Uber Newbie Needs Advice

[bradbass]

Hi Folks, I just signed up on Sunday and haven't been able to quit exploring this site. I've been using a 'wheel-bow' (is that right?) since I was a kid and it hasn't been fun for several years.

When I started shooting I didn't even have sites and I remember enjoying that more than the contraption I have now with all of the 'bells & whistles'.

My son is  9 and is showing real interest in shooting a bow as well as hunting. I want to start him off traditionally and if he wants to do something else later then that's his decision.

I also am very excited by what I'm seeing and reading about using traditional equipment. It reminds me of when I first started fishing with a fly rod it took skill and finesse to get competent but man it was so much more fun than using a coffee grinder.

I would appreciate any advice about how to get started.

Thanks

[Focusource]

See if there is a traditional archery club in your area.
Start with lighter weight bows.
Try to use arrows that are spined correctly for the bow you are shooting.
Watch the 'Masters of the Barebows' DVD's to see different styles of shooting.
Ask questions.
Practice and have fun.
Note: Mike at    Maddog Traditional Archery  is making some really nice bows in youth and adult models.

[Rick P]

Originally posted by Focusource:
See if there is a traditional archery club in your area.
Start with lighter weight bows.
Try to use arrows that are spined correctly for the bow you are shooting.
Watch the 'Masters of the Barebows' DVD's to see different styles of shooting.
Ask questions.
Practice and have fun.
Note: Mike at    Maddog Traditional Archery  is making some really nice bows in youth and adult models.

Ditto and your right it is very much like the diferance between fly fishing and bass chucking.

[bradbass]

Thanks for the tips guys I appreciate it. When you say 'arrows that are spined correctly' what exactly does that mean?

[ram]

Arrow spine is simply the stiffness of the arrow shaft.For you to get good arrow flight,arrow spine (measured in lbs.)should approx.match your bow's drawn weight when you are at full draw.Most arrow shafts have a range of spine weight such as;35/55 or55/75.

Welcome,
Robert

[bradbass]

Got it. Thanks!

[Pope Co.]

Welcome,
I've only been a member for a short time now, but have been accessing and reading for a while. These guys are very helpful. Read as much as you can. I've been traditional for two years and love it.
Be the arrow.

[koger]

Welcome, your on the right track. I would suggest ASbell's book on instinctive shooting and subscibe to Traditional Bowhunter. Also try to get to some trad getogether's, even if just a couple a year, it is a ball.

[bradbass]

Hey guys,

Thanks for all of the great advice. I lucked out and found a traditional archery shop about 10 miles from my house. It is JP Enterprises in St. Mary MO, Jim Pyles is the owner.

My son and I went over there today and Jim was great to talk to. He answered all of my questions and started handing me bows and before you know it I asked him if I could shoot a few arrows. He of course agreed and we went out to the range where I shot a few different bows.

The one I absolutely loved was a Dwyer. It felt like coming home after a long trip. I'm no Robin Hood but I was hitting the 3D- black bear target at around 10 yards and it was FUN! I haven't enjoyed shooting a bow for a long time but I absolutely loved shooting this one.

My son also put a few arrows through one of the kids bows Jim had there and we are going to get him a few lessons before we buy him a bow but he also seemed to really enjoy it.

Anyway I ordered a Dwyer around 48# at my 28-29" draw...let the adventure begin.

[bradbass]

Slight correction Jim's shop is in Ozora MO not St. Mary's.

[longbowben]

Welcome glad you and your son joined the GANG.    Merry Christmas.

[Focusource]

Brad, I'm glad to read it is going well with you.  Keep us posted as the journey progresses.

[Sam McMichael]

Welcome! You will find this site useful for learning - some of the contributors are very savvy archers and hunters who are willing to share their expertise.  At other times you will find it to be just a good place to share stories and feelings. You made a good choice to join up.

[Langhorn]

Like alot of these other old farts(lol), I have been at this game for a while now.  It never gets old though to hear the excitement(even in thread posts) of a newcomer getting bit by the traditional bug.  You are on the right track!  Get good equipment, sound advice, and practice, practice, practice!  Glad to hear the boy is into it also.  I've always said and heard, "teach the boy to hunt, never have to hunt the boy"!  If you have any questions, you can find an answer on this website.  Good luck on your new endeavor!

[bradbass]

Langhorn that is a good saying "teach the boy to hunt, never have to hunt the boy", it's funny that since I told my son that archery was something we could do he has had less time than ever for all of the video games, internet etc. A lot of these kids don't know any better because no one ever gave them an opportunity to do anything other than play inside with the computer/video games.

I also want to say that this is one of the most welcoming group of people I've ever been involved with and I applaud what you've created.

[ishiwannabe]

It only gets better brad...I cant wait until my son is old enough to shoot with me.

[bradbass]

I bet you are excited for that day when you can introduce him to the bow. I know that at least for me and my son the time we spend together shooting, hunting or even looking at bows is priceless. I wouldn't trade it for more money, an Alaskan hunt or anything else I can think of. It's like they say "No one ever wished they spent more time at work on their deathbed."