This may be a stupid question to some but here goes.  I see references to static bows.  What exactly is a static bow?

I am not an expert but my understanding is that a static bow has recurved tips that do not bend when the bow is drawn unlike a recurve bow where the recurve will straighten out.  The tips of a static bow are considered nonworking where the tips of a recurve bow are considered working. I am sure that someone with more knowledge will respond with a better answer.

We need Kirk or Sixby, stat!!  LOL.

Yup the curve stays put and the work is being done mid limb so they build weight early and then smooth out.  Each limb kinda acts like an 'atlatl' in a way if you know what I'm talking about.  Helps keep string angle low and smoothness factor high and late in the draw.  Think of it as a more extreme version of a longbow with 'flipped' tips.  Statics tend to feel more like longbows on the draw, but smoother whereas working recurves kinda have that 'dip' feel to em as the tips uncurl late in the draw.  I'm a self professed 'longbow guy' and I love static curves.  Bout to take delivery of one today and one later this week to try out.  Statics are capable of some incredible zip all the while remaining near as quiet as a longbow.

First off it is not the bow that is static. That would be a walking stick. d;^)   On a static recurve the recurves remain static(stiff) as the bow is drawn acting like levers similar to the levers on an Asiatic Horn Bow. On a working recurve the recurves open up as the bow is drawn lengthening the working portion of the limb. Many straight limbed bows also have static tips(usually the last 6" to 8") but it is not as noticeable as with recurves.

Do a search Bigfoot, RER there two of the best.

Ii for one love the static recurve, easy to get quiet, and very snappy to me at my lower poundages.

I'm taking delivery of (2) in May:

RER Take Down and an RER Retro (1) Piece curve...

Not a stupid question, now I know too.

The only stupid questions are the ones not asked!

Have always adamantly preferred 62"rs over 60"rs.

The 60" static tip Dryad easily provides the 62" smoothness, draw and stability. Actually am fortunate to own a 62" Dryad Static tip. This bow provides the most pleasurable experience, yet the 60"r fits precisely w/I my own hunting desired ideals.

i've got a static tip long bow 54" and a static tip recurve 54"..the these tips make the arrow accelerate  as the string gets closer to brace height,also uses a bit longer of a string and there fore reduces finger pinch somewhat..i really enjoy them.my longbow was made by jim mckenzie in karluk alaska and my recurve is a texas recurve Comanche.both around 70@28.

Just unpacked my new 60" Cari-bow Tuktu EX, braced it and took a few shots and I must say, it is everything I hoped it would be.  One of the finest recurve bows I have ever had in my hands.  Full review will come in short time  

QuoteOriginally posted by Pat B:
First off it is not the bow that is static. That would be a walking stick. d;^)   On a static recurve the recurves remain static(stiff) as the bow is drawn acting like levers similar to the levers on an Asiatic Horn Bow. On a working recurve the recurves open up as the bow is drawn lengthening the working portion of the limb. Many straight limbed bows also have static tips(usually the last 6" to 8") but it is not as noticeable as with recurves.

You don't need my input... Pat's explanation here  nails it.  

Thanks for the education everyone.  It's funny just when you think your the only one that's has a question about something, others have the same question   As they say the only dumb question is the one that doesn't get asked

Got a Toelke Super Static coming today