VC,

I studied recurves for several years and finally decided to order one last June. A Trails End by Dale Dye, it still won't be here until next October.
Then I ordered another one and got it last August. It was a Dakota Recurve from world champion traditional shooter Rick Welch. It has been loads of fun to shoot.
I shoot a 65lb. compound and received my first recurve at 55lb.
Several formulas state, you should drop down 25% in draw weight when going from a compound to a recurve but I ignored that recommendation and went a little heavier.
Rick Welch states...You should be able to hold a recurve or longbow 3 to 4 seconds per shot at whatever draw weight you choose or you're overbowed. I can hold my 55 lb recurve for 10+ seconds per shot and my 60 lb to 7+ seconds per shot without a problem.
I found, for me anyway, my strength increased rapidly without the let-off like I had on my compound.
But I used to lift weights allot and it helped me in gaining strength for handling my curves.
In October I ordered my thrid recurve from Pat Ley of Sley Bows. I ordered a 60lb draw weight with it. I love this bow so well that I'm going to order another one at 65lbs. from Pat.
Sley Recurves beauty, construction, and craftsmanship are unsurpassed as far as I'm concerned.
Buying used is a good idea to see if you like traditional or not.
I decided to buy new bows because I got exactly the woods, draw length, and draw weight I wanted.
Recurves are more beautiful and shoot better for me but I like Longbows too.
Give traditional a try.
I believe you will like it.
You will get allot more replies to your questions if you post them on the Traditional Forum though.
Lots of knowledge over there.
Good luck.


Sag.

Edited by - Sagittarius on 01/20/2002 00:25:46