Looking to buy my 6 yr old his first bow

[Ed Race]

Good afternoon All!

So my son just turned 6 and I think he is ready to start with his first bow.  I live near Williamsport, PA and want to take him somewhere with people smarter than me to get him set up with something that isn't too heavy or too light.  Any suggestions of good bow shops?  I was thinking Lancaster Archery since they would most likely have a good inventory.  Dad (me) is also going to get a Longbow probably while we're there.  If only Three Rivers and the like were closer to PA...

Thanks!

[Alexander Traditional]

Mike from Maddog archery builds bows for kids that age,and they are under $100. He's a sponsor here also.

[TealCoin]

Afternoon Ed,

I would also suggest looking into Maddog's Pup Longbow for your son.  My son, Jack was lucky enough to get drawn for the 4th of July your bow giveaway a few years ago.  I will say that Mike makes one heck of a little bow for the kiddos.  Both my kids really enjoy shooting that bow - Jack even asked Santa for more arrows last year and a new target.  Either way you go, best of luck and I'm sure you'll enjoy archery together!

[Kmaddox2a]

Still do in but ill still put word in for Mike at Maddog because hes super easy to deal with and bows have good reputation. I got 2 on order currently.

[Ed Race]

Thanks everyone for the responses so far!  I googled three rivers. They're 7 hours away but I've always wanted to go there so I might write this off as a good excuse to make the drive. I just don't know what bow will fit him.  I would imagine three rivers would have a selection and people that would be able to fit him up. 

[Bowguy67]

I hate to be against anyone that sponsors the site but imo kids need to be started off correctly. First things first. Eye dominance needs to be checked. Once that’s determined the bow should be set to that side. Now weight, that should also be checked. Online or on a phone call it’s harder to imposssible. I’ve never been to Lancaster but be sure someone checks that. They tell you to squint, do so as you walk out door.
If you’d like help determining that yourself just ask, myself and many others I’m sure will offer.
Now starting him. Are you familiar with the probs of kids and how to stop it from occurring or fix them as they start? If not please ask. Sometimes we only get one chance. If you need help again please ask

[Ed Race]

Thanks bowguy!  Yeah he's like his dad. Left eye dominant. I'm right handed but shoot left as a result.  My son actually favors his left hand so that should be an easy transition along with his left eye being dominant. Like you mentioned, I'm worried about how much bow he needs and can handle.  I feel I can teach him pretty good. My main concern is just getting him something that fits him. This is my first kid so I just don't know what's out there.  Bear seems to have some good looking kits but not sure how weight comes into play. I definitely want him to start on a recurve or longbow. I think form is important and I don't want to bring all the compound junk into the equation.  Bow, string, arrow that's it.
Thanks!

[The Whittler]

I'm quite sure there are people at Lancaster that are qualified and will be very helpful with you and your son. Plus both of should be able to handle the bows to see what will fit both of you especially weight wise.

[degabe]

St. Joe River Bows gets my vote

[Sean B]

My 5 year okd Grandson with his St. Joe River Bow

[mj seratt]

Another vote for Mike at Mad Dog.

Murray

[Balding Kansan]

Maddog, mike made one for my 5 year olds birthday. Quick turnaround, great little bow.

[Lefty]

My daughter has a couple bows from Mike at Maddog and can't recommend him enough.  Great guy and great bows!!  Mike is the real deal and one of the best guys out there!!