If you find yourself in possession of an inherited left-handed bow when you know that you are right-handed, it can be a tricky situation. The answer is: while it might be possible to convert the bow from left-handed to right-handed, most archery experts recommend against it.
Since bows are manufactured differently for each hand type, a conversion process could mean losing some key features of the bow’s playability and accuracy.
It’s best to err on the side of caution and leave the bow alone or look into other options to get the right handed bow that best fits your needs.
How can you actually convert a bow?
Changing a left-handed bow to a right-handed one is possible, but it’s not always the best choice. It requires unstringing the bow and reversing the string to re-attach it in the opposite direction. You also need to make sure that all screws are properly tightened and that the limbs are secure when you attach them back on. Once complete, it’s important to test the bow for any irregularities before use. Making this switch can alter the dynamics of a bow and cause it to perform differently than a true right-handed bow, so you may want to think twice before making this change.
Depending on whether you are a righty or lefty, your bow will require slightly different components to make it tailored for you. The arrow rest will be located on the opposite side of the bow depending on your handedness, as well as the strings needing re-orientation accordingly. If you choose to equip your bow with a sight, it will be fixed to the appropriate side – either the right for left-handed bows, or vice versa for right-handed ones. Unfortunately, not all bows are manufactured with both a left and right-hand variant, due to much lower demand for lefty versions. However, there are some models out there that can cater to both types of archers!
So, as a precaution try visiting some archery shop near your area and make sure that the model you are trying to convert is actually compatible to conversion or not.
Popular types of bow for archery
1- Compound Bow
Compound bows are the more modern alternative to traditional recurve bows. Invented in late 1960s, a compound bow has an intricate system of cables and pulleys which requires more complicated techniques to use effectively. As a result, these powerful weapons can pack quite a punch, but may be too complex for novice archers or hunters who prefer simplicity of use. However, for those with patience and dedication for practice, compound bows offer clear advantages over recurve bows, such as greater accuracy over longer distances.
2- Cross Bow
Crossbows are one of the oldest types of bows known to man, originating in China and Europe around 500 – 700 BC and becoming the go-to bow for warriors looking to penetrate armor during battle. Crossbows have a short bow that is held horizontally and uses a crank and trigger mechanism. Its string can be locked until the moment you’re ready to pull it-and then you can let loose with laser-accurate precision.
Crossbows and bows use similar launch principles, but the primary difference between them lies in the draw-back method. Unlike a bow which demands physical strength and stamina to manually pitch the bowstring, release it with shoulder/back muscles and hold the same form for better aiming; a crossbow allows shooters to draw just by pulling the string into lock with minimal effort. This not only enables them to handle more draw weight without stressing out the body, but also to stay in aim much longer thus increasing accuracy significantly. In other words, thanks to its locking mechanism, a crossbow makes shooting more convenient than ever before!
3- Long Bow
The traditional longbow has been around for centuries, and is recognized as one of the most iconic pieces of hunting equipment. Its enduring appeal lies in its ease of use – the longer length requires great effort to draw back than a short recurve bow, allowing for greater accuracy and improved aim. Plus, modern longbows are designed with greater power and speed in mind, meaning you get greater performance from them than from a typical recurve bow.
4- Recurve Bow
A recurve bow is a great shape choice for archers looking for a versatile weapon. Its curved limbs are part of the reason that it stores more energy and delivers energy more efficiently, allowing you to use a shorter bow with greater arrow energy than would be possible with a straight-limbed bow. Recurve bows were particularly favored by archers who needed maneuverability in brush or forest settings, or while on horseback. Its efficiency and portability make recurve bows a great choice for anyone taking up archery as a sport or hobby!
What is difference between left and right handed bow.? What Handed Bow Do you Need?
It is important to pay attention to which hand is dominant when selecting a bow. A right handed person would need to select a right handed bow while a left handed person would require a left handed one.
This selection process ensures that when the archer pulls back on the bow string, they are using their dominate hand. The dominate hand is usually the same as the writing hand – typically right handed individuals pull back with their right and left handed people with their left.
Handedness is a crucial factor when it comes to bows and arrows. Generally speaking, right-handed shooters will draw the bowstring back with their right hand while holding the bow riser in their left, while the opposite is true for left-handed shooters.
Thus, when choosing a bow, you must note which side you’ll fire your arrows from so that you can determine what handedness of bow you’ll need.
Certain models of bows may even be considered ambidextrous if they have an ambidextrous riser – youth model bows are often this way – though some models are sold specifically as either a left- or a right-handed version.
Choosing the right bow for your handedness doesn’t have to be complicated. If you examine its composition more closely, you can easily determine if it’s suited to your dominant hand. One way to tell is by examining the arrow rest. Left-handed bows will typically have the arrow rest situated on the right side of the riser, while right-handed bows will have it on the left side. That small difference can make a big difference when you’re aiming, so be sure to give that aspect of your bow some careful consideration!
Pros And Cons Of Changing A Left-Handed Bow To Right
At first, it is an affordable and accessible conversion.
Furthermore, switching your bow to right-handed can make it easier to find compatible accessories such as rests and sights that may not be available in a left-handed option.
All in all, changing your bow from left-handed to right really could be worth considering if you’re in need of a new setup or are looking to upgrade what you have.
On the other side, changing the bow’s dynamics can have a significant effect on its performance and efficiency.
Additionally, without properly following safety procedures, attempting this alteration could lead to irrevocable damage to your bow.
Can A Left Handed Person Shoot A Right Handed Bow?
Although yes it is possible for a left handed person to shoot a right handed bow, they simply won’t be able to perform to their full potential as they are using the wrong eye and not their dominant hand.
Left eyed dominant archers should always use a left handed bow, this will ensure the most accurate shot every time.
When using a right handed bow they will feel uncomfortable because they are having to draw the string back with their non dominant hand.
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Hi, my name is Basit Ali Chaudhary. I am the guy behind Smart Bow Hunting. I started this blog as a way to share my passion for archery and bow hunting with the world. I love experimenting with new ventures and trying new things. Archery is my passion, and so is bow hunting.
I started this site as a way to share my knowledge and help people overcome the challenges of bow hunting. I want to teach them everything I know about the sport. You can read the comprehensive blog posts and articles that will provide you with everything you need to know to take your bow hunting skills to the next level.
