Adjustable Handle and Grip for Archery Bow

Abstract

An inventive handle and grip design for a bow allows an archer to adjust the lateral plane of his hand relative to the longitudinal and lateral axes of a bow. This allows the hand to be held in a generally parallel position with the longitudinal axis of the bow, in a generally parallel position with the lateral axis of the bow, or anywhere in the 360° rotation defined by those two axes. The outer portion of the handle can be cylindrical in shape, and the grip of the handle is able to rotate inside the outer portion, either independently, or as a part of an inner cylinder that rotates inside the outer portion of the handle. The rotation can be freely rotating or can be fixed temporarily using optional fixing means. Optionally, the grip itself may further move or rotate, and may be freely moving or temporarily fixed using optional fixing means. The handle and grip may be incorporated into the structure of the bow, or may exist as a separate, interchangeable part.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/662,406, filed Jun. 21, 2012, entitled “Adjustable Handle and Grip for Archery Bow,” and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention pertains to the design of an adjustable handle and grip for bows used in archery.

2. Description of the Prior Art

When shooting a bow, an archer holds the bow by the grip area of the handle with one hand, and pulls an arrow notched into the bow string with the other hand. For a standard simple or compound bow, the archer holds the bow upright, in a manner that puts the back of his hand in a parallel plane with the longitudinal axis of the center of the bow handle. However, due to factors such as differences in anatomy, shooting preference, force dispersion, and stability, it is often advantageous to offer handles that allow the archer to hold the bow using a number of hand positions. Consequently, a large number of handle designs have been designed to accommodate different styles of shooting.

Handles and grips have been designed to adjust in different planes and around different axes. As used herein, the longitudinal axis of the bow is defined as the axis parallel to the bowstring (from the far end of one limb of the bow to the far end of the opposite limb of the bow) and co-axial to the center of the handle of the bow. The frontal axis is defined as the axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bow and generally parallel to the long axis of an arrow strung in the bow. The lateral axis is defined as the axis perpendicular to both the longitudinal and frontal axes running generally from left to right as viewed by a holder of the bow.

The lateral axis of an archer's hand is used herein the axis generally parallel to a line drawn across the palm of the hand from the fifth metacarpal-phalangeal joint (the pinky finger) through the second metacarpal-phalangeal joint (the index finger) to the end of an extended thumb of a closed fist. The frontal axis of an archer's hand is defined herein as the axis generally parallel to the third metacarpal bone extending from the middle of the wrist through the end of the middle finger with the hand open, or from the middle of the wrist through the third metacarpal-phalangeal joint of the middle finger of a closed fist.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,333,595 to Heffron describes an archery bow handle that tilts forward (along the frontal axis of the bow). U.S. Pat. No. 5,469,834 to Higgins et al describes an archery bow handle that translates from side to side and tilts from front to back (along the lateral and frontal axes, respectively). U.S. Pat. No. 5,241, 945 to Shepley describes a grip that is adjustable frontally through the use of shims built into the handle. U.S. Pat. No. 5,347,937 to Burling describes an offset handle for a bow that pivots from front to back (along the frontal axis). U.S. Pat. No. 5,615,663 to Simonds describes a grip that is adjustable in depth by the addition of interchangeable parts (that is, the width of the handle in the frontal direction is adjustable). U.S. Pat. No. 5,487,373 to Smith describes a grip that is adjustable laterally.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,599,621 to Scrobell describes a handle for a bow that pivots around a frontal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bow and rotates about an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bow completely independent of the bow. In this handle, the archer's hand is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bow, and the handle pivots around a single ball-and-socket joint. Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 3,407,799 to Reynolds describes an archery bow handle that can be tilted in various directions around a single pivot point, but does not rotate.

Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 4,252,100 to Rickard describes a moveable bow handle that allows it to move front to back (along the frontal axis), up and down (along the longitudinal axis), and rotate around the longitudinal axis of the bow.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,113,841 to Bratcher describes a handle with a horizontal or nearly horizontal hand grip. This allows the archer to shoot with the lateral axis of his hand perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bow, parallel to the lateral axis of the bow, and most likely parallel or nearly parallel to the ground. Another embodiment of Bratcher's invention positions the lateral axis of the hand at an acute angle off of parallel to the lateral axis of the bow. In both designs, the handle is centered on the longitudinal axis of the bow, so that the archer's hand hangs over both sides of the bow. This design, however, is not adjustable, and a user would need to use a separate handle or separate bow for each hand angle desired.

Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 5,119,796 to Dehlbom describes a handle with a horizontal hand grip (that is, the lateral axis of the hand is parallel to the lateral axis of the bow). In contrast to the hand grip described in Bratcher, Dehlbom's hand grip is located to one side or the other of the bow, depending on whether the archer is shooting right- or left-handed. Again, this design is not adjustable, and a user would need separate handles or separate bows to use more than one hand position.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,708,004 B2 to Moss et al describes a bow handle that rotates about an axis generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bow. In this design, an archer can control the amount of wrist flexion and there is no need to reposition the hand if the bow is aimed to the left or to the right along the lateral axis of the bow.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,996,968 to Hollingsworth describes a handle for a compound bow that allows the longitudinal axis of the bow to be held horizontal to the ground. This handgrip allows for pivoting from front to back along the longitudinal axis of the bow, which is parallel to the ground in this case.

US Patent Publication 2011/0259309 A1 to Oppenheim describes a riser with a grip that allows the longitudinal axis of the bow to be held at a diagonal angle with the hand open and the force of the bow against the palm of the hand.

It is obvious from the large variety of archery grips and handles available that there is a wide range of preference of hand position when shooting a simple or compound bow. Different archers, different shooting circumstances, different bows, and changing preferences all may require different handles and grips, but most handles and grips are not adjustable, and would require separate bows for each circumstance, or at a minimum to disassemble the bow, change the handle, and reassemble and resting the bow. A handle and grip that allow for a simple and fast transition between a variety of grip angles and rotations would allow a much more versatile and enjoyable user experience, and could reduce the amount of equipment necessary for archers to transport.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The inventive handle and grip design allows an archer to adjust the lateral plane of his hand relative to the longitudinal and lateral axes of a bow. This allows the hand to be held in a generally parallel position with the longitudinal axis of the bow, in a generally parallel position with the lateral axis of the bow, or anywhere in the 360° rotation defined by those two axes. The rotation can be fixed temporarily using a fixing means, such as a screw, or can be permanently fixed in a desired position. Optionally, the grip may translate along any axis of the bow or further rotate about the longitudinal axis of the grip, and may be freely rotating or temporarily fixed using optional fixing means. The handle may be incorporated into the structure of the bow (permanently attached to the limbs of the bow), or may exist as a separate, interchangeable part.

As described herein, the inventive handle for a bow features a grip that is able to rotate around the frontal axis of the bow in a plane defined by the longitudinal and lateral axes of the bow. That is, while the longitudinal axis of the bow is unchanged, the lateral axis of the archer's hand can be adjusted to be generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bow and perpendicular to the lateral axis of the bow, generally parallel to the lateral axis of the bow and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bow, or at any angle in between. This rotation allows the archer to select from an infinite selection of hand angles to accommodate a number of shooting styles and preferences. The handle and grip can be incorporated into any type of bow, including, but not limited to, compound bows, recurve bows, longbows, or crossbows.

The handle can be of any size, but should be large enough to accommodate the width of an archer's hand along the lateral axis of the hand. The grip of the handle can be of any shape or shapes, ranging from a basic cylinder to an ergonomic design allowing for an archer to grip the handle with a closed or open fist. The grip may be attached to the handle at one or both ends, allowing additional movement and rotation of the grip relative to the handle. The handle can be designed to receive an established original equipment manufacturer's (OEM) grip or available aftermarket grips. The grip may rotate around an axis generally co-axial with the grip, allowing flexion of the wrist in addition to rotation of the forearm. In another embodiment, the grip can be moved from front to back along the frontal axis of the bow, allowing an archer to move his hand forward or backward relative to the longitudinal axis of the bow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows the inventive bow handle in its relation to the body of the bow. In this figure, the longitudinal axis of the bow is axis “x”, the lateral axis of the bow is axis “y”, and the frontal axis of the bow is axis “z”.

FIG. 2 shows the inventive bow handle in its relation to the body of the bow. In this figure, the longitudinal axis of the bow is axis “x”, the lateral axis of the bow is axis “y”, and the frontal axis “z” is facing toward the viewer.

FIG. 3 shows an inset of just the inventive handle. In this figure, the longitudinal axis of the bow is axis “x”, the lateral axis of the bow is axis “y” and the frontal axis of the bow is axis “z”.

FIG. 4 shows a second embodiment of the inventive handle. In this figure, the longitudinal axis of the bow is axis “x”, the lateral axis of the bow is axis “y” and the frontal axis of the bow is axis

FIG. 5 shows a third embodiment of the inventive handle. In this figure, the longitudinal axis of the bow is axis “x”, the lateral axis of the bow is axis “y” and the frontal axis of the bow is axis “z”.

FIG. 6 shows a diagram of the inner cylinder. In this figure, the longitudinal axis of the bow is axis “x”, the lateral axis of the bow is axis “y” and the frontal axis of the bow is axis “z”.

FIG. 7 shows a diagram of the inner cylinder. In this figure, the longitudinal axis of the bow is axis “x”, the lateral axis of the bow is axis “y” and the frontal axis of the bow is axis “z”.

FIG. 8 shows a diagram of the inner cylinder. In this figure, the longitudinal axis of the bow is axis “x”, the lateral axis of the bow is axis “y” and the frontal axis of the bow is axis “z”.

FIG. 9 shows a diagram of the grip. In this figure, the longitudinal axis of the bow is axis “x”, the lateral axis of the bow is axis “y” and the frontal axis of the bow is axis “z”.

FIG. 10 shows an inset of another embodiment of the inventive handle and grip. In this figure, the longitudinal axis of the bow is axis “x”, the lateral axis of the bow is axis “y” and the frontal axis of the bow is axis “z”.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following examples set forth preferred methods in accordance with the invention. It is to be understood, however, that these examples are provided by way of illustration and unless specifically indicated, nothing should be taken as a limitation upon the overall scope of the invention. It also should be understood that unless specifically indicated, that the measurements, ratios, and shapes are for example only. It should also be appreciated that while descriptions may be directed a right- or left-handed configuration, that the description also applies to the opposite configuration (i.e. a left- or right-handed configuration) respectively.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the inventive handle (1) is attached to the limbs of the bow (2) extending in opposite directions from positions on the outer diameter of the handle directly opposite each other. The handle may exist either as a separate piece from the handle or as one continuous piece with the handle. The handle may be of any shape or shapes that allow the grip to rotate around the frontal axis of the bow. Preferably, the handle is cylindrical in shape or uses two or more connected cylinders to form an area for the grip to rotate. Preferably, the arrow rest (3) is located immediately above the handle, but it could be located elsewhere depending on the bow design. In both FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a cylindrical handle is shown, and the grip is shown at an angle set to put the lateral axis of the archer's hand in a parallel position to the longitudinal axis of the bow. The depth of the handle along the frontal axis, that is, the distance from front surface (7) to back surface (8), can range from about 0.25″ to about 6.0″, preferably from about 0.5″ to about 3.0″.

FIG. 3 shows an inset of one embodiment of the inventive handle and grip. An outer hollow cylinder of the handle (4) is defined by its outer surface (5) and its inner surface (6) and front surface (7) and back surface (8, not shown). This outer cylinder (4) is fixed in relation to the limbs of the bow (2). The depth of the outer cylinder along the frontal axis, that is, the distance from front surface (7) to back surface (8), can range from about 0.25″ to about 6.0″, preferably from about 0.5″ to about 3.0″. The diameter of the outer surface of outer cylinder of the handle (5) is preferably about 4.0″ to about 8.0″, more preferably from about 5.5″ to about 6.0″. The diameter of the inner surface of the outer cylinder of the handle (6) is preferably about 3.75″ to about 7.75″, more preferably from about 5.25″ to about 5.75″. It will be appreciated that the size of the inventive handle and grip will necessarily be adapted depending on the size and preference of the user, as well as the overall design of the bow. The outer cylinder contains holes (16) positioned at regular intervals around its diameter. These holes (16) may have smooth sides, or they may be threaded.

The inner surface of the outer cylinder of the handle (6) is attached to at least one end of the grip (9). It can be appreciated that the grip (9) can be of any shape or shapes, including cylindrical, rectangular, or any number of ergonomic shapes intended to mold to an archer's hand. The grip (9) may be attached to the inner surface of the outer cylinder of the handle (6) at one or both ends. The position of grip (9) is adjustable, either permanently or temporarily, with relation to the inner surface of the outer cylinder of the handle (6). Both ends of the grip (9) may adjust relative to the inner surface of the outer cylinder of the handle (6) from front to back along the frontal axis of the bow, adjust relative to the inner surface of the outer cylinder of the handle (6) up and down along the central axis of grip (9), rotate around an axis along the long axis of grip (9), or any combination thereof. The length of the grip is preferably equal to or less than the diameter of inner surface of the outer cylinder of the handle (6). In the case of a cylindrical grip, the diameter of the grip (9) is preferably about 0.5″ to about 1.0″, more preferably from about 0.5″ to about 0.75″. In the case of a square or rectangular grip, the width of the grip is preferably from about 0.5″ to about 1.0″, more preferably from about 0.5″ to about 0.75″, and the depth of the grip is preferably from about 0.5″ to about 1.0″, more preferably from about 0.5″ to about 0.75″. The handle can be designed to receive an established original equipment manufacturer's (OEM) grip or available aftermarket grips.

The grip (9) can be moved inside the inner surface of the outer cylinder of the handle (6) when desired. This rotation may be temporarily fixed in one position by using a fastener (10). A fastener could include, but is not limited to, a screw, bolt, pin, or other fixing means that can be affixed or tightened to lock the position of the grip (9) with relation to the inner surface of the outer cylinder of the handle (6). One or more fastener (10) may be used. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the position of the grip (9) with respect to the outer cylinder is changed by aligning the holes in the outer cylinder (16) with the ends of the grip (9) and inserting one or more fasteners through the aligned holes to secure the position of the grip (9) with respect to the outer cylinder of the handle.

FIG. 4 shows an inset of another embodiment of the inventive handle and grip. An outer hollow cylinder of the handle (4) is defined by its outer surface (5) and its inner surface (6) and front surface (7) and back surface (8, not shown). This outer cylinder (4) is fixed in relation to the limbs of the bow (2). The depth of the outer cylinder along the frontal axis, that is, the distance from front surface (7) to back surface (8), can range from about 0.25″ to about 6.0″, preferably from about 0.5″ to about 3.0″. The diameter of the outer surface of outer cylinder of the handle (5) is preferably about 4.0″ to about 8.0″, more preferably from about 5.5″ to about 6.0″. The diameter of the inner surface of the outer cylinder of the handle (6) is preferably about 3.75″ to about 7.75″, more preferably from about 5.25″ to about 5.75″. It will be appreciated that the size of the inventive handle and grip will necessarily be adapted depending on the size and preference of the user, as well as the overall design of the bow. The outer cylinder contains holes (16) positioned at regular intervals around its diameter. These holes (16) may have smooth sides, or they may be threaded.

In this embodiment, an inner cylinder of the handle (11) is defined by its outer surface (12) and its inner surface (13) and its front surface (14) and back surface (15, not shown). The inner cylinder of the handle is able to rotate freely within the outer cylinder of the handle in the plane formed by the longitudinal and the lateral axes of the bow (axis x and y, respectively). The inner surface (6) of the outer cylinder of the handle (4) and the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder of the handle (11) are preferably immediately adjacent to each other. In another embodiment, the inner surface (6) of the outer cylinder of the handle (4) and the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder of the handle (11) are separated by some sort of mechanical friction reducer, such as a ball bearing assembly, separate lubricant, or machined tolerances. The depth of the inner cylinder along the frontal axis, that is, the distance from front surface (14) to back surface (15) can range from about 0.25″ to about 6″, preferably from about 0.5″ to about 3″. The diameter of the outer surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (12) is preferably about 3.75″ to about 7.75″, more preferably from about 5.25″ to about 5.75″. The diameter of the inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13) is preferably about 3.5″ to about 7.75″, more preferably from about 5.0″ to about 5.75″. The inner cylinder may contain optional holes (17) positioned at regular intervals around its diameter. These holes may be drilled into the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder so that they go completely through the inner cylinder (that is, the depth of the hole (17) equals the distance between the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder and the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder), or the holes may go only partially into the inner cylinder (that is, the depth of the hole (17) is less than the distance between the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder and the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder, preferably from about 0.01″ to about 0.2″, more preferably from about 0.05″ to about 0.1″). Preferably, there are from 2 to 40 holes, more preferably from 10 to 30 holes, and even more preferably from 16 to 20 holes. The holes are preferably from about 0.1″ in diameter to about 1.0″ in diameter, more preferably from about 0.2″ to about 0.4″ in diameter. The holes (17) may have smooth sides or the holes may be threaded.

The inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13) is attached to at least one end of the grip (9). It can be appreciated that the grip (9) can be of any shape or shapes, including cylindrical, rectangular, or any number of ergonomic shapes intended to mold to an archer's hand. The grip (9) may be free to move in relation to the inner cylinder of the handle (11), or it may be permanently or temporarily fixed using optional fixing means. The grip (9) may be attached to the inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13) at one or both ends. The position of grip (9) may be fixed, or it may be adjustable, either permanently or temporarily, with relation to the inner cylinder of the handle (11). In the case of an adjustable grip, the position of grip (9) is adjustable, either permanently or temporarily, with relation to the inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13). Both ends of the grip (9) may adjust relative to the inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13) from front to back along the frontal axis of the bow, adjust relative to the inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13) up and down along the central axis of grip (9), rotate around an axis along the long axis of grip (9), or any combination thereof. The length of the grip is preferably equal to or less than the diameter of inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13). In the case of a cylindrical grip, the diameter of the grip (9) is preferably about 0.5″ to about 1.0″, more preferably from about 0.5″ to about 0.75″. In the case of a square or rectangular grip, the width of the grip is preferably from about 0.5″ to about 1.0″, more preferably from about 0.5″ to about 0.75″, and the depth of the grip is preferably from about 0.5″ to about 1.0″, more preferably from about 0.5″ to about 0.75″. The handle can be designed to receive an established original equipment manufacturer's (OEM) grip or available aftermarket grips.

The inner cylinder of the handle (11) should be able to rotate freely inside the outer cylinder of the handle (4) when desired. This rotation may be temporarily fixed in one position by using a fastener (10). The fastener could include, but is not limited to, a screw, bolt, pin, or other fixing means that can be affixed or tightened to lock the position of the inner cylinder of the handle (11) with relation to the outer cylinder of the handle (4). In FIG. 4, the position of the inner cylinder with respect to the outer cylinder is changed by aligning the holes in the outer cylinder (16) with the holes in the inner cylinder (17) and inserting one or more fasteners through the aligned holes to secure the position of the inner cylinder with respect to the outer cylinder of the handle. The position of the inner cylinder of the handle (11) with respect to the outer cylinder (4) may also be held in place by using a fastener to go through the holes (16) in the outer cylinder (4) to create tension against the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder of the handle (11).

FIG. 5 shows an inset of another embodiment of the inventive handle and grip. An outer hollow cylinder of the handle (4) is defined by its outer surface (5) and its inner surface (6) and front surface (7) and back surface (8, not shown). This outer cylinder (4) is fixed in relation to the limbs of the bow (2). The depth of the outer cylinder along the frontal axis, that is, the distance from front surface (7) to back surface (8), can range from about 0.25″ to about 6.0″, preferably from about 0.5″ to about 3.0″. The diameter of the outer surface of outer cylinder of the handle (5) is preferably about 4.0″ to about 8.0″, more preferably from about 5.5″ to about 6.0″. The diameter of the inner surface of the outer cylinder of the handle (6) is preferably about 3.75″ to about 7.75″, more preferably from about 5.25″ to about 5.75″. It will be appreciated that the size of the inventive handle and grip will necessarily be adapted depending on the size and preference of the user, as well as the overall design of the bow.

In this embodiment, the holes around the diameter of the outer cylinder have been replaced by slots in the diameter of the outer cylinder (16′). In this embodiment, the inner cylinder of the handle (not shown) is still able to rotate freely inside the outer cylinder of the handle (4) when desired. This rotation may be temporarily fixed in one position by using a fastener (10). The fastener could include, but is not limited to, a screw, bolt, pin, or other fixing means that can be affixed or tightened to lock the position of the inner cylinder of the handle with relation to the outer cylinder of the handle (4). In FIG. 5, the position of the inner cylinder with respect to the outer cylinder is changed by aligning the slots in the outer cylinder (16′) with the optional holes (17) in the inner cylinder and inserting one or more fasteners through the aligned holes to secure the position of the inner cylinder with respect to the outer cylinder of the handle. The position of the inner cylinder of the handle (11) with respect to the outer cylinder (4) can be held by tightening a screw through the slow (16′) and into the holes in the inner cylinder (17), or it may also be held in place by using a fastener to go through the slots (16′) in the outer cylinder (4) to create tension against the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder of the handle (11). This design allows for more possible positions for the inner cylinder with respect to the outer cylinder than an embodiment using just drilled holes in the outer cylinder.

FIG. 6 shows three views of one embodiment of the inner cylinder. FIG. 6A shows the inner cylinder viewed down the frontal axis of the bow. In this view, the inner cylinder of the handle (11) is defined by its outer surface (12) and its inner surface (13) and its front surface (14) and back surface (15, not shown). The depth of the inner cylinder along the frontal axis, that is, the distance from front surface (14) to back surface (15) can range from about 0.25″ to about 6″, preferably from about 0.5″ to about 3″. The diameter of the outer surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (12) is preferably about 3.75″ to about 7.75″, more preferably from about 5.25″ to about 5.75″. The diameter of the inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13) is preferably about 3.5″ to about 7.75″, more preferably from about 5.0″ to about 5.75″.

FIG. 6B shows the inner cylinder viewed from the lateral or longitudinal axis of the bow, depending on the rotation of the inner cylinder. In this view, the inner cylinder of the handle (11) is defined by its outer surface (12) and its inner surface (13, not shown) and its front surface (14) and back surface (15). The inner cylinder may contain optional holes (17) positioned at regular intervals around its diameter. These holes may be drilled into the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder so that they go completely through the inner cylinder (that is, the depth of the hole (17) equals the distance between the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder and the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder), or the holes may go only partially into the inner cylinder (that is, the depth of the hole (17) is less than the distance between the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder and the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder, preferably from about 0.01″ to about 0.2″, more preferably from about 0.05″ to about 0.1″). Preferably, there are from 1 to 40 holes, more preferably from 10 to 30 holes, and even more preferably from 16 to 20 holes. The holes are preferably from about 0.1″ in diameter to about 1.0″ in diameter, more preferably from about 0.2″ to about 0.4″ in diameter. The holes (17) may have smooth walls, or they may be threaded. Optional grip holes (18) are also shown in this view. Optional grip holes (18) may be used to fasten the grip (9) into position against the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder of the handle (11). Optional grip receiving holes (18) may be drilled into the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder so that they go completely through the inner cylinder (that is, the depth of the grip receiving hole (18) equals the distance between the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder and the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder), or the holes may go only partially into the inner cylinder (that is, the depth of the grip receiving hole (18) is less than the distance between the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder and the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder, preferably from about 0.01″ to about 0.2″, more preferably from about 0.05″ to about 0.1″). Preferably, there are from 2 to 4 grip receiving holes. The holes are preferably from about 0.1″ in diameter to about 1.0″ in diameter, more preferably from about 0.2″ to about 0.4″ in diameter. The grip receiving holes (18) may have smooth walls, or they may be threaded.

FIG. 6C shows the shows the inner cylinder viewed with the frontal axis of the cylinder pointed down and toward the viewer. In this view, the inner cylinder of the handle (11) is defined by its outer surface (12) and its inner surface (13) and its front surface (14) and back surface (15, not shown). The inner cylinder may contain optional holes (17) positioned at regular intervals around its diameter. These holes may be drilled into the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder so that they go completely through the outer cylinder (that is, the depth of the hole (17) equals the distance between the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder and the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder), or the holes may go only partially into the inner cylinder (that is, the depth of the hole (17) is less than the distance between the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder and the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder, preferably from about 0.01″ to about 0.2″, more preferably from about 0.05″ to about 0.1″). Preferably, there are from 1 to 40 holes, more preferably from 10 to 30 holes, and even more preferably from 16 to 20 holes. The holes are preferably from about 0.1″ in diameter to about 1.0″ in diameter, more preferably from about 0.2″ to about 0.4″ in diameter. The holes (17) may have smooth walls, or they may be threaded. Optional grip holes (18) are also shown in this view. Optional grip holes (18) may be used to fasten the grip (9) into position against the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder of the handle (11). Optional grip receiving holes (18) may be drilled into the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder so that they go completely through the inner cylinder (that is, the depth of the grip receiving hole (18) equals the distance between the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder and the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder), or the holes may go only partially into the inner cylinder (that is, the depth of the grip receiving hole (18) is less than the distance between the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder and the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder, preferably from about 0.01″ to about 0.2″, more preferably from about 0.05″ to about 0.1″). Preferably, there are from 2 to 4 grip receiving holes. The holes are preferably from about 0.1″ in diameter to about 1.0″ in diameter, more preferably from about 0.2″ to about 0.4″ in diameter. The grip receiving holes (18) may have smooth walls, or they may be threaded.

FIG. 7 shows a diagram of one embodiment of the grip. In this figure, the longitudinal axis of the bow may be axis “x” or “y” , depending on the rotation of the handle, and the frontal axis of the bow is axis “z”. In this view, the grip (9) has hand surface (19) and forward surface (20). It will be appreciated that the grip may be of many shapes, such as a cylinder, in which case hand surface (19) and forward surface (20) would be a single surface extending all the way around the grip. The hand surface (19) is defined as the area of the grip that bears the pressure of the user's hand as the bow is drawn. In one embodiment, grip end (21) is in contact with the inner surface (6) of the outer cylinder (4), and the grip end can be fastened to the inner surface (6) of the outer cylinder (4) by use of a fastener through a grip hole (22) and opposite hole (16) or slot (16′). The grip (9) may have one or more grip holes at each end, allowing the grip (9) to be attached to the outer cylinder at more than one point. In a second embodiment, the grip end (21) is in contact with the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder (11), and the grip can be fastened to the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder (11) by use of one or more fasteners through the optional side grip holes (23) and corresponding optional grip receiving holes (18). The grip hole (22) and side grip holes (23) are preferably from about 0.1″ in diameter to about 1.0″ in diameter, more preferably from about 0.2″ to about 0.4″ in diameter. The grip holes (22) and side grip holes (23) may have smooth walls, or they may be threaded. It should be appreciated that other components, such as washers, bearings, or lubricants may be used in conjunction with the grip, especially in cases where the grip rotates around its central axis (defined by the axis between the top and bottom grip holes (22).

FIG. 8 shows an inset of another embodiment of the inventive handle and grip. In this embodiment, the outer portion of the handle is not cylindrical, but is two separate semi-cylindrical sections (24), each defined by their outer surface (25), inner surface (26), front surface (27), and back surface (28, not shown). Each section of the outer portion of the handle (24) is fixed in relation to the limbs of the bow (2). The two separate semi-cylindrical sections (24) are connected by connector (29). Connector (29) is attached to the front surface (27) of each section of the outer portion of the handle. Connector (29) holds the sections of the outer portion of the handle at an appropriate distance from each other so that the inner cylinder of the handle (11) can rotate and be fixed as with the other embodiments. The depth of the outer portion along the frontal axis, that is, the distance from front surface (27) to back surface (28), can range from about 0.25″ to about 6.0″, preferably from about 0.5″ to about 3.0″. The distance between the outer surfaces of the opposite sides of the handle (25) is preferably about 4.0″ to about 8.0″, more preferably from about 5.5″ to about 6.0″. The distance between the inner surfaces of the opposite sides of the handle (26) is preferably about 3.75″ to about 7.75″, more preferably from about 5.25″ to about 5.75″. It will be appreciated that the size of the inventive handle and grip will necessarily be adapted depending on the size and preference of the user, as well as the overall design of the bow. The outer portions of the handle contain holes (16) positioned at regular intervals around its diameter. These holes (16) may have smooth sides, or they may be threaded.

In this embodiment, an inner cylinder of the handle (11) is defined by its outer surface (12) and its inner surface (13) and its front surface (14) and back surface (15, not shown). The inner cylinder of the handle is able to rotate freely within the outer cylinder of the handle in the plane formed by the longitudinal and the lateral axes of the bow (axis x and y, respectively). The inner surface (26) of the outer portion of the handle (24) and the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder of the handle (11) are preferably immediately adjacent to each other. In another embodiment, the inner surface (26) of the outer portion of the handle (24) and the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder of the handle (11) are separated by some sort of mechanical friction reducer, such as a ball bearing assembly, separate lubricant, or machined tolerances. The depth of the inner cylinder along the frontal axis, that is, the distance from front surface (14) to back surface (15) can range from about 0.25″ to about 6″, preferably from about 0.5″ to about 3″. The diameter of the outer surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (12) is preferably about 3.75″ to about 7.75″, more preferably from about 5.25″ to about 5.75″. The diameter of the inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13) is preferably about 3.5″ to about 7.75″, more preferably from about 5.0″ to about 5.75″. The inner cylinder may contain optional holes (17) positioned at regular intervals around its diameter. These holes may be drilled into the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder so that they go completely through the inner cylinder (that is, the depth of the hole (17) equals the distance between the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder and the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder), or the holes may go only partially into the inner cylinder (that is, the depth of the hole (17) is less than the distance between the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder and the inner surface (13) of the inner cylinder, preferably from about 0.01″ to about 0.2″, more preferably from about 0.05″ to about 0.1″). Preferably, there are from 2 to 40 holes, more preferably from 10 to 30 holes, and even more preferably from 16 to 20 holes. The holes are preferably from about 0.1″ in diameter to about 1.0″ in diameter, more preferably from about 0.2″ to about 0.4″ in diameter. The holes (17) may have smooth sides or the holes may be threaded.

The inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13) is attached to at least one end of the grip (9). It can be appreciated that the grip (9) can be of any shape or shapes, including cylindrical, rectangular, or any number of ergonomic shapes intended to mold to an archer's hand. The grip (9) may be free to move in relation to the inner cylinder of the handle (11), or it may be permanently or temporarily fixed using optional fixing means. The grip (9) may be attached to the inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13) at one or both ends. The position of grip (9) may be fixed, or it may be adjustable, either permanently or temporarily, with relation to the inner cylinder of the handle (11). In the case of an adjustable grip, the position of grip (9) is adjustable, either permanently or temporarily, with relation to the inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13). Both ends of the grip (9) may adjust relative to the inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13) from front to back along the frontal axis of the bow, adjust relative to the inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13) up and down along the central axis of grip (9), rotate around an axis along the long axis of grip (9), or any combination thereof. The length of the grip is preferably equal to or less than the diameter of inner surface of the inner cylinder of the handle (13). In the case of a cylindrical grip, the diameter of the grip (9) is preferably about 0.5″ to about 1.0″, more preferably from about 0.5″ to about 0.75″. In the case of a square or rectangular grip, the width of the grip is preferably from about 0.5″ to about 1.0″, more preferably from about 0.5″ to about 0.75″, and the depth of the grip is preferably from about 0.5″ to about 1.0″, more preferably from about 0.5″ to about 0.75″. The handle can be designed to receive an established original equipment manufacturer's (OEM) grip or available aftermarket grips.

The inner cylinder of the handle (11) should be able to rotate freely inside the outer portion of the handle (24) when desired. This rotation may be temporarily fixed in one position by using a fastener (10). The fastener could include, but is not limited to, a screw, bolt, pin, or other fixing means that can be affixed or tightened to lock the position of the inner cylinder of the handle (11) with relation to the outer portion of the handle (24). In FIG. 8, the position of the inner cylinder with respect to the outer portion is changed by aligning the holes in the outer portion (16) with the holes in the inner cylinder (17) and inserting one or more fasteners through the aligned holes to secure the position of the inner cylinder with respect to the outer portion of the handle. The position of the inner cylinder of the handle (11) with respect to the outer portion (24) may also be held in place by using a fastener to go through the holes (16) in the outer portion (24) to create tension against the outer surface (12) of the inner cylinder of the handle (11).

The handle and grip can be made from any material or materials. Preferably, the handle and grip is constructed of a metallic, polymeric, composite, or other natural or synthetic material with sufficient strength to not deform under the stress imparted by the drawing of the bow. Additionally, it will be appreciated that other holes, cutouts, or attachments may be made to the handle or bow to decrease its weight or otherwise enhance the usability of the bow. Optionally, vibration-dampening material or other padding material may be added to the grip to increase user comfort and bow stability.

Claims

1. An adjustable handle for a bow, comprising:

an outer portion that is attached to the limbs of a bow so that the limbs attach at points opposite each other on each side of the outer portion,

and a grip attached to the inside surface of the outer portion,

where the grip is able to rotate inside the outer portion around the frontal axis of the bow.

2. The adjustable handle of claim 1, where the outer portion is an outer cylinder.

3. The adjustable handle of claim 1, where the grip is attached to the inner surface of an inner cylinder positioned inside the outer portion so that it is coaxial with the outer portion.

4. The adjustable handle of claim 2, where the grip is attached to the inner surface of an inner cylinder positioned inside the outer cylinder so that it is coaxial with the outer cylinder.

5. The adjustable handle of claim 1, where the position of the rotation of the grip can be temporarily fixed by a fixing means.

6. The adjustable handle of claim 2, where the position of the rotation of the grip can be temporarily fixed by a fixing means.

7. The adjustable handle of claim 3, where the position of the rotation of the inner cylinder can be temporarily fixed by a fixing means.

8. The adjustable handle of claim 4, where the position of the rotation of the inner cylinder can be temporarily fixed by a fixing means.

9. The adjustable handle of claim 1, where the grip is attached to the inner surface of the outer portion so that it does not rotate or translate along either the lateral or longitudinal axes of the bow.

10. The adjustable handle of claim 2, where the grip is attached to the inner surface of the outer cylinder so that it does not rotate or translate along either the lateral or longitudinal axes of the bow.

11. The adjustable handle of claim 3, where the grip is attached to the inner surface of the inner cylinder so that it does not rotate or translate along either the lateral or longitudinal axes of the bow.

12. The adjustable handle of claim 4, where the grip is attached to the inner surface of the inner cylinder so that it does not rotate or translate along either the lateral or longitudinal axes of the bow.

13. The adjustable handle of claim 1, where the grip can rotate around its long axis.

14. The adjustable handle of claim 1, where the grip is also adjustable along the frontal axis of the bow.

15. The adjustable handle of claim 1, where the handle is permanently attached to the limbs of a bow.

16. The adjustable handle of claim 1, where it is removably attached to the limbs of a bow.

17. The adjustable handle of claim 1, where the bow is selected from the group consisting of simple, recurve, compound, and long bows.

18. A method of shooting a bow, comprising gripping the grip of the bow with one hand, loading an arrow into a bow so that the end of the arrow is in contact with the string of a bow, pulling back the string with the other hand, and releasing the string, where the bow contains an adjustable handle, said handle comprising:

an outer portion that is attached to the limbs of a bow so that the limbs attach at points opposite each other on each side of of the outer portion,

and a grip attached to the inside surface of the outer portion,

where the grip is able to rotate inside the outer portion around the frontal axis of the bow.

19. The method of shooting a bow of claim 18, where the outer portion is an outer cylinder.

20. The method of shooting a bow of claim 18, where the grip is attached to an inner cylinder that is positioned inside the outer portion so it is coaxial with the outer portion.

21. The method of shooting a bow of claim 19, where the grip is attached to an inner cylinder that is positioned inside the outer cylinder so it is coaxial with the outer cylinder.