Reflex/Deflex Longbow?

[Sildrugtanni]

Hey guys! I'm new to the forum here, but I've been hunting since I was around 9 years old (so about 10 years now). I've been bow hunting only for maybe 5 years, and in that time I haven't gotten a dear. I use a compound, but I am interested in getting myself a traditional bow and doing both. From what I've heard, a reflex/deflex longbow is the best of both worlds (recurve/longbow), but I have a question for you all: What the heck is a reflex/deflex longbow? I've been trying to gather information and I'm not really sure what one of those is. Thank you!

[burniegoeasily]

Reflex refers to the limbs bending away from the shooter at the tips, like a recurve. Reflex adds zip to the bow. Deflex is whenthe limb bending back towards the shooter just off the riser/handle. Deflex helps with hand shock resulting in a smoother bow. To put it in perspective, the limbs make a S shape.

Here is a reflex deflex. Its a mild reflex deflex design. There are all degrees of reflex and deflex that can be put into a bow.

[Kanga]

Kent.

Well said, described it to a T

[Sildrugtanni]

Thanks for the quick reply! I actually went to Cabela's the other day and had a chance to shoot both a recurve and what I now know was a reflex/deflex longbow. Both had a 55 pound draw (I could shoot them, but not hold it back for all that long, so I think 45-50 pounds would be better) and were a blast to shoot. I have to say my shooting was better with the recurve, but that's likely because I shot it second and had a little time to practice point and shoot.