Hey guys,
As some of you know I just joined the forum and am looking for my first recurve. I've read the beginners threads and have been keeping an eye out for used recurves. I'm having a harrd time just looking for a bow, to actually look into. they're either out of my price range, or weight is way off. I know to use the search bar, but can some of you more experienced trad guys give me some ideas as for a good starter recurve? Thank you much and God Bless
What is your price range?
ah... Kind of embarrassed to say, but roughly $250... I know that doesn't get me crap... But with a engagement ring and new house on the way money is tight none the less...
250 will get you a good used bow. I would look for a Grizzly or Kodiak Hunter form Bear or a Hunter from Martin/Howatt.
I have several wapiti t/d recurves made by Kieth Chastain. I believe his web site is world class bows. His bows are very well built vibration free and very quiet. they also shoot an arrow with authority.
There are a couple Bear Grizzly recurves on the classifieds now. Fine bows. Stay in the 40-45 pound range.
A Martin Hunter is probably the best starter bow their is. You can probably get one in that price range if you surf the forums.
QuoteOriginally posted by bigbadjon:
A Martin Hunter is probably the best starter bow their is. You can probably get one in that price range if you surf the forums.
Yup!
Look for an older Howatt Hunter. However you need to watch the draw weights as they seem to be a few pounds heavier than stated.
You should be able to get one for less than your budget.
John
10 4 Marc,
I've researched Sammick sage, Martin saber and the jaguar, Hoyt gamemaster and gamemaster 2.
I don't like the looks really of the hoyt and martins compared to the "older" look. and I was wanting something around 60"-62" and 40-45# @ 28.
I want a take down, and from what I've read... I'm assuming a ILF bow?
I'm only askin for the names of a bow or two, I can do the research on it! I know theres tons of "new guys" who float through here...
Thanks again Marc, I'll look into them.
lol, well I got what I was asking for pretty fast, thanks guys I'll start researching them!!
There a many used recurves out there in that price range that will shoot with most of the more expensive bows....I'm partial to Bear's tigercat recurves....most of the ones I've owned have been in the $150 range on the big auction site....
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Glenn
(http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb364/gabedard/tigercatbearbow.jpg)
Igor, thats a beautiful looking bow. I was really leaning torwards a take down though. Is the any other pros or cons besides being able to store/transport a take down better?
Thanks
Search for a Quinn. Right in your price range and even cheaper for some used one. EXCELLENT bows! You can do a search on them as well for reviews.
Second the Quinn, or keep an eye out for used bear's. Good deals out there if ya keep looking!
I would look for a bear kodiak if it was me... I picked up my 65' for $225 and have seen many around that range... And they are great shooters!
All of the advice above on vintage bows is good. I prefer the older Howatts Hunters.
Are you planning to travel alot? I have travelled across the country by air several times with my 68" longbow. It took planning but wasn't that difficult. All that to say don't buy a takedown of lesser quality when you could have a great bow for the same price.
check Big Jims website too, he has some used bows on his site at reasonable prices.
Edge
I've owned a number of 1pc/2pc/3pc and I've very seldom ever took my bows down - except to sell/ship them :^) - I'm partial to looks of a 1pc but I don't shoot well enough to tell the difference in performance. So if you don't use air travel I'd go with a 1 piece and in most cases save yourself some cash for other things...like arrows :^).
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Glenn
Edge
Here is a tigercat that I recently purchased for $125.....56" 53@28 _- I made a padded skinny string for it and it is a great shooter.....!
You'll have to do some homework and take your time but you can find some great buys that will fit your budget and need...
Good luck
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Glenn
(http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb364/gabedard/Woodbury-20121121-00390.jpg)
I agree with all of the posts about a Martin/ Howatt Hunter. Ive got one a little heavier than you want, great bow. very reliable.
If you must have takedown, the Martin Hatfield takwdown can occasionally be found on the internet auction site, one went recently with arrows and other accessories for $300. If you just want to bite the bullet and get shooting, go buy a Samick sage for $140 bucks. You will enjoy it immensely!