The compound bow is technically different from the longbow and recurve bow. It is in a class if its own. Not only does it use bolts rather than arrows, there a lot of other differences relating to performance as well.

Lets first take a look at the advantages provided by the structure of the compound bow. When drawing the bow, the weight of the draws reaches its apex and then let off occurs. “let off” refers to the actions of the cams as it rolls over completely. When this happens, the cams turn, leading to the bending of the limbs. When cams turn completely around, less force is required to keep the limb strained.

The better the let off, the easier it is to draw the bow as far as possible and take a good time to aim properly. Another advantage would be its durability. Made with “unnatural” materials, which are invented materials like polymer, it can last better than other bows.

Compound bows also contain draw-stops that that provide a wall for the archer to draw up against. It can be modified to suit the archer’s most effective draw length. Thus, the hunter can apply a standard force on every shot, leading to better mastery.

A single string is used in compound bows and this arrangement is said to generate arrows with speed up to a 100m/s.

The release mechanism of the compound bow provides a steady release. Using a trigger on this device, the archer is able to release the string with a steady pressure and motion.

Due to the lightweight disposition of the compound bow, it is more sensitive to the archer’s stance and draw on the string. A fault in human error will result in inaccuracy of shot. Therefore, the accuracy of a shot relies greatly on the hunter. Hence, it is not recommended for a beginner to start out with a compound bow.