New to Trad

[huntingcop]

I am looking for suggestions for a begginers bow. I have been shooting compounds for years and have shot a recurve a little bit but it was an old one my dad had in his garage. I have been looking at some of the Cabela's brand trad bows and they are priced very reasonable but I was wondering if they are worth it or should I stay away from them. I have also looked at some of the Bear traditional bows but they do cost a little more. If anyone has any suggestions on the ones I mentioned or any other starter brands. Thanks!!

[McDave]

Not sure what bows Cabella’s sells, but for a beginner, I would suggest starting with a bow that costs around $150.  You need to know your draw length and weight.  The standard draw length is 28”, which would be for a man of average height and arm span, say 5’9” - 5’11”.  If you are in this category, you will be looking for a recurve that is 60” - 62” in length or a longbow that is 64” - 66” in length.  You should choose a bow weight that you can hold at full draw for a few seconds without shaking.  For beginning men, this often means a bow of about 35#.  It is much easier to learn on a bow you can control than one you have to struggle with.  Whether you choose a recurve or a longbow is really a matter of personal preference.  Recurves generally are faster than longbows, but more finicky.  You can buy a new bow from the bowyer or retailers such as Cabellas or 3 Rivers.  You can often get a better deal on a higher quality bow by buying used, either from the classifieds here or other places.  You have to do your homework when buying used, and should plan to pay about 50-60% of the retail price of a new bow.

Next is how you learn to shoot it.  Best would be a class from a known expert, such as Rod Jenkins or Rick Welch.  If that is not possible right now, there are videos available, such as Masters of the Bare Bow, or YouTube videos from Arne Moe (Moebow) who is a highly qualified instructor here on TradGang.  After you have practiced for a while, send in a video and Arne will evaluate it.

[not on the rug]

I'm new to trad in the past few months, and had several knowledgeable people recommend the Galaxy Ember takedown recurve to me.  After shooting it side by side with a Sammick Sage, I most certainly prefer the Ember.  Might be worth a look. 

As for starting draw weight, 35# might not be a bad place to start.  I would say that it depends on your overall level of fitness though as well.  If you are super weak or out of shape, 35# might be too much.  If you're super strong, 35# might feel like a kid's toy.  I ordered my Ember in 45# and with the upgraded string, it pulls 47# on the scale.  I have no issues with drawing it, holding it as long as I'd like or going outside and flinging 50 arrows with it. YMMV

[Bob Morrison]

Look in the classified bow for sale. You might find a custom slightly higher in price, maybe lower. or the same thing your looking for at a better price.

[Rob DiStefano]

I am looking for suggestions for a begginers bow. I have been shooting compounds for years and have shot a recurve a little bit but it was an old one my dad had in his garage. I have been looking at some of the Cabela's brand trad bows and they are priced very reasonable but I was wondering if they are worth it or should I stay away from them. I have also looked at some of the Bear traditional bows but they do cost a little more. If anyone has any suggestions on the ones I mentioned or any other starter brands. Thanks!!

have a read here ....

http://tradgang.com/docs/trad.html

[Wolftrail]

I agree a lower poundage bow until you get use to it.  I prefer a longbow like 66-68" because   of minimal  finger pinch.  Another dilemma is age.  As we get older a 45# bow is taxing on the muscles and bones.