Talondale,

A lot depends on bow design..... There are bows out there that will out perform others bows that may be 10lbs heavier.... For instance, you could get the same perfomance from a 45lb bow as you would from a 55lb bow... The less weight you can use and get the same desired performance, the better IMO....

55lbs will be tough for you to handle at first..... Your shoulders have to adjust to the way a trad bow draws..... But it can be done.... Take your time and work your way into it.... I prefer bows in the 48-52 lb range.... Those bows will kill anything in N. America..... It's all about shot placement.