I usually get a new one every 2-3 years. Every year bow makers are improving their lineup, and coming out with new technology. But if you make the right choice and buy any one of the top of the line bows, your not going to notice too much from one year to the next....unless you switch bow types. By that I mean your priorities change from a smooth draw cycle and no hand shock to a speed bow, or any other drastic change. But think about....most of the bows these days are shooting 300+ feet per second. If you own one, how much do you really need to improve? Thats more than enough to take down any big game in the world, and shoot 60 yards at a 3D tournament. It really comes down to what you feel comfortable with. Check out the new bows out there....and shoot 15-20 of them before you buy one. Shoot one against the other and put one into a keep pile and the other into a no pile. Keep working them down until you find a couple you like. Them shoot them again...maybe even come back a different day and bring someone with you. Have them shoot the bow so you can pay attention to the noise you hear, which we all know can be very important when hunting. Dont make a decision without shooting a variety of bows...you might be missing out on the bow thats meant for you. Good luck.