Longbow for a newbie

[bsoper]

So once I get rid of my current bow (a x200 that is too heavy and the wrong dexterity) I am looking at getting a longbow. I really like the classic longbow look, and to be honest, they really get me excited.

Is it better to get a really nice bow at first that will last me for years, or should I get a cheap bow just to learn with and then get a nice one in a couple years?

What do you guys recommend to start out? Here are some I have found that fit within my budget for a starter bow. If it would be better to just get a nice bow to start out with, I will probably get a HH.

Black Forest Longbow:
 http://www.kustomkingarchery.com/Kustom-King-Black-Forest-Longbow/productinfo/4708/49

Longhunters Longbow:
 http://store03.prostores.com/servlet/1whitewolfcustombows/the-template/faq/Page

Bear Montana:
 http://www.3riversarchery.com/Bows+Longbows+Bear+Fred++Montana+Longbow_c44_s156_p199_i20931X_product.html

[BRITTMAN]

I think if you have your mind made up to shoot trad. i would keep a close eye on the classifides for a nice used Mohawk longbow since you like the classic style longbow . That way you would have a very nice longbow at a very good price and that would last you a life time . I see nice used Mohawks go for 350-375 alot on classifides and that is a steal for that bow.

Mike

Mike has some good advice for you Brock. You really should become a student of the longbow so you can make the right choice.  

Don't be in a hurry.  Take time to glean from all of the folks here.

Ask specific questions and you will get specific answers.

Avoid the temptation to buy a bow before you fully understand your needs. Then and only then will you be ready to choose.  Nobody can tell you what is best for you except you.

If you are interested in Hill style bows, take time to read the big "Hill Bug" thread.  You can learn from many experts that have posted as well as guys like me that found answers to many questions.  Much of what you may learn there will apply to most any longbow, but not everything..so ask questions!

[straitera]

Many classic beauts in the classifieds for real savings. Patience will find a good deal soon enough on Hill, Northern Mist, or others +/- $300. These quality "D" bows can last a lifetime.

[cbCrow]

bsoper, so far you have been given good advice. You should heed what has been said and I would reccomend you try as many different bows as possible, talk to as many different bowyers and try to educate your self. You may want to get a few books on shooting longbows such as: "Become the Arrow" by Byron Ferguson or some of Howard Hills books. But the most important thing to remember is the bow is only as good as the person shooting it.  

[Rob DiStefano]

brock, you have a pm ...

[LongbowGuy83]

There is/was a Bear Montana in the classifieds. I also have one that will be up for sale soon. Good shooting bows for the money.

[ripforce56]

Find a Trad store if you can, many of them have ranges where you can shoot differant bows! Or find Trad events in your area where you can shoot some longbows! Lots of bows to choose from these days have fun!

[bsoper]

Thanks for the advice, guys. Really, this place is awesome.

There aren't any stores anywhere near me that have traditional archery supplies. It's impossible to test out anything before I buy, so I am relying on sites like this and the books I have for info.

I have read the Hill Bug thread, it makes the Hill bug even worse in me!  

I have Byron Ferguson's become the arrow, and another one called Shooting the Stickbow by Anthony Camera.

The problem I am having with used bows is finding a lefty.

[kbetts]

Check out Kimsha.  Tom Parsons is a longbow master.  Last time I was in his shop, I could've picked up a brand new lefty for less than $400.  Great guy to talk to with lots of knowledge.

[Shakes.602]

Just My Opinion here: I bought a Bear Montana, at 45# and I Really Like It! I have several All-Wood longbows as well, but the Montana shoots well for me, and "Lost Nation Archery" got it to me at a Good Price! Check 'em out!!

[awbowman]

Just my opinion, but I would start with a low poundage "cheaper" bow and work and get your form down pat.  In the meanwhile shoot any one you can.  Then I would look for the poundage, length, grip etc. you want.

A good longbow for the money is the Don Dow bow.  You may want to Google it.

[fatzboys]

If it was me i would go new. Get a warrenty. Its hard though getting a bow that you cant grip and shoot at least a few times.we are all different and not going to like the same things.i would get the Bear from the three you listed.good luck

[gobblegrunter]

I've never seen or heard of it before but that KustomKing Longbow looks like a sweet bow...especially considering it's low price tag!

[sweeney3]

Why not an affordable bow that will last forever, like the Bear Montana?     It's a fine bow that you can learn to shoot with and will hold its own for durability, accuracy, quietness, etc.  It might surrender a little in cosmetics, but it's a solid bow and generally much more affordable than a custom job.  You won't be out as much if it turns out that this isn't really your thing.  On the other hand, if you DO jump for a custom job and this turns out to not be your thing, you can usually sell it for a good bit too.  Just don't have your name put on one.

[bentpole]

Look for a used MOHAWK in the Classifieds.     Vince makes a great bow.     If you aren't happy with it put it back on the Classifieds.     Then down the road you can always order a new one custom to your liking!  

[Friend]

Used Montana's are nice and can be found for ~$200 in the classifieds. Often referred to as one of best performers w/i the lower cost spectrum. I have shot at least a couple of 1000 ronds thru them and they were the primary reason for my interest in a 'D' shaped bow.

Used Mohawks are one of the few bows that are  among the creme of the crop yet amazingly don't cost an arm and leg. Have only shot a few hundred arrows thru them. Their performance and fit were stellar.

[Gator1]

Brock, check out the new sponsors site, "Lefties R Us", I believe they have a good selection of used bows.

As many have said, a Mohawk would be a good classic longbow as well.