The type of bow that has straight limbs that form an arc when strung is called a longbow. The longbow is characterized by its long, nearly straight limbs which bend into a smooth arc when the bow is strung. This type represents a simple, traditional design used historically and by those interested in traditional archery with minimal additional equipment.
Bow Types and Limb Shapes
- Longbow: Straight limbs that curve into an arc when strung; traditional, simple design.
- Recurve Bow: Limbs curve away from the archer at the tips when strung.
- Compound Bow: Uses cables and pulleys; limbs are stiffer and not simply straight.
- Crossbow: Horizontal bow mounted on a stock, different limb configuration.
Thus, the defining feature of the longbow is its straight limbs forming an arc when strung.
