As you have seen, many people have very strong opinons regarding bows. That's because there really are a lot of quality bows available. My advice is try as many as you can, so you can get a feel for characteristics that particularly appeal to you. I agree strongly with those who suggest you look in the classified section, as you can sometimes get a really good deal. Suffice it to say, though, that whatever longbow you buy, it won't be the last yo will ever want. Longbows are a true addiction. But man, what fun.