Bow Handle: Parts, Materials & Grip Technique

The bow handle, also called the riser, is the central structural section of a bow. It connects both limbs into a single unit and serves as the mounting point for accessories. The archer holds the bow at the bow handle during the shot.

Materials Used for Bow Handles

Bow handles are manufactured in three common materials, each with distinct trade-offs:

• Wood: Traditional and relatively inexpensive, with some scope for customization. Wooden handles tend to be heavier and less durable than modern alternatives.
• Aluminum: Lightweight, durable, and stable. Aluminum bow handles accept a range of color finishes and are a mid-to-upper price option for most archers.
• Carbon fiber: The lightest and stiffest option, offering excellent stability and accuracy. Carbon fiber handles are also the most expensive.

Key Components of the Bow Handle

Grip Section

The grip is where the archer's hand contacts the bow handle. A well-designed grip promotes consistent hand placement and proper form. Many grips are covered in leather or rubber to reduce slipping and absorb shock at the shot. Proper archery grip technique places pressure on the meaty pad of the thumb rather than across the full palm — this minimizes bow torque, the side-to-side twist of the riser that sends arrows left or right. For a deeper look at grip styles and wrist positions, see our full archery grip types, styles, and technique guide. A related issue to understand is the heel technique in archery, where pressure shifts to the heel of the hand and commonly causes arrows to hit high.

Arrow Rest

The arrow rest is a small shelf or platform mounted on the bow handle where the arrow sits before release. It guides the arrow consistently through the shot. Common types include full-capture rests and drop-away rests, each affecting shot accuracy and consistency differently. You can also explore the related concept of the arrow shelf, the built-in ledge found on some risers.

Sight

A bow sight attaches to the bow handle and helps the archer aim. Sights may feature one or more pins or dots that the archer aligns with the target, and most are adjustable for distance and windage. Sights are commonly made from aluminum or carbon fiber.

Stabilizers

Stabilizers are weighted rods that attach to the bow handle to balance the bow and reduce vibration transferred to the archer's hand at release. They can be adjusted in length and weight, and their position on the handle affects the bow's overall balance, helping the archer hold steadier and reduce fatigue over a shooting session.

Riser geometry also influences bow behavior: a bow backset (reflex or deflex angle) affects brace height and how forgiving the bow feels. If you are researching handle materials, Micarta is one traditional grip material worth understanding.