All right all you traditional archers...

I *think* I'm in the market for a longbow. I'm want to shoot a few before deciding which one, if any, to purchase. Any recommendations on where to start? From what I've read, I think I want one at least 62" and 45 lbs. (maybe 50 lbs). My primary use, at least for a year, would be backyard shooting. After I feel I'm proficient, I *may* take it to the woods.

I looked at the Bear Montana at Woods-n-Water. The two they have in stock, if I'm not mistaken, were both 62" long, 50 lbs. and priced at $329. It's a good looking bow, but I have no idea if that's a fair price. And, I haven't shot it yet. Fellow there did invite me to shoot it, but I was on lunch break and didn't have time. May go back later this week.

I haven't shot any bow in two years, and haven't shot a non-compound bow in probably 10. I would like to get to the point where I can shoot "instictively." Where target acqusition, draw, and release are all one fluid motion. I realize this will take LOTS of practice, but that's where the fun is, right?

Thanks,

BamaRob

The Montana is a good bow for most. I have shot one and found it to have a tad more hand shock (extra vibration) than a 'custom' longbow, but also much cheaper. 62in is a perfect backyard and target length but I find it a bit too long for hunting. 45lbs@28in is a good starting weight if you are an average guy, 40 would be even better. No need to go heavier unless you are just a super stud. Its easier to learn proper form with a lighter bow than to struggle with a heavy bow, plus a 40lb bow will kill any animal in this state. Its always a good idea to shoot before you buy.

Rob, I find the more modern deflex/reflex longbows easier to shoot. They have a little curve in them, somewhat like a recurve, but not so much. You can buy a pretty good used one for the same $300.00.

62" is good, I personally like 58-60 for a hunting bow

45# is plenty to start with, bow drawing uses little used muscles. I prolly wouldn't start over that weight.

Longbows take a LOT more work and practice than compounds for sure, but they are 100X times more fun to shoot. Good luck.

troy

BamaRob, you can bet you will not wait a year. It will come back fast. That is why I would reccommend that you start back with what you intend to hunt with, later on.

BhamFred, any suggestions on brands/models of modern (used) deflex/relfex longbows I should be looking for in the $300 range?

If I do end up getting one, I'll have lots of questions, I'm sure. How do you change the draw weight? New string? Or, is a 45# bow always a 45# bow? If that's the case, I may want to do as Big Jack suggests and go ahead and get what I plan to hunt with (50-60#)???

Thanks,
BR

BamaRob,

The only way to change the draw weight on a longbow or a recurve is either by drawing it further back, increase string angle and finger pinch, or drawing it less. As a general rule for every inch of draw gained or lost you gain or lose 3 pounds of weight. there is a point of diminishing returns when you get past the 28 inch listed draw length but that is a topic for a later discussion. Now I shoot a martin hatfield, it is rated at 60# @ 28 inches, I draw 25 inches and so technically I shoot 50# which for me is plenty. There are probably recurves out there that you can change the weight on by adjusting them but I have no experience with them.

I have one for sale on Craigslist

http://bham.craigslist.org/spo/2596179564.html

Rob, do NOT start with a 60# bow, it will teach you a lot of bad habits....

45 is always 45, no real adjustment in draw weight.

string? depends on condition of string on the bow...

I'll look at some bows tonite...

troy

I have been considering one from these guys. Good word of mouth on them at the traditional archery boards. Their bows look beautiful and the base model they build has a pretty good price for a custom made long bow.

http://www.bamabows.com/index.html

Unless you specifically want a one piece bow, I would definitely suggest going with an ILF bow. You can buy a medium priced riser and a pair of cheap limbs to start with. Once you improve, before you get ready to hunt, you can get a better set of limbs. Your choices in limbs are more limited with longbow than recurve but there is still a good selection available. Dryad bows in Texas makes some top shelf ILF risers and longbow limbs.

Personally, I wouldn't even start with 45#. I'd try 35# to start with. It's MUCH easier to learn proper form from scratch than it is to unlearn bad habits taught by too high poundage. If you squat like you're taking about to take a dump and lean your head into the string, your not doing it the best way.

Rod Jenkins lives in the Decatur area and teaches a Trad shooting school ever so often. It would definitely be worth your time and money.