First Longbow - Howatt Bushmaster

[dirtguy]

I've been shooting recurves for the past few years and really enjoy it.  I was in the local shop this weekend and couldn't resist a used long bow (Howatt ML-18 Bushmaster, #50@28")  I test shot it and really liked it. I have read the entry about it on the DH site, but want to know more.  As far as long bows go, how is it regarded?  Is the reflex/ deflex slight, moderate or a lot?  What arrows (aluminum) do you think would be good for a 28" draw and a 125 grain broadhead (which is what I have) or should I think of a heavier broad head?

Thanks!
dirtguy

[JRY309]

I think they are an excellent longbow,I've had a couple of them.Damon Howatt has been around for a long time and make excellent bows,I still have a few.The Bushmaster is a solid well built longbow,nice design with a moderate R/D.They shoot as well and fast as other longbows of similar profile.A good aluminum for that bow would be a 2016 with the 125 gr. head will put you close to 500 grs.I don't think you can go wrong with a Howatt made bow!

[RM81]

I agree with JRY.  I had one but traded it away.  It is a nice bow and can definitely hold it's own.

[donnyjack]

Bushmaster was my first LB also and I still have it but at 60# its a little on the heavy side now.  I understand that Howatt/Martin used the Bushmaster forms to build the Trad Barta bow for 3 Rivers. The DH bows are nicer than the later Martin models and are finished a little better. Limbs are Red Elm and handle is Sadua maybe if I remember right.  They are very quick for their design of a mild R/D.  Mine was built brfore they built them for ff but I've been using a padded TS Plus on it for years with no issues and it made the bow shoot a lot better.
Enjoy---DJ

[Knawbone]

I have a Howatt Custom Bushmaster that I killed a deer with a few years ago. The bow is solid as a rock. Yes red elm limbs and I'm not sure what wood for the riser, but it has dark growth rings threw a medium brown color. Pretty bow that I shoot as well as any of my bows. It needs a new string right now. Not my favorite style riser( kind of wide like a recurve).I would say it's between a mild and medium reflex/ deflex design.Good bow for sure.