Art pretty well covered it. There's so many variations in design these days that in some cases there's no clear-cut line between longbows and recurves. There's longbows that aren't so forgiving, recurves that are; longbows with recurve grips, recurves with longbow grips; slow, fast, and in-between in both; longbows that shoot and feel like a recurve; take-down bows that will accept longbow or recurve limbs; etc. etc. etc.

One thing I will add is if you plan to shoot in any of the bigger tournaments, check out their regulations--some do put restrictions on longbow design.

Personally, I like longbows, but I am picky. I like a deflex/reflex design, but not radical. I like a grip that fits my hand, but not a high-wrist "pistol" grip. I like a bow that has good speed, but not so much that it sacrifices forgiveness.

It's a very personal thing. A grip that fits me may not be right for you. A bow I consider forgiving may be picky to you. Just shoot all you can and make an informed purchase, then start saving up for the next one (there will be a next one).

Chad