OK this is a bit of a newb question but I just ordered a chekmate crusader from a retailer. I'm trying to use 3rivers spine chart to see if my 500's will work well or not. This is my first actual longbow. I have had all take-down recurve up until now. Does anybody have any actual experience with this bow or any that are very similar? My dl is 28" bow is 49#@28".

I don't know your center shot, but I think you could make the .500's work, Though I don't know your draw length..

Shoot an e-mail to Chad(LBR) at Chad@recurves.com and he'll probably know.  Long bows are typically cut shy of or just to center as they lack the extra mass of recurve risers.  I agree that .500's would be the best place to start. Get a point weight test kit and cut as a last resort.

May not be perfect, but place a piece of masking tape onto each of the two limbs, just at the end of the fade outs, and just large enough to mark on.  

Measure, or eyeball if you have good depth perception, the middle of each limb ( width ) and mark.  Now run a string line or a flexible ruler from one to the other and take a peek at the line as compared to what is cut.  Remember that the riser is probably at least slightly radiused ( not flat) so you need to take a good look at it to be close.

That should give you a pretty good idea of how your bow is set up.
CHuckC

Thanks for the replies. I should have the bow by Friday I hope. Has anybody from Canada ordered from 3rivers? Good or bad experience?

Those 500's with 125 up front, Cut to 29"
Should be pretty close.

3 Rivers            
I can say the same for several other retailers who are sponsors here.
Dave.

Great. I made an order from there this morning. A bunch of misc items plus a test kit and some brass inserts for my heritage 150's

Based upon MY past history, you will be pleased and well taken care of.

Shoot straight
ChuckC

3 Rivers is awesome.