Is your ideal draw weight 50lb? For many men, this is the average draw weight. Recurve bows are some of the most widely used bows on the market, utilized by both beginner and professional archers.
As a result, 50lb recurve bows are perhaps the most commonly purchased bows. But just how far can these 50lb recurve bows shoot?
Can arrows fired from these bows reach further distances than bows with lower draw weights? Continue reading to find out the answers.
How Far Can A 50Lb Recurve Bow Shoot?
In terms of the maximum distance, you can achieve with a recurve bow, this tends to be in the range of between 280 and 300 yards. Keep in mind, that this is the maximum range – not the effective range you could accurately hit a target.
It will be difficult for archers using a 50lb bow to get beyond this distance, even if they are experienced.
In terms of the effective range (the range at which the bow successfully manages to achieve its goals), a 50lb recurve bow will be in the vicinity of 30 and 35 yards. The range will be even lower if you are a beginner.
However, this is an impressive distance to cover. There are other types of bows, such as longbows, or compound bows, that can launch arrows this far, particularly with a draw weight of 50lb.
The limbs of a recurve bow are designed to store power, which will be transferred to the arrow when it is shot. This propels it further. While recurve bows can get remarkable distances, this does not guarantee that a recurve bow can hit a target that is 280 yards away. In fact, 280 yards is a distance way beyond what you would normally expect when target shooting. The maximum range for target shooting with a recurve is between 60 to 100 yards.
This is because you also have to consider accuracy. Even if you have a powerful bow, you will not hit a far-away target unless you have exceptional accuracy.
Though recurve bows have decent accuracy, much of this skill will rely on the archer.
What Factors Affect The Distance?
While the maximum and effective range of a bow can be calculated, it is hard to determine how far a shot will travel. The reason for this is that there are lots of different factors that can impact how much distance an arrow is able to achieve.
Among the most important factors affecting distance are:
Draw Weight
The draw weight is an essential archery concept. It means the force needed when “drawing” the bow. The weight needed to pull back the string refers to this concept.
The higher the draw weight, the more energy can be transferred into the arrow – hence longer distances can be achieved. Yet, even if you want to achieve further distances, you should not opt for a draw weight that causes discomfort.
The Type Of Bow
Some bows are simply more powerful than others. Consequently, these powerful bows can launch arrows further than weaker bows. If you are looking for power and distance, a longbow, recurve or compound bow is the best fit.
The Arrow’s Material
While all arrows may look the same to inexperienced archers, they can actually utilize very different designs. Some are lighter than others. They can also be made from different materials, such as fiberglass or wood.
Moreover, the fletching, placed on the end of an arrow, can also affect how aerodynamic it is.
These design choices can alter the qualities of the arrow. Some arrows are designed to be fast, while others are constructed to prioritize distance or flight characteristics.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions, such as wind and rain, can also affect the bow’s distance. If you are concerned about weather conditions negatively impacting your shots, you should consider training indoors.
The wind might move in the opposite direction of the arrow, creating a force that will slightly slow the arrow and limit its distance.
What About Recurve Bows Of Other Weights?
As mentioned, recurve bows with lower draw weights will lack the power of higher draw weights. This can impact their distance.
For example, in theory, a 40lb recurve bow will have a smaller maximum distance. An even weaker bow with a draw weight of 30lb will have a distance in the range of 200 and 220 yards.
Is a 50 lb Recurve Bow Good For Hunting?
Yes, a 50lb recurve bow is absolutely suitable for hunting. Recurve bows are commonly used in hunting, alongside compound bows. Recurve bows with a 50lb draw weight are powerful enough to take down most game.
Though this may sound cruel, it is important to use a bow with sufficient draw weight, when hunting to ensure a clean and quick kill. Well, obviously any hunter must know the kill zone of the game they´re after too! This is especially important if you´re hunting from an elevated position such as a treestand. (read.. Deer Kill Zone)
In some states, the minimal legal draw weight for bowhunting is 40lb. Therefore, if you use a 30lb or 25lb bow, you legally will be not allowed to hunt with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Distance Matter In Archery?
If you are trying to hit a target that is far away, then the distance will be an important consideration. If not, you should focus more on accuracy.
Can A 30Lb Recurve Bow Be Used For Hunting?
No, we do not advise using a 30lb recurve bow for hunting. While these bows can sometimes kill small and medium game animals, they lack power. Also, make sure to check your state’s hunting regulations. Many states require a minimum draw weight of 40 lbs when hunting.
Final Thoughts
Your draw weight can have a massive influence on the power and distance that you can achieve with your bow. If your personal draw weight is 50 lbs, then you are all set for doing any long-distance shooting. Just remember, focus on accuracy over distance.
Even if you want to achieve further distances, you should not opt for a draw weight that causes discomfort.
