Which Shrew, or Javaman?

Iowabowhunter · May 21, 2026, 07:55:12 PM

Looking for a shorter longbow, I draw 27.5 or so & I like the looks of the shrew bows.

Anybody shooting them still?

Bogle · May 23, 2026, 08:49:07 PM

I have a Shrew Classic Hunter take down, that I like a lot. Its smooth, and the grip it really nice.

Ray Lyon · May 24, 2026, 05:47:53 AM

Both are great bows. I believe both have long lead times right now. At 27.5 draw you could get a 52" Classic Hunter II or Scout with no issue. You can always scour the used market or go to a larger show that either are displaying at since they both usually try to build some stock bows prior to shows.

Possum Head · May 24, 2026, 07:39:14 AM

Glad I don't have to choose between them. Great options to choose from and I bet you'll like what you settle on. I would love to test drive them.

Maclean · May 26, 2026, 07:57:37 AM

If you're looking for a shorter r/d longbow it's hard to beat an Elkheart. My DL is 28+ and I shoot a 56" Elkheart and a 52" Elkheart Magnum. Gregg's current lead time is about 12 to 14 months, but Elkhearts can be found on the used market from time to time. Sadly, I haven't yet shot a Shrew.

Tajue17 · May 26, 2026, 08:32:23 AM

Javaman

Michpatriot · May 27, 2026, 10:24:21 PM

I previously had a 52" and now shoot a 54" Shrew both shoot very nice and I would be back looking if I ever was forced to find another. I only shoot one bow and am quite settled on the Shrew classic hunter design. I would like to shoot one of Greg's bows just to see how it feels but so far have never had the chance.

TSP · August 03, 2026, 10:28:42 PM

Have owned several Super Shrews (one carbon) and a Griffin over the years, all were fine bows. Still have a 58" SS Delux redliner (from the 90's I believe) that's my favorite bow to hunt with, love the fits-like-a-glove grip. Haven't tried the short Shrews, getting too old (and poor) to be looking at the new models by Bodnik but I'm sure they are nice. I suggest trying one, I'll bet you'll like it (especially if you often hunt in thick cover).

Otto · Reply #8 - Re: Which Shrew, or Javaman?

You REALLY need to handle both. I had a Super Shrew Gold for decades. I could never shoot it as well as I wanted as the thumbrest was too high for me. I finally sold it at Comptons this year. I Big Jim Thunderchild works for me.

Iowabowhunter · Reply #9 - Re: Which Shrew, or Javaman?

Thanks folks, with Shrew moving over the pond I decided to stay American. Tony @ Droptine Custom bows is building me a hybrid longbow!