I was wondering which longbows you all would recommend to a newbie hunter with about 400 dollars maximum budget? I know there are lots of opinions as to which is the best, but I really just need something to get the job done. I'm even willing to try and make my own.

Thanks, guys!
Chris

Chris, you are gonna get a lot of suggestions on this one but I would suggest shopping used or if you are looking to get your first custom look at Nate at Bamabows.  He builds a very nice bow and quick turnaround time.  Good luck....Shawn

Mike at Maddog makes a great Longbow in that price range. Top craftmanship!

Bamabows is another option as Shawn stated.

Or you look for a used one and use the money you spare for arrows      

Good luck!

if don't matter about a big company or not and if you want to keep some money buy a Bear montana

Don Dow stik bow. In your price range, custom, and a great shooter!

Craig at Howard Hill Archery will get him sorted.

Chris,  there are a lot of fantastic  bows for sale on the classifieds, if you don't want to wait.

All of the above advice is fantastic...

Maddog Mike consistently makes great bows especially for kids. Look at Bob Sarrels lb's also. Find good deals in the classifieds.

Hey, guys, thanks for all of the info. I think the best thing for me to do is first go to a local tradbow shop I know of and get "measured" and ask their advice also. Keep the advice coming!

Thank you all!
Chris

A used bow. I'd keep my eyes open for a Holm Made Osprey. Usually find them used for under $400 and they are a huge value in terms of build quality and shooting characteristics.

classifieds right here on Tradgang

I second Don Dow. His bows are my favorite. You can get one custom made for a touch over $300.

Before you do anything else go to the bow shop and decide whether a longbow or a re curve feels better in your hand.

Also, figure out your draw length and how much weight you can VERY comfortably draw back. How old are you, how big are you, etc??

Before I ever got my 'real' bow I practiced with a throw away bow that pulled about 25#'s. This just helped me learn form without the challenge of added draw weight, etc.

Once I was comfortable with that, I got my 'real' bow.

Ask away.

These guys are extremely helpful.

used kanati?

I would put a post on classifides that your looking for a longbow and your price range . Bows are not selling that good right now and you can get a very nice bow for $400 thats worth twice that much . For a new bow a Kanati longbow is close to your price range and fits alot of people .

Option 1:  I would go to a trad shoot and shoot as many bows as I could - both longbows and recurves before putting any $$$ down.  Grip differences can be significant and if the bow does not feel right, you are not going to shoot it well, if at all.  Also, it is important that you are not over-bowed because that will affect your shooting form....

Option 2:  There are A LOT of trad shooters in GA, and some real fine ones to boot, and they would be most helpful in getting you on the right path.

Finally, there have been some really nice bows up for sale at great prices here at Trad Gang.  If you learn what you want, it pays to be patient....

Shoot straight, Shinken

 

Another vote for MADDOG!!!

Along with those listed here, Abbott longbows are another to look at.

You dont need to go to a trad shop to find your draw length if you measure your wingspan then divide that number by 2.5.Stand with your back against the wall with your arms out to your side at shoulder height and have someone mark the end of your finger tips.Now divide that number by 2.5 and thats your draw length.As for advice you wont find a better place then Trad Gang.

does it have to be a longbow how about a recurve . ive got a few wings kicking around