Differences between a Classic (recurve) Crossbow and a Compound Crossbow

Power, precision, design and especially very different use, the crossbow has evolved significantly since medieval battlefields!

Today, even though there are different categories of crossbows, two major families share the market: the traditional crossbow (or recurve) and the compound crossbow (or compound).

While they share the same warlike origin, they do not offer the same shooting experience at all.

In this article, Hattila, your crossbow specialist, helps you see more clearly!

The traditional crossbow: authenticity, simplicity and reliability

The traditional crossbow appeals particularly for its simple and effective mechanics.

Mounted on a stock, the curved limbs of its classic bow - hence its name - store energy during cocking without using pulleys or cables.
You then cock a single string to the safety mechanism which is then released, aim and pull the trigger!

The advantages of a traditional crossbow

- Easy maintenance and low wear on parts: unlike compound crossbows, there is only one string to maintain and not a complete set of string+cables. Its replacement can be done very simply with a false string when it is necessary to use a press for compound crossbows. The price of a single string is also obviously less expensive than that of a complete set.

- Natural and smooth shooting sensation
 

- Ideal for beginners and recreational shooting: these are also often less powerful crossbow models (and therefore easier to cock by hand), less expensive and therefore more easily accessible to all those who wish to discover the world of crossbows.

- Often lighter crossbows: recurve bows are lighter than compound bows. Traditional crossbows will therefore be lighter at arm's length than compound crossbows.
Note, however, that their span will generally be larger: recurve bows are wider than compound bows.

- A traditional look: enthusiasts will appreciate the more authentic look of these crossbows which can sometimes also be equipped with a wooden stock.

The compound crossbow: power, precision and technology

The compound crossbow is the high-tech version of the crossbow. Its differentiating element: the bow that is mounted on the body.

Indeed, rather than a classic bow, it is a compound bow that is installed. Thanks to its cam and cable system, these crossbows make it possible to obtain more power, more speed, more energy stored and released for less effort than with a recurve crossbow!

During cocking, the cables are driven by the pulleys, allowing a multiplication of power. Easy!

The advantages of the compound crossbow:

- High power and shooting speed: the shot is then flatter, accuracy on target is better - especially at longer distances.

- Reduced cocking effort at the end of the stroke: that's the "let-off" effect. When passing the peak of the cams, the pulleys tilt and it then becomes easier to complete the cocking. Be careful though: compound crossbows are generally powerful crossbows and the effort to provide at the start remains significant. The use of a crank cocking device is highly recommended with these crossbows.

- Innovative and compact design: we are indeed further removed in terms of look from the medieval crossbow than that of the traditional crossbow! These crossbows are also, by the shape of the bow, more compact and stocky than a recurve crossbow.

- Equipment: compound crossbows being generally more efficient than recurve crossbows, they are also often equipped as standard with slightly higher quality accessories, particularly the sighting system. Of course, the counterpart remains the price which is generally higher than that of a traditional crossbow.

Power and precision: which wins?

Compound crossbows are definitely faster and more powerful than traditional crossbows.

They are formidable weapons for precision shooting - particularly at long distances - or for hunting as is the case for example in North America.

It is no longer rare to find excellent compound crossbows on the market such as the EK Archery HEX 400, a very affordable compound crossbow, shooting bolts at a power of 210 pounds for an output speed of 400 FPS.
Of course, among the most well-known and prestigious compound crossbow brands, we will find Barnett, Ravin, CenterPoint or TenPoint.

However, it should be noted that the Excalibur brand, THE specialist brand in high-end traditional crossbows, has been able to design and produce incredible traditional crossbows capable of rivaling the best compound crossbows.

Which crossbow to choose?

Sometimes a simple table is more telling than a nice text! Here's a little recap made by Hattila!

In conclusion

Whether you're curious about the discipline, prefer the purity of shooting a traditional crossbow or the power of a compound crossbow, the essential thing is to choose a model suited to your needs and your shooting style and of course your budget.

Whatever model you choose, basic maintenance will remain to be applied such as waxing the string and lubricating the rail.

Beyond the crossbow, also think about where you will practice, the safety device you will set up and of course, the target you will use (which must be adapted to the power and speed of your crossbow).

At Hattila, we test and select for you the best crossbows on the market, for all levels and all budgets, you will surely find what you're looking for in our catalog!

(We also remind that there are currently many crossbow models to choose from according to your needs. But all are classified in category D2H of edged weapons according to the law. And, the use and sale of these weapons are governed by decree No. 2013-700 of 30.07.2013 implemented on 06.09.2013.)