#10 on this list
Covert Hunter with HEX/CV Limbs
Border Archery
The Border Archery Covert Hunter with HEX/CV Limbs is the pick for the archer whose top priority is maximum performance and speed, without compromise. Hailing from Scotland, Border Archery has pioneered advanced limb technology, and their HEX and CV carbon limbs are renowned for delivering exceptional cast, a smooth draw, and minimal hand shock. This custom takedown recurve is engineered for efficiency and speed, often appealing to competitive shooters and hunters who demand every last foot per second. Construction centers around a meticulously machined riser, often with adjustable limb pockets for fine-tuning tiller and alignment, paired with their proprietary high-performance carbon limbs. The HEX and CV limb profiles are complex, designed to store energy efficiently and release it with incredible smoothness, resisting stacking even at longer draw lengths. Customization includes riser length, limb configuration, and specific draw weight. The trade-offs include a higher price tag due to the advanced materials and engineering, and lead times for these specialized components can be longer. The aesthetic is often more modern and technical than traditional wood bows, which might not appeal to all, but the performance is undeniably top-tier. **Highlights** * Maximum performance and arrow speed * Advanced HEX/CV carbon limb technology * Smooth draw and minimal hand shock * Machined riser with adjustable features * Exceptional energy efficiency and cast **Watch-outs** * Highest price point on this list * Modern, technical aesthetic may not suit all tastes * Lead times can be substantial for specialized limbs * Tuning can be more sensitive due to high performance
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#1 on this list
PSA Custom Recurve
Black Widow Bows
The Black Widow PSA Custom Recurve is for the archer who demands a proven, accurate, and robust takedown recurve that can be meticulously tailored. Since 1957, Black Widow has set a standard for custom traditional bows, and the PSA (Pistol Grip, Straight Riser, A-riser for longer limbs) continues that legacy. It's a workhorse that performs exceptionally well in hunting scenarios and on the range, known for its stability and repeatable shot. Construction typically involves a heavy, dense phenolic riser, often with exotic wood accents, providing significant mass for steady aiming. Limb core options, specific draw weight at your draw length, and grip customization ensure a fit unique to the shooter. The build quality is consistently high, ensuring durability and a timeless aesthetic. Trade-offs include the upfront cost and a potentially long waiting period, as these bows are highly sought after, but the resale market is strong. **Highlights** * Legendary accuracy and shootability * Heavy phenolic risers for stability * Customizable grip, draw weight, and wood options * Excellent build quality and durability * Strong resale value **Watch-outs** * Significant upfront investment * Lead times can extend many months * Heavier overall mass might not suit all archers
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Covert Hunter with HEX/CV Limbs | PSA Custom Recurve |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | Border Archery | — |
| Type | Takedown Recurve | — |
| Key Feature | HEX/CV Limb Technology | — |
| Focus | Maximum Performance & Speed | — |
| Origin | Scotland | USA-made |
| Aesthetic | Modern, Technical | — |
| Bow Type | — | Takedown Recurve |
| Riser Material | — | Phenolic, Exotic Wood Accents |
| Customization | — | Draw weight, Grip, Woods, Limb Cores |
| Typical Lead Time | — | Several months to over a year (confirm with bowyer) |
| Notable Feature | — | Exceptional Stability and Accuracy |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Covert Hunter with HEX/CV Limbs
- Unmatched arrow speed and energy efficiency
- Exceptionally smooth draw cycle with minimal stacking
- Superb accuracy and consistent shot placement
- Minimal hand shock for a high-performance bow
- Highly customizable to individual archer's needs
- High price point due to advanced materials and engineering
- Modern, technical aesthetic not suitable for all tastes
- Longer lead times for specialized limbs and custom work
- Can be more sensitive to tuning adjustments
PSA Custom Recurve
- Unmatched stability and shot consistency from heavy phenolic riser
- Extensive customization for draw weight, grip, and aesthetics
- Legendary durability and build quality for long-term use
- Excellent real-world accuracy and shot forgiveness
- Strong resale value in the traditional archery market
- Significant initial investment and long lead times
- Heavier overall mass might not suit all archers
- Requires proper care like any high-performance wood bow
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.