More forgiving? Depends what your definition of forgiving is? I think longbows are much more difficult to shoot, and shoot well. I had wanted to get a longbow as my first traditional bow, but went after shooting a couple of each side by side, it was no doubt the recurve for me. Much easier learning curve in my opinion. I have four recurves now, and love 'em all! Its a ton of fun no matter what you shoot!