Archery Equipment: Bows, Arrows & Gear Explained

Archery equipment covers everything a shooter needs to get on the line — from the bow and arrows to protective gear, carrying cases, and tuning accessories. Understanding what each piece does helps you buy with confidence, whether you're starting out or restocking for a new season.

Bow Types and What They Require

Bows fall into several distinct categories. The recurve bow is the style used at the Olympic Games. The compound bow uses a cam-and-cable system that reduces holding weight at full draw — a property called let-off — with cams controlling the string to reach peak draw weight early in the draw cycle and then reducing it significantly by full draw. A barebow is mechanically the same as a recurve but is shot without a sight or stabiliser. Each type calls for slightly different supporting archery supplies. See our overview of bow and arrow types for a full breakdown, or dive into the recurve bow glossary entry for recurve-specific detail.

Arrows: Spine and Key Components

Arrows are made from aluminium, carbon fibre, or a combination of both, and are manufactured to close tolerances so each arrow in a set is closely matched in weight and size. The critical variable is spine — a measure of shaft stiffness. Easton's spine numbering works inversely: the lower the number, the stiffer the arrow, so a 330-spine shaft is stiffer than a 500-spine shaft. The more powerful the bow, the stiffer the spine required. Arrows also need the correct nock type to seat properly on the bowstring, and the right fletching to stabilise flight in the air. Matching these components to your bow's draw weight is the foundation of consistent shooting.

Protective and Carrying Gear

A complete archery supplies kit extends well beyond the bow and arrow:

• Arm guards — protect the forearm from string contact on release
• Finger tabs — cushion the draw fingers on a recurve or barebow; see our finger tab sizing guide for fit guidance
• Archery backpacks and trolley cases — purpose-built to transport bows, arrows, and accessories safely to the range or field
• Dampers — reduce vibration in the riser and limbs after the shot

Buying Archery Equipment Online at Legend Archery

Founded in 1999, Legend Archery stocks archery equipment for sale covering hunting, target practice, and competition. Every product carries a 1-year guarantee against manufacturing defects, and purchases are backed by a money-back guarantee. Payment is accepted via PayPal or Checkout, making it simple to buy archery equipment online at competitive prices. Browse the full range to find the right gear for your bow type, discipline, and budget.