As strange as it may sound coming from a mountain kid from southeast Kentucky, I've never had the pleasure of hunting in all my 31 years. Needless to say, I plan to change that. I am very interested in bowhunting, but was wanting to ask the opinion of those who have been there. Should I join the rank of hunters as an archer, or would it be simpler to break into the sport using firearms? I would enjoy both, but am currently leaning toward the bow. I have looked at a PSE Stinger package, but at $399...that's near the top of where I would like to put my budget. I have also found a Parker Buck-Hunter Bow package that is only $249, but not knowing the industry...I have no idea if that is a good deal. I have checked the local pawn shops...and the ONE local pro shop, and there are no good used bows out there locally...other than new ones at the pro shop (the PSE Stinger package.) Any advice and feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
First off Blessed, best of luck to you in your pursuits. Either one of those bows you listed are good bows and will get the job done. You can break into hunting with a bow or a gun. But if you feel drawn to bowhunting, then just do it! Make it simple on yourself. Buy one of those bows, shoot it until you become proficient with it out to about 25 yards, and then hunt. That Parker Buck Hunter package will have you up and running for a good price. Make sure you get the correct draw length and arrows that match your set-up. Also make sure you are not pulling too much weight. For me I have a 70 lb max bow. I probably pull around 65 pounds, so it easy for me to pull back when the moment of truth arrives. You do not have to pull but 50-60 pounds to kill a deer time and time again.
Ask questions like crazy, and we will answer. Before you buy arrows or order the bow, you need to find out your draw length, and I would suggest getting a lower poundage bow, like 50-60 pounds, unless you are strong as a bull. Again, welcome and good luck.
Welcome to the forum.. As for me, I'm sixty years old and have been hunting since I was sixteen. I've never harvested a deer with a rifle, and don't begrudge those who do, but I like the challenge. I just don't get a thrill killing an animal from 150 yards plus, to me that's just too easy.
Whatever you choose, enjoy the sport it is so addictive.
BlessedBeggar:
I didn't start hunting until I was 47 years old, and started with a bow. I had no experience with firearms, so I was more comfortable with the bow. I recently took my first buck (see post "Earned My Antlers"); what an awesome experience.
You should try to get to an archery shop where you can try different bows before buying. Each one has a different feel and "fit". Once you get set up with your bow, spend as much time as possible practicing with a target before going into the woods. Good luck.
BlessedBeggar:
I didn't start hunting until I was 47 years old, and started with a bow. I had no experience with firearms, so I was more comfortable with the bow. I recently took my first buck (see post "Earned My Antlers"); what an awesome experience.
You should try to get to an archery shop where you can try different bows before buying. Each one has a different feel and "fit". Once you get set up with your bow, spend as much time as possible practicing with a target before going into the woods. Good luck.
Ed
Ditto. Go to a pro shop if you are buying a bow. They will help and usually make sure the customer leaves satisfied.
Thanks everyone for the feedback. I really appreciate it. After looking at my budget, and speaking to a few of the guys that I am likely to be hunting with, I believe I may have to place bowhunting on a back burner until I can build up a nest egg. With a two-year old, I have to pick and choose carefully. Thanks everyone....good luck in your hunts this season!
You will love bowhunting, I did not start hunting until I was 42, I started with a bow and have decided to stick with a bow. I have been very lucky over the last 5 years and have taken 8 deer, still looking for that first buck though. I have even been able to get my wife and daughter intrested in bowhunting, and they enjoy it also. Just keep at it, and don't get frustrated along the way. you will love it.
Go to some shops shoot some used ones. Find what you like the best and look on archerytalk.com for one. They will be much cheaper than in shops usually. You can easily find a bow that is only a couple years old with little wear and tear on it for 400 or less. Good luck, if you love watching all kinds of wildlife and being in the woods/outdoors during the best times of the year, bowhunting is the place for you. Its a blast. WCL
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My dad bought a complete bowhunting setup at a pawn shop for 35 bucks. Granted, that bow is probably older than I am, but so what.
The new bows are nice, but not necessary. People killed deer 30 years ago.
My main point is don't give up. You can find a cheap starter bow. I saw some real nice ones at a garage sale this summer for $50. Before you invest 800 dollars, find out what you like. You may find you prefer a traditional setup.
Buy quality accessories like sites and rests that will transfer to a new bow, or just use what is one their.
Maybe someone on this site has an old one they'd sell.
Never hunted..
Again, welcome and good luck.
Thanks everyone....good luck in your hunts this season!
