Imagine the thrill of the hunt, the quiet anticipation, and then, the satisfying thrum of a well-aimed arrow. For centuries, hunters have relied on the elegance and power of the longbow. But choosing the right longbow for hunting today can feel like navigating a tangled forest. So many choices, so much advice! It’s easy to get lost, wondering what makes one bow better than another for bringing down game.
Many hunters dream of a more traditional, challenging, and rewarding way to pursue their passion. However, the sheer variety of longbows available can be overwhelming. You might wonder about draw weight, arrow speed, and what materials are best. This can lead to frustration and uncertainty, making it hard to even start your hunting journey with a longbow.
This post is your friendly guide through the world of longbows for hunting. We’ll break down the important features, explain what they mean for your hunting success, and help you understand the pros and cons of different styles. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel much more confident about picking a longbow that’s perfect for you and your hunting adventures. Let’s dive in and discover the perfect longbow for your next expedition!
Our Top 5 Longbows For Hunting Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Longbows For Hunting Detailed Reviews
1. Sanlida Archery 68” Royal X8 Longbow Traditional Wooden Hunting Bow Handmade Hunting Bow and Arrows kit for Adults & Traditional Archers
Rating: 9.1/10
Embark on your archery journey with the Sanlida Archery 68” Royal X8 Longbow Traditional Wooden Hunting Bow and Arrows kit. This handmade bow is designed for adult and traditional archers looking for a quality hunting experience. It’s crafted from beautiful American solid wood, offering a smooth and stable shot. This kit is ready to go right out of the box, making it easy for beginners to get started.
What We Like:
- Sanlida is a well-known archery brand that wants everyone to enjoy archery.
- The complete kit means you get everything you need in one package, making it easier and more accurate for you.
- The Royal X8 longbow is made from strong American wood and fiberglass, giving you a great performance for hunting.
- Sanlida sells directly from their factory, which means you get a great bow at a lower price.
- The bow is made with a mix of solid wood and fiberglass limbs for a comfortable and strong shot.
- You can choose from different draw weights to fit your strength.
- The kit includes many useful accessories like a bow bag, stringer, and arrows.
- Sanlida offers quick support if you have any problems with the accessories.
- Your bow comes with a warranty when you register it online.
What Could Be Improved:
- This bow is only available for right-handed archers.
This Sanlida Royal X8 longbow kit is a fantastic option for those looking to get into traditional archery or hunting. With its quality construction and complete accessory package, it offers excellent value and a great shooting experience.
2. Deerseeker Archery 64″ Reflex Deflex Hybrid One-Piece Traditional Long Bow with Laminated Bamboo & Clear Fiberglass Limbs Right Hand/Left Hand for Adults 25-60lbs
Rating: 8.8/10
The Deerseeker Archery 64″ Hybrid Long Bow offers a smooth draw and powerful performance for traditional archery enthusiasts. Its unique reflex/deflex design, combined with laminated bamboo and fiberglass limbs, delivers a fast and quiet shooting experience. The natural Ash woodgrain finish adds a touch of classic elegance to this one-piece bow.
What We Like:
- The hybrid reflex/deflex design gives a very smooth draw and great shooting feel.
- The bamboo and fiberglass limbs create powerful arrow flight with minimal vibration and noise.
- The riser is made of elegant Dymond wood and offers a comfortable, relaxed grip.
- It comes as a complete set with essential accessories like a Flemish string, arrow rest, finger protector, and armguard.
- Available for both right-handed and left-handed archers in a wide range of draw weights (25-60 lbs).
- The bow is built with strong materials like micarta for reinforced tips, ensuring durability.
- Deerseeker offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee with a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- While a complete set, some archers might prefer to choose their own specific accessories.
- The “one-piece” design means it’s not as easily portable as a takedown bow for travel.
This Deerseeker bow is a fantastic option for adults looking for a traditional shooting experience. It balances performance, comfort, and a classic look, making it a solid choice for practice and hunting.
3. Sanlida Archery 68” Royal X8 Longbow Traditional Wooden Hunting Bow Handmade Hunting Bow and Arrows kit for Adults & Traditional Archers
Rating: 9.3/10
Embark on your traditional archery journey with the Sanlida Archery 68” Royal X8 Longbow. This handmade wooden hunting bow kit is designed for adults and traditional archers, specifically for right-hand users with a 40lb draw weight. Sanlida, a world-leading archery brand, aims to make archery accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
What We Like:
- It’s a complete kit, so you get everything you need to start shooting right away.
- The bow is made from quality American solid wood and durable fiberglass and maple wood limbs, offering a smooth and stable shooting experience.
- Sanlida’s direct-to-customer model means you get a great bow at a good price.
- The kit includes many accessories like a bow bag, stringer, and even carbon arrows.
- The company offers a quick response to any issues and an excellent manufacturer warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit is only available for right-hand archers.
- The draw weight options are in 5lb increments, so you might not find a perfect intermediate weight if needed.
This Sanlida Royal X8 Longbow kit offers a fantastic entry point into traditional archery. It provides a well-crafted bow and all the necessary accessories for a fulfilling shooting experience.
4. 60 Inch Black Hunter Longbow 20-60 Lbs Archery Bow with Stringer Tool Right Hand Hunting Bows for Adults Outdoor Shooting Target Practice (40LBS)
Rating: 8.9/10
The 60 Inch Black Hunter Longbow is a versatile archery bow designed for adults. Whether you’re just starting out or have been shooting for years, this bow offers a comfortable and effective way to enjoy outdoor shooting and target practice. It comes with everything you need to get started, including a stringer tool for easy setup.
What We Like:
- The 60-inch length and 30-inch maximum draw length make it suitable for a wide range of users.
- It’s available in draw weights from 20 to 60 lbs, so you can choose the right power for your skill level.
- The ergonomic riser feels good in your hand, making shooting sessions more enjoyable.
- It’s a takedown bow, which means you can easily take it apart for storage and travel.
- Changing the bow limbs allows you to adjust the draw weight as your skills improve.
- Installation is straightforward, especially with the included stringer tool.
- It comes with a good set of accessories like silencers and nocks to enhance your shooting experience.
What Could Be Improved:
- While suitable for beginners, advanced archers might want more customization options.
- The included arrow rest is basic; some users might prefer to upgrade for greater precision.
This Black Hunter Longbow offers a great balance of features, comfort, and ease of use for any adult archer. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to get into archery or enhance their current practice.
5. Black Hunter Takedown Longbow
Rating: 8.7/10
The Black Hunter Takedown Longbow, GLURAK 60″ Wooden Archery Bow Hunting Bow is a solid choice for new archers. This 40lb right-handed longbow is designed for beginner training and practice. It’s made with durable materials to help you learn the basics of archery safely.
What We Like:
- The wooden handle feels good in your hand.
- It uses strong fiberglass limbs made with bamboo laminates.
- The bow comes apart easily for storage and travel.
- You can change the limb weight later as you get better.
- It’s good for hunting practice or just shooting targets.
- The company offers a 12-month warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s recommended to take the string off after each use to keep the limbs in good shape.
- Using a stringer tool is the safest way to assemble and disassemble the bow.
This bow offers a good balance of features for beginners. It’s a reliable tool for anyone looking to start their archery journey.
Choosing Your Perfect Hunting Longbow
Hunting with a longbow is a timeless tradition. It connects you to nature and requires skill and patience. If you’re thinking about hunting with a longbow, this guide will help you make the best choice.
Key Features to Look For
When picking a longbow for hunting, several features matter.
- Draw Weight: This is how much force you need to pull the string back. For most adult hunters, a draw weight between 40 and 60 pounds is good. Lighter bows are easier to shoot accurately, but heavier bows have more power. Always check the regulations in your hunting area.
- Bow Length: Longbows are typically 60 inches or longer. Longer bows often feel smoother to draw and are more forgiving. Shorter bows can be handier in thick brush.
- Grip Style: Some bows have a simple grip, while others have a more shaped handle. A comfortable grip helps you hold the bow steady.
- Arrow Shelf: This is where your arrow rests. Some have a simple shelf, while others have a rug or a built-in rest.
Important Materials
The materials used in a longbow affect its strength, weight, and how it performs.
Wood Construction
Many longbows use strong hardwoods like maple, hickory, or ash. These woods provide a good balance of power and flexibility. Some bows also use exotic woods for beauty and performance.
Fiberglass and Composite Layers
Modern longbows often add fiberglass or carbon layers to the wood. These layers make the bow stronger and more resistant to warping. They also help the bow shoot arrows faster and more consistently.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The way a longbow is made greatly impacts its quality.
Craftsmanship Matters
A well-made longbow feels good in your hand. Its limbs will flex smoothly and return quickly. Look for clean lines and a smooth finish. Poorly made bows can have rough spots or uneven flexing. This can hurt your accuracy.
String and Accessories
The bowstring is important. Modern bowstrings, like those made from Dacron or Fast Flight, are strong and durable. A good string makes the bow shoot better. Cheap strings can break or stretch, which affects performance.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a longbow for hunting is a rewarding experience.
The Hunting Experience
Hunting with a longbow demands focus and practice. You need to get closer to your target than with a modern compound bow. This makes the hunt more challenging and satisfying. It also requires you to understand animal behavior and wind conditions.
Practice Makes Perfect
Regular practice is key. You’ll learn to draw smoothly and shoot accurately. This builds muscle memory and confidence. Start with shorter distances and gradually increase them as you improve.
Types of Hunting
Longbows are great for hunting deer, turkey, and other medium-sized game. Their quiet operation is an advantage. They are also excellent for bowfishing. In some areas, they are the only legal archery equipment for certain hunts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hunting Longbows
Q: What is the best draw weight for a beginner hunting longbow?
A: For most adult beginners, a draw weight between 35 and 45 pounds is a good starting point. This allows you to practice without overexerting yourself, building good form. You can increase the weight as you get stronger.
Q: How long should a hunting longbow be?
A: A good length for a hunting longbow is usually between 60 and 68 inches. Longer bows are generally more stable and forgiving, while shorter bows can be more maneuverable in dense woods.
Q: What kind of arrows should I use with a longbow?
A: You’ll typically use wooden or carbon arrows with a longbow. The spine (stiffness) of the arrow needs to match your bow’s draw weight and your draw length for good flight. It’s best to consult with a bow shop or experienced archer for arrow selection.
Q: Are longbows difficult to shoot accurately?
A: Longbows require more practice than compound bows, but they are not overly difficult to shoot accurately. Good form, consistent draw, and regular practice are the keys to accuracy.
Q: What are the advantages of hunting with a longbow?
A: Advantages include a quiet shot, a more traditional and challenging hunting experience, and often simpler maintenance. They also connect you more directly to the hunt.
Q: Can I hunt large game with a longbow?
A: Yes, you can hunt large game with a longbow, but it requires a higher draw weight (50+ pounds), excellent accuracy, and knowing your effective range. Broadhead selection is also crucial.
Q: Do I need special accessories for a longbow?
A: While not strictly necessary, some helpful accessories include a bow stringer (for safely stringing the bow), a glove or tab for your shooting hand, and a quiver to hold your arrows.
Q: How do I maintain my longbow?
A: Keep the bow clean and dry. You should also wax the bowstring regularly. Store the bow unstrung in a cool, dry place.
Q: Where can I learn more about shooting a longbow?
A: Local archery clubs, experienced bowhunters, and online resources can provide valuable information and training.
Q: Is a longbow legal for hunting in all areas?
A: Regulations vary by state and sometimes even by hunting unit. Always check your local hunting regulations to ensure your equipment is legal.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.