The advantages of a compound bow are impossible to deny. But the timeless simplicity of a recurve bow will never go out of style. Whether you use it for game hunting or for target shooting, a recurve bow’s appeal lies in the way it ties us back to our ancestors. It’s about as close as you can get to the bows used by our forefathers hundreds – even thousands – of years ago. 

Today’s recurve bows are, of course, more advanced than those used by our forebearers. As rooted in tradition as recurve bows may be, advancements in manufacturing technology, construction materials, and even the science behind how bows work, have given us recurve bows of unmatched power and accuracy. 

Picking out a recurve bow isn’t always an easy choice, especially for those who are relatively new to archery. And it’s always worth keeping in mind that the best bow for you might not be the best bow for somebody else. Whether you’re in the market for your first recurve bow, or are a seasoned archer looking for a new tool, the following bows all deserve consideration. 

Best Buy

1. SAS Courage 60” Hunting Takedown Recurve

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For a versatile recurve bow that’s equally suited for hunting and target shooting, the SAS Courage 60” Hunting Takedown Recurve is hard to beat. It has a simple but attractive design and will give you years of use. 

The bow’s laminated wood riser is smooth and feels comfortable in the hand. The limbs are made from sturdy maple and makore wood and laminated with black fiberglass. The bow has a draw weight of 35 to 60 pounds and a length of 60 inches. 

The best word to describe the SAS Courage is “reliable.” There’s nothing particularly showy about this bow, but it’s effective and well-made. The folks at SAS (Southland Archery Supply) cover their bows with a thorough 3-year warranty.