Just getting started.

[TIMP]

Well I am about to make the leap into Trad.  I have decided on a longbow, a Bama Hunter model. I am gonna go with a 47# bow. I had a friend bring a 45# bow into work and was able to pull it and hold it pretty easily. I am going to use aluminum arrows and 2 blade 125gr broadheads (when the time comes). My concern, even with the wheels on, was/is ethical kills, so I know my shots will be limited to 25 yrds and under (that is what i set my limit at).  2 questions-

1. What distance should I start at to work on form and get my shot down? 5 yrds, 10 yeds.....

2. What is the one thing you would tell a newbie to do or focus on?

thanks

[moebow]

Timp,  

1.  Form practice (blank bale) is best done from 5 to 10 feet.  Just far enough the you know the arrow will clear the bow.  Try REALLY hard to find a coach to help you with the form!!!!!
2.  Do not try to shoot at a target until you are totally comfortable with step one.
3.  Work on your form!!!  Do not try to fine tune your equipment until you are totally comfortable with step one.
4.  Repeat step one.
Good luck and welcome aboard!!!

[inn8hunter]

Originally posted by TIMP:
Well I am about to make the leap into Trad.  I have decided on a longbow, a Bama Hunter model. I am gonna go with a 47# bow. I had a friend bring a 45# bow into work and was able to pull it and hold it pretty easily. I am going to use aluminum arrows and 2 blade 125gr broadheads (when the time comes). My concern, even with the wheels on, was/is ethical kills, so I know my shots will be limited to 25 yrds and under (that is what i set my limit at).  2 questions-

1. What distance should I start at to work on form and get my shot down? 5 yrds, 10 yeds.....

2. What is the one thing you would tell a newbie to do or focus on?

thanks

Timp:

From one newb to another, I'd find a light weight used target/practice bow to start with and still shoot the 47# once a week or so.

If you are like me, you will get "bit" by shooting traditional. I too can handle my 45# recurve, but I can NOT practice shooting as much as I'd like and practice form as much as I'd like with it. You will find that after about 35 - 40 arrows, even at 47# you will become more tired than you'd like. Especially when at first you are trying to find your consistent anchor.

Many have told me that if you really want to develop a good release, start with a lighter weight bow because you can't cheat as much.

I'm a fairly good sized guy and my compound was set at 68# for the last five years. I can't wait until next week when a used, inexpensive 30# recurve is going to show up at my house.

Tim

[lpcjon2]

I'm with moebow on this one

[Rob DiStefano]

you may think holding 45# is okay, but try that during a hunt when up a tree on a cold morning, or show yourself that you can still hold without shaking after shooting a few dozen times.  use a much lighter bow to learn form, first - that's a very invaluable tip that will reap benefits.

check out the  newbie gear  article as well.

[straitera]

Have fun first & foremost. It will drive your success & interest.

[Killdeer]

Where in Virginia are you?

Killdeer

[TIMP]

Originally posted by Killdeer:
Where in Virginia are you?

Killdeer

STEPHENS CITY.

[CaliCreole]

Hey Timp,
Im extremely new as well so cant offer much advice on what # to go with, i jus tknow what works for me, but one thing i can suggest is find a shoot in your area and go talk to the folks there, best thing i did was to go to a fun shoot

[Killdeer]

My husband has kin on Doublechurch Rd.
I'm near the other end of 66.
Have you been to the Virginia Trad Clubs forum here yet?

Killdeer

[TIMP]

Originally posted by Killdeer:
My husband has kin on Doublechurch Rd.
I'm near the other end of 66.
Have you been to the Virginia Trad Clubs forum here yet?

Killdeer

No.

I work in Fiarfax, va.   And have a guy in S.C. that is willing to help. I just have to get in touch with him. I am very near double church rd.

[Killdeer]

THAT'S a commute!   :eek:

I belong to NORVA, and we have facilities near Clifton. I would be happy to shoot with you and swap lies. Google up NORVA archery and you will get a link to our website. I have Sundays off, and usually can get off work by mid-afternoon.

I have bows you can try out.   :D
Killdeer

[TIMP]

Originally posted by Killdeer:
THAT'S a commute!    :eek:  

I belong to NORVA, and we have facilities near Clifton. I would be happy to shoot with you and swap lies. Google up NORVA archery and you will get a link to our website. I have Sundays off, and usually can get off work by mid-afternoon.

I have bows you can try out.    :D  
Killdeer

Thanks. I will.  And I will be in touch.