Insights and help selecting bow

[Karl61]

Here's a chance to help someone else spend thier money!!  Like many of you, I'm interested in a new recurve but can't put my hands on one so I guess I'm going to ask others their opinion.  I'm looking for a recurve at 58" or 60".  I have a 27" draw and would probably get the bow at about 50# at my draw length.  I do not have very large hands - maybe a size M in gloves.  I do not like fat, blocky grips.  Rather I like a grip that I slide into, had a good thumb shelf, and not so thick that it leaves my fingers still pointing straight forward.  I like my fingers to relax around the grip.  Oddly, I rather like the stock medium grip on my ******** Titan.

I have been looking (online) at the following bows: a Robertson Fatal Styk, Leon Stewart recurve, or possibly a Tall Tines.  I would be interested in anyone's hands-on experience particularly as it relates to the grip and the performance of the bows.  Criticism is healthy so please say what you don't like as well as what you may like about the bows.  If anyone has shot more than one of these bows that would be a bonus.  Sure appreciate any thoughts anyone may have.

[ChuckC]

Karl, truly the best thing you can do is go to shoots and talk to folks, ask if you can handle their equipment (be nice) and see what fits you. I can tell you how sweet a certain bow is and you may find it to be very much less than sweet.

There are a ton of awesome bows out there.  Plus, m,any bowyers can and will custom make a grip to fit your needs.

Go out and visit.

ChuckC

[Flying Dutchman]

Times two

[Karl61]

I should have been clearer.  I live near a great trad shop so I grab a hold of and shoot a LOT of bows. For example, I was very impressed with a Hummingbird that shot well but was a little too heavy and way too thick of a grip. I also own two Shrews, a Chastain, a Rampart (favorite grip of all), as well as the aforementioned Tr@dtech.  I'm really looking for any feedback on the bows I mentioned in addition to my own research.  Many thanks.

[Flying Dutchman]

Caribows have lean grips ass well do Whippenstick have. Both bowyers make outstanding bows. I do like the hybrid one pce designs of Caribow very much, very light and yet build like a tank. A great grip with thumb stud that feels like it was custom made for you. Very fast bows, very sweet draw, very silent, no hand shock at all.
The Whippenstick Phoenix, which is a three pce recurve design has the same characteristics but is even faster and has more mass.
Both bowyers make masterpieces.

[Easykeeper]

I can only comment on the Robertson Fatal Styk, haven't tried the others you mentioned.  My Fatal Styk is a 60" bow and a great shooter.  Nice grip, a little wider than on my Blacktails or Silvertip but not as wide as some.  Very comfortable and my hand just slides into place, never have to think about it.  It's a really nice and easy bow to shoot, I would try one if you get a chance.  If I'm not mistaken they have a demo program, one of the few times you can try before you buy.

My favorite grip is what's on my Blacktails, narrow with enough contour to ensure consistent placement.  The grip on my Silvertip is very similar.

[VictoryHunter]

Stalker Stickbows have a great lean grip. They have a test drive program as well I believe. Definitely worth a look.

[mahantango]

I'll put a plug in for the Leon Stewart. Never heard a negative word about one of his bows. Fantastic shooters, craftsmanship is second to none. Really nice guy, and will make the grip to custom-order.

[nineworlds9]

Leon Stewart     Toelke Chinook also gets a HUGE shout.

[WESTBROOK]

Karl, How far from Denver are you? Rocky Mountain Specialty gear has a ton of bows you could check out.

Eric