I was actually in the market for an entry level recurve now I'm thinkin r/d longbow. shot a buddies today and liked it alot. Question is .....without ordering custom what is the best deal for around 400.00? I need something 45#@28".I have looked at samicks and other imports kustom king has a few . What is the best choice in my price range?

The Martin Savannah is as good a bow as there is, IMO. Used ones in like new condition can be had for $250.00/$300.00, if you're patient. That would be my recommendation.

i havent shoot one but i have talked to people that have and they say that they are great.  Look at bambow archery.  I just received a new rer, and got a heck of a deal on one they had in stock.  The folks at RER were very helpful, and a real pleasure to do business with.  Hope this helps

Keep an eye out for a used Big River Bow.  Wonderful bow for the money.
ChuckC

You could buy more than one old Bear R/D bow for $400.  I have a 1960 48# Alaskan and a 1965 41# Cub that both shoot hard and fast for their weights.  They have made me really appreciate R/D bows.  These models are not high on most collectors' lists so they tend to go pretty cheap.  The later model Cubs have a standard single shelf.  The old Alaskan is a dual shelf.
No, I wouldn't part with mine.

Look around you might find a deal. I just bought a NEW stock r/d LB from a very well known bowyer 44# @ 28 for $400. Shoots great, was just down in the basement flinging a few with it.

Take a look at Don Dow's bows. They look pretty nice and well within your price range for a new one.  Here is his web address
www.stikbowsbydondow.com

Trad Gang Classifieds.  Best place in the world to bow shop

For just a bit more you could look at Holm Made bows.  (sponor here)  Great shooting and a great price!

you can do a heck of a lot better on used customs than to buy a savanah. They have been extremely over rated. Not bad for a couple hundred dollars though.
Bigjim

$400 will buy a huge bow from TG classifieds. Look thru classifieds here & other trad archery sites. Too many great bows to choose from. Good luck.

I'll second Don Dow's longbows.  I just received mine and it is great.  Well worth the money and a nice person to deal with.

Check Rocky Mt Specialties (sponsor here). They have a large selection of used bows for some pretty good prices. The classifieds here are another really great place for a good deal.

I would watch the classifieds here, there are many bows of the type that you are looking for, be patient, you will find just what you want.

I'd also recommend the classified here. If you can find a used Kanati, buy it! They don't show up often, but they are worth the wait.

Check the classified section. There is a new Holm Made Osprey 61" 44 @ 28" for sale for under $400 right now.

Don Dow is my vote, good price and no complaints that I have seen.

I have a used kanati for sale. 30coupe, it could be yours.

bigjim

a good holm-made longbow used should be around 400

No question, Either a holmmade longbow by Chad Holmes or a Big Jim longbow! Either would fit them bill in that order!