You should note that would be the used price, and I agree that if you keep it in good shape, you will probably get your money back in a few years--maybe make a little. However, in my experience, the same goes for any used bow, especially the better ones. The price generally drops considerably when it's labeled "used", but keep it in good condition and you won't loose money, unless you paid too much to begin with.Lots of the old bows, in good condition, will bring as much or more now than they did when they were new. Many sell for more than some new bows cost now.

Lone Wolf, I'm not doubting your experience one bit, but I can say (from my experience) that it was unusual, at least with the recurves. Like I said, I've had a couple of BW recurves and shot lots of others, and none had much shock at all. If it was a recurve you shot, there may have been a problem with it, or it was very much out of tune. If it was one of the older model longbows, they rattled my teeth too. I only shot two of those, and don't care if I ever shoot another one. I've heard the new one is much improved, but I haven't shot one yet.

Greg, there are a few others that offer a "test drive", but I couldn't name them off the top of my head. It's a great thing if they can, but some bowyers just can't get enough stock built up for such a program. My favorite is currently 6 months behind on orders, and I've never known of him being caught up. Getting to a big traditional archery tournament or redevouz is your best bet at getting your hands on a lot of different bows. You won't get to really know a bow with only a dozen or two shots, but you can weed some out like that--grips, draw force curves, etc. that you don't like.

Chad