What Are the Parts of a Compound Bow? Anatomy Explained

Compound bows appeal to most marksmen because of their impressive accuracy and modern mechanical innovations to archery. Understanding the anatomy of a compound bow can significantly help you learn how it works.

Each of the intricate components contributes to the precise performance you’d expect from using a compound bow. Keep reading to learn all about the smaller parts that work together to create one of the most thrilling experiences in archery!

Compound bows may look intimidating at first. Compared to other types of bows, they are made up of a lot more intricate parts. Discover the different parts of a compound bow:

Compound bows have four main sections: the riser, axles, cams, and limbs. Each of these sections has more technical or smaller parts we’ll cover further in the guide.

• Riser: The riser is the central part of the bow that connects the limbs and provides a place to grip. It's usually made of a strong material like aluminum and is the foundation of the bow.

• Axles: These are the pivot points on which the cams rotate. They help the bowstring and limbs achieve a smooth motion.

• Cams: These resemble wheels and are at the end of each limb. They help multiply the force, which allows the archer to hold the full draw weight more easily.

• Limbs: The limbs are the flexible, almost horizontal parts attached to the riser. They store the energy when the bow is drawn and release it when shot.

• Sight: A device that helps the archer aim. It often includes pins or a scope to align the target.

• Quiver: The quiver attaches to the riser and holds arrows, keeping them handy for the shooter.

• Stabilizer: A stabilizer is a weighted device that reduces bow vibration and helps to balance the bow during a shot.

• Sling: A sling is a strap or cord that wraps around the wrist or fingers: allowing the archer to release the grip upon release without dropping the bow.

• Cables: These work with the cams to flex the limbs. They also store and transfer energy during the draw and release of the bow.

• Bowstring: The bowstring is the part that the archer draws back and releases to propel the arrow forward.

• D-Loop: A d-loop is a small loop that’s tied into the bowstring, where the release aid is attached. This loop ensures a consistent drawing position.

• Peep Sight: The peep sight is a small ring inserted into the bowstring that provides an additional aiming reference point in line with the bow sight.

• Speed Nock: Speed nocks are small devices that are attached to the bowstring to increase speed and decrease vibrations.

• Limb Bolts: These connect the limbs to the riser and can often adjust to alter the bow’s draw weight.

• Cable Slide: Cable slides keep the cables apart and allow them to move smoothly as the bow is drawn and released.

• Cable Guard: This is a rod that helps to keep the cables away from the path of the arrow, preventing any interference during the shot.

• Arrow Rest: This rest holds the arrow in place, allowing it to be shot consistently.

• Arrow Shelf: An arrow shelf is a small ledge or area above the grip where the arrow can rest while you aim.

• Grip: The grip is where the archer holds the bow. It’s designed for comfort and control during shooting.

There are four essential components of a compound bow, which include the riser, axles, cams, and limbs.

The riser is the vertical centerpiece of a compound bow and is where the archer holds the bow. It is also the mounting point for various accessories: the sight, arrow rest, grip, stabilizer, and quiver.

• Its design can vary, with some risers curving inward or outward.

• Typically, risers are crafted from materials like carbon or aluminum.

• Depending on the specific design of the bow, the riser can be long or short.

• The riser is essential as it serves as the attachment point for the bow's limbs.

The axles play a significant role in a compound bow’s operation and performance. They resemble a pulley-like system that serves as the pivot points on which the cams turn.

• The distance between the axles can influence the overall feel of the bow.

• Axle-to-axle measurement, taken from the center of one cam to the other, is a key specification.

• Longer axle-to-axle distances result in a smooth, slow draw, while shorter distances yield faster draws.

• The axle-to-axle distance becomes particularly important when taking long-distance shots.

Cams (often referred to as the ‘engine’ of the bow) are pivotal in the functioning of a compound bow. They enable the archer to sustain the full draw weight at a reduced effort level — typically around 70-80% of the full draw weight.

• Cams are connected to the axles and resemble aluminum wheels or discs.

• Most bows feature two cams, although different configurations are possible.

• Cams are instrumental in lessening the force needed when drawing back the bow.

Limbs (the flexible arms of the bow) help to transfer energy during a shot. The transferred energy goes to the cams, bowstring, and arrow to propel the arrow forward.

• They are connected to the riser and flex inwards during the draw, returning to their original position upon release.

• Limbs are typically made from durable materials such as carbon and fiberglass.

• Bows may feature a single limb or split limb design, each offering unique performance characteristics.

The compound bow boasts a range of attachments that enhance its functionality. These include the sight, quiver, stabilizer, and sling.

The sight is a key part of a compound bow that aids in aiming the arrow at the target. Some sights are fixed, while others offer adjustability for enhanced precision. All sights attach to a bar that connects to the riser of the bow.

The quiver serves as a holder for extra arrows. They provide easy access during shooting. Conveniently mount them directly to the riser of the bow.

The stabilizer is an essential add-on to your bow that significantly contributes to the quality of your shooting. They dampen the vibrations, give you a smoother shot, and enhance accuracy.

• They attach directly to the bow's riser via a screwing mechanism.

• It connects to the bow through a universally sized threaded hole (known as the stabilizer mount, which is located in the riser).

The wrist sling provides an added layer of security during shooting. They are a common accessory in archery. Mount them between the riser and the stabilizer to achieve a secure connection. The sling holds your bow in place and prevents it from falling should you lose your grip.

The compound bow relies on a series of interconnected string components for precision and power. These include the cables, bowstring, D-loop, peep sight, and speed nock. 

Cables are vital parts of a compound bow that contribute significantly to its functionality. But don’t confuse cables with bowstrings! They serve a distinct role in the compound bow's operation.

• Cables traverse from one cam to the other via the cable slide — facilitating seamless operation.

• They are specifically designed to avoid any interaction with the arrow to ensure an unobstructed shot.

• Replace cables periodically following the manufacturer's instructions to maintain the best performance possible.

The bowstring is one of the most easily identifiable parts of a bow. It’s the main mechanism for launching the arrow forward by utilizing the energy accumulated during the draw.

The D-loop (also known as the string loop) serves as the junction where the arrow's nock connects to the string. It's the point where the archer attaches the release aid to the bowstring. The D-loop should always maintain its position since any shift can influence accuracy.

The peep sight — a small yet significant accessory on your bow — assists in achieving accurate aim. It’s strategically positioned amidst the strands of the bowstring, acting as a reference point for your aim.

• This tiny disc is interwoven onto the bowstring and functions like a viewing hole when the bow is fully drawn.

• For a precise aim, align the peep sight with the bow sight to create a clear line of sight to your target.

• Peep sights come in a range of sizes. Some hunters opt for larger variants to enhance target visibility: especially under low-light conditions.

Speed nocks are compact, influential additions to your bow. They can significantly boost your shooting prowess. Affix these diminutive weights to the compound bow’s bowstring to minimize oscillation.

• Their effect on oscillation can lead to increased arrow speeds, thus amplifying the bow's power.

• For enhanced durability and performance, speed nocks are usually encased in rubber.

On a compound bow, several functional parts can be fine-tuned for optimal performance. These include the limb bolts, cable slide, cable guard, arrow rest, arrow shelf, and grip.

Limb bolts are the connectors that secure the limbs to the bow and offer adjustability and control over the bow's performance.

• They are adjustable and allow for customization of the bow's performance.

• Tightening the limb bolts increases the bow’s draw weight poundage. Loosening them decreases it.

Cable slides prevent your bow’s cables from coming into contact with each other when you draw the bow. Roller guards serve a similar purpose: ensuring smooth and safe bow operation.

The cable guard ensures a clear path for the arrow's flight. As the name suggests, it creates a clear path for the arrow. This component runs perpendicular to the bow's riser — maintaining a specific alignment.

A cable guard keeps the bow's cable out of the arrow's path, ensuring a smooth and unobstructed shot. It can be used in conjunction with rollers or slides for enhanced performance.

The arrow rest holds the arrow in place during the draw cycle and is available in two types: drop-away rests and whisker biscuits. Both types of arrow rests mount directly to the riser of the bow.

• A drop-away rest securely cradles the arrow during the draw cycle, then cleverly drops out of the path upon release — facilitating a clean and unobstructed shot.

• Whisker biscuits employ a system of bristles that grip the arrow shaft — ensuring stable positioning throughout the draw and release phases.

The arrow shelf gives a resting point for the arrow. The arrow shelf extends from the riser (typically around the midpoint).

The grip is what you wrap your hand around. You’ll typically hold it with your non-dominant hand. This component offers you control and stability.

• Some grips are designed to overlay the riser, while others are intricately machined into the riser itself. Certain models even offer the flexibility of interchangeable grips.

• Grips can be made from various materials — including wood, plastic, and metal.

• Maintain a consistent grip position from the moment you draw to the point of release. A relaxed, neutral grip is key to ensuring accuracy and control.

Ready to hunt some game or start practicing with a compound bow? Academy offers a wide selection of compound bows + accessories that can help you achieve the perfect setup. So have fun out there!