I've huntedwith recurves, longbows, and selfbows. This year I thought I would use my Bob Lee recurve, but I'm having troubleputting my Ossage Selfbow down. I made thatone frombasically a log. It shoots 69#'s at 29" and is 70". Below is a pic, I'm second to the right. I'd suggest that if you plan on building one and you have never done so to get to a larger traditional shoot. They'll usually have some staves for sale, tools to use, and instructional help.