Which of the following bow types is known for its simplicity and traditional design?

The longbow is recognized for its simplicity and traditional design, which have remained largely unchanged for centuries. It typically consists of a single, straight limb made from a piece of wood, with very few additional components. This straightforward construction not only makes it easy to manufacture and maintain but also allows for a more direct connection between the archer and the bow, resulting in a more instinctive shooting experience. The longbow is often associated with historical archery practices and is celebrated for its use by medieval archers, further enhancing its reputation as a classic and user-friendly archery option.

The recurve bow, while also traditional, features curved limbs that add complexity in terms of design and performance characteristics. Compound bows are highly engineered with multiple components such as pulleys and cams, which dramatically change the shooting dynamics compared to simpler bows. Crossbows, on the other hand, function like firearms and are designed quite differently, incorporating mechanisms for ease of use that diverge from traditional bow designs.