RE: Why recurve over longbow?
On the subject of grips....I don't like the "traditional" longbow grip at all (straight, narrow on the belly side). It's not comfortable or consistent for me, and I don't like to shoot with an extreme low wrist. The grip on my longbow isnt' exactly a recurve grip, but it's a far cry from a straight grip. Fits like a glove--very comfortable and consistent. I couldn't care less if someone doesn't consider it "traditional"--it works for me.
Chad