Sure u can go w/a cheaper bow, in case u won't like bowhunting, BUT ARE U KIDDING ME!? Not like bowhunting?! Come on man! U'll be hooked from the first day u go out. As with buying a cheaper rig, u can get a used orend of the yr top line for a few hundred less, & end up much happier in the end. Trust me, you'll only want to upgrade in a yr or 2 anyway. Do it right the first time. Or you can be like me, & spend the equivalent on cheaper bows & wait several yrs to finally get what u like. I bought my Tribute this past Jan. for $500, which normally goes for $700 brand new. Mine was an 06' model, & I simply love it. I haven't met anyone yet that hasn't been hooked once they do it. I even have gun huntn' buddies that took up archery, & said they like it more. Good luck on your new obsession!