RE: Suppose you have $300-$400...
In that range you could get any number of bows. You could get a good top-line model that is slightly used for $400 easily. Today almost every bow company out there makes a great product. My top choices would be perhaps a Mathews Q2, Mathews Solocam, Bowtech Generation 3, Bowtech Extreme Solo, Jennings Buckmaster. Also, look into PSE and Hoyt. All these companies make great bows. Although you could find a new bow in that price range, I would suggest buying a used bow that is top of the line as opposed to a middle of the road new bow. Just my opinions.
Hunt the thickets