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What Is Important When Choosing Hunting Bows

Man has been hunting wild animals with bows and arrows for literally thousands of years. It is perhaps one of the most ancient skills that is still in use today. Although most people do not require to hunt for food it is still a popular activity with thousands of people taking part. Hunting bows are often referred to as compound bows. These incorporate a pulley system that help to draw the string back tighter and further than what would be possible by hand. This can then give extra speed to the arrow when it is released as compared to a normal bow.

If you have never used or bought a hunting bow before then it helps to have as much information as possible. The basic design is still the same as when prehistoric man roamed the plains. There is very little in the way of technology that can alter the experience.

It may take considerable practice to learn to hunt with a compound bow. It can be of great use to learn the craft from a more experienced individual. You will need both patience and skill to be a success. Also, your bow has to be kept in the best condition for it to work correctly.

The main concept in any bow is the transfer of energy. When you pull back the bowstring, the limbs of the bow will move inwards. Upon release of the arrow and string these limbs spring back into shape and in the process transfer energy to the arrow for its propulsion.

Many professionals will choose their bow depending upon the speed at which the arrows are propelled. This is measured in feet per second. A good hunting bow should have a velocity of approximately 300 feet per second (90 metres per second) but they can even be faster. This is the general speed capacity that most hunters request.

Also, you need to take into consideration how much noise is produced by the bow. For a hunt to be a success the bow man has to get very close to the animal for a clean shot, there is then the possibility that the animal will hear a bow if there is any noise produced when pulling back the string or releasing the arrow.

It is as waste of time buying a cheap hunting bow. It will not be any use in the wild. The main factor is the quality; you should not approach buying a bow with a specific budget in mind.

(ArticlesBase SC #1502795)

The Compound Bow-Pros

Like all products on the market, the compound bow has its advantages and disadvantages. In both makes of the bow and final outcome when the product is in use, there are positives as well as negatives.

Advantages of the Structure of the Compound Bow

Drawing the bow causes the weight of the draw to peak and then "let off". The term "let off" is used to describe the events surrounding the cam as it rolls completely over. Let off is most often 65%-80% of the peak weight with one exception. Concept Archery, a compound bow manufacturer, produces 99% let off. When "let off" occurs, the drawn string causes the cam to turn which results in the bending of the limb. When the cam turns completely around then less force is needed to keep the limb crooked...the "let off". The better the "let off", the easier it is for the archer to draw the bow as far back as possible and take the time to aim properly at the target.

Another advantage of the compound bow over the long bow is its ability to hold up to the elements. Because it is make of man-made materials it can better withstand changes in temperature and humidity.

Compound bows also contain rubber blocks that that provide a wall for the archer to draw up against. Called draw-stops, these rubber blocks can be modified to suit the archer's most effective draw length. As a result, a consistent force can be placed on the arrow that exactly the same for every shot. This increases accuracy.

The way cams are designed can also control the speed at which the arrow accelerates. A "soft cam" causes a slower acceleration of the arrow. It is better for beginners to start out with the "soft cam" and slowly graduate up to a "hard cam" which shoots arrows out at a very high rate of acceleration.

There is a pulley mechanism that uses one cam at the bottom of the bow and a simple balanced wheel at the top. As a result, cables are not needed and a single string can be used. The advantage of this single string bow is its speed, up to 100-m/sec./315 fps.

Disadvantages of the Structure of the Compound Bow

While there is no better bow made, to a purist or a naturalist, this mechanical monstrosity ruins the concept of archery as it as been know throughout history. The purist sees nothing more beautiful than a long bow made out of natural wood. Its form is truly back to nature, and how the ancients themselves manufactured this simple hunting tool.

Advantages of Using a Compound Bow

There is a special release mechanism that can be used in conjunction with the compound bow that provides a steadier release than one's fingers. This release device attaches to the bow near the arrow. Using a trigger on this device, the archer is able to release the string with a stead pressure and motion.

If you compete in tournaments with the compound bow the official rules allow the use of a target scope. The scope will magnify the target allowing for a more accurate shot. With the standard long bow this device is not allowed during competition.

Because of stabilizers attached to the compound bow, the archer is able to shoot the arrow with less movement of the shaft.

Disadvantages of Using a Compound Bow

Due to the materials used on the compound bow, it is very lightweight. As a result the compound bow is more sensitive to and archers stance and draw on the string. A minimal fault in the archer's form can result in a twisting of the bow when the arrow is released. This will result in movement of the arrow from left to right.

(ArticlesBase SC #499016)

How the Arrow Flies With Your Compound Bow

Almost all archers and bowhunter of the modern world use the compound bow. Very few bowhunters know how this bow works. The physics behind the compound bow is what makes the arrow fly so straight and accurate.

Energy in the Compound Bow

As the bow is drawn back, the wheels and/or cams rotate. This pulls the limbs together. Energy is contained within the cams, wheels and limbs of the bow. The more energy that is stored, the faster the arrow will fly and the harder the arrow will hit its target. How much energy is stored depends on 3 factors: how far back the string is drawn, the shape of the cams, and the bow's top draw weight.

How the Compound Bow Creates Let-Off

Let-off is created by levers in the cams. When the bow is at rest the lever between the string and axle is shorter than between the axle and cable. Since the cable is the stronger of the two, the string is under more stress or tension.

When you draw the compound bow the levers change. When the bow is fully drawn the cable is very close to the axle but the string has moved away. The lever arms have now reversed and the string has the advantage over the cable. This results in a decrease in the holding weight, called the let-off.

Arrows and Accuracy

The AMO (Archery Manufacturer's Organization) is a committee that sets standards on the compound bow and other tools involved in the sport of archery. The AMO has devised a method for measuring the speed of an arrow: shooting a 540-grain arrow from a 60-pound bow with a draw length of 30 inches. All compound bows will have an AMO speed as well as all other bows available for purchase. Another organization, the International Bowhunter's Organization (IBO) has also devised a measurement for arrow speed that seems to be becoming more popular. This speed is determined by shooting a 350-grain arrow from a 70-pound bow with a draw of 30 inches. The AMO speed will always be lower than the IBO speed.
Best Speed

AMO speeds from 200-215 fps and IBO speeds of 275-290 fps are considered called low performers. The compound bow with this design makes up for poor form. This bow is best used when aiming at targets. A bow with a speed of 215-235 fps or an IBO of 290-315 fps is considered a middle of the road bow. With this bow you get good speed and ease of shot. This is an excellent compound bow for hunting. When speeds go past 235 fps for AMO and 315 fps IBO stay away unless you are a very experienced archer. Use this bow for hunting only when the speed of the arrow is vital to the target.
What Affects Speed and Accuracy?

The distance from the string to the grip when the bow is at rest is a major contributor to speed and accuracy. The bottom brace height should be seven inches. With longer distances they bow is more accurate. At less than seven inches the compound bow is harder to shoot unless your form is absolutely perfect. This is because the arrow will stay on the string for a longer time so any flaws in form are amplified.

The best bow for the average hunter or archer is the middle of the road bow. You will get enough accuracy and speed even with a flawed form.

(ArticlesBase SC #501233)

Archery Equipment - Compound Bows

Compound Bows may look more complicated and seem that way, Technically speaking they are a bow in the same manner a traditional bow would be. All bows regardless of whether there traditional, or compound, Still have specularity in common. All bows share the class of being simple mechanical devices which store and transfer human energy to an arrow as the bowstring is released. Many factors are involved to the extent that storage and transmission are physical,technical and therefore emotional. Your personal objective is still to accurately and persistently propel a sharpened arrow to its target. Threw some years between 50,000 and 25,000 years ago, Those primary targets wold have been food and animals and or enemy soldiers.

Today, targets can range from animals to a competition target. But for a lot of people hunting is still the main objective of this fascinating and unique hobby of archery. Sometimes these targets can be 3-D depictions of the animals as a archery practice device, against another archers ability's. Sometimes these may simply be painted circles used to test your skills against another's. Compound Bows with complex wheels, cams , strings, cables, yokes, nuts and bolts, along with other high end devices attached through one part or another. These devices were thought up to make the process of archery easier on the human muscular system and also to produce a more accurate arrow. Keep in mind that the energy must still be provided by the archer himself. The energy has always been stored in the bow limbs to produce the needed friction until released by the shooter.

Compound Bows were first invented in 1969, Records of this show from original drawings which the patent granted date is stated as December 30th,1969. This same design is still the valid representation of what the Compound Bow is today, Although many improvements have been made in these last some 40 years. No improvements as such to destroy what the Compound Bow represents to the archer. Before the development of the Compound Bow, Recurved Bows were what most archers would use. These are a far cry from the bows that Robin Hood probably used. These Recurved Bows are of a classic style shape and in some ways do resemble the Compound Bow. There seems to be some singularity between these two types, but this is were that ends. If we compare the Compound Bow to a Traditional Longbow rated at 60 pounds, the archer must pull back and hold the full 60 pounds at the established draw length in order to shoot an arrow.

We know get the drift of how much easier it is to shoot with a Compound Bow opposed to its Traditional Bow counterpart. With a Compound Bow the archer is only required to pull back 30 pounds to reach the full shooting potential. Now this is all dependent upon the amount of let-off designed into the rated eccentric wheels. These wheels that we are talking about are sometimes referred to as cams, modified cams or energy wheels, These terms are usually governed by the respective manufacturer.

We learn in all of this, the average archer can usually shoot a Compound Bow of much higher poundage, Reason being the archer can hold his bow at full draw a much longer period of time. In hence, this would not be remotely possible with a Traditional Bow at the same pound rate. If considering that all other aspects maybe the same, the higher the bow poundage, the faster our arrow will reach out intended target. In hence, A faster arrow will fly in a flatter trajectory with a lot less chance of a missed target. Even possibly if our range were to be misjudged, We should still get to the point of target we were looking for. We must remember that no matter what, The archer still must exert the same amount of force and muscle to draw either type of bow. The longer the archer has to hold back the arrow and string , the more strain must be put on the muscles. Also if the archer intends to pull back the string past the bows rating, the amount of effort will also build exponentially. This same effect may be argued regarding the Compound Bow, when the rated draw is reached, an abrupt and distinct stopping point is felt in terms of the archer.

No matter which type of bow is used, It's a fun and enjoyable hobby.

We learn that the bow doesn't just belong to Robin Hood or William Tell but to all of us.

If its only to read and study about the history of Archery.

It still holds a lot of information and learning potential for your mind to develop on something new.

Get the Cat Scratch Fever, See the potential and learn about Archery today.

(ArticlesBase SC #633280)

Selecting the Right Compound Bow For You

Almost all hunters nowadays use the compound bow. The advantage of these bows is that they reduce the force needed to hold the bow back at a full draw. They can reduce the force from between 50-80%. This reduction in force, called the let-off, lets you hold your draw for a longer time than you could a standard long bow. This gives you the time needed to take perfect aim. The let-off percentage is an important factor to choosing the right compound bow for your.

Cams

Almost all compound bow makers now offer their products with 1 or 2 cams.

One-Cam Bow

The advantage to the one cam bow is that you do not need to synchronize both cams as you do on a bow with two cams. Instead the wheel at the top of the bow, called the idler wheel, uses 2 tracks that ensure the arrow will travel along a straight path.

Two-Cam Bow

Two cam bows come in three different styles; soft, medium and hard cam.

The soft cam compound bow has irregular shaped lobes. This gives the string both a smooth draw and more speed and power.

Medium cams have symmetrically shaped lobes. Both are oval, and while the draw is not as smooth as the soft cam, the medium cam has more energy storage and therefore more speed.

Hard cams have elliptical shaped lobes. While the draw is the least smooth of the 3 cams, this is the fastest of all the styles. These hard cams are called hatchet cams.

As to which cam is best for you? The hard cam takes the most strength to draw back. In addition, the compound bow must be held perfectly still while the arrow is being launched. The slightest movement of the bow will cause the direction of the arrow to be dramatically altered. The soft and medium bows both require less strength to draw the bow back fully. In addition, they provide just as good a shot as the hard cam from about 20-30 yards, which is about the standard length of a hunting shot.

Adjusting the Draw Length

One way to adjust the length of the pull back is with an E-wheel. This wheel has 2 string pegs and the draw is adjusted my placing the string behind 1 of the 2 pegs.

The other method is to change out the string modules that are located on the cams. Both of these methods increase the draw length along with the draw weight. Conversely a decrease in the draw length decreases the draw weight of your compound bow.

Let-Off

The way a cam is designed determines the let-off of the compound bow. Let-off can be as high as 80% and as low as 50%. With a compound bow that has an 80% let off, that means you are only holding 16lbs of weight when the string is pulled fully back. Reducing the hold back weight does reduce the stored energy and ergo the speed of the arrow. The better let-off to have is around 60%. Some compound bows let you change the let-off by altering the cam axle or cam module.

When purchasing your compound bow keep the above factors in mind. Remember the best bow is the one that lets-off just under your chin. In addition you do not want the draw hold to be too strenuous. Good luck and happy bow hunting!

(ArticlesBase SC #498937)

Compound Bows - Maintaining Your Investment

Buying a compound is a big investment, it’s not one you want to make every year.and is certaintly not one you have to make every year.

Even if you’re just getting started, there are compound bows that adjust to grow with you, and depending on your age when you start, may be the only bow you need to buy.

Yes, there are those who need the “lastest” and “newest” every year or every other year, but to truly enjoy the sport of archery,  you really only need to invest once maybe twicein a compound bow.

Now like most things worth investing in, it should be worth investing the time to properly take care of, because the key to a successful hunt is a well maintained bow.

So how do you take care of a compound bow?

the first and probably the most important part of taking care of your bow, is purchasing  a bow case.when is the last time you spent a lot of money on something and left it set outside in the elements?  In the back of your truck or hanging in your garage is not a good place for this investment.  Excessive heat, dampness, dirt and pests, all play a big role in the deteriorating of your compound bow.  Proper storage in either a hard sided case or a soft sided case is very beneficial.

The next thing you should pay attention to, is the Bow Strings and Cables.
Bowstrings and cables need to be frequently and regularly waxed. This will help keep them strong and from becoming fuzzy and worn.

Inspect your strings and cables after each use and look for signs of “fuzziness”  then give them a wax treatment.  Get into the habit of doing this and you will be confident that your bow will withstand hunting in damp conditions and your strings and cables will remain strong.

Other areas to pay attention to are your axles and bushings, for these you want to use a good bow oil, (you’re manual should have this information) give them a few drops after each outing into the brush.  Some compound bows don’t require this kind of lubrication
So you want to make sure you check your manual first.

Always, always, always check your bow limbs for cracks, dents, or any sign of ware, before and after you shoot.  And then always have a professional look at and fix the problem.  Your warranty should cover this.  Never try to fix this on your own.

And then check limb bolts and tighten any that are loose, a simple set of Allen wrenches is all you need.  Finally wipe down your compound bow of any dirt and grime from the days outing.

By doing these few simple steps each and every time you use your bow will keep you confident of it’s ability to perform well, and will help in making your investment last for years to come.

(ArticlesBase SC #1801874)