Hey all. It's been a while since I posted.

I currently have a bear Kodiak magnum recurve 52" 55# and i have a 31" draw. Needless to say I get a bit of finger pinch and the bow stacks like mad. I've been using this setup for about 5 years now and I'm still having a hard time getting decent with it.

I'm looking for something that I can shoot better (obviously there's no substitute for range time but it does help to have the proper equipmemt). And I want to keep it under $500.

I'm thinking about a used bear montana, ausable, or patriot but I'm open to other suggestions.

Thanks!

Well I can tell you you're going to get a lot of suggestions that's for sure, but the Montana wouldn't be a bad start and well under $500 used

X2 that you'll get lots of opinions on what to get. Some will be fan boy responses and others more unbiased. Getting your hands on one first that you think may fit the bill would be my suggestion. You can avoid buying one that doesn't pinch but you end up hating the grip or draw cycle or whatever else then wanting to sell that to get another.

Being a longbow shooter, I like the lack of finger pinch that comes with the longer bow. I have a short draw but like 68" bows.

It sounds like you are a recurve guy, but you can get longer curves also that will reduce stacking and finger pinch. As previously stated, find one whose grip is comfortable. Whether you shoot longbows or recurves, take the time to find a good fit.

For me, shopping around has been a big part of the fun when deciding on a new bow. Good luck in your quest.

Check out Maddog Archery's, Prairie Predator. By all accounts an amazing performer and about half what you're looking to spend. I can personally attest to impeccable customer service and outstanding quality of craftsmanship.

I asked about the Montana bow once before. I saw mostly all glowing reviews on it. I dont see how you could go wrong buying one. and you could always re-sell it if you didnt like it.

X2 Maddog Prairie Predator. Something about picking out the woods for YOUR bow.

I've got a couple kmags and a super Kodiak. The grips are similar as to wrist height but the sk is 60". I only draw 28.5 but at that there's no pinch or stack. I've drawn the bow to 30 and I don't feel any stack. New they are over $500 but I've seen them used for less

Also there are a lot of guys out there that like the old kodiak hunters. I believe they were 60" as well. To me they look like a kmag with long limbs. I'm sure one could be had for just a couple hundred

There are a ton of choices......I would watch the classifieds and look for a 66-68 longbow or a 62-64 recurve at a poundage you are happy with at your 31" draw. I'll bet you can do that for less than $500 and get a bow that was almost twice that when it was new.

Agree with Ron.  With a 31-inch draw, I'd recommend a recurve of 64 inches, a hybrid of 66-inches or a straight longbow of 70 inches or more.  Brand doesn't really make a difference.  Lots of excellent used bows offered for sale on this site for less than $500.

The bear Montana is a great bow! That said, I would join the classifieds and pick up a used talltines recurve or longbow.

If your traditional draw is a true 31" I would skip the Montana for sure.  You might get away with the Patriot, but in a Bear bow I think you'd enjoy the 64" Super Kodiak best.  

Otherwise I recommend at least a 64" r/d or hybrid, 62" you could get away with if it's a radical design  with a lot of reflex deflex.  Used is a good way to go with your budget you can get a mint bow that's in super shape.  Check our classifieds or the other sites out there.

X3 On a brand new MADDOG Prairie Predator. ...you will not beat it for under $300 to your door, plus its customized to your specs.

Every bit the bow the Montana is and more, for less money and customized.

IMO whatever bow you choose, it should be at least 60", preferably 64. I believe you will notice a world of difference with the first shot.

X4 On a brand new MADDOG Prairie Predator.

Thank you all for the responses! I have never heard of maddog before. I will definitely have to give them some thought.

There is a 66" ACS in the classifieds for $450, new way over $1K. It would accommodate your draw as good as anything, I would get on that one!

I had a 66 inch ACS CX that I shot at about 31 inches...you could not do better than that bow

DDave

Just save a little extra money, and buy yourself a Bear Kodiak Custom T/D... Sooner or later, the bug is gonna bite you!!! :-)
I've wanted one for years... Just couldn't justify spending $275 back in 1980. Last year I called Big Jim, and placed my order... $750 latter, I was the HAPPIEST Guy on TradGang!!!!! :-)