Left-handed archers live in a right-handed world. Frankly speaking however, we all do- the fact isn’t something that is confined to just archery. Statistically, 10 to 15 percent of the population is left-handed, and so, naturally products are primarily catered to this vast majority. In archery, the way you shoot should pertain to eye dominance, rather than hand preference. Unfortunately, right-handed dominance can make life difficult when lefties go shopping for a left-handed bow and related equipment.
Here are five things left-handed archers should keep in mind while browsing for equipment:
1. Fun fact? All manufacturers make right- and left-handed models. But your local shop may not have the bow you need in its proper size, draw length and draw weight- especially if you are left handed, but you can most certainly find a plethora of products online that are build to suit your requirements- keep reading to find out more on our picks for the best left-handed hunting and target bow.
2. Release aids for compound shooters all can be used by right- and left-handed shooters. Some simply swivel into position for use either way, while others require minor adjustments with tools to complete the switch. They are mostly manufactured and packaged to suit a right-handed person’s needs, but fret not- a quick tutorial on YouTube can help you adjust the model to your requirements. Be sure to check the packaging instructions as well- that can help you out as well!
3. Some sights are made for right-handed or left-handed archers, while others are ambidextrous. That is, you can set up one sight for either left- or right-handed use. Be aware, however, this usually means the sight amenities will be “upside down” for lefties. For example, the normal configuration for most sights is to have the level on the bottom of the sight guard, and the light shining down from the top. Ambidextrous sights will be set that way for right-handed shooters. When set up for lefties, however, such sights typically have the level on the top and the light on the bottom.
4. Be prepared to special order a lot of your gear. Many pro shops simply don’t keep on hand the same selection of left-handed equipment as they do right-handed – especially the high-end, high-dollar gear. They’ll tell you they can get what you want, but you have to special order it.
5. Bowhunters often will find tree stands, stick ladders and other gear set by the manufacturer for right-handed archers. For example, ratchet straps often are connected to tree stands at the factory so that they must be tightened with your right hand. Usually, you can switch these straps at home for left-handed use.
That being said, here is our pick for Best Hunting and Target Bow on the market.
Southwest Archery Spyder Takedown Recurve Bow
- The Southwest Archery Spyder Takedown Recurve Bow is a compact, fast and accurate 62″ Hunting & Target Bow – made to suit both left and right-handed archers. Designed by the engineers and developers of the original Samick Sage, the bow is made of four naturally sourced woods to create a bow that is not only functional but also does not compromise on aesthetic value as well.
- The bow is really solid, it has a great feel to it, and this comes with all the essential parts of a bow. Limbs, riser, an arrow rest, and the string, (also a stringer tool if you buy that…and if this is your first bow, you will need one). The bow itself is accurate, provided that you have a good stance and are practicing proper draw methods.
- Available in both Left Hand and Right Hand with draw weights of 20 lb – 60 lb 5 lb increments. Features include preinstalled threaded bushings for various accessory upgrades such as mechanical rests/plungers’ sights quivers and stabilizers/bow fishing reels. The draw length on this bow is 28 inches. Most re-curves have a draw length of 28 inches. All that means is that when you pull the string back 28 inches, the amount of force behind the arrow will be the draw weight of the limbs. So if you buy the bow with 25 lb weight limbs, at 28 inches you’ll be pulling back 25 lbs. If your draw weight is a little longer or shorter, you’ll either be adding or subtracting (approximately 2.5 lbs/inch) from the weight of the bow (respectively).
- Reinforced limb tips allow bow to be Fast Flight and Flemish string compatible. Perfect for hunting deer, bow-fishing or target practice.
- What does the kit include? One handcrafted riser LH or RH one pair of matching limbs upper and lower one 14 strand Dacron string one stick on adhesive arrow rest and detailed step by step instructions with photos.
- If you do not already own a stringer tool please select the option to have one included color may vary. Keep in mind that using a stringer tool is the ONLY safe way to properly assemble and disassemble your bow! Various kits offer arrows, cases, and full package for adults, youth, and kids.
- The extraordinary quality comes at an affordable price and is backed with an industry leading warranty. All Southwest Archery bows include a 1-year manufacturer warranty when registered online after purchase!
Are you looking to purchase products catering to the left-handed and unsure where to start? Continue reading our compiled reviews of tried and trusted products made especially for the left-handed, from the Best Archery Bow for the left-handed to sports equipment perfect for every game, we are your one-stop for all All Things Left-Handed.