Recurve crossbow

Classically built, robust and low-maintenance. Without a cam system, but with an easy string change and a selection from the entry-level device to the powerful recurve crossbow.
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Crossbow | Recurve
Pistol crossbow | Recurve
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In a nutshell

  • Build: limbs and string without a cam system, which makes it low-maintenance and reliable.
  • Performance: common models range from 180 to 400 fps and 50 to 195 lbs draw weight.
  • Recurve versus compound: the recurve is harder to cock, but simpler in design and needs no bow press.
  • String change: possible with a simple cocking aid instead of an expensive press.
  • Selection: beginners do well starting at 200 to 600 euros, Excalibur is considered the leader in recurve.
  • Law in Germany: no firearms licence needed, minimum age 18 years, purchase with proof of age.

The recurve crossbow is the classic, pared-down variant among crossbows. It works without cams and cables and at its core consists only of the two limbs and the string that connects them. It is precisely this simple construction that makes it robust, low-maintenance and easy to handle. Whether you are just starting out in crossbow shooting or already bring some experience, here you will find models from the solid entry-level device to the powerful recurve crossbow of Canadian build.

What is a recurve crossbow?

A recurve crossbow matches the classic image that most people have of a crossbow. Unlike the compound crossbow, it does without a cam system entirely and therefore without the rollers at the ends of the limbs. There are no additional cables either. What remains are the limbs and the string that connects them.

Doing without the compound system has a clear advantage. Fewer parts mean less wear, and that makes the recurve crossbow more reliable and easier to care for overall. Anyone who prefers a crossbow with minimalist technology is in the right place here.

Technology and how it works

When cocking, the string is pulled back with the help of a cocking aid, which causes the limbs to bend and come under load. The entire energy is stored in the limbs alone, since there is no pulley effect via cams. On release, the limbs pass this energy directly to the string and thus to the bolt.

Because the mechanical support of the compound system is missing, you have to apply somewhat more force when cocking. In return, the construction is more straightforward and easier to follow. The common models in this category move at bolt speeds between roughly 180 and 400 fps, and the draw weights range, depending on the intended use, from about 50 to 195 lbs.

String change without a bow press

A practical plus of the recurve crossbow shows itself during the string change. You do not need an expensive bow press, a simple cocking aid is enough. It is attached to the ends of the limbs and tensioned, so that the string is relieved and can be changed easily. This not only lowers the follow-up costs but also makes you more independent when it comes to maintenance.

Recurve crossbow or compound crossbow?

The most important decision when buying is usually the one between recurve and compound. Both have their justification, and the choice depends on what you value. The following overview summarises the essential differences.

Property Recurve crossbow Compound crossbow
Build limbs and string, without cams cams, cables and string
Cocking force higher effort required lower thanks to the pulley effect
Maintenance low-maintenance, few wear parts more involved, more components
String change with a simple cocking aid usually requires a bow press
Character traditional and robust modern and efficient

If a reliable crossbow with simple technology and an uncomplicated string change is important to you, the recurve crossbow is a good fit. Anyone looking instead for easier cocking with high efficiency is better off in the compound area. Both are a good choice, just for different preferences.

Finding the right recurve crossbow

For getting started you will find solid models in the range of about 200 to 600 euros, where X-BOW and EK Archery are especially well represented. In the advanced segment, brands such as Barnett and Excalibur join in. If you want the maximum in recurve, it is worth looking at Excalibur. The Canadian manufacturer is considered the leader in the field of recurve crossbows.

A tip from practice. Make sure the model does not require manufacturer-specific special bolts. With some crossbows only the expensive bolts of the manufacturer may be used, and deviating bolts can cost warranty claims in the event of damage. With a crossbow without this restriction you remain free and flexible in your choice of bolts.

Legal classification in Germany

In Germany the crossbow is legally classified as an object equivalent to firearms under Annex 1 of the Weapons Act. For acquisition and possession, however, no firearms licence is required, which makes access easier compared to many other devices of this kind. The prerequisite is a minimum age of 18 years.

For online purchases, age is verified by means of proof, for example by a copy of an ID document or via the age-verification procedure of the shipping service provider at handover. No special training or examination is prescribed, but responsible handling and safe storage are of course part of it. In Austria and Switzerland different regulations apply, so before buying it is worth a look at the respective applicable provisions. This is a note and not binding legal advice.

FAQs

What is the difference between a recurve and a compound crossbow?

The recurve crossbow consists only of limbs and string and does without a cam system. The compound crossbow uses rollers and cables, which makes it easier to cock and lets it reach higher speeds. The recurve, in return, is lower-maintenance and simpler in design.

No. In Germany no firearms licence is required for the acquisition and possession of a crossbow. You must, however, be at least 18 years old and provide proof of age at purchase.

The string change works with a simple cocking aid, an expensive bow press is not needed. The cocking aid is attached to the ends of the limbs and tensioned, so that the string is relieved and can be changed easily.

For getting started, models from X-BOW and EK Archery in the range of around 200 to 600 euros are a good choice, often also as a set with accessories. Anyone who values the highest recurve quality should look at the models from Excalibur.

The models in this category reach about 180 to 400 fps depending on build and draw weight. The actual speed depends, among other things, on the draw weight and the bolt weight.