They are built like tanks and are about as heavy. If you like mass in a bow, and I do, then you will like that about them. I have tried twice to like them and could not do it either time; they just didn't suit me, so I encourage you to shoot some before you lay down your money for one, as they are pretty high for even the most basic model. They tend to hold their value well compared to other bows for whatever reason, and they are fairly good performers, not at the very top of chart but very, very competitive with most everything out there. There is much to like about them if they suit you and your shooting style, but the fact that tons of people swear by them doesn't mean that you will as well. Try before you buy. They are not the quietest recurves out there, but quiet enough, or can be gotten quiet enough.