CT makes some good points. One mistake that most folks make when starting out with traditional gear is going too heavy. Even if you are used to an 80# compound, I'd start out with 50# or so, maybe less, and a 60" or so (recurve) for a 28" draw. Work on your form before you worry about distance or accuracy. Consistant draw, anchor, release, follow through. Start out close, shoot no more than 2 or 3 arrows at a time. Once you get your form down, you should have a consistent shot. Even if it's not in the bull's-eye, once you get them all hitting in the same place you can adjust to correct the arrow placement. If you shoot high and right every time, you know to shoot lower and more to the left, etc. Make sure your bow is in good shape (not out of tiller, twisted limb, etc.) and your arrows are matched to your bow. If not, this could be at least part of the problem.

A good book to help you out is Byron Ferguson's "Become the Arrow". Short, easy to read and understand, and informative. Don't be afraid to make adjustments to make shooting more comfortable and natural to you-no one style is perfect for everyone. I don't agree with the section on wood arrows, but I do reccomend starting out with aluminum or carbon, until you get a feel for shooting--I love wood arrows, but they seem to take some understanding as well, and you need to work on one thing at a time.

Good luck, and if you want to give more details on your equipment or ask other questions, just post.

Chad

Long Bows Rule!