How did bow hunting remain part of archery after firearms became common?

After firearms displaced the bow as a primary military weapon in the 16th century, the bow was retained as a specialized tool for hunting. Rather than disappearing, archery transitioned into a recreational pursuit and a method for taking game, supported by the establishment of dedicated organizations.1

In the United States, the formalization of this practice grew significantly in the 20th century. The National Field Archery Association was established in 1939 specifically to promote hunting, roving, and field archery. Over time, technological advancements helped maintain the relevance of the bow in hunting. The development of the compound bow in the 1960s, which utilizes a system of cables and pulleys to make the bow easier to draw, increased its popularity for hunting and field archery. Today, bowhunting remains a recognized and regulated method for hunting game animals.123