ILF limb and riser length

[freebird134]

I wanted to get into recurve shooting for the simplicity.  But there ain't nuthin simple about it, especially regarding ILF bows!!!     That's ok--I like reading and learning all this stuff  

I am almost 6'1" and I shoot my compound at 30" even though I now it's technically a little long.  My measured recurve DL at Gander Mtn was 29" or 29.5".

I am leaning towards a 30-35# Hoyt Excel for a first recurve.  I'd like to use it for hunting and roving too.  I have two related questions:

1.  It comes in 21" and 23" but I have no idea which would be better.  What are the advantages and disadvantages?

2.  What limb length should I get?  I think shorts are too short for my DL, so are mediums long enough?

Thank you very much in advance!
Brandon

[jeff w]

I'm  6'4" and my draw length is 30.5",  I also shoot a Hoyt Excel.   I have tried both the 21" and 23" risers, and all 3 lengths of limbs;  short medium and longs.    My opinion:  I didn't like the short limbs on either riser.   Both the mediums and longs felt better to me.   I ended up going with the 21" riser and my primary limbs are the mediums for a bow length of 64".  I really couldn't see an advantage or disadvantage to one riser length over the other except for the bow lengths each would make:  the 21" will give you a 62", 64" and 66" bow;  the 23" riser a 64", 66" and 68" bow.   I preferred the option for the 21" riser.    On a side note, I have found the Excell bow to be a very good shooting bow, smooth drawing and quiet.   Regardless of bow type-most will require some adjusting to get it dialed-in to just where you like it-be it an ILF bow or longbow.  I haven't found the ILF bows to be any more complicated, or requiring more adjusting than other bow types.

[freebird134]

Thanks Jeff. That's great info!

[ron w]

I would go with the Med. or longs, 21 or 23 Excell, either will work for you with your draw of 29+.

[Avid Archer]

21" riser + medium limbs

[freebird134]

I have a lead on a good priced of 30# limbs, but they are shorts.  Would shorts shoot ok for me on a longer riser than a shorter riser?  Does riser length influence how shorts will affect me?  THese would be for learning and then I would hope to move to something longer in higher draw weight.

Thanks for all the feedback!

[Greybeard2]

I wouldn't buy shorts for your draw length. I would go with mediums or longs. And a 21" riser.

[freebird134]

Thanks Greybeard.

[Steelhead]

I like 21" riser and medium limbs as well.I draw about 30 inches with recurves.