Your going to spend at least $150 on sights, release, arrow rest, quiver, arrows and heads. The PSE Nova was the popular starter bow a couple of years ago (don't know the 2002 popularity winner). You can buy package bows from several companies with everything needed except arrows in the low $300 bracket. I'm very happy with my Golden Eagle Splitfire 36 ($250). I started bowhunting in 1973 so I'm not a beginner and I got all the bow I'll ever need for under $300.

The lower priced bows out there are true bargains ... you almost can't go wrong with any PSE or Hoyt entry bows. Check the trade in bows at your local archery shop also. Have fun, ask questions and practice a lot.