Best longbow model/style to make for beginner?

Sant-Ravenhill · March 02, 2014, 09:49:00 PM

I've been around long enough that I know that this question is very subjective and very personal for every archer, but?

My previously non archery interested 28 year old son wants me to make him a longbow. I've made three before. One straight limb, and two with mild reflex deflex.

I want to make him a stable forgiving longbow so his first experiences are positive. If you were making a longbow, what would be your parameters?

Straight limb, backset, mild or more pronounced reflex deflex or even slightly string follow? Hill style 14"riser or longer? I really don't want a heavier recurve type riser.

Thanks for your experience and wisdom in advance!

Prometheus · March 02, 2014, 10:45:00 PM

I'd say a basic straight-limbed flatbow might be what you're looking for. Without knowing more, I'd guess a 35-40# bow at 66-70" should be pretty forgiving and solid. Good luck!

Fletcher · March 02, 2014, 10:56:00 PM

My choice would be a mild deflex reflex in a comfortable draw weight and probably 62". It's an efficient design, easy to shoot and without bad habits. I think 7 Lakes sells a pretty good glued up blank.

heartlandbowyer · March 02, 2014, 10:59:00 PM

If he doesn't have a clue as to what he wants build what you build best. Any of those mentioned designs will shoot arrows into foam or flesh efficiently so build the design you are most comfortable building.

My choice would be a D/R longbow because you can make a med to med high locator grip more easily with the extra wood in the riser.

Sant-Ravenhill · March 03, 2014, 12:25:00 AM

I appreciate your thoughts so far...just the out loud kind of musing I was looking for!

March 03, 2014, 12:28:00 AM

An r/d in the weight that could kill a deer at his draw with plenty of length for smoothness. A straight bow with a straight grip is not for everyone, but if the goal is emulate Hill, perhaps. If one is looking for to the point longbow shooting instruction, there are the John Schulz 'Hitting 'Em Like Howard Hill' you tubes. They work just fine for r/d bows as well, with advantage of that bit of extra cast, which is always helpful with lighter bows.

Fattony77 · March 03, 2014, 03:56:00 AM

QuoteOriginally posted by Fletcher:
My choice would be a mild deflex reflex in a comfortable draw weight and probably 62". It's an efficient design, easy to shoot and without bad habits.

I agree. My first longbow was a Martin L-100 50# and fits this description perfectly. I can go months without shooting that bow and when I pick it up again, it always makes me feel like I never stopped shooting it. On target and forgiving of our time spent apart. :D

VictoryHunter · March 03, 2014, 08:35:00 AM

Maddog bows are the way to go! The price is right and the bows are sweet. Mike is really cool and will answer all you questions.

Sant-Ravenhill · March 03, 2014, 09:50:00 AM

Thanks much to all that have posted!