Early bows had a fairly basic shape and were made of carved or flat planes of wood. The Recurve Bow took physics to the next level by utilizing composite materials and a unique double-rounded shape. The additional curves store more energy than an equivalent straight-limbed bow, potentially giving a greater amount of cast to the arrow. Such a design permits a shorter, compact bow - ideal for archers on horseback or traveling through thick forest terrain. Grooves on upper and lower limbs allow you to actually string the Recurve Bow using fishing line or thread.