Choosing Arrows for Recurve Bows | 60X Custom Strings

Key Takeaways

• Measure the bow’s draw length. Add two inches to get the arrow’s length.

• Thicker arrows are ideal for target shooting, while thinner arrows are ideal for hunting.

• Lighter arrows work best with lighter bows, while heavier arrows work best with heavier bows.

• Bows with higher draw weights should use stiffer arrows.

Picking out the best arrows for a recurve bow can be tricky. While some trial and error may be necessary before you find your go-to projectiles, we’re here to explain how to choose arrows for a recurve bow so you can make an informed decision.

Recurve bows are most commonly used for target practice and hunting. Once you’ve settled on your desired bow, it’s time to choose your arrows. There are literally hundreds (if not more) of types of arrows on the market, so here’s a guide to help you narrow down your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which arrow sizes should I get for recurve bows?

Choose heavier arrows for heavier bows and lighter arrows for lighter bows. Thicker arrows are ideal for target shooting, while thinner arrows are ideal for hunting. Bows with higher draw weights should use stiffer arrows. The length depends on your bow’s draw length.

How do you determine arrow length?

Measure your bow’s draw length according to the instructions below, and then add two inches to that number.

Why is my arrow not flying straight?

First, use this guide to make sure you’re using the best arrows for your recurve bow. If the arrows are too long, short, stiff, or flexible, accuracy will suffer. Performance issues can also be caused by a worn string, bent or damaged fletching, or an incorrect nock fit.

Do stiffer arrows fly straighter?

Not necessarily! When an arrow leaves a recurve bow’s string, it actually flexes or bends slightly away from the target to compensate for its off-center launch position. This is known as the archer’s paradox. If an arrow is too stiff to bend properly around the riser, accuracy suffers. 

How to Choose Arrows for a Recurve Bow

Choosing arrows for recurve bows requires that you consider your bow’s draw length and the arrows’ diameter, weight, and spine. Simply buying the best arrows for a recurve bow based on product reviews won’t cut it, as arrows that perform flawlessly with one bow may not be ideal for the next. Here’s how to pick the correct arrows for your bow.

Start With Your Draw Length

Your draw length is the measurement of how far back you pull your bow string. Professional shops will have tools to precisely measure this if you’d like. However, there are two ways you can measure at home. Once you have your bow’s draw length, simply add two inches. 

Method 1:

Spread your arms wide, keeping them parallel to the floor and making sure not to pull in your shoulder blades. Have someone measure the exact distance in inches from the tip of one middle finger to the other, then divide that value by 2.5.

Method 2:

Face a wall sideways and extend your bow arm with your hand in a fist. Gently rest your fist against the wall with your arm parallel to the floor. Have someone measure from your closed fist to your anchor point. Essentially, you’re mimicking drawing a bow string and preparing to shoot. That measurement is your draw length.

To ensure you’re most accurately selecting the best arrows for your recurve bow, do both methods to make sure they match up. 

Here’s a guide with more information: How to Measure Bow String Length for a Recurve.

Diameter and Weight

The next step when learning how to choose arrows for a recurve bow is less of a science and more of a preference. You have a little more room to experiment with different diameters and weights.

Target and competition archers usually prefer a thicker diameter shaft, because they’re more likely to strike the lines of the target for higher points. Hunters, however, usually prefer a smaller diameter because there’s less surface area to be affected by wind, and they more effectively penetrate game. So, the purpose of your shooting will dictate what diameter arrow you need.

When determining the best arrows for a recurve bow, note that the arrow’s ideal weight is related to the poundage of your bow. Lighter bows tend to work best with lighter arrows, and heavier bows work best with heavier arrows. Use this basic formula when choosing arrows for recurve bows. With experience, you’ll be able to decide if you want a lighter or heavier arrow.

The Spine

The “spine” of your arrow refers to how much it bends or wiggles around your bow and on its way to the target. As mentioned, this is the archer’s paradox, a phenomenon that can be observed when watching an arrow leave the bow in slow motion.

Pay attention to the spine number when picking out some of the best arrows for your recurve bow. Lower numbers signify stiffer arrows, while higher numbers signify arrows with more flex.

How to choose arrows for a recurve bow that have the correct spine depends on the draw weight of the bow, the weight of the arrow, the weight of the arrowhead or tip, and the length of the arrow. 

Bows with very high draw weights should use stiffer arrows than bows with lower draw weights. Similar logic applies to the weight of the arrow and tip. Longer arrows will need to be stiffer.

As you shop for the best arrows for a recurve bow, pay close attention to the arrow manufacturer’s recommendations. You may also find that your bow’s manual includes relevant information and/or charts. Both resources are excellent starting points. From there, you can fine-tune your arrow selection based on personal preferences.

Shop Recurve Bow Strings from 60X Custom Strings

Need help choosing arrows for recurve bows? Get in touch with us to ask your questions. 60X Custom Bow Strings was founded by champion archer Brad Patsy, so we have the knowledge you need to become the best archer possible.

Beyond using the best arrows for your recurve bow, you must use the right recurve bow string. We make custom bow strings based on your bow’s specifications, and you can even choose your bow string material and custom bow string colors. Shop now!