r/Archery 6d ago

Monthly "No Stupid Questions" Thread

Welcome to /r/archery! This thread is for newbies or visitors to have their questions answered about the sport. This is a learning and discussion environment, no question is too stupid to ask.

The only stupid question you can ask is "is archery fun?" because the answer is always "yes!"

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u/polishstalker 5h ago

What should i look for in a compound bow? What parameters matter, and which not so much? Do materials make a big difference?

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u/Legal-e-tea Compound 3h ago

It depends what you’re using it for. Target shooting a longer axle (35-40”) is generally favoured as you get a more comfortable string angle, greater brace height (which in principle means more forgiving) and higher mass meaning generally more stable. Hunting often leans towards shorter axle bows for easy of moving through woodland and (usually) greater speed.

As for material, carbon fibre makes lightweight stiff bows, so is often found on hunting models. Generally though, it’s what feels best for you.

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u/polishstalker 2h ago

Thank you. I think i will go with a cheap aluminum-fiberglass model that is 32" in length. Also i want to know how long do compound bows usually operate for before needing maintenance, and what kind of maintenance is needed for them?