$200 Longbow

[kwalispecial]

Hey Guys,
Several years ago I started getting into archery with a Samick Polaris recurve, then after a couple years I got a Bear Marshall compound. Now I'm looking for a longbow to complete the set. I've got about $200 to spend on the bow and it seems like there are a few options in this range, but I'm having trouble finding many reviews, and I'm not even sure if some of these bows are just re-brands of the same thing.  Does anyone have any advice or recommendations on these:

• Deerseeker Zebra 68"
• Galaxy Black Ridge 70" longbow
• Galaxy Sage 68"

Also, is there any benefit in spending a little bit more for a Galaxy Grey Dawn or Farmington Apache?

Thanks!

[McDave]

I haven't personally used any of the bows you list, but I have used similar ones.  Almost all bows such as these are made in China, and will generally have pretty good quality for the price.  It is true that given China's weak or nonexistent patent laws, once a bow becomes popular it will be copied by other companies.

In general, the first thing that you will notice on switching from the bows you are used to to a 68” or 70” longbow is a considerable reduction in arrow speed.  In order to retain close to the same arrow speed as a recurve, you need to select a 62-64” longbow that has reflex deflexed limbs.  There are specially designed longbows that are even shorter than that that will outperform recurves in some cases, but those are custom designed and out of your price range.

Of course, many people choose to shoot the longer straight limbed longbows as a personal preference, accepting the limitations of that design.

It is somewhat difficult to switch back and forth between long straight limbed longbows and shorter recurves, due to differences in grip style, center cut, and performance.  I would recommend starting with one of those you have listed, and not upgrading initially to a slightly more expensive model.  After shooting one for a while, if you like the style, consider upgrading to a $400-$500 custom longnow instead.

[kstout]

A friend of mine is shooting an AF American Flatbow he bought on Amazon for less than $100. It’s 64” reflex reflex bow, with bamboo core, and black glass. It shoots really nice. We’re currently in Canada hunting bear, and a couple of days ago he shot a 300 lb bear. It went about 60 yards, and went down. So I would say even though the bow is made in China, it works just fine.

[Caranthir]

You might want to check out Sanlida Royal X 8 longbow. Lots of good reviews on YouTube. Get a whole kit for less than $200

[blackpowderscout]

If you can hold off for a bit, try going to a big event that’ll have lots of vendors and used bows. For your money you might could score something better than what you might think off a used rack or table. Plus, you can shoot lots of different bows to see what you like and what you don’t.

Kalamazoo in January will have TCATS all weekend this year I think and there’s loads of great bows and gear at that. ETAR is another BIG event with deals to be had left and right.

[dad]

I have a Galaxy Black Ridge longbow reflex deflex in 62" #30. I have shot them to 45#. They aren't a barn burner but they are a good solid bow. They are easy pulling no hand shock. I don't know about the longer ones. Hope this helps you

[Megastink]

My first longbow was a 40lb Black hunter. Its a great shooter, but a little "thunky" upon release. I've also got a pair of Bear Montana's (45lbs and 60lbs). They are fantastic shooting bows, although the 60lb is way too much bow for me and sits on the shelf. I also have a Sanlita Royal X8 longbow (50lb) and its a nice bow, but I prefer the Montana's. I have a 45lb 3Rivers Oberon on the way and I'm hoping that this will be my last longbow purchase until I go custom.

Don't be afraid to purchase either a Black Hunter or a Sanlita. Both are great starter bows. 

[Doug S]

  One thing I have noticed on many of the cheaper bows mass produced is sometimes you get straight limbs and sometimes not quite