A recoil starter is disclosed which enables a rotational force to be accumulated in accumulating means with a light pulling force and the accumulated rotational force to start an engine through simple operations. A cam wheel is rotated using a rotational force which has been accumulated in the accumulating means by pulling a recoil rope. Retention means is operable to restrain or permit the rotation of the cam wheel. Release means operates the retention means to restrain the rotation of the cam wheel by pulling a handle attached to the recoil rope, and operates the retention means to permit the rotation of the cam wheel by fixing the handle in a main casing.