Archery has been around for thousands of years. Yet, we’re still fascinated by it to this day. There’s something magical about holding a bow, then feeling that swoosh of air as the arrow takes flight.
As a general rule, modern archery hasn’t changed much since the olden days. What has changed, however, is the technology behind it. Then, there’s the wide assortment of accessories and gear that make archery accessible to a much wider audience than ever before!
Today, we’re taking a closer look at how new archery equipment works. In total, there are four types of bow designs that have been updated and tweaked over the years.
Interested in finding out more? Keep reading!
How Does New Archery Equipment Work?
Thanks to the assorted brands and models flooding the market, there’s a great demand for everything archery-related. As a whole, the way new archery equipment works is pretty basic. You just attach your choice of add-ons, and you’re all set. Yet, it’s the technology that makes them indispensable.
Setting aside the various accessories and equipment, the two components of any archery setup is the bow and arrow. Even in modern archery, they’re pretty much all you have to work with.
So, let’s take a look at how modern bows work. We also have a list of the nine most popular new archery equipment every archer should know about.
What Is a Modern Bow?
Compound bows were first produced in the second half of the 20th century and are often referred to as ‘modern’ bows. Today, they’re the most used type of bow, mainly because of their complex, yet intriguing, design.
On average, modern bows consist of a complex five-part system. This pulley system helps deliver maximum power to the arrow. As a result, archers can maintain a heavy draw weight, even at full draw.
At the same time, this system is designed in a way that reduces muscle fatigue. It’s an advantage that sets these bows apart from their counterparts.
Another advantage is that compound bows aren’t made of natural materials. Thus, they’re more heavy-duty and durable than those made from wood and pieces of animal bone.
This also gives them an edge over other types of bows because they’re not affected by weather conditions, such as humidity and temperature. As a result, they provide speed, distance, and improved accuracy.
Modern bows can propel arrows up to 370 feet per second (fps) due to their innovative and efficient design. Compared with longbow arrows that travel at less than 200 fps, it’s safe to say that compound arrows are super fast!
How Do Modern Bows Work?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, let’s talk science. After all, basic physics is at the heart of all types of archery.
You position the arrow accordingly. Then, draw back the bow, exerting a fair amount of energy in the process.
It’s then stored in the limbs in the form of potential energy. Upon release, that potential energy is transformed into kinetic energy. It moves from the limbs through the string and finally the arrow. As a result, the string is propelled forward, taking the arrow with it.
Now, are you ready to look at how a modern bow works? Let’s get started.
Limbs
The limbs are the two flexible parts on either end of the bow. They’re responsible for storing all the energy.
As you draw the bow back, these limbs pull together and exert enough pressure to push the arrow forward.
Limbs are made of resin and fiberglass. This ensures that the bow is lighter and sturdier compared to its counterparts.
Mods
Second on our list are the mods. You can locate them on either end of the limb where they house the cables. They wYou
The word ‘mod’ is short for ‘modify’ because you can adjust its placement on the bow. You can adjust the draw length according to your personal preference simply by changing the position of each mod.
Cables
There are two cables running the length of the bow. Each one is positioned on either end of the limb between the cam and the limb,
These cables run over the mod to reinforce the limbs and help prop up the entire bow. Yet, that’s not all they do.
Cables are essential for boosting the bow’s overall stability. In addition, they work together with the string to propel the arrow for a smooth and powerful let-off effect.
Cams
Next are the cams, which are the pair of rotating wheels found on either end of the bow. The main job of the cams is to hold the string and direct it to where it needs to go. The cams rotate when the string is drawn, forcing the cables to pull on the two limbs.
The force that ultimately pushes the arrow straight ahead comes from this intricate system of pulleys, aka the cams. They’re one of the best advantages of modern bows because they do most of the heavy lifting. As a result, the strain on the archer is reduced dramatically.
String
The wire on the outer side of the bow is the string. It’s attached to the inner grooves of both cams, where it freely rotates over them.
When you pull back the bow, this forces the string to pull back as well. This causes the cables to rotate the cams, which tightens the string.
Then, as soon as the string is released, it propels forward and takes the arrow with it at full speed. Once the arrow is shot, the limbs return to their initial position. Accordingly, the other parts of the bow will also return to their neutral positions.
That time of year… ❄️#archery
📸: @MartinDamsboDK pic.twitter.com/IdBxUsQrze
— World Archery (@worldarchery) December 24, 2021
9 New Archery Equipment Must-Haves
Whether you’re a novice archer or a seasoned pro, this list will come in handy.
- Bow case and stand: protect the bow during and after use
- Arrows: to find the right type for you, you have to know your draw weight and length
- Armguards: worn on the bow arm to protect it from the bowstring
- Chestguards: keep clothes out of the way and protect your body during the release
- Gloves, tabs, or releases: protect your hand during the release of the arrow
- Release aids: when you’d rather not release the bowstring with your bare fingers
- Quivers: carry the arrows and come in various styles and designs
- Bow Sights: add-ons that help you pinpoint your exact target, thus increasing precision
- Target: you can start practicing on hay bales before buying a real target
Summary
Learning how new archery equipment works goes a long way in teaching you the ins and outs of this age-old sport. It can boost your performance and increase your accuracy, making archery a lot more enjoyable!
The important thing is to take your time and learn what works for you and what doesn’t. Then, with a bit of hard work and dedication, you’ll become an expert archer shooting arrows right, left, and center.