Best Beginner Recurve Bow In 2024

Selecting the best beginner recurve bow involves several key factors, including build quality, user-friendliness, affordability, and versatility. For those new to archery, picking the right recurve bow can mark a crucial first step in their journey. Consequently, some products available on the market appear attractive and inexpensive. However, with each passing day of shooting, you may find that the quality is lacking and often necessitates replacement with a higher-quality model in the months to come or as you advance in expertise.

Don’t worry!

We are here to help you for choosing the best beginner recurve bow. We offer you the top 7 Best beginner recurve bows with a complete buying guide. We put together detailed information on each product so that you can pick the right model without breaking the bank.

Best Beginner Recurve Bows Reviews 2024

Comparison list of the top 7 best beginner recurve bows in 2024.

1. TOP ARCHERY Recurve Bow for Adults – Best Overall
2. D&Q Bow Takedown – Best Recurve Bow for Hunting
3. TIDEWE Recurve Bow and Arrow Set – Editor’s Choice
4. HYFSPORTS Archery – Best Recurve Bow for Adult Youth
5. Bkisy Recurve Bow for Adult – Best Value for the Money
6. PSE Archery Pro Max Traditional – Complete Recurve Bow Package
7. Obert Archery Takedown Recurve Bow – Very Practical to Use

1. TOPARCHERY Takedown Hunting Recurve Bow

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If you’re looking for an entry-level recurve bow that’s got users raving, delivers impressive specs, and makes it all easy on the wallet, then the TOPARCHERY would be the best option for you. TOPARCHERY is not a huge name in hunting bows, but they have cut themselves a place in the market for producing high quality recurve bows.

This hunting recurve bow is a little more expensive than the cheap models. However, the quality of materials is premium. The riser is innovative and combines multiple natural woods with lamination technology. And the string is made of high quality natural tire line. The rounded edges and finely finished wooden handles are very comfortable for target shooting.

The model is ideal for beginners because it contains everything a novice archer needs; 6 pcs Fiberglass Arrows, string silencer, Arm Guard, Hand Guard, Bowstringer Tool, and Arrow Case. You don’t need to spend some extras right out of the box. However, if the riser, limbs, and string come apart, you need to assemble them.

The speed is pretty fast, you can shoot extremely accurately with an easy draw. The arrow flies off smoothly, making it suitable for almost all hunters to practice marksmanship. Also, this adult’s recurve bow brings so much fun. It is lightweight, you can carry it for a long period of time.

However, TOPARCHERY upgraded traditional recurve bow was specially designed for adults who take themselves as professional shooters. It is a very relaxing beginner recurve bow, you can shoot longer without as much fatigue.

Specs:

• Total length: 60″
• String length: 57″
• Brace height: 7-8″
• Draw weight: 30-50lbs

2. D&Q Takedown Recurve Hunting Bows for Adults

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In reality, we always care about money without compromising quality, and that’s why we put this model from D&Q in the second position of our ranking of best beginner recurve bows in 2024. D&G has managed to build a fantastic-looking upside-designed recurve bow that’s reliable for consistent shooting. It could be a great choice for beginner hunters and those who are already familiar with recurve bow.

It is made from durable aluminum alloy riser and hard maple Limbs, and each joint between them is fixed with sturdy screws that can be easily changed. While the reversed limb design is a common concept (it’s been around for hundreds of years), the D&Q is just as effective and often more compact than traditional designs.

The draw weight options range from 30 lbs to 50 lbs (30 lbs, 35 lbs, 40 lbs, 45 lbs, 50 lbs). The total weight won’t feel heavy, and the curvature of the handle is more conducive to controlling the bow easily.

We also like that the bow is just 56” in total length but they could have shrunk that down a bit. It’s capable of shots at high speed which isn’t pushing the bleeding edge of technology. But they’re not bad either for a reasonable 50-pound draw weight. The smooth edge designed in a beginner’s mind will protect you from getting hurt.

The package includes all essential accessories, including a light that easily screws into the side of the sight. Once any initial issues are addressed, the bow proves to be very accurate. However, there is room for improvement in the quiver, which is functional but inexpensive.

Specs:

• Total length: 56″
• Brace height: N/A
• Draw length: 30 inches
• Draw weight: 30-50lbs

3. TIDEWE Recurve Bow Set for Adult & Youth Beginner

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With a body mass of 6.4 pounds, the TIDEWE is one of the best lightweight recurve bows for beginners, especially compared to other wooden models on the market. This bow measures a little over 60 inches. However, it is not too large or cumbersome to prevent you from using it along with a tree stand or hunting blind.

TIDEWE recurve bow features a reliable wooden core and strong fiberglass, high-performance wooden limbs, and a powerful 16-strand dacron fabric bowstring. In this way, hunters can focus more on successfully hitting their targets.

The rounded edges riser and a finely finished handle make it very comfortable to hold. This allows the user to have the best experience shooting multiple arrows or for extended amounts of time.

The ergonomic design also appealing to the eye, making it unique in its own way. However, the main benefit of this type of configuration is the superior accuracy you get, even if you are just a novice archer.

Another advantage is the inclusion of high-quality arrows and other useful accessories at no extra cost. The package comprises an arrow rest, finger guard, target, bow stringer, 6 pieces of carbon arrows with removable field tips, and more, providing everything you need to start shooting right away.

This unit is very user-friendly and simple to put together. The included instruction manual is truly helpful for beginners. While following the easy read, setup can take less than 5 minutes. And with standard safety features in place, it is an excellent option for most beginners.

Specs:

• AMO length: 62”
• Draw length: 29″
• Brace height: N/A
• Bow riser length: 19.5″
• Draw weight: 20-50LBs

4. HYFSPORTS Archery Takedown Recurve Bow

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HYFSPORTS is not widely known for building high-quality hunting gear. But in recent years, they are now popular in the archery equipment market. They specifically focused on ultra-narrow design, making their bow ultralight. This is a takedown recurve bow for beginners with a featherlight of 2.35 pounds of mass carry weight. It puts out an insane 44-pound draw weight.

The weight of the limbs is light, and measures 28”. If you’re not aware, all these specs are perfectly acceptable for knocking down even big games without too much hassle at mid to long distances. It could be an ideal choice for beginners considering the reliable features and wide range of adjustability.

HYFSPORTS recurve bow features international fitting, with Comfortable Plastic with wooden camo grip. Magnesium alloy painted riser and strong fiberglass also ensure long service life.

You can easily put together or take down the riser and limbs and able to change the limbs to increase or decrease the weight. You can shoot bare bow or add the extras like sights and stabilizers. Also, you can upgrade your limbs when you will become a better shooter.

It is an affordable recurve bow. In the package, you will get 1 piece bow riser with a cover, a pair of bow limbs with covers, bow string, bow stringer tool, and 4pcs brass nocks.

This model is designed only for right-hand archer shooters, which means you need to hold the bow handle with your left hand and pull the bow string with your right hand. Fortunately, the left-hand version is now available.

Specs:

• Riser length: 25″
• Total length: 66″
• Draw weight: 16-44lbs
• Brace height: 8-9″
• Bow weight: 2.35lbs

5. Bkisy Detachable Recurve Package Bow for Adult

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While the Bkisy may not be considered a premium recurve bow package, it’s a great option priced under $100. It’s well-suited for beginners and will serve its purpose effectively. With this bow, beginners can start their archery journey and even enjoy hunting for a few seasons before considering an upgrade.

That said, the Bkisy recurve bow is respectable for hunting with a huge combination of accessories. And with 12 x Fiberglass Arrows included right out of the package in a nice detachable quiver, this model is ready to deal with you to injure your games. The package also includes a premium-grade bow sight, optimized for the medium range capabilities of this recurve bow. This sight complements the high firing speed of the bow.

This bow and arrow set is built with aluminum alloy riser, wood fiberglass limbs, and fiberglass arrows with stainless steel heads, which are adequate for beginner archers at this price range. They are also durable and sturdy, which means you can hold enough resistance and stretch for a long time.

You can easily put it together. It comes with all the assembly tools. However, it takes little room to store because the limbs are long. It can be easily transported in a bow hunting backpack or a general hiking pack.

The rounded edges and well-finished handle ensure a comfortable grip and allow you to have the best experience. It is also suitable for various uses, for both youths and adults. Perfect for starters for adults to practice archery, shooting, and hunting and for youth to practice archery to become advanced archers.

Specs:

• Total length: 68″
• Riser length: 25″
• Brace Height: 7.5-8.8″
• Draw Weight: 18-38lbs
• Net weight: 3.0lbs

6. PSE Archery Pro Max Traditional Recurve Bow Set

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With packing a 35-pound draw weight and launching bolts down range at a lightning-fast speed, the PSE Archery Pro Max recurve bow can serve just about any beginner archer’s needs.

The Dymond wood material makes it eye-catching. The limbs measure a reasonable 25″. However, this model is available in different sizes between 25-32 inches. At a weight of 2.5 pounds, it’s light enough to carry for a long hike into the blind without being overbearing.

The three 28-inch carbon arrows fletched with 3-inch turkey feathers work best with this bow between 15 and 35 lbs of draw weight. The reduced draw weight also helps archers aim and shoot accurately as they sharpen their skills. We highly recommend this bow for those who want to focus on improving their aiming skills and consistently hitting the target.

Users rave about the accuracy and consistency and many consider it among the quietest recurve bows on the shelf today. You can also use this bow for fishing. The package contains an armed guard, plastic stick-on rest, adjustable sight, arrows, recurve stringer, hip quiver, finger savers, and more. The strap makes the process of stringing the bow hassle-free.

PSE Archery Pro recurve bow design is highly efficient, and at the same time, safe. The mar-resistant grippers provide a secure hold and help prevent limb twists. This model is also well-suited for children to learn with, as long as they are tall enough to hold it comfortably and keep it off the floor.

Specs:

• Total length: 54″
• Riser length: 22″
• Draw weight: 15-35lbs
• Brace height: N/A

7. Obert Archery Takedown Traditional Recurve Bow

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The Obert is an affordable beginner’s recurve bow (under $100), designed for a long time use. It’s strong and durable, making it a great choice for hunting and target shooting practice. This traditional recurve bow design has adjustable draw weight from 30 to 55 pounds, making it perfect for new archers and hunters.

The limbs are made Laminated with bamboo core, Introduction of German laminate Technology, which guarantees a long service life. You may know that laminate is great for compromising on strength, durability, and weight.

You can select draw weight according to your choice and need (30lbs, 35lbs, 40lbs, 45lbs, 50lbs, 55lbs, and 60bs). You can easily change the draw weight, a major boost for newcomers. The Obert sends arrows downrange pretty fast to hit the target. You can confidently handle and shoot without any obstacles.

The total length is 60 inches, which offers the best toughness and power for the bow. The ergonomic design with impressive rounded edges and wooden handle provides extremely comfortable grips.

Obert’s recurve bow also looks nice. The string quality is good; you can easily draw without stacking and be able to the arrows where you want. After a few shots, you can learn the fundamentals. And when you are an expert, you feel incredibly smooth without losing speed.

Specs:

• Total length: 60″
• Brace Height: 7.5-8″
• Draw Weight: 30-55lbs
• Net weight: N/A

Best Beginner Recurve Bow Buyer’s Guide

In this buyer’s guide section, we will enlighten you to purchase your first recurve bow through 2 main categories:

1. The physical data
2. The purchasing strategy

Physical data

As we quickly touched on above, you should consider the size, power, arc, etc.

Laterality or the guiding eye

After spending some time shooting at your club or hunting spot, you likely already know whether you’re right-handed or left-handed. Just to refresh your memory, a right-handed archer holds the bow in their left hand and draws the string with their right hand. Unfortunately, it’s quite common at our shooting range and during in-store bow testing to encounter individuals with the wrong handedness, which can affect their shooting accuracy and comfort.

Size to choose

Two things determine the size of your first recurve bow; the size of the handle and the size of the limbs. Generally, there are 4 sizes of handles available on the market, expressed in inches (2.54 cm). manufacturers offer 21 “- 23” – 25 “and 27″ sizes. However, the 27-inch bow is expensive.

The complexity arises from the fact that the limb size corresponds to the total bow size, considering you have a 25″ handle. For instance, if you pair S or 66″ limbs with a 25″ handle, the total length would effectively be 66″. However, if you opt for a 23″ handle, the same limbs would result in a total size of 64”.

To select the size of your bow, you’ll need to determine the length of your draw. This can be based on theoretical data correlating to your physical size. Here’s a table to help you choose the size of your bow:

• – 23-inch length: 62-inch
• From 23 to 25-inch: 64-inch 
• From 25 to 27-inch: 66-inch
• From 27 to 29-inch: 68-inch
• From 29 to 31.5-inch: 70-inch
• Over 31.5-inch: 72-inch

Be careful with children and adolescents, and try to anticipate growth. For example, a 14-year-old teenager promised strong growth having already an extension of 28 “can very often anticipate a size and directly choose a 70”

The power of the bow

Determining the ideal power for a recurve bow isn’t straightforward, as it’s subjective and prone to error. As a beginner, it’s advisable to opt for a reasonably moderate power level. Archery demands specific muscle development that only comes with practice. Additionally, proper technical form enables you to engage the right muscles effectively.

Handles typically come with an adjustable power range of 10%, with bows sold at the minimum power setting. This means you can increase the power of your bow by 10% when necessary, without needing to change the limbs. However, it’s crucial not to select limbs that are too strong for your current skill level.

Here is a range of powers (real) according to the age of the shooters:

• From 8 to 12 years old: between 10 and 16 #
• From 12 to 14 years old: between 18 and 24 #
• From 14 to 16 years old: between 20 and 26 #
• Over 16 years old and adults: from 22 to 30 #

Now that you have the various physical parameters, you’re equipped to select the right size, handedness, and power for your first recurve bow.

Purchasing strategy

Now let’s see the purchase criteria…

The handle (high priority)

Choose a rigid handle, such as a forged one, to minimize vibrations and ensure comfort, especially with increasing limb power. Avoid softer, economically machined handles that may deform over time. Carbon handles offer superior rigidity but come at a higher cost. Focus less on grip, finish, and weight.

The pair of limbs

Opt for economical limbs with a manageable power level for your first recurve bow. Focus on learning proper form and developing the right muscles, particularly in the back. Once you’ve progressed and mastered the basics, you can invest in higher-quality limbs. Reserve your budget for high-priority components and stick with economical limbs initially.

The string

There are no big price differences between the different strings. Count between 10 and 20 dollars for a rope in a modern material. If you are an archery professional with a refined taste, you can make a custom string for yourself in the color of your choice.

However, be careful all the same to make sure you have the right band.

The bow sight (high priority)

Choose a high-quality bow sight for your recurve bow, prioritizing precision, ease of adjustment, and durability. Opt for a sight without tightening screws, as they can be tedious to handle and may degrade quickly. Look for sights manufactured in America or Europe, as they typically offer better quality materials and construction. Avoid economical sights made in Asia, as they may lack durability and spare parts.

• You can also take a look at our cheap bow sight buyer’s guide and best single pin bow sights reviews.

The arrow rest

Consider using the plastic Hoyt Super rest as an economical and precise arrow rest option. Despite some concerns about fragility, it is widely used by world-class archers. Its hook shape securely holds the arrow, particularly beneficial for archers in the progression phase or those shooting without a clicker. Ensure arrows are properly fitted to avoid damage to the rest.

• You can our guide on Best Arrow Rests of 2024: Tested

The stabilization

When selecting stabilizers for your recurve bow, consider the bow size and power. Stabilization is crucial for advanced archery setups but less critical for progression equipment. Avoid cheap stabilizers, as they may not handle power exceeding 30#, resulting in excessive vibrations.

Alternatively, you can opt for a simple central stabilizer, costing around $20, or invest in a complete, high-quality stabilization setup.

The clicker

For growing archers, the ideal would be a magnetic clicker. It helps you to manage the evolution of the draw with more flexibility. This makes it possible not to change the arrows too often.

The bow rest

Bow rest is not a crucial component and a simple product will suffice. Its role is minimal in the final result of your shooting. However, ensure you select a solid and easy-to-assemble bow rest for convenience.

Backpack or suitcase

Same as for the bow rest. The bag is essential for storing your bow comfortably and transporting other accessories much more easily. A recurve bow has a lot of parts and you should prefer a bag or a suitcase with good ergonomics to store your bow correctly. For a recurve bow for hunting, make sure to choose the right bow-compatible hunting backpack to stay comfortable in the wild.

The arrows

When selecting arrows for your bow, consider the size and power you’ve chosen. We recommend opting for carbon arrows that are versatile for both indoor and outdoor use. Choose arrows slightly longer than needed, as archers often gain extension after using a new bow for a few sessions. No need to invest in high-end arrows initially, as you won’t immediately benefit from their features.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an entry-level and a mid-range recurve bow?

An entry-level recurve bow features basic construction, lower-quality materials, and limited adjustability. In contrast, a mid-range recurve bow offers improved build quality, better materials, increased adjustability, and enhanced performance. Additionally, mid-range bows often incorporate advanced features and technologies, providing a more satisfying and precise shooting experience for archers as they progress in skill and proficiency.

What draw weight should I choose?

As a beginner, it’s recommended to start with a lower draw weight, between 15 to 25 pounds. This allows you to focus on learning proper form and technique without straining your muscles excessively. As you gain strength and proficiency, you can gradually increase the draw weight to suit your comfort and skill level.

Should I choose a takedown or one-piece recurve bow?

Takedown recurve bows offer versatility as their limbs can be removed, making them easier to transport and allowing for future upgrades. One-piece recurve bows are simpler but lack the flexibility of takedown bows.

Can I use a recurve bow for hunting as a beginner?

Yes, recurve bows can be used for hunting, but it requires practice to develop the necessary skills for accuracy and ethical hunting. Start with target shooting to build proficiency before attempting hunting activities.

How do I maintain my beginner recurve bow?

Regular maintenance includes keeping the bow clean and dry, checking for any signs of wear or damage, and ensuring proper string alignment and limb tension. Waxing the bowstring regularly also helps prolong its lifespan.

Can I upgrade my beginner recurve bow as I progress?

Yes, many beginner recurve bows are designed with room for upgrades and adjustments. You can replace limbs, add accessories, or even switch to a higher-quality bow as you advance in skill and proficiency.

Conclusion

In today’s market, there’s a vast array of recurve bows available from numerous manufacturers, making it challenging for beginners to find the best option. A larger budget may afford a bow that lasts longer and meets your progress through different skill levels. Consider your current shooting level and future ambitions as an archer when making your selection.

If you have any questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to reach out to us through the comment section below. We’re here to offer further guidance and assistance to help you on your archery journey. Feel free to ask as many questions as needed; we’re here to help.

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