heck you could get a new recurve for just over the 300, I have found GOBS of used recurves in excellent condition worth twice what people are asking if not more!

I agree a proshop is the first place, start shooting as many bows of all makes and models as you can to find the one that suits you the best. Dont dump that money on just any bow, buy the one that feels right, if that means spending another 100 or 150 bucks and having to wait a few months to save it up then so be it! If you do by something to get by, you'll end up buying one in the near future to replace it so do the right thing! Hopefully you can find some smoking deals.

I do know on stickbows a place for smoking deals, if ya want the link email me!