I wanted to get into recurve shooting for the simplicity. But there ain't nuthin simple about it, especially regarding ILF bows!!! :) That's ok--I like reading and learning all this stuff :)
I am almost 6'1" and I shoot my compound at 30" even though I now it's technically a little long. My measured recurve DL at Gander Mtn was 29" or 29.5".
I am leaning towards a 30-35# Hoyt Excel for a first recurve. I'd like to use it for hunting and roving too. I have two related questions:
1. It comes in 21" and 23" but I have no idea which would be better. What are the advantages and disadvantages?
2. What limb length should I get? I think shorts are too short for my DL, so are mediums long enough?
Thank you very much in advance!
Brandon
I'm 6'4" and my draw length is 30.5", I also shoot a Hoyt Excel. I have tried both the 21" and 23" risers, and all 3 lengths of limbs; short medium and longs. My opinion: I didn't like the short limbs on either riser. Both the mediums and longs felt better to me. I ended up going with the 21" riser and my primary limbs are the mediums for a bow length of 64". I really couldn't see an advantage or disadvantage to one riser length over the other except for the bow lengths each would make: the 21" will give you a 62", 64" and 66" bow; the 23" riser a 64", 66" and 68" bow. I preferred the option for the 21" riser. On a side note, I have found the Excell bow to be a very good shooting bow, smooth drawing and quiet. Regardless of bow type-most will require some adjusting to get it dialed-in to just where you like it-be it an ILF bow or longbow. I haven't found the ILF bows to be any more complicated, or requiring more adjusting than other bow types.
Thanks Jeff. That's great info!
I would go with the Med. or longs, 21 or 23 Excell, either will work for you with your draw of 29+.
21" riser + medium limbs
I have a lead on a good priced of 30# limbs, but they are shorts. Would shorts shoot ok for me on a longer riser than a shorter riser? Does riser length influence how shorts will affect me? THese would be for learning and then I would hope to move to something longer in higher draw weight.
Thanks for all the feedback!
I wouldn't buy shorts for your draw length. I would go with mediums or longs. And a 21" riser.
Thanks Greybeard.
I like 21" riser and medium limbs as well.I draw about 30 inches with recurves.