Which type of bow has straight limbs that form an arc when strung?

The longbow is characterized by its long, straight limbs that do not curve away from the bow handle when unstrung. When the longbow is strung, however, the limbs bend slightly in an arc shape, which allows it to store energy when drawn. This design enables a smooth release of energy upon firing, contributing to its effectiveness. Longbows are traditionally made from a single piece of wood and are known for their simplicity and the potential for long-range shooting.

In contrast, the recurve bow has limbs that curve away from the archer when unstrung and also curve back towards the archer when strung, which gives it its distinctive shape. The compound bow features a system of pulleys and cams, leading to a different limb structure and handling characteristics. The crossbow, while it can have limbs similar in function to those of bows, operates quite differently in terms of shooting mechanics and is typically positioned horizontally rather than being drawn like a vertical bow.