Like quite a number of posters (see above), I own an RER bow, a 3-piece XR.
I also own several bows from other bowyers,but they're gathering dust because the RER shoots better for me and it's far superior aesthetically. RER bows are as good as trad bows get.
We're not hearing enough, however, about Kevin and Sue TerMaat. THEY are RER and what makes RER special.
What do I look for in a bowyer? I want someone who delivers on promises, whether it's price, delivery time, or any other aspect. A good bowyer will stand behind his product, not just till it's in the mail to the buyer. If he claims to be a "customer bowyer," he should offer some genuine options. Kevin and Sue do all that.
In addition, they don't give the buyer the bum's rush at any point along the way. Example: Prior to commiting to RER, my brother and I spent two hours at their home/shop. We shot a number of bows, looked at in-stock bows, talked about wood combos, examined lam options, considered custom measurements, etc.
No pressure! Absolutely none! Kevin and Sue freely gave of their time with no promise of a sale. They were like old friends from the initial handshake.
At the end of the evening I placed my order. My brother bought an in-stock bow. Neither of us has been disappointed.
When I meet the TerMaats at a shoot, I feel like I'm being reunited with family. That goes for daughter Emily and son Austin, too.
It's the bow, sure. But, it's also who's building the bow.
Mark