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Recurve Bow

879 Views 6 Replies 5 Participants Last post by  sig88
Hey guys.

I'm thinking about getting into archery and I want to start with a recurve bow. Quite honestly I really don't like compounds and and don't want to start on a crossbow.

My main purpose is just picking up a hobby. Just want to try it out and see if I like it. So my question is what would be a good set-up to start out on. I don't want to break the bank maybe max $200, but less wold be better.

I'm not weak but Id like to get a lighter draw pull so I can work on form. But what would be a light enough pull that I could practice on but won't get sick of in two days? I'm 5'10" 215lbs. Thanks in advance.
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For draw weight look for 35-45 lbs. which will be light enough to shoot alot plus at the 45# range - plenty of weight if you want to go hunting for deer or do a little carp shooting. It will still feel like you are shooting a real bow but not so much trouble as if you get to 55# or above.

As for me, I am hunter, so my recurve is a 55# Martin mamba. Once I build the muscles from shooting regularly I can shoot a long time, but it takes some practice.
I would try to find something in the 45# range. Even though less may be better right now you will be kicking yourself later as you build up your muscles. It won't take too long to make it easy to shoot a 45# bow if you shoot regularly. Heck, my mom used to shoot a 45# bear recurve.

As for the $200 goes.....For that much money in a new bow you are mostly looking at cheap Chinese imports. You will most likely be best off with a used bow. You can't go wrong with a bear.
So I should stay away from PSE or Martin? There is a cheaper Bear recurve but i cant recall the name. Would that be beneficial to start with?
I would tale a trip to the nearest archery store and see if they have any used long bows. Talk to the guys behind the counter and see if they will let you shoot what they have in the "for sale" rack to get a feel for things. I have a Bear Montana #50 and it's perfect for me. It's so light that when people first pick it up they think it's a bow for a child. However, it really send the arrows out there.
Recurves are a little more forgiving of a slip in form than a longbow. Plus, they'll shoot a wider spine range of arrows better than a longbow. I'd suggest getting a decent used recurve in the #45 range. The worst thing you can do starting out is over-bowing yourself. Contat Bob Hildenbrandt on this site. He sells new and used trad equipment and is one of the most honest people you'll meet. He can get you set up w/o breaking the bank. Let us know what you get and feel free to throw questions our way. Lot of knowledgable trad guys on this site.
Thanks I will. Once I get some money together Im going to start archery. I'm excited to start so hopefully soon.
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