Longbow Question

[Winger]

I have been shooting a vintage 70's recurve for about a year or so.  I'm wanting to try a longbow.  Anyone have any suggestions for a good starter bow?

[KyStickbow]

A Bear Montana longbow is a great one to start with. I love mine...give em a look.

[Caughtandhobble]

2X

The Montana is a great bow, its the one I started with. It is one of the bows that I'll likely hang on to.  

[WESTBROOK]

X3 on the Montana

[Brianlocal3]

I shot a maddog today for the first time and I was blown away!!! Just an outstanding bow all around

[pokeanhope]

Maddog xs 2!!!!! Affordable and custom!

[Orion]

Pick up a used Hill.  Good shooters and usually reasonably priced.

[Cameron Root]

Bama

[LBR]

Be patient, go to as big a tournament/rendezvous you can, and try out different bows.  

IMO, longbows vary more than recurves--the grips, the lengths, the shooting characteristics--there can be huge differences.

[Jerry Jeffer]

you will get a million different suggestions on bows. My suggestion is to go out to a shoot, or a shop, and shoot as many different bows as you can. Then make your decission.

[LongStick64]

Going from a recurve to a longbow can be challenging due to the grip. You may want to look for a longbow that has a recurve type grip especially if you have been shooting vintage bows that have a significant grip. Check out South Cox's longbows, especially the one piece, it is a great transition bow and a sweet longbow in it's own right. The grip is recurve styled.

[Stone Knife]

Find a used Martin Savannah, they make a good transition bow.

[damascusdave]

Larry Hatfield, who worked for Martin/Damon Howatt for 53 years and designed and built a whole pile of bows, only has two bows...they are both Venoms...he says that is the best longbow he has ever shot...and if you find one in a draw weight that is too heavy for you please let me know as I am looking for one as well

DDave

[Sam McMichael]

There are lots of great choices. I agree with the idea of picking up a used Hill or Northern Mist, etc., because you can get a fine bow at a much better price than a new one. The beauty there is that if you really take to the longbow, then you already have a top of the line bow. The Montana is a good bow as well. Also check around and see what some of the other bowyers have. The classifieds will be helpful.

[Tradcat]

Maddog Prairie Predator...Awesome bow....Super Awesome Price !!!

[ChuckC]

I don't know. .  I think the one I shoot is the best.        

CHuckC

[Cavscout9753]

I will offer this: "Longbow" can mean different things. An ASL or Hill Style, a Reflex/Deflex, or what is essence longbow limbs on a heavy mass recurve style riser. All three have variety unique to their respective styles, and in those sub-styles different features and bowyers will have varied behaviors. If you narrow down your search a little people will be able to tell you what exactly they like about a specific bow or brand. Good luck!

[CoyoteBryceBowyer]

Love my Montana Long Bow. 55# @ 28"

[Winger]

Thanks everyone for your suggestions and guidance.  I have a lot to think about that I didn't consider before.

[Shakes.602]

Love my 50# Montana as well!!