Best Recurve Bows of 2026

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Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

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Recurve bows are a popular choice among archers due to their efficient design and versatility. They are named after their distinct shape, which features limbs that curve away from the archer when unstrung. This design allows for a smoother and more powerful shot, making them ideal for hunting, target shooting, and even Olympic competition. Recurve bows are also often used in traditional archery, as they are reminiscent of the bows used by ancient civilizations. They come in a variety of materials, from wood to carbon fiber, and can be customized with different grips, sights, and accessories to suit the archer's preferences.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Samick Sage Recurve Bow Cover #TOP 1
Samick Sage Recurve Bow
ftb score rating icon 9.9
IS-TONGTU 40LB Recurve Bow Set Cover #TOP 2
IS-TONGTU 40LB Recurve Bow Set
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Tongtu Recurve Bow and Arrows for Adults Cover #TOP 3
Tongtu Recurve Bow and Arrows for Adults
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Recurve Bows

#TOP 1

Samick Sage Recurve Bow

Brown
25 LB.
Samick Sage Recurve Bow Cover
Samick Sage Archery Takedown Recurve Bow 62-inch - Right & Left Handed - 25-60lb - Archery Recurve Bows for Teens & Adults - Beginners to Advanced, Hunting & Target Practice

The Samick Sage Recurve Bow is a great choice for archery enthusiasts looking for an economical entry to intermediate level bow. It features a 62" length, 28" draw length, and a draw weight range of 25-60lb. The riser is made of lightweight Maple wood and has a comfortable ergonomic grip. The limbs are interchangeable and can be purchased separately. The bow also includes pre-installed threaded Brass Bushings for various attachments and upgrades, such as a Brass Plunger, Stabilizer, Sight, Quiver, and Bow fishing reel.

What We Like
Effortless assembly and takedown
High build quality and durability
Smooth draw and minimal hand shock
Versatile for all skill levels
Powerful and accurate performance
#TOP 2

IS-TONGTU 40LB Recurve Bow Set

Black
40 LB
IS-TONGTU 40LB Recurve Bow Set Cover
IS-TONGTU Archery Bow for Adult Beginner, Left and Right Handed Recurve Bow and Arrow 20LB 30LB 40LB Takedown Bow Set Easy to Assemble (Black, 40 LB)

The IS-TONGTU Recurve Bow is designed for adult and youth beginners, making it a great choice for practicing archery or enjoying outdoor games with family and friends. Its dual arrow rest allows you to easily switch between left or right hand shooting, helping you find your best shooting style. The bow is lightweight thanks to its nylon riser and fiberglass limbs, so you can handle it comfortably while shooting. Plus, the flexible nylon string ensures quieter shots with less vibration, making your practice sessions more enjoyable and less distracting. This bow set is a user-friendly option for anyone starting in archery.

What We Like
Dual arrow rest design
Lightweight materials
Quiet shooting
Suitable for beginners
Easy assembly
What We Don't Like
Arrow quality could improve
Bowstring tension may decrease

Tongtu Recurve Bow and Arrows for Adults

Black
40lbs
Tongtu Recurve Bow and Arrows for Adults Cover
IS-TONGTU Archery Bows for Adults, Takedown Aluminum Alloy Riser Bow and Arrow Set for Adults Beginners, 30 40 Lbs Right Hand Archery Set with 12 Arrows Recurve Kit

The Tongtu Recurve Bow and Arrows for Adults is an entry-level archery set suitable for older adults, teens, and intermediate archers. It has a bow length of 51 inches, aluminum-magnesium alloy material, and strong fiberglass limbs. The riser is ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip and a fine finished handle. The set is easy to assemble with the included allen wrench and comes with all the necessary accessories to get started with archery.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Great value for price
Good for beginners
Quiet shooting
Comes with accessories
What We Don't Like
Arrows can break
Minor accessory issues

LWANO Recurve Bow 40lbs Takedown Set

Black
40lbs
LWANO Recurve Bow 40lbs Takedown Set Cover
LWANO Recurve Bow for Adults - Archery Takedown Bow and Arrow Set for Adult/Youth/Teens Beginners Target Practicing, Left & Right Handed, 20/30/40lbs (40lbs)

The LWANO Recurve Bow Set is a perfect choice if you're just starting archery. It comes with a clear instruction manual, so you can begin practicing within minutes. Whether you are left- or right-handed, this bow suits you thanks to its ambidextrous design with double arrow rests, helping keep your arrows steady when you shoot. Made with strong nylon, fiberglass limbs, and durable bowstrings, it’s built to last and keeps you safe during use. The ergonomic grip also ensures comfort, so you can practice longer without feeling tired. With draw weights of 20, 30, or 40 pounds, it adapts to your strength and skill level.

What We Like
Accurate draw weight
Easy to set up
Sturdy and durable bow
Great beginner archery set
Comes with full starter kit
What We Don't Like
Arrows could be better
Arm guard may slip
#TOP 5

Furqery Recurve Bow and Arrow for Adults 12 Carbon Arrows Hunting Bow Set 62" 40lbs Beginner Archery Longbows 12 Carbon Arrows Right Hand Target Practice Outdoor Training Takedown Bows Kit

Black
40 Pounds
Furqery Recurve Bow and Arrow for Adults 12 Carbon Arrows Hunting Bow Set 62" 40lbs Beginner Archery Longbows 12 Carbon Arrows Right Hand Target Practice Outdoor Training Takedown Bows Kit Cover
Furqery 52" Bow and Arrow Set for Adults, Archery Recurve Bows Beginner Right & Left Handed, Takedown Recurve Bow with 12 Carbon Fiber Arrows for Hunting & Target Practice Outdoor, 40lb

The Furqery Recurve Bow and Arrow is a versatile archery set suitable for both beginners and professionals. With a length of 62 inches and a draw weight of 40 lbs, this bow offers maximum durability and power. The alloy riser is ergonomically designed with rounded edges, providing a comfortable grip for precise aiming. The bow is easy to assemble and disassemble, making it convenient for transportation and storage. The package includes 12 carbon arrows, paper targets, arrow heads, target pins, and other essential accessories, eliminating the need for additional purchases. Whether you are practicing target shooting or going on a hunting expedition, this bow and arrow set has everything you need to start your archery journey.

What We Like
Quality arrows included
Efficient bow design
Complete accessory set
Fast delivery
Good for teens/kids
What We Don't Like
String length mismatch
Possible limb durability issue
#TOP 6

NorthSpoor Takedown Recurve Bow Set

BLACK
NorthSpoor Takedown Recurve Bow Set Cover
NorthSpoor Recurve Bow and Arrow Set,Takedown Recurve Bows Archery for Adults Left and Right Hands 40lbs Archery Set

The NorthSpoor Recurve Bow Set is designed for easy assembly, allowing you to set it up without hassle. Simply follow the instructions to correctly position the bow limbs, making it convenient for beginners and seasoned archers alike. The durable construction features a strong fiberglass limb and a sturdy riser, ensuring it can handle your archery activities, whether you're practicing at home or competing with friends. This versatile set is perfect for outdoor adventures, camping, or target practice, making it a great choice for any archery enthusiast.

What We Like
Great value for the price
Easy assembly and setup
Good starter kit inclusions
Sturdy and durable build
Suitable for beginners and teens
What We Don't Like
Minor assembly difficulty
Some quality control issues
#TOP 7

SOPOGER Archery Bow and Arrow Adult

Black
SOPOGER Archery Bow and Arrow Adult Cover
SOPOGER Recurve Bow and Arrow Set for Adults & Youth 20 30 40lb, Takedown Archery Kit for Beginners Right & Left Handed Outdoor Target Practice & Training (20 LBS)

The SOPOGER Archery Set is a great gift choice for both youth and adults who are interested in learning archery. It comes with everything you need to get started, so you can start practicing right away without having to buy additional accessories. The bow is made of durable materials that have undergone rigorous testing to ensure safety and durability. The ambidextrous design makes it suitable for both left-handed and right-handed shooters, and the included arrow rest helps to prevent the arrow from falling while shooting. With a range of draw weights available, you can choose the right one based on your arm strength. Overall, the SOPOGER Archery Set is a reliable and convenient option for beginners to learn and practice archery.

What We Like
Affordable starter kit
Easy assembly
Good for beginners
Lightweight and manageable
Includes many accessories
What We Don't Like
Minimal instructions
Low arrow quality
#TOP 8

AMEYXGS 16.4" Mini Lever Recurve Bow Set

stainless steel
AMEYXGS 16.4" Mini Lever Recurve Bow Set Cover
AMEYXGS 16.4inch Mini Lever Bow Recurve Bow Stainless Steel Includes 4/8 Arrows and Target Paper (8 Arrow Set)

The AMEYXGS Mini Recurve Bow is a great choice whether you're just starting out or already skilled in archery. Its compact size makes it easy to carry and handle, so you can practice anywhere—from indoors to outdoor settings. Crafted from sturdy stainless steel, this bow is designed to last and withstand frequent use, giving you confidence in its durability. The detailed craftsmanship not only ensures quality but also makes it a perfect gift for anyone who loves archery. With this bow, you can enjoy the fun of shooting with a reliable and stylish piece of equipment that fits right in your hand.

What We Like
Sturdy stainless steel build
Powerful arrow launch
Great as desk display
Fun for indoor plinking
Includes arrows and target
What We Don't Like
Instruction guide lacks detail
Needs frequent tightening
#TOP 9

IS-TONGTU 51" Adult Takedown Recurve Bow Set

black
50 LBS
IS-TONGTU 51" Adult Takedown Recurve Bow Set Cover
IS-TONGTU Archery Bow Set Recurve Bow and Arrow Adult Set 51" Training Bow Takedown 30 40 50lb Long Bows for Hunting Adult Beginner with 12 Arrows

The IS-TONGTU Recurve Bow Set is designed to give you a strong and comfortable shooting experience. Its alloy riser is lightweight yet durable, providing a firm grip and lasting longer than traditional wooden bows. The hollow design of the riser not only makes the bow lighter but also allows you to easily attach various accessories, enhancing your shooting skills. The arrows come with removable heads and flexible natural rubber feathers, which help keep the arrows stable and protect your bow during practice or hunting. With this set, you get everything you need to start archery right away, making it perfect for beginners and adults alike.

What We Like
Affordable price
Beginner-friendly
Lightweight and sturdy design
Includes accessories
Good for practice
What We Don't Like
Instructions could be clearer
Some accessory quality issues
#TOP 10

GENESIS Gen-X Adjustable Compound Bow

GenX-12308
Black
GENESIS Gen-X Adjustable Compound Bow Cover
Genesis Gen-X Lightweight Compound Bow, Archery Hunting Bow for Adults w/Adjustable Riser, Cam Draw Weight, & Length, Draw Hand - Right, Black

The GENESIS Gen-X Bow offers a customizable experience with adjustable draw length and weight, so you can set it just right for your comfort and shooting style. Its strong draw weight of up to 40 pounds makes it suitable for hunting, providing enough power to meet most state requirements. The bow's progressive let-off cam reduces the effort needed to hold the draw, helping you aim more steadily and improve your accuracy. Built with a sturdy aluminum riser and composite limbs, this bow is durable yet lightweight, making it easy to carry during your outdoor adventures. Overall, it combines strength, flexibility, and ease of use for a great archery experience.

What We Like
Easy to use
Adjustable draw weight
Great value for price
Suitable for beginners
Lightweight and well made
What We Don't Like
Minimal packaging protection
Lacks included D-loop string
Buying Guide Image

Learn More About Purchasing the Recurve Bows

Understanding Archery Recurve Bows

If you're new to the world of archery, you may be overwhelmed by the array of options available when it comes to choosing a recurve bow. To help you make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key factors that determine the quality and suitability of a recurve bow.

Draw Weight

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a recurve bow is the draw weight. This is the amount of force required to draw the bowstring back to its full length. A bow with a higher draw weight will be more powerful, but it will also be more difficult to draw. As a general rule, beginners should start with a bow that has a lower draw weight, around 20-25 pounds. More experienced archers may prefer a bow with a higher draw weight, typically ranging from 25-45 pounds.

Bow Length

Another important factor to consider is the length of the bow. A longer bow will be more stable and accurate, but it will also be more difficult to maneuver. A shorter bow will be easier to handle, but it will also be less powerful and less accurate. As a general rule, beginners should start with a shorter bow, around 48-54 inches. More experienced archers may prefer a longer bow, typically ranging from 54-62 inches.

Bow Material

Recurve bows are typically made from one of three materials: wood, fiberglass, or carbon fiber. Wooden bows are the most traditional and are generally considered to be the most attractive, but they are also the heaviest and least durable. Fiberglass bows are lighter and more durable, but they are also more flexible and less accurate. Carbon fiber bows are the lightest and most durable, but they are also the most expensive. As a general rule, beginners should start with a fiberglass bow, which offers a good balance of performance and value.

Accessories

Once you've chosen a recurve bow, you'll also need to consider the accessories that you'll need to go with it. These may include arrows, a quiver, a sight, a stabilizer, and a release aid. You'll also need to consider the type of arrows that you want to use. Wooden arrows are the most traditional, but they are also the heaviest and least durable. Carbon arrows are lighter and more durable, but they are also more expensive. As a general rule, beginners should start with wooden arrows, which offer a good balance of performance and value.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right recurve bow can be a daunting task for beginners. By understanding the key factors that determine the quality and suitability of a recurve bow, you can make an informed decision that will help you to enjoy the sport of archery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the disadvantages of a recurve bow?

Some disadvantages of a recurve bow include the need for more upper body strength to draw and hold, the requirement to be closer to the target for effective shooting, and the need for more practice to become proficient with the bow.

2. Are recurve bows the best?

Recurve bows are considered to be one of the best types of bows. They shoot faster and more powerfully compared to longbows due to their unique shape. The draw length on a recurve bow is also more important. However, the best type of bow ultimately depends on the individual's preferences and shooting style.

3. How long can a recurve bow be left strung?

Modern recurve bows made from synthetic materials can be left strung for up to 3 weeks without issues, but it is recommended to unstring them for long-term storage. On the other hand, compound bows can be left strung indefinitely. It is important to properly care for all bows to ensure their longevity.

4. Is dry firing a recurve bow bad?

Dry firing a recurve bow, which means releasing the string without an arrow, is not recommended. When this happens, all the energy from the release is absorbed solely by the bow, which can cause the limbs to bend or potentially snap, rendering the bow unusable. It is important to always have an arrow on the bowstring when shooting.

5. Is it bad to keep a recurve bow strung?

It is generally best practice to unstring a wooden recurve bow or longbow after shooting. However, modern recurve bows made from synthetic materials can be left strung for up to 3 weeks without issues. Compound bows, on the other hand, can be left strung indefinitely. It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and properly care for the bow.

6. How far do you shoot a deer with a recurve bow?

In bowhunting, the average successful shot distance at a whitetail deer with a recurve bow is approximately 15 to 17 yards. However, the effective shooting distance may vary depending on factors such as the individual's shooting ability, bow weight, and accuracy.

Editor's Notes

During our recurve bow research, we found 24 recurve bow products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 21,179 customer reviews through our big data system to write the recurve bows list. We found that most customers choose recurve bows with an average price of $80.41.

The recurve bows are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of recurve bows, including Samick Sage, IS-TONGTU, LWANO, Furqery, NorthSpoor. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 97 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.

Recurve Bows Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Samick Sage IS-TONGTU IS-TONGTU LWANO Furqery NorthSpoor SOPOGER AMEYXGS IS-TONGTU GENESIS
Model Name Samick Sage Recurve Bow KFJG-1 SDL LW-R-DL-BLACK-2.0+ Adult Bow And Arrow Set OUTDOORS 20lb Youth Beginner Bow 240816101&240816102 SDLFQG 12308
Color Brown Black Black Black Black BLACK Black stainless steel black Black
Material Fiberglass, Maple Wood, Metal, Wood Nylon Aluminum Nylon Aluminum High-strength composite or Fiberglass Glass fiber Stainless Steel Aluminum Aluminum
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy