I am looking at a long bow at the local archery shop. looks to be in excellent shape. It is right at what I am looking for as far as length and weight of pull. I have shot the bow and it shoots well, the grip is nice, and it zips an arrow down range quickly. So here is my dilemma the bowyer does not make bows anymore. So do I save a little more money and get a bow from a bowyer that is still in business or take a chance on this bow?
Just looking for thoughts.
Its in excellent shape, fits you and you shoot it well, no brainer for me, it would be in my stable.
If it is what works for you and is in very good condition I would get it .... just be sure you are getting a fair price and good value. A used bow should be more than just a little less than new. Lots of good values in the classified here to help guide you on price.
Buying from an existing bowyer doesn't mean he'll be around for as long as you own any bow you buy from him... I have several bows from bowyers who have died or gone on to other endeavors ...
What they said^^^^^^^
Bisch
If the laminations are in good shape and it's basically a 'longbow'...straight thick-limbed cross section, minimal to no reflex/deflex, no foam or multiple nuts/bolts/screws/thingies comprising or holding the various parts together, not made in China, etc., then it'll probably be fine. Except for string wear a well cared for old-school type of longbow will have very little to go wrong with it. The modern 'longbows'...well you might want to have a your local pro shop check all the parts and components first. :)
None of the bowyers who built my Grayling Bears are still in the business
DDave