When it comes to selecting a recurve bow for hunting or recreational shooting, it is important to understand that unlike compound bows recurve bows are not bullet proof.  Recurve bows are hand made using glues, fibreglass and woods.  Any one part can fail.  There is significant difference in fibreglass, woods and glues  used to make these bows.

 

A cheap Chinese recurve hunting bow does not use the same fibreglass woods and glues as a custom made American bow so it may not last as long, the fibreglass may break.

 

The Brands

Predator Recurves - We have not tested a faster recurve period.  We have not drawn a smoother recurve and when it comes to reliability- well virtually no failure.  We have archers owning many predator recurves for twenty years and have never had a problem.   Great value for money - cost more than Samick but are about half the price of other custom recurves.  Predator recurves offer great service.

 

Bear Recurves - If you want a name brand then Bear is it.  They are one of the oldest recurve companies.  Generally excellent quality.  The Bear Grizzly is good value for money. 

 

Martin Recurves - Martin produces a bunch of recurves bows.  All are different.  If you are keen on a Martin then try it and ensure it is what you want as all the bows are significantly different and different people think differently about them.  Martin offers great service and the bows are very reliable.