Bow and Arrow: Definition, Types & Equipment

A bow and arrow is a ranged weapon system consisting of an elastic launching device — the bow — and long-shafted projectiles called arrows. Together they form one of the oldest tools in human history, used for hunting long before recorded history and as a weapon of war until firearms made them obsolete. Today, archery bow and arrow combinations are used almost exclusively for hunting and sport.

Key Terms to Know

The person who shoots arrows with a bow is called a bowman or an archer. Someone who crafts bows is a bowyer, one who makes arrows is a fletcher, and a craftsperson who manufactures metal arrowheads is an arrowsmith. Understanding this vocabulary is a useful starting point before diving into equipment selection — our archery equipment guide covers the full range of gear in detail.

Types of Bows and Arrows

Bows come in several distinct styles. Compound bows and crossbows are commonly chosen for hunting because of their mechanical advantage and power. Recurve and traditional bows are more typical in competition and target practice. Within each category, bows vary in draw weight, draw length, and brace height — all of which influence which arrows will perform correctly with a given setup.

Arrows are equally variable. Shaft material, length, tip weight, fletching style, and spine (the stiffness rating) all affect accuracy and distance. A heavier draw weight requires a stiffer arrow spine; a lighter draw weight pairs better with a more flexible shaft. Arrow length is measured from the back of the point to the throat of the nock.

Choosing the Right Setup

Matching bow and arrows to the shooter is more precise than it may appear. Draw length — calculated by dividing your wingspan by 2.5 — determines the correct arrow length and influences spine selection. Even a one-inch error in draw length can reduce accuracy or cause discomfort. Understanding how the bow's centerline and center shot alignment work helps explain why small equipment mismatches have outsized effects on arrow flight.

For hunters, a dedicated bowhunter setup differs meaningfully from a target or competition rig. If you are new to the sport, reviewing aiming techniques for archery alongside equipment selection will help you make better choices from the start.