASTM, which shows that it meets safety and quality standards.

The WOARCHERY Combat Takedown Recurve Bow is durable and reliable because it has a strong nylon riser and fiberglass-reinforced limbs.

Its materials and design make sure it works well every time, making it a great choice for many types of shooting.

The WOARCHERY Combat Takedown Recurve Bow is a good choice for people who want to do archery martial arts, fight games, or LARP events. It is flexible and reliable.

It can be used by either hand, is made of high-quality materials, and has been tested to make sure it is safe.

5. D&Q Recurve Bow for Beginners

Material: Aluminum and Fiberglass

• Right Handed
• 30 – 70lbs
• 54 Inch bow length
• 28 Inch draw length
• Best Price
• Best Choice for Beginners

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The perfect blend of quality and affordability is achieved with the D&Q Recurve Bow and Arrow Set.

Designed for both beginners and experienced archers, this sleek and portable archery set is ideal for those trying the sport for the first time or spicing up their hunting adventures.

Featuring adjustable limbs and an easy-to-use draw cycle, this bow delivers exceptional accuracy and power.

Prepare for your next adventure with top-notch gear designed for comfort and precision. Choose D&Q’s Archery Sets—the ultimate choice for outdoor enthusiasts and aspiring archers alike.

6. SOPOGER Archery Takedown Recurve Bow for Beginners

Material: Fiberglass

• Right Handed
• 20 – 40lbs
• 53 Inch bow length
• 28 Inch draw length
• Low Price Range
• Amazing Beginners Bow

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The convenience and quality of the SOPOGER Archery Recurve Bow, designed with a take-down feature for easy carrying and storage, The ambidextrous grip caters to beginners, ensuring a user-friendly experience.

Crafted with a high-strength nylon fiber riser, flexible nylon bowstring, and durable fiberglass limbs, this bow offers maximum durability. With a draw weight of 20–40 lbs, it’s suitable for young men and women aged 12 and up, as well as adult beginners.

The perfect gift for archery newcomers, this ergonomic bow and arrow set provides a comfortable grip.

The package includes a bow string, a bow stringer, hunting arrow tips, carbon arrows, a finger guard, an arm guard, and more.

Experience the joy of archery with the SOPOGER Archery Recurve Bow.

7. Keshes Takedown Beginner Recurve Bow for Teens and Adults

Material: Wood and Fiberglass

• Right and Left Handed
• 15 – 55lbs
• 62 Inch bow length
• 28 Inch draw length
• Best Price
• Beginners Bow

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Ideal for teens and adults seeking an engaging and active hobby, the Keshes Takedown Hunting Recurve Bow and Arrow boasts the same durable quality as the renowned Samick Sage.

This lightweight recurve bow features rounded edges for a comfortable grip and includes a wooden riser, fiberglass limbs, B-55 Dacron bowstring, arrow rest, stringer tool, sight, and clear instructions.

Easily assembled without tools, this travel-friendly bow can be taken apart to fit in a compact case. Designed for hunting and versatile activities, the adjustable sight makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced archers.

Choose the Keshes Takedown Hunting Recurve Bow and Arrow for a high-quality and enjoyable archery experience.

8. Tongtu Best Recurve Bow for Beginners

Material: Wood and Fiberglass

• Right and Left Handed
• 30 – 40lbs
• 62 Inch bow length
• 28 Inch draw length
• Best Price
• Best Option for Beginners

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Unleash your archery potential with the Tongtu Takedown Recurve Bow. This exceptional bow transcends age and skill levels, delivering unrivaled performance. Crafted to accommodate both right- and left-handed archers, it embodies versatility and durability.

Its meticulously engineered lightweight design and ergonomic grip provide the ultimate shooting experience, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro.

Experience the perfect blend of precision and reliability with the Tongtu Takedown Recurve Bow, setting new standards in archery excellence.

Made from high-quality materials, the Tongtu Recurve Bow allows for adjustable draw weight, catering to archers of various strengths and abilities.

A wide range of accessories, such as arrows, arrow rests, and sights, ensure a customized and enjoyable shooting experience.

Choose the Tongtu Takedown Recurve Bow for a dependable, comfortable, and precise archery experience, no matter your skill level.

9. TOPARCHERY Archery Takedown Youth Recurve Bow

Material: Wood and Fiberglass

• Right and Left Handed
• 30 – 40lbs
• 58 Inch bow length
• 29 Inch draw length
• Affordable Price
• Beginners Bow

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The TOPARCHERY Takedown Youth Recurve Bow offers unbeatable performance. It has a flexible Daclone bowstring and a tough, high-strength nylon fiber riser that make it very durable and flexible.

With their smooth edges and strong epoxy limbs, the bows are safe and easy to use, making archery a unique experience.

The riser has rounded edges and a finely crafted handle for a comfortable grip during long shooting sessions. The unique aesthetic also makes this versatile bow visually attractive.

The bow is suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters and is easy to assemble and disassemble with an Allen wrench.

It makes the perfect gift for archery beginners and features a lightweight, ambidextrous design with double arrow rests to suit all archers.

The bow is easy to assemble and disassemble and is ideal for storage or competitive backyard play.

You should always use a stringer tool for safe and proper set-up and take-down. Choose the TOPARCHERY Takedown Youth Recurve Bow and experience archery with fun and comfort.

10. Top Archery Takedown Recurve Bow For Beginners

Material: Wood and Fiberglass

• Right Handed
• 30 – 40lbs
• 58 Inch bow length
• 28 Inch draw length
• Amazing Price
• Best Bow for Beginners

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The high-quality TOPARCHERY Takedown Youth Recurve Bow is equipped with a flexible Daclone bowstring and a durable, high-strength nylon fiber riser for outstanding resistance and stretch. The robust epoxy limbs with smooth edges guarantee your safety during use.

Designed with both comfort and style in mind, the riser features rounded edges and a finely finished handle for a comfortable grip during extended shooting sessions. The unique aesthetic adds a touch of visual appeal to this versatile bow.

Ideal for both right- and left-handed archers, the bow can be easily assembled or disassembled using an Allen key. It makes the perfect gift for archery beginners thanks to its lightweight, ambidextrous.

11. Mxessua Bow for Beginners

Material: Wood and Fiberglass

• Right Handed
• 16 – 20lbs
• 44.3 Inch bow length
• 28 Inch draw length
• Low Price
• Beginners Friendly

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If you’re looking for a great way to introduce your children or teens to archery, the Mxessua Bow and Arrows Set is a fantastic choice.

Not only is it an ideal gift for young archery enthusiasts, but it also offers many benefits in terms of concentration, patience, and self-discipline.

One of the standout features of this set is its strong and sturdy design. The fiberglass arrow ensures durability, while the reinforced handle is ambidextrous, making it suitable for both right- and left-handed individuals.

The soft-touch grip provides excellent handling, making it easier for children and teens to control the bow and arrow.

The Mxessua Bow has an overall length of 44.3 inches, a draw length of 22–24 inches, and a draw weight of 16–20 lbs, making it perfect for teenagers and beginners.

The bow also comes with non-sharp arrow tips, finger savers, and arm guards to ensure maximum safety while shooting. The included user manual provides wear and use instructions to further ensure safe usage.

The Mxessua Bow and Arrow Set is a safe and well-designed option for beginners and youth. It encourages outdoor play, teaches valuable skills, and comes with all the necessary accessories for a complete archery experience. Perfect for the whole family.

12. Steinbrucke – Best Recurve Bow for Beginners

Material: Wood and Fiberglass

• Right Handed
• 30 – 40lbs
• 53 Inch bow length
• 29 Inch draw length
• Nice Price
• Best Option for Beginners

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The Steinbrueck Takedown Recurve Bow is a reliable and versatile choice for beginners. The beech wood riser and fiberglass-reinforced limbs make this recurve bow extremely durable and powerful.

Its take-down design allows for easy transport, and the light weight (1.75 lbs) makes for comfortable aiming.

With a padded arrow rest for stability and two draw weight options (30 lbs and 40 lbs), this versatile bow is perfect for a variety of archery activities. The 100% money-back guarantee ensures customer satisfaction. A great choice for a beginner archer.

Whether you’re an adult, a teenager, a beginner, or just want to improve your shooting skills, the Steinbrueck Takedown Recurve Bow won’t disappoint you. It’s the ultimate choice for a fantastic archery experience.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Recurve Bow for Beginners

Draw weight

The draw weight is the amount of force required to pull the bowstring to a specific draw length. Beginners should choose a draw weight that is comfortable and easy to handle.

A lighter draw weight (15–25 lbs.) is recommended for children or people with a smaller build, while a slightly heavier draw weight (25–30 lbs.) is suitable for most adult beginners.

Bow length

The bow length is the distance between the bow’s tips when the bow is strung. A longer bow is generally more stable and forgiving, making it suitable for beginners.

A bow length of 62–68 inches is recommended for most adult beginners.

Takedown vs. one-piece

A takedown bow can be disassembled for easy transportation and storage, while a one-piece bow offers more stability and durability.

Beginners may prefer a takedown bow for convenience, but a one-piece bow can offer better accuracy and consistency.

Riser material

The riser is the central part of the bow, where the limbs attach. It’s important to choose a riser made of durable and lightweight materials, such as aluminum or carbon fiber. This will ensure that the bow is easy to handle and will last for years to come.

Grip

The grip of a bow can affect its comfort and accuracy. Beginners should choose a bow with a comfortable, ergonomic grip that fits well in the hand and doesn’t tire the hands.

String Quality

The quality of the bow string can affect the accuracy and performance of the bow. Beginners should choose a bow with a high-quality string that is strong, durable, and fits their bow well.

Budget

Recurve bows for beginners can range from $100 to $400. Determine your budget and choose a bow with the best balance of quality and affordability.

It is important to invest in a good-quality bow that will last and provide a suitable learning experience.

Accessories

Some bows come with pre-installed accessories, such as an arrow rest or bowstring, while others are compatible with specific add-ons. Consider your needs and preferences when selecting a bow with the appropriate features.

Brand

Choosing a reputable brand is important when purchasing a recurve bow. Look for brands that have a good reputation for quality and customer service.

Some of the top brands for beginner’s recurve bows include Samick, Martin, Southland Archery, D&Q, and Bear Archery.

What Size Recurve Bow Should a Beginner Buy?

A beginner should choose a recurve bow size based on their draw length and body size. To determine the appropriate bow size, follow these steps:

1. Determine your draw length. Stand with your arms extended to your sides, forming a “T” shape. Measure the distance from the tip of one middle finger to the other, and divide this number by 2.5. This will give you an approximation of your draw length in inches.
2. Choose the right bow size. Use your draw length to select a suitable bow size. Here’s a general guideline:
   • Draw length up to 24 inches: Choose a 62-inch bow.
   • Draw length: 24-26 inches; Choose a 64-inch bow.
   • Draw length: 26–28 inches; Choose a 66-inch bow.
   • Draw length: 28–30 inches; Choose a 68-inch bow.
   • Draw length over 30 inches: Choose a 70-inch bow or larger.

These are general guidelines, and it’s essential to try out different bow sizes to find the one that feels most comfortable for you.

Differences: Beginner vs. Advanced Recurve Bows

Entry-level recurve bows and advanced models differ mainly in design, materials, features, and functionalities. Here are some key distinctions:

1. Materials and design: Beginner bows are made from simple materials like wood or fiberglass, while advanced bows use high-quality materials like laminated wood, aluminum alloys, or carbon fiber for better strength, durability, and performance.
2. Draw weight: Beginner bows have a lower draw weight, making it easier for novices to practice shooting without straining. Advanced bows offer a wider range of draw weights for increased arrow speed, distance, and accuracy.
3. Features and customization: Advanced bows come with features such as threaded inserts for accessories, adjustable limbs, stabilizer bushings, and more. Entry-level bows focus on simplicity and ease of use, with fewer or no such features.
4. Price: Beginner recurve bows are generally more affordable, while advanced models are made from better materials and have more features, making them more expensive.

As your archery skills grow, consider upgrading to a more advanced bow that suits your individual needs and shooting style.

Essential Beginner Recurve Bow Accessories

For a smooth archery experience, beginners should consider these essential accessories:

1. Arrow Rest: Supports the arrow for accurate and consistent shots.
2. Sight: Helps aim at the target accurately by providing distance markers.
3. Stabilizer: Balances the bow’s weight, reducing torque and vibration for improved accuracy.
4. Finger Tab/Glove: Protects fingers and provides a better grip on the bowstring.
5. Quiver: Holds and organizes arrows for easy access.
6. Bow Case: This case protects your bow during storage and transport.
7. Arm Guard: Shields your forearm from the bowstring, preventing bruises and injuries.

These basic accessories will help beginners learn proper shooting techniques and enhance their overall archery experience.

Beginner Arrows for Recurve Bows

Choosing the right arrows is crucial for beginners using a recurve bow. Consider these factors:

1. Length and Weight: Match the arrow length and weight to your bow’s draw length and weight. Use a bow scale and tape measure to find your measurements, then consult an arrow chart.
2. Material: Start with affordable wooden or fiberglass arrows, which are lightweight and forgiving. Progress to aluminum or carbon arrows for improved durability and accuracy.
3. Arrow Tip: Choose between target points (for shooting at targets) and field points (for hunting) based on your intended use.

Selecting the right arrows based on these factors will help you shoot better and enjoy archery or hunting as you improve your skills.

Recurve Bow Sight Adjustment Guide

Here is a general Sight Adjustment Chart for recurve bows to help you adjust your bow sight for accurate shooting:

Beginner Tips for Shooting with a Recurve Bow

1. Stance: Stand sideways to the target with your feet shoulder-width apart. Keep your back straight and your shoulders square for stability.
2. Nocking the Arrow: Choose the correct arrow length and attach it to the bowstring between the nocking points, located about 1/8 inch above the bow grip.
3. Gripping the Bow: Hold the bow handle with your non-dominant hand, maintaining a relaxed yet firm grip. Avoid holding the bow too tightly.
4. Drawing the Bow: Smoothly pull the bowstring back, keeping it close to your face. Ensure your hand is relaxed, and avoid gripping the string too tightly.
5. Aiming: Look down the arrow, aligning it with the target. Keep both eyes open and focus on the target. Take a deep breath and release the arrow.
6. Follow-Through: After shooting, maintain your stance and concentration. Keep your bow arm straight and let the bowstring gently slide out of your fingers.

Effective Shooting Distances for Recurve Bows: Factors and Ranges

The effective shooting distance for a recurve bow typically ranges between 20 and 35 yards. Some experienced archers can shoot at an effective range of up to 60 yards.

It’s important to remember that factors such as the archer’s skill level, bow setup, and shooting conditions can influence the effective shooting distance.

How much should I expect to pay for a beginner’s recurve bow?

When looking for a beginner’s recurve bow, you can expect to spend between $50 and $200. The price depends on factors like the bow’s material, customization options, and brand reputation.

A basic wooden bow is a great starting point, usually costing $50 to $100. Accessories like sight pins, stabilizers, and arrow rests can increase the cost, but they also enhance performance.

Well-known brands may be more expensive, but they often offer higher quality and durability. Be sure to research and read reviews before purchasing to get the best value for your money.

Recurve Bow vs. Longbow: Which is Harder to Shoot?

Recurve bows and longbows are both traditional bows used in archery. Here’s a quick comparison to determine which is harder to shoot:

Recurve Bow

• Curved limbs for increased power
• More compact and maneuverable
• Requires skill for accuracy.
• Versatile for various archery purposes

Longbow

• Straight limbs with a simple design
• Longer length, making it less maneuverable.
• Requires more skill and practice for accuracy.
• Traditional choice for historical archery

Longbows may be harder to shoot accurately for some archers due to their longer length and lack of curved limbs, which provide additional power in recurve bows.

Recurve Bow Care and Maintenance Guide:

Conclusion

Finding the best recurve bow for beginners is like hitting the bull’s eye in archery. It’s about understanding your needs, exploring options, and trusting your instincts. Focus on comfort, balance, and quality, and keep your goals in mind.

Carefully consider factors such as draw weight, bow length, materials, and accessories, and consult with an expert to discover a world of exciting experiences and capabilities.

Get excited about the exciting world of archery, equip yourself, set high goals, and begin the journey to becoming a good archer. Have fun shooting!

Some Common Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a recurve bow?

A recurve bow is a type of bow that has limbs that curve back towards the shooter, which provides more power and speed to the arrow.

What is the best draw weight for a beginner?

It’s recommended for beginners to start with a draw weight between 20 and 30 pounds, depending on the individual’s strength and comfort level.

How do I determine my draw length?

To estimate your draw length, measure your arm span (from fingertip to fingertip) and divide it by 2.5. This will give you a rough estimate of your draw length in inches.

Can I use a recurve bow for competitive archery?

Yes, recurve bows are used in various competitive archery formats, including Olympic competitions.

How fast is a recurve bow’s FPS?

Recurve bow speeds vary, but they typically range from 150 to 250 FPS (feet per second), depending on factors like draw weight, arrow weight, and bow design.

How far can a 40-pound recurve bow shoot?

A 40-pound recurve bow can shoot arrows up to approximately 150 to 200 yards, but an effective hunting or target shooting range is usually within 30 to 50 yards.

What are the best recurve bow accessories to help aim?

Some helpful accessories for aiming include bow sights, stabilizers, and arrow rests. These can improve the accuracy and consistency of your shots.

How do you add draw weight to a bow?

Adding draw weight to a bow usually involves replacing the limbs with ones designed for a higher draw weight. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and not exceed the bow’s intended draw weight range.