[ELI5] why is dry firing a bow so bad for it? Does the arrow really make that much of a difference in that regard?

Question

[ELI5] why is dry firing a bow so bad for it? Does the arrow really make that much of a difference in that regard?

In: 2366

Answer 1

Shooting bow with arrow: energy is put into the arrow, propelling it forward.

Shooting bow without arrow: energy is into the bow limbs, severely damaging its structural integrity. It can crack/fracture/explode on the spot.

I used to shoot religiously for years. It
100% makes a difference with/without an arrow. Depending on the situation I wouldn’t trust to use that given bow again.