Which type of bow has limbs that curve away from the belly of the bow?

A recurve bow is identified by its distinctive design where the limbs curve away from the belly or grip of the bow. This design allows the bow to store energy more efficiently when drawn, resulting in increased speed and power upon release of the arrow. The curvature helps to create a longer effective length, contributing to better performance and the ability to shoot arrows with greater velocity compared to straight-limbed bows.

The construction of a recurve bow is specifically engineered to enhance its performance in archery. The limbs not only provide a unique aesthetic appeal but also improve the bow's efficiency, allowing archers to shoot with a lighter draw weight while still achieving significant arrow speed. This feature is particularly beneficial for archers looking for a compact and powerful option for various shooting scenarios.

In contrast, the other types of bows have different limb configurations. A compound bow utilizes a set of pulleys and cams to reduce the effort needed to hold the string at full draw, while a crossbow has a horizontal bow mounted on a stock, and a longbow features straight limbs that do not curve away from the bow's belly. Each of these designs serves specific purposes and functionality, but the defining characteristic of the recurve bow lies in its unique limb curvature, enhancing maneuverability and