What is the difference between recurve & compound archery?

Published at :August 5, 2024 at 1:34 PM

Modified at :August 5, 2024 at 1:34 PM

(Courtesy : World Archery)

The difference in both forms of archery stems from the type of bow used.

Archery as a competitive sport has evolved a lot over the years. It started as a tool for hunter-gatherers for hunting, later transformed into an important part of warfare, and is now a full-fledged sport. The recent performance of Indian Archers in the recurve archery event in the Paris Olympics 2024 has generated a lot of interest and discussion online.

Some confusion still exists among the fans regarding the difference between two popular forms of archery, Recurve and Compound. Let us clear the air and understand what is the difference between recurve archery and compound archery in simple terms.

Recurve archery is the traditional form that requires more skills and techniques from the archers. Recurve archery has also been a part of the Olympics since the Munich Olympics in 1972.

In recurve, a more traditional and less mechanized type of bow is used. These bows are the evolution of traditional bows which have been used throughout history. Both the ends of the bow curve away from the archers after curving inwards, therefore it is called ‘recurve’ archery. The archers aim and use their muscle strength to pull the bow string. They also have to release the arrow manually by relaxing their fingers. The target is set at a distance of 70 m.

A recurve bow (Image Source: World Archery Federation)

Compound archery originated in the US in the 1960s and subsequently became popular in North America and Europe. In the year 1995, this form made its maiden appearance in the World Championships. Its popularity and acceptance continued to grow as it also became a part of the World Cup in 2006. But it is not a part of the Olympic Games as of now.

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The compound bows used in this form are mechanically efficient and modern having pulleys, cables, and magnifying lenses along with a release switch. The pulley system reduces the holding weight of the bow at full draw so the archers can hold the bow steady for a longer period without tiring their muscles. The archers are also not required to hold the full draw weight because of the release switch and they aim at the target through a magnified scope and activate the release using the release switch. The target is set at a distance of 50m from the archer.

These difference in the compound bow from a recurve bow makes compound archery a test of accuracy whereas recurve archery tests the archers more comprehensively including the physical endurance as well.

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