i really want a new bow, but cant spend a whole lot of money.  these are priced great, but how do they shoot?  quiet, no hand shock?  also, how long did it take to get yours?  thanks for any info!

Yes.....

I was going to leave it at that, but here goes:  After talking with Chad (LBR here on the 'Gang or recurves.com), and just his honesty, I surprised him with an order.  Bow is a "custom" for me, 56#@32", and the woods and accents I wanted.  At the time of my order, wait was 6 months, and it was within weeks of that.  When I pestered him, Chad always had a quick update.  Bow is a 68" Crusader LB.  Not the fastest, but that doesn't matter here.  Quiet, stable, forgiving, and pretty.  I also ran into a little "glitch" where I ended up with a crack developing in the handle after 3 months or so - nothing to do with the bowyer.  Chad immediately got to Marc, who started on a replacement immediately.  Completed the bow, and shipped it to me, and even refunded my money that it cost to ship the other one back.  Didn't need to get the bow back to ship the replacement.  Darn good bow!!!!!

Because of that I picked up a used Hunter II Recurve.  I'm a longbow guy, so it doesn't get used much, but it too is a decent bow.

ChekMate skims under the radar around here, but those of us who have them, really like them.  Tremendous value, decent performance, and outstanding service.  I also know that Marc offers a great priced refurbishing service on his bows.  There is a reason you don't see many used ones for sale.

No, they are great!!! Really smooth and quiet, I have had a 56" Hunter and have a 62" hunter II and have nothing but good things to say about them. Smooth,fast enough and quiet.

Very good bows. I had a Hunter II and really enjoyed it. It was very smooth and fast enough. Very good craftsmanship. I sold it only because I wanted to try some other bows(it was my first custom bow) and because I wanted a shorter one(it was 64"). The only complaint that I have ever heard about them is that the grip is too large for many people. I agree that it is pretty beefy, but I have large hands and did not find it uncomfortable.

Yes, they are that good.  I have two Crusaders and they are great shooters.  Chad is super to deal with.  Mine took a little longer to get in because of wood supply problems, but Chad was very good about keeping me informed all the while.  Deermaster you have a PM.  

BOB

I don't have any experience with Checkmate bows, but I've heard nothing but great things about them. I didn't have much money to spend on my first recurve, so I did a ton of research on the "best recurve for the money" and Checkmate was always up at the top of the list. I ended up buying a Quinn, mainly because it was a bit cheaper and I wanted a take-down. I will definately be considering a Checkmate for my next bow, though.

I got one 5 years ago a,d after just 3 week of having the bow in my hand. Ordered another that was a few lbs more...I think they are the best bows dollar for dollar out there...

Bill

p.m. sent.

I've had a 41# Kings Pawn Deluxe for a year and a half. It's smooth shooting and a real pleasure to have without setting you back a fortune. Great quality and style at any price.

I don't think I'll need another bow although I keep think a Hunter II would be a great addition. Why ?? I don't know?? Just this feeling that comes over me once in a while. I just know if another bow shows up it will definitely be a Chek Mate.

Good stuff at a good price.

Chekmates are great. They are fast. 180's with 10gr/# and smooth drawing.  Mine is all bacote.  The grips do run big.  I like mine and I really see no reason to get a more expensive bow, although I'd like to try others.

I agree with BobW.  I have a 64" 54# @ 30"... Kings Pawn.  Great bow, and have no problem recommending the Checkmate.

David

I have nothing but good things to say about my HII.

Outstanding bows for the money for sure!

I have shot ALOT of different bows that cost alot more money than my (Hunter I) but none could outshoot it.

You can't go wrong with a Chek-mate. They are great bows at a great price!

-Leonard-

My husband and I both shoot H2s. My son shoots a Falcon Deluxe. They are all great bows.
All came from Chad (recurves.com). Great bows and a great guy to deal with.

                Take care,
                          Georgia  

I have a Checkmate Raven.It's a fine little bow.

Man there is a bunch of us lurking in the shadows......