Compound bows Compound bows use pulleys (also called cams) and cables to pull the string back. This reduces the amount to force required to fully draw the bow. The lower draw weight makes them easier to aim and hold in position. They can also be set up at different draw weights to match different user strengths. Compound bows come with more accurate sight pins that can be adjusted to various target distances. Some say that they tend to be heavy and are prone to mechanical failure (compared to recurves or long bows), but some experts say that with proper maintenance, they can last 10 to 20 years. Recurve bows Recurve bows are designed to curve away from the user when drawn and snap back into position when released. This greatly increases the force and speed of each shot. They usually consist of a riser at the center and two limbs at either end. These limbs tilt backward to form the curve. Their draw weights are determined by the bow size and cannot be adjusted. Most models are made of wood laminated in fiberglass or carbon fiber. Recurve bows are used in Olympic archery and in most competitive archery. Longbows Longbows have solid, gently curved bows, instead of a riser and separate limbs. Some say that makes them difficult to draw for beginners, because the draw weight increases as it is pulled. They usually do not come with sights, making them difficult to aim as well. Longbows are commonly made of solid or laminated wood. | 
