My first bow...getting set up to practice

[Gnat]

Hi folks,

After patiently searching, asking questions, and reading a lot, I just bought my first longbow. It's a "Griffin" made by J McCullough, 60'', 48# at 28'', tillered for split-finger.

I've tried out a few bows and found this draw weight to be about right, although I may opt for a cheaper starter bow if it's too much, and then work my way back up. I can hardly wait for it to arrive...

What I'd like to know is what you'd recommend getting for starting out, which will be basically practicing in my yard for a while. I don't have any equipment, and the bow will be here in a few days. So:

What's a good cheap target to shoot at?

What kind of arrows would you recommend for target practice and general use with this bow?
I know very little about arrows at this point.

Are there any other accessories that I'm really going to need, other than maybe an armguard? How important is a glove for practicing?

Any general tips about technique, safety, etc. are also appreciated.

Thanks for your thoughts.

[macbow]

You'll certainly want a glove or tab or you'll soon find your fingers too sore to shoot.

About the cheapest and easiest to remove arrows from is a bag target. They usually have 4 or 5 small spot target faces painted on. They last many years. You can search on the tradgang for ideas about making your own.

Arrows. Gold tip 35/55 would be right if you want to go with carbons. Carbons might be a good idea because they are more durable when the target is missed.
Good luck,
Ron

[Traditional-Archer]

Like macbow said,
I like the big shot glove. You can find most needed things for starting out at three rivers web sight. The bag is a great idea, you will want to fractice up close at first to build your form to perfection.      

[Orion]

Go to the nearest book store and pick up a copy of Traditional Bowhunters Handbook by T.J Conrads, or buy a copy of Traditional Bowhunter magazine and get the mailing address to purchase a copy of this book.  Will save you about a hundred posts on this site.