I was in the same situation last December. I went to an area sporting goods store and looked at some bows....not knowing much about them. The guy there told me off the record I should go to a archery shop and have a pro fit me for a bow and get the right arrows and indoctrination, etc. So I did and it's the best advice I can pass on. Get a bow that is right for you, have a pro set you up with it, and usually they have a range you can shoot at. The guy guaranteed me within an hour after I bought the bow I'd be shooting an 8 inch group at 20 yds.....which I did. They got me started off right and I'm glad I got the tip.