Krisken makes some good points.
The question is, are you willing, and do you have the time to practice enough to become proficient with a recurve?
If the answer is "no", I'd look into a compound. For $400 you could get a nice setup ready to go...including arrows. There are many good models out there at a reasonable price. One example is the PSE Nova kit's. They are complete setups for around $200+/-. Many other makes offer similar set ups. Regardless of what you choose, make sure you get something that fit's you properly, and have it set up properly...and PRACTICE alot!!!! Good luck!