so I've got new bow fever pretty badly. I'd like to have a very nice bow with a little more weight than I currently shoot, in hopes of grand adventures for bear and elk. I'm trying to decide between a toelke whip or a big jim thunderchild. I've decided I want 65#@27 (my draw length). Have any of you used either? what did you like about them? Both sure are fine looking bows but I've never shot either. I would like a shorter bow for shooting out of my tree stand and the thick vegetation down here in the dirty south.
Either are a fine fine choice. Craftsmanship on both is absolutely ace. At 27" you could go with a 54" TC and a Whip maybe a 58" HS model? I have an over 29 draw so I shoot a Buffalo. Just took delivery of mine and it is so so lovely. I've owned a couple Toelke bows and they were all superb. My best advice is talk to each bowyer. Both guys are super nice guys. I myself chose to own a Buffalo for the moment because Jim lives less than two hours from me and that is just too cool. I have plans for more bows from both bowyers some day.
Man I got the new bow fever too. And I mean bad. I think I'm going to OLD on this one thinking a trad tech titain.
ILF not old
I have never had the opportunity to shoot one of Jim's bows but have read nothing but good things posted about them. I have only owned Whips as I have not found their equal. Dan's Craftsmanship is superb and all his bows are every bit as well- mannered as they are well made. Again, I have not found their equal.
I've owned both, completely different animals. The Toelke will be a little quieter, and a litle less shocky. Thunderchild will be a little smoother when you go with the short bows, but will give you the classic longbow thump in your hand. I suspect Jim probably builds the heavier bows more often then the Toelkes. Toelke's will probably get you a bow a lot faster then Jim can. I think BigJim is fairly close to you if a try before you buy is up your ally.
I have the thunder child and a buffalo bow both top notch quiet and fast
Both great bows and great bowyers, personally prefer the TC, smoother draw and more Ooomph !!!
Oh boy you guys are making this tough haha.
Sounds like you have it narrowed down to just two - both great bows and I've shot and owned both.
Just to throw a wrench in the gears, though, take a look at Chad Holm's Holm Made Bows and Chad Francis's Lost Creek bows if you like short longbows. They make outstanding and affordable bows too.