Parts of the Bow
Compound bow
A device used for modern archery that differs from classic bows like the recurve and long bow. Made up of several parts that allow for easier and more accurate shooting.
Bow Sight
Viewed through the peep sight, it is a plastic housing of pins that give the user a tool when attempting to aim the arrow. Pins are aligned with the spot on that target that you want the arrow to hit.
Cams
A pulley system that allows the user to have a mechanical advantage when drawing the bow. Because of their shape, it creates a certain amount of let off after pulling the bow back to a certain point.
Limbs
The part of the bow that stores the energy when the string is drawn back. They attach to the bow at the end of the riser and contain the cams at their end.
Release
A mechanical release mechanism that is used to pull the bow string back. They often have a trigger for precise firing and a wrist strap to transfer the weight to your arm.
Riser
The riser is the main part of the bow. It is the central point for all attachments and is typically made out of an aluminum alloy or carbon fiber. It contains parts like the bow's sight and arrow rest.
Nock
The nock is a plastic piece found past the fletching that is used to clip the arrow to the bow string. The clip is tight enough that the arrow won't fall if the bow is moved but weak enough that it releases when the bow is fired.
Arrow Rest
The arrow rest is a simple mount that holds the arrow when preparing to fire. It allows the user to free their gripping hand instead of using their finger to secure its place.
Fletching
Fletching is the fin like objects found at the end of an arrow. It is the device used to stabilize the arrow through its flight and keep its flying straight and even. Today, most fletching is made of a thin plastic.
Stabilizer
The stabilizer is a weighted mount that attaches to the front of the riser. It is used to keep the bow in balance helps guide the bow into an up right position. It often helps with accuracy.