A compound bow is a specialized bow used in archery that uses a levering system of cams and pulleys to increase the efficiency of the user. This levering system stores energy and, when released, delivers it in a controlled, powerful and accurate way. Understanding the basics of how a compound bow cam works can help archers maximize the effectiveness of their bow and shots.
Table of Contents
What is a Cam?
A cam is a rotating piece of metal that follows an elliptical path and helps shape the curve of the bowstring. This shape, called a “force-draw curve” helps control the release of the arrow. As you draw the bowstring back, the cams rotate and the center of the cams move back. This helps generate the force providing more fluid motion and more stored energy.
Counter Cam Varieties
Compound bows are designed with two cams, the top cam and a bottom cam. The top cam’s movement is controlled by the top limb of the bow and the bottom cam is controlled by the bottom limb. The two cams can also be of different varieties. There can be a single cam, hybrid cam, binary cam or an adjustable cam. Each type offers advantages and disadvantages depending on the shooting style of the archer.
Associated Components
Aside from the cams, other components are associated with a compound bow. These include the:
- Bowstring: The stretched string attached to the tips of the bow and the nocking point.
- Nocking Point: The point on the bowstring at which the arrow’s nock is attached to.
- Bow Sight: An adjustable device used to line up shots more precisely.
- Bow Stabilizer: An adjustable device to counterbalance the bow and reduce vibration.
- Arrow Rest: The point at which the arrow is placed before firing.
How does the Compound Bow Cam System Work?
The compound bow cam system works by using the four components listed above and the cams to generate power and tension when the bowstring is drawn. As the bowstring is drawn, the cams rotate and move back creating a force-draw curve. This curve, in combination with the tension of the bowstring, helps generate power. When the bowstring is released, the stored power is transferred to the arrow and released.
Understanding how the compound bow cam and its associated components work is important for archers in order to maximize their bow’s efficiency and accuracy. By taking time to practice with the bow and understand the basics, an archer can have a greater success rate in the field. With practice and insight, the compound bow cam system can be used to launch arrows with precision and power.
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Last update 2021-01-05. Price and product availability may change.