need some help

[bvq]

I am new to the recurve stlye of shooting.  I got a Bear Kodiak Magnum recurve (AMO - 52, 55#).  This bow was is a hand me down and is older then me.  I am interested in getting into the traditional style of shooting.

There is a string that comes with it, but it has never been changed.  I measured the string and it is at 47.  I think I need a 48, but could be wrong.  Could the 47 just be due to the fact that the string is old and somehow shrank?  What string would you recommend, length, and what type?  I think I need a Dacron string?

Also, can someone give me an idea of what, or how to tell draw length on this bow?  In my compound I have a draw length of 31.  I have no idea about this recurve though, or even if it fits me.

Lastly, what length arrow would I need.  Does anyone have any good starting points.  I would like to shoot aluminum or carbon though.  As far as tips, would 125 be better or 100?

Alright, I think that is all for now.  I don't really know alot about the recurve style but, I want to get everything going so I can be practicing for a year before hunting season rolls back around.  Again, Thanks for all the help on my questions.

[jdeck]

For a new string I recommend emailing LeRoy Carlson at [email protected] He also has several great reviews on the product review forum. I just bought two strings from him and they are very well made. He also is very helpful.
As far as draw length I don't know if there is a correlation between compounds and trad. I'm sure some one will respond soon who does though. This is a great site for information you can find lots of great threads with the search feature on the top of the page.
Welcome and good shooting

[Scott J. Williams]

Maybe I can help,  you should subtract three inches to three and one half inches from the AMO bow length in order to get the correct string length.  That would place the true string length for your 52 inch bow at 49 or 48.

I prefer to get a sting just a tad be longer than what I think I will need.  This is because I like to have room to twist for tune.  If you get one too close, and it won't stretch like the last one you got you might no have enough room to play with.

So I perfer the 3 1/2 inches under the AMO bow length. You can then have the string maker set up to get the length you want.  Stay away from all fast flight materials with the bow you have. So guys get new tips put on their bows so they can shoot the newer strings, B-50 is what you want to ask for.  Lots of custom string makers out there.  Good Luck, and welcome to traditional archery.

I don't know what you mean by "recurve style". Shooting a bow is shooting a bow.  Just as with the compound, your form is what's important.

My advice would be to not "begin" with that bow.  If you do indeed have a long draw length, I think you'd be better served to get a 66" or 64" bow in the mid-30 pound range.

Your draw length can be easily measured when you comfortable come to full draw, anchor and hold.

[bvq]

Thank you for the replies.  I am getting the feeling that this bow might be a bit short with alittle to much poundage.  And by recurve style, I mean a true recurve.  I think I am still going to get this bow restrung and see how it goes.  I guess I will see how much 55# really is on a recurve.  However, I believe I will be looking for a longer bow with a bit less poundage with the replies I have gotten.  Again, thanks to everyone who replied.

[cvarcher]

bvq, I had the same exact bow and weight. I also develeoped blood blisters on my finger tips. When I had the bow weight checked it was 70+ lbs. Short bow and that weight ---ouch. The advice of getting a 66" length bow and a light weight is a good one. Id try 40-45lbs to start. As for string length yeah 3-4 inches less than the length of the bow.Draw length is measured in several ways. One is to place the arrow nock end into your solar plex (chest) at the base of your neck and with both hands reaching out without straining where the middle fingers meet on the arrow is your draw length.Just add an inch more to allow for broadheads.