Newbie Questions

[Redfisher]

Mornin'.

I am very, very, very interested in taking up bowhunting. But I have a ton of questions.

First, I was looking to pick up a Martin Firecat TR2. Seems like an awesome bow that doesn't take my entire paycheck. Has anyone used this bow? Next, should I go for 60# or 70# for draw weight? I've read a ton about how one shouldn't go over too much with draw weight as it can be unnecessary. I am, however, fairly strong and am confident I could do 70# if I had to. Opinions?

Also, there are so many companies out there that offer accessories, how do I tell whats quality and whats not? Everyone's advertisementsmake their own stuff look like the best on the planet. Are there any brands that stand above the rest for quality, performance, and durability, even if they cost a bit more?

[MeanV2]

On my new website that launches within the week we list some Martin bows. PSE, and Diamond also has some great choices that will Not break the bank. The accessories we carry are very dependable and proven or we will Not sell them.

As a general rule you get what you pay for, but there are solid choices that are less expensive.

Dan

[shift00420]

I would say keep reading the info on here, check out whats for sale in the free classifieds forum. there are a lot of good accessories.

[ozbowhunter]

a good way to find your comfortable draw weight is to sit down on a stool and try to draw back the bow if you can draw it easily its good if its not easy then its to much simple because if you can draw it while standing but not sitting your useing your your lower body to help draw the bow which is not good

if that makes sence to you also before you buy any bow ensure correct draw length to be sure you dont buy a bow that cant be adjusted for you i see this so often

[bronko22000]

Red, I've been archery hunting for a long time and shooting a bow for even longer. And to answer your question, that Firecat is a really good bow for the $.. In fact, just yesterday I purchased a Martin Bengal which is a slightly shorter version of the same bow. I've shot High Countrys for years. And I was in the market for a new bow. I shot Hoyt, Ross, Bowtech and Martin. The Martin just 'felt right' to me and that is most important. And the fact that it is smooth drawing and very quiet along with very little vibration and 'kick' are additional assets.
As for the weight, years ago it was recommended that bows shot their most efficient when maxed out on weight. I don't think that is the case any more. Get the 55-70# and shoot it at the low end until you build up those back muscles. (And BTW, 55# is plenty for deer). Then later if you want you can crank her up and get stiffer spined arrows.