I need to pick up[ a bow to practice with.  I am wondering; should I choose a bow of the same type?  I currently sohht a Howatt Hunter.  Its 50#, I would like to go to 40 or 45#'s, but I'm wondering if it makes a difference as to what bow you practice with.  Thanks.  Jim

From my experience, it is beneficial to practice with a bow that is either the same, or quite similar to your hunting/competition bow. The difference in weight and especially the shape of the grip can have a significant impact on your shooting. All that practicing with a different bow really does, is teach you to shoot with a different bow IMHO.

I practice, shoot 3d's and Hunt with the same
Bow......

I'd like to think that most of us use the same(type/weight) bow for stump shooting, 3D, small game and deer hunting. Confidence in your bow, and yourself is a must for hunting. If a 50#'er is too much for you to practice with then get a 40#'er and do your practice and hunting with that one. Soon you will build up to the "heavy" bow.

... mike ...  

My only concern with differant bows is that they are center cut. (My preferance as I cannot go from one bow to the other with out a lot of work) With that concideration they shoot fairly level. With some shooting to aclimate to the bow due to the differant shelf heights over the hand. I can go from a longbow grip to a recurve grip with no big issue. My practice bow (if I had one is) 10 lbs heavier than my normal. You don't build muscle's by reduceing your excercise weights.

But on the other hand do not over bow weight your bow to start with. Start with one you can draw to anchor without a struggle. And learn form first. And maybe thats where you are now.

                  Brent