ATA Bow Tech Bow Mechanics & Physics Flashcards

What is 'let-off' in a compound bow?

Answer: The percentage reduction in holding weight at full draw due to the cam system

Let-off is the reduction in draw weight a shooter holds at full draw, expressed as a percentage, provided by the cams.

What is the brace height of a bow?

Answer: The distance from the string to the deepest part of the grip at rest

Brace height is measured from the pivot point of the grip to the bowstring when the bow is at rest.

How does a shorter brace height generally affect bow performance compared to a longer brace height?

Answer: It increases arrow speed but reduces forgiveness

A shorter brace height means the string is in contact with the arrow longer, generating more speed but reducing the margin for shooter error.

What is the function of a bow's cam system?

Answer: To mechanically store energy during the draw and release it efficiently to the arrow

The cam system converts the shooter's draw force into stored potential energy and releases it as kinetic energy to propel the arrow.

What does IBO speed rating measure in a compound bow?

Answer: Arrow speed in fps under standardized conditions: 70 lb draw, 30-inch draw length, 350-grain arrow

IBO (International Bowhunting Organization) speed is a standardized benchmark allowing shooters to compare bows under identical conditions.

Which component is primarily responsible for transferring energy from the limbs to the bowstring in a compound bow?

Answer: The cables and cams

Cables connect the cams to the limbs and string, acting as the mechanical link that transmits stored limb energy to the string.