The 7 Best Takedown Recurve Bows Review

Last Updated on October 13, 2024

Are you looking for the perfect takedown recurve bow? Recurve bows are versatile and easy to transport and customize, making them a favorite for target shooters and hunters. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced archer, finding the right bow is essential for success in your upcoming sports.

In this review, I’ve gathered the seven best takedown recurve bows available today. These bows offer a mix of smooth performance, durability, and portability. You’ll get a closer look at what makes each one stand out, along with their pros, cons, and features.

Best Takedown Recurve Bows Analysis At a Glance

Find the takedown recurve bow that’s perfect for you!

• 1. Samick Sage Takedown Recurve Bow
• 2. PSE Archery Nighthawk Recurve Bow
• 3. Southwest Archery Spyder Recurve Bow
• 4. TOPARCHERY Hunting Recurve Bow
• 5. SinoArt Falcon Takedown Recurve Bow
• 6. Mandarin Duck Phantom Takedown Bow
• 7. Kainokai Takedown Recurve Bow

1. Samick Sage Takedown Recurve Bow

The Samick Sage is hailed as the best entry-level takedown recurve bow. It comes with an elegant wooden riser that combines maple and hard maple lamination. This bow feels sturdy and comfortable in hand, thanks to its ergonomic grip. It’s designed to be user-friendly, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced archers. With its takedown feature, you can disassemble the limbs from the riser for easier transport, which is a bonus for anyone who needs a bow that travels easily. Many users appreciate the smooth draw cycle and consistent power.

2. PSE Archery Nighthawk Takedown Recurve Bow

The PSE Nighthawk is a sleek and efficient bow, offering great performance at an affordable price. Its riser is made from hardwood and black fiberglass, which gives it a modern look while maintaining strength and durability. Its takedown design allows for easy disassembly, making it travel-friendly. The Nighthawk is a great choice for both hunting and target shooting, with a smooth draw and solid construction that beginners and intermediates can rely on. The well-balanced feel in the hand provides a stable shooting platform that many archers enjoy.

3. Southwest Archery Spyder Takedown Recurve Bow

The Southwest Archery Spyder is often compared to the Samick Sage due to its similar design, but it boasts a few upgrades that set it apart. It features a lightweight yet sturdy riser made from a blend of four types of wood, including dymondwood and white oak. This gives it a more polished and premium look. It’s easy to assemble and disassemble, good for those who like to travel with their bow. It also offers a highly customizable experience, with options to add sights, arrow rests, and more.

4. TOPARCHERY Takedown Hunting Recurve Bow

The TOPARCHERY Takedown Recurve Bow is a top choice for hunters who are looking for a durable and lightweight option. This bow has an eye-catching black finish that gives it a tactical look. Its aluminum riser is durable and the flexible fiberglass limbs offer a smooth draw. It’s designed to provide enough power for hunting while remaining easy to control. The takedown feature makes it easy to pack for outdoor adventures. Its lightweight design ensures you can carry it comfortably for long periods in the field.

5. SinoArt Falcon Takedown Recurve Bow

The SinoArt Falcon offers a blend of affordability and performance, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious archers. Its riser is made from hardwood. It has black fiberglass limbs, which not only look great but provide good durability. Its 60-inch length offers stability for both target shooting and small game hunting. The Falcon is designed for easy assembly and disassembly. Despite being an affordable option, the bow performs admirably and feels comfortable in hand.

6. Mandarin Duck Phantom Takedown Recurve Bow

The Mandarin Duck Phantom is known for its compact design and powerful performance. This bow is ideal for archers who need a shorter, more maneuverable bow without sacrificing power. Its lightweight aluminum riser is designed to be durable and the limbs are made from fiberglass. The Phantom is a great choice if you’re interested in a lightweight hunting bow that can easily be packed and carried on long trips. Despite its shorter length, the Phantom offers a surprisingly smooth draw and impressive accuracy.

7. Kainokai Takedown Recurve Bow

The Kainokai Takedown Recurve Bow is a solid choice for beginners and intermediate archers. It features a traditional wooden riser with limbs made from composite materials. This bow is designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy to set up and take down. Despite its traditional appearance, the bow offers modern performance with a smooth draw and consistent power. It’s suitable for both target practice and hunting. The balanced feel helps archers focus on their technique and improve their shooting skills.

How to Choose the Best Takedown Recurve Bow

When you’re shopping for a takedown recurve bow, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. There are so many options, and each one promises something different. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Let’s break down the key things you need to consider before making a purchase. 

Draw Weight

The first thing to think about is draw weight. This is how much force is needed to pull the bowstring back. For beginners, I recommend starting with a lower draw weight, around 25-35 lbs. It’s easier to manage and helps you get the hang of things without too much strain. For hunting, though, you’ll want something with more power—40 lbs or more is a good place to start.

Bow Length

The length of the bow affects how smooth the draw feels. Longer bows (60-62 inches) tend to give you a smoother and more forgiving draw. They’re great for target shooting and beginners. Shorter bows (50-58 inches), on the other hand, are more compact and easier to handle in tight spaces—perfect if you plan to use it for hunting or have a smaller frame.

Riser Material

The riser is the central part of the bow where you hold it, and the material can make a big difference. Wooden risers, like the ones in the Samick Sage or Southwest Spyder, offer a classic, traditional feel and look. Aluminum risers, like those found in the TOPARCHERY and Mandarin Duck Phantom, are more durable and give the bow a modern, sleek design. Both work well, so it really depends on what feels right in your hands.

Limbs

Your bow’s limbs are another key part. Look for limbs made from fiberglass or wood laminations, as they provide strength and flexibility. Fiberglass limbs are durable and low-maintenance, perfect if you want something that lasts. Wooden limbs offer a more traditional feel. The best part about takedown bows? You can swap out the limbs later if you want to change the draw weight or if they get damaged.

Portability

If you’re planning to travel with your bow, the takedown feature is a lifesaver. You can easily break the bow into three pieces—the riser and two limbs—making it much easier to carry and store. Almost all the bows on this list offer this feature, but be sure to check how easy it is to assemble and disassemble. Some are quicker and simpler than others.

Purpose: Target Shooting or Hunting?

Think about what you’ll be using the bow for. If you’re mainly going to shoot targets, you might prefer longer, smoother-drawing bows like the Samick Sage or the SinoArt Falcon. But if you’re into hunting, you’ll want something more compact and powerful, like the Mandarin Duck Phantom or TOPARCHERY. Each bow is suited to different activities, so it’s important to match your choice with your goals.

Budget

Finally, let’s talk about money. Takedown recurve bows come in a wide price range. If you’re on a budget, bows like the SinoArt Falcon or Kainokai offer solid performance without breaking the bank. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, you’ll get enhanced features like better wood quality or smoother performance, like with the Southwest Archery Spyder. Always remember, though, that a higher price doesn’t always mean better performance for your needs.

FAQs:

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:

What draw weight should I start with?

It really depends on what you’re using the bow for and your strength. If you’re a beginner, starting with a draw weight between 25-35 lbs is ideal. It’s enough to help you build strength without being too overwhelming. For hunting, you’ll need a heavier draw weight, at least 40 lbs, to ensure you have enough power for your shot.

How do I maintain my takedown recurve bow?

Maintaining your bow is important to keep it in top shape. Always unstring your bow when you’re not using it to relieve tension from the limbs. Wipe it down with a dry cloth after each use, especially if you’ve been outdoors in rain or humid conditions. If you notice any wear on the string, replace it right away to avoid snapping. It’s also a good idea to occasionally check that all the screws and bolts are tight, especially after transporting it.

Is it easy to assemble and disassemble a takedown bow?

Yes, it’s pretty straightforward. Most takedown recurve bows are designed to be easy to put together and take apart. You simply unscrew the limbs from the riser, and you’re good to go. It usually takes just a couple of minutes. Just make sure to follow the instructions that come with your bow to avoid damaging any parts.

Can I upgrade my takedown recurve bow?

That’s one of the best parts about takedown bows! You can easily upgrade by swapping out the limbs to change the draw weight. You can also add accessories like arrow rests, sights, and stabilizers to improve your shooting experience. It’s a great way to grow with your bow as you become a better archer.

Are takedown bows suitable for beginners?

Yes, they’re actually a fantastic choice for beginners. Many models, like the Samick Sage or Southwest Archery Spyder, are designed to be beginner-friendly. The ability to start with a lower draw weight and then upgrade as you improve is a huge plus. Plus, the takedown feature makes it easy to transport and store, which is convenient when you’re just starting out.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right takedown recurve bow doesn’t have to be complicated. The beauty of takedown recurve bows is their versatility. You can start with a manageable draw weight and upgrade as you improve. If you’re a beginner, you can’t go wrong with the Samick Sage or Southwest Archery Spyder. They’re reliable, easy to use, and great for growing your skills. For hunters, options like the TOPARCHERY and Mandarin Duck Phantom give you the power and portability you need for success in the field.