Recurve Crossbows

Recreational and sports shooting with recurve crossbows is becoming increasingly popular in Switzerland. Nationwide, there are now more than 100 clubs dedicated to crossbow sports. The Swiss Crossbow Shooters Association - EASV for short - even exists as an umbrella organization, which was founded as early as 1898.

If you want to buy a recurve crossbow, you've come to the right place at Meister Messer. We offer models designed for both beginners and professionals. Of course, you can also find the appropriate accessories in the Meister Messer online shop. The following guide explains what you should consider when buying a recurve crossbow.

What is a recurve crossbow?

With recurve and compound crossbows, there are two different types of modern crossbows. The former represent the classic version of the bow weapon. The in-shot direction pointing limb ends are considered the characteristic feature of recurve crossbows, from which the name of this type of crossbow is also derived. The term "recurve" is a reference to the fact that the limbs are bent back when the string is tensioned (the English verb "recurve" means "to bend back" in German).

Their construction allows recurve crossbows to store more energy in the limbs or transfer more energy to the bolt or arrow than models with flat bows. This results in higher arrow speed and range. Unlike the models made of wood used in the Middle Ages, modern recurve crossbows are typically made of carbon fiber, light metal, fiberglass, or plastic.

What are the differences between recurve and compound crossbows?

In both cases, it is a bow equipped with a retention device and a trigger mechanism, mounted on a central column. However, unlike recurve crossbows, which do not have additional mechanics, compound crossbows are equipped with pulleys, also known as camwheels or CAMs.

The rollers attached to the ends of the limbs reduce the draw weight on one hand, making compound crossbows comparatively easy to cock. On the other hand, the cam wheels reduce the vibrations generated when shooting, which has a positive effect on shooting behavior and accuracy.

Due to their more complex construction, the high-tech sports equipment is more suitable for experienced shooters. For all those who are just starting out with crossbow shooting, a recurve crossbow is generally recommended. Such a crossbow is not only less maintenance-intensive, but also significantly cheaper to purchase.

What criteria are important when buying a recurve crossbow?

To find your personal recurve crossbow test winner, you should consider various variables. For recreational shooting, affordable entry-level models are also suitable. For competitive shooting, on the other hand, you need particularly high-quality models that are very precise. However, there are other purchasing criteria that you should consider, especially:

• Size and Weight: The crossbow should fit your height and build – as well as your personal fitness level. If the sports equipment is too small or large, this can have a negative impact on shooting accuracy. For very petite individuals, a compact and lightweight design is recommended, or alternatively a crossbow pistol.
• Draw weight: This variable indicates how much force you need to apply to cock the crossbow. The higher the draw weight, the greater the effort required. The models offered on Meister Messer mostly have a draw weight of 150 or 175 lbs, which is approximately 75 and 80 kilograms respectively. However, we also offer recurve crossbows with only 90 lbs, for example.
• Arrow speed: The shooting speed affects both the range and the penetration power of the projectile. A recurve crossbow with 175 lbs achieves arrow speeds of 250 to 300 kilometers per hour, while a model with 150 lbs is more likely to reach up to 250 kilometers per hour.
• Accessories: Also pay attention to which accessories are included in the scope of delivery. By that we mean, for example, sights, cocking aids, quivers, and of course arrows. But at least the latter are usually included. The scope of accessories usually depends on the price range.

Order high-quality crossbows and accessories cheaply at Meister Messer

In addition to recurve crossbows, the online shop of Meister Messer also offers numerous compound crossbows and crossbow pistols. Our extensive range of crossbow accessories includes replacement strings, simple cocking aids, and crank cockers. Furthermore, we also stock crossbow targets.

In the Meister Messer online shop, you will find everything you need for crossbow shooting - So don't wait any longer and discover the versatile range of Meister Messer today.