Limb selection for Elk?

[TC209X50]

I've placed an order for a new Jordan Stalker Recurve with 40# limbs for turkey. I have a 49# that I have for another Stalker but I'm considering having another set built @ 55# for Elk. Is this a decent choice for Elk?
I know some guys go lighter and have No problems with using the 49# that I currently have. If you put it in the right spot much less could be used but I'm interested in the extra weight more for it's ability's at extending me maybe 5-8 yards or so. Any advise on selection would be appreciated.
Thanks,

[neargeezer]

If you would be planning to hunt Wyoming, 50# is needed to be legal.

Your draw length enters into this also. 49# @ 26" has less force put into the arrow than 49# @ 30".

In the end, if you can easily handle 55#, then that is the best option. If you shoot 49# more accurately than 55#, wouldn't that give you the confidence you need on the longer shots?

In the end, it is what you feel is best for what you know is the truth about your shooting.

All the best,
Terry K.

[Friend]

A request that begs for and will not disappoint in assuredly generating a multitude of a wide range of thoughts and experiences.

Establishing your own validly rooted personal confidence in this selection will supersede any possible recommendations I may offer.

[TC209X50]

I didn't realize Wyoming was 50#. Although that's not im my current plan it may be someday. That may make the difference. My draw weight is all based on a 28" draw.

[threeundr]

I always recommend shooting the most weight you can shoot comfortably and accurately. 55 pounds would be fine if you can handle it. Like others have said, there are a lot of opinions on this subject. Good luck on your hunt. Shoot straight!

[Orion]

A heavier bow isn't necessarily going to extend your range/flatten your trajectory because one tends to use a heavier arrow along with the increased poundage.  A 10 gpp arrow for example will shoot about the same out of a 50# bow(500 grains)  as it will out of a 55# bow(550 grains).

That being said, I'd opt for the heavier bow if you can handle it. Elk are big, tough critters. Can they be killed with lighter set-ups? Sure, but an extra 5# and commensurate heavier arrow can change a marginal shot into a killing one.

[Pat B]

If you are going to get 55# limbs for elk why not use them for turkeys too. Keeping your archery consistent(same weight for everything) is less taxing on your brain and would help with consistent shooting.

[monterey]

Well, I get the sense that you would like to justify another set of limbs.  Therefore I concur.  Get another set of limbs.    

From a practical standpoint, the right arrow out of a 49# bow would be better than the wrong arrow out of a 55# bow.  Don't worry about trajectory, just become familiar with how your setup shoots.  

Don't be surprised if you find yourself so close to the elk that you can't move to draw your bow.  

[Arctic Hunter]

Shoot the heavier limbs.....at everything. From squirrels to moose. If you can handle it or work into it, there is no reason not to.

Then you don't have to concern yourself with such things.

If you can shoot the 55# well, it will work for elk just fine!!!!

IMHO though, I would go with one of the heavier sets of limbs for turkeys and save the 40# limbs for form work. Those birds are really tough!!!

Bisch

[TC209X50]

Thanks all I think I may give the 55's a try. You never can have too many bow combination as you never know what the future holds.

Originally posted by Bisch:


IMHO though, I would go with one of the heavier sets of limbs for turkeys and save the 40# limbs for form work. Those birds are really tough!!!

Bisch

Ain't that the truth.  Heck, I'd be more comfortable using 40# on elk than I would on turkeys.

[LongbowArchitect]

40# limbs will work for elk if you're lucky enough to not hit any bone. But luck and elk hunting don't usually coincide. Plan for the worst case scenario of hitting the scapula and go with the heaviest limbs you can comfortably be accurate with. I also suggest you consider a heavy duty single bevel, 2 blade broadhead with a tanto tip that won't curl when it hits bone.