As a beginner, choose a compound bow that has a wide weight range (resistance). This allows you to start at a low draw weight (the force required to pull back the bow) and still take powerful shots. As you become stronger, you can adjust the bow to higher draw weights to increase power.

Olympic shooters use recurve bows.

Olympic shooters use recurve bows.

Flatbows have a similar shape, so much so that the two terms are often used interchangeably. The “American flatbow” design is one of the most popular. A large longbow can require a huge draw weight to fire, which is difficult for most beginners.

Some archers may have a used bow to sell you for cheap.

If you can’t find a local archery store, regional archery organizations often have online stores. This can be a good way to see reviews and other information as well.

Recurve bows can be one solid piece, or “takedown” bows with detachable limbs. A plastic recurve bow with wooden limbs is a solid choice for a beginner. It’s not too expensive, and you can upgrade the limbs slowly to increase draw weight. Skip this step if shopping for compound bows, which are almost exclusively metal.

Adult men should try 22–28 pound recurve bows, or 40–50 pound compound bows Adult women should try 16–26 pound recurves, or 30–40 pound compounds. Teens aged 14–17 typically fire 12–16 pound recurves, or 14-22 pound compounds. Kids 8–13 can try 10–14 pound recurves, or 10–22 pound compounds. A 40 or 45 pound recurve bow is about the lightest usable for hunting, but will require practice to build up the strength to shoot accurately. This high poundage is not recommended when starting no matter how fit you are.

If you’ve never shot a bow before, ask the shop employee for guidance. Handling the bow with the wrong form could damage the bow.

If your bow is brand new, it probably needs an arrow rest and arrow plate installed. [2] X Research source Traditional shooters shoot off their knuckles or off the shelf, in which case they place a patch of fur to protect the finish from scratching.

If you have a place to shoot at home, you’ll need to buy a target or make your own.