Compound bows are the gateway to the hunting world. They offer an easy learning curve while simultaneously allowing for greater accuracy and velocity at the archery range. It can, however, look intimidating with all of its pieces and parts. Below are the basics of learning your way around a compound bow.

Ready

Before picking up your compound bow, take a look at it. You will see flexible fiberglass pieces located at the top and bottom. These are the limbs, which store the energy when you pull your bow back. You may notice the limbs are different on your bow than on a friend’s. They come in different styles, such as split, solid, and parallel, and allow for different shooting styles.

When shooting a traditional bow, you will find that the further you draw your arrow back, the harder it gets. Cams, the round wheels that attach to the end of the limbs, maintain the same amount of stored energy as traditional bows while also mechanically enabling an easier draw. Cables also help ease the tension of drawing. They run from cam to cam, helping move them back when you prepare to shoot.

Aim

Now, it is time for you to pick up your bow and position your arrow. The riser is the middle part of the bow and contains the grip. Risers are typically made of aluminum or carbon and include the sight. Similar to how a sight works on a gun, you look through it and aim at the archery range’s target.

Fire

When you place an arrow in your bow, it will stay secure in the arrow rest. The bowstring is what launches the arrow from the rest. The limbs and cams transfer their energy to the bowstring, and the bowstring transfers its energy to the arrow. 

As you become accustomed to the compound bow, you can install different add-ons. For example, a stabilizer keeps your weapon steady when shooting and reduces vibration and noise. Also, experienced hunters like to add a mechanical release to their bow that opens the clip and releases the bowstring with the pull of a trigger.

Whether you are a new or experienced archer, M & M Archery Range and Pro Shop in Florence, KY, is here to help you hit your target. For over 20 years, they’ve helped customers with custom bows and repairs. They also have an indoor archery range and offer rentals for all ages. Call (859) 282-6333 to learn more about all things bow and crossbow related. Visit their website for more information.