Opinions wanted

[shad309]

I have never used a compound & I'm looking to get one. I don't wanna break the bank with my first. I shoot a 40lb recurve for fun right now. Does it make sense for me to start with something around 40 in a compound?

I found a Martin package for $200 and wouldn't mind some thoughts on it too.
http://m.sportsmansguide.com/Product.aspx?a=811181

[Shadetree Callers]

Shad , I have been an archery tech for many years . That bow looks like a good one to start with . the only concern I have for you is that the brace height is under 7" . The shorter the brace height , the less forgiving the bow will be for the shooter . Aside from that it looks perfect and comes in at a good price. Martin makes great equipment and though I don't have experience with this model , it should be well made and shoot straight . My recommendation would be to buy the 60-70 lb model and start at 60 lbs . With the high let-off of todays bows , you will only be holding a few lbs at full draw . It should be easier to shoot 60 lb in that bow than it is to shoot 40 from a recurve . And then you still have some room to go up if you get to a point where you desire more draw weight . And when you decide to move into a better bow , you can always resell one that has hunting weight like the 60-70 lb model . Good luck , if ya have any questions about set up or shooting , give me a shout .
Bob

[PA Boxcall]

Shad -- Depends on what you want to do.  If you are only hunting whitetails, a 60 lb draw would be very comfortable to shoot in the cold weather when you muscles are tight.  60 lb draw is plenty of energy for whitetails.

If you plan to shoot 3D (which is a total blast, I loved it when I did it), then you may want a 70 lb bow so you gain speed and a flatter trajectory.  IT wouldn't be a bad idea to go with 70 lb anyway, I did with my second bow and just had the bow shop take a turn or so out of the limbs to lower the draw weight for deer season.

I do suggest this:  Visit the shops and shoot as many brands of bows as you can to find what fits you.  I shot Bowtech, it was the bow that fit me.  I tried other brands, and I didn't like the way they felt in my hand.  Its a personal thing.  

I bought an entry line Alpine, and about two years later bought a higher end bow.  Problem was I was stuck with an entry level bow that wasn't worth anything, gave it away.  I would get as much bow as you can afford.

Hope that helps.

[shad309]

I will use it mainly for whitetails & turkey with the possibility of hogs when I visit home.
Ive been to a couple of shops but when I talk price range they clam up...
The biggest factor for me right now is finding something in my budget. Heck I would rather buy from someone willing to help me out ya know.

[PA Boxcall]

I sold my 2004 BowTech Justice for $300, all set up, sights, case, arrows, new string, etc.

Going second hand for a bow a couple years old would probably be your better bet.

[AlanKrow]

Shad,
Right now, Shops are selling the High end bows..as fast as they come in.. the faster they go out..

Look on Martin and PSE website.. They sell their bows on site.. maybe something to fit your budget???

If not look for a use one.. I just sold a Hoyt.. Good Luck..

Also ask the shop to look for you..

[Zumer]

Find a couple local bow shops, explain your situation, get recommendations & price ranges, give em your cell number & be patient..

     Your phone will ring sooner then later..... July, & August are great months to P/U used bows....

[shad309]

Thanks fellas! My brother said his buddy is looking to get a new bow so maybe he can persuade him to jump with a little $ lol