Hello everyone, I am new to the forum and this is my first post. I know there are some other post on this topic and I have been trying to do as much research as possible. I am interested in buying a nice longbow you guys have been calling them "working mans longbows" to learn to shoot and maybe hunt deer with in the future. I really like the looks of a nice longbow and I want to pick one up in the next few months. To give you some background I have shot compounds for a little while and my draw length was 29.5" with a compound bow, I am 6'1" and 220 pounds and am 31 years of age.
I was thinking about picking up a 50 pound at 28" draw bow, this should be easy enough to learn on and practice with but still powerful enough when it comes time to hunt whitetail deer. I am not sure about length of the bow, should I be looking at 64" or 66" or something else?
Now I think I like the looks of a more straight limb longbow rather than alot of reflex/deflex. So a bow like the Bear Montana or the Bama Bow Hunter really apeals to me. But I also see bows like the Omega longbow and the Mad Dog MUTT have a little more reflex/deflex look but do they shoot the arrows way faster and harder than a Montana or Bama Bow?
If I wanted to spend under $400 to buy a nice longbow what would you guys recommend? Thanks in advance. Max-4
A used bow. There are lots available and being used diminishes them not at all.
ChuckC
QuoteOriginally posted by ChuckC:
A used bow. There are lots available and being used diminishes them not at all.
ChuckC
X2 check the classifieds.
Welcome! Best advice I can give is to shoot before you buy; your question as posed is going to get you answers about what works for us, maybe not as much what will suit you. Often you can buy used and sell or trade later as you come to understand your preferences. Happy hunting!
Classifieds are the way to go. I found my dream bow for only $400. I'm sure you will find a used Montana or other "working man's" bow for a good amount less than that.
I think the BamaBow Hunter is one of the best deals out there...I love mine!
JD Berry Vixen is just a few greenbacks more and is a top of the line longbow
There is a Mohawk in the classifieds right now that fits the bill for less than your 400. Fantastic bows...check it out I brought it up top. :thumbsup:
Kegan's bows (Omega Longbows) get excellent reviews from every person I have ever asked who has shot one. Nice hard shooter, excellent worksmanship, and the price is sub-400 because he uses all local lumbers. I think you should take the time to email him and let him talk you into one - I think you won't be dissapointed.
I can't view the classified forum, do I have to pay the annual fee of $30 to view it?
Bamabow hunter always receives high praise, however as I understand it Nate is not taking orders until at least March of next year.
First bow, best to do some horse trading and pick up a deal or two, at least to determine which style, handle shape etc you prefer.
Yes you have to join to view. Best money you could spend.
Maybe there are some guys in your area you could go shoot with and try out a couple.
Take a day and make one for about $7 from a board. It's quieter and shoots just as well. Wayyyyyy more wallet friendly.
Kent Ostrem (Mahaska Bows) makes some beauties at a fair price.
Maddog if you buy new.
Used from the classifieds would give you all manner of options at or below your price range.
Look for a used Toelke Whip.
Go to the classifieds and find a bow to meet your specs........you'll get a custom bow for half the price of new.
Everyone has their favorites and you'll get lots of recommendations.
I agree that you'll get the best deal in the classifieds. Don't jump at the first thing that catches your eye. Look at them for a while to see what appeals to you. Of course, if you have any opportunity to try before you buy in your area, try to do so.
Regarding length, if you go with a straight limbed bow, a 66-68-inch length would probably be best; a moderate r/d bow, maybe 64 inches; and a severe r/d bow/hybrid, 62 inches or less. 50# is a good starting weight for someone your size. 45# would also work and is plenty for deer. Good luck.
Maddog.
Maddog bows are great and right in your price range!
I bet Chuck at Two Tacks (sponsor here) has some on his site right now that fit your bill...he builds a heck of a nice bow...working man or not:)
Try a bunch used till you find what you like to shoot and fits your style and form............ much better than ordering one, waiting for it to be built and then not really liking it.........
QuoteOriginally posted by Sidmand:
Kegan's bows (Omega Longbows) get excellent reviews from every person I have ever asked who has shot one. Nice hard shooter, excellent worksmanship, and the price is sub-400 because he uses all local lumbers. I think you should take the time to email him and let him talk you into one - I think you won't be dissapointed.
Yuo,,,,, I have three of them. Great performers but not beautiful.
Doug
Dwyer longbows. Dave and Sue are great people his basic bows are around your price range and you can get the woods that you want for the handle and limbs from his choices.Check out their web site.Good luck in your search.
Check out Two Tracks or New Woods. For $500.00 you could get a heck of a bow.
Brand new Bear Montana $339.00 all day long...enough left over for some arrows.
Nothing new I can add...look at classifieds, that's what I did for about 30 bows lol. Bought and sold for what I bought or traded.
Other than that, the bear Montana is a fantastic bow, I personally do not get along with the grip (or any locator for that matter) but at that price it didn't hurt my feeling to alter it to my needs.
I would encourage classifieds as well.
Best way to get a feel for longbows and save a pile of $$$$$$
Then decide what you like and custom order..
Can't go wrong with a good used bow off of the classifieds. Maddog also is a great source...I've yet to hear a single negative remark regarding one. I think for $400 you will find just what you are looking for
First - read Orion's post
Second- read it again!
Third- at this point, don't worry about which shoots faster, harder, etc. concentrate on learning proper form and technique.
JMHO
Find a bow from a bowyer you really like and give him a call. Sometimes we have bows that are very slightly used or are slight blems that we heavily discount. Even bows that we have has in stock too long . I'm talking about bows with nothing wrong with them at all that are perfectly good working bows. For instance I have at least five different bows in stock right now like this and I am sure most bowyers have something along that order. I usually save some bows like that back for beginners and for young people ect.
God bless, Steve
Take a look at Winterhawk Archery they have some nice looking bows in that price range. Good guy as well.
My .02's Look at the RMSG webpage and then just call those guys to talk archery and about starting with good fundamentals. I think you'll be glad you did. good luck.
Don Dow. I have 2. Great bows ,
Don Dow. I have 2. Great bows ,