From Archery 360

Learning which bow is right for you, and correctly choosing your first bow, may require a little assistance. We encourage you to ask your local archery store for help. They can answer all of your questions AND get you shooting successfully right away!
RECURVE BOWS

Recurve bows are the only bows the Olympics allow. Many archers also shoot recurve bows in field archery and 3D archery, and when bowhunting with higher poundage bows.
COMPOUND BOWS

Compound bows are known for their widespread use in field and 3D archery, and bowhunting. Many archers also shoot compounds in target archery.
Learn more about Compound Bows.
TRADITIONAL BOWS

Archers shoot traditional bows in all major types of archery. You’ll see traditional bows in target archery, field archery, and 3D archery, and some will use them for bowhunting at higher draw weights.
Learn more about Traditional Bows.
CROSSBOWS

A crossbow is a modified bow and arrow and are commonly used in target, field, 3D archery as well as bowhunting. Crossbows are highly accurate and have a longer firing range than most other bow types.