I just gotta enter this one !

Compounds are a very easy way to get into archery season. The technology they bring to the table enables the vast majority of bowhunters to easily aquire shooting skills to go bowhunting. Its a challenge from gun hunting for sure though, regardless of how good the equipment makes you shoot. Compound shooters can realisticlly take animals to 40-50 yards and beyond.

Recurves/longbows/selfbows are another breed. Without high letoffs, fancy rests, sights and mechnical releases ... and a whole lot slower in arrow speed and power, they are a whole 'nother critter. They take lots of practice for most people to get good enough at even 15-20 yards. Huge difference ? OH YEAH ! Tougher to take game with ? Yes, it is.

Thats not to diss compound hunters, just making obvious statements about the different kinds of equipment. Its easier to kill animals with a rifle than a compound, so too is it with a compounds than a longbow/recurve.

Shoot what you want, hit what you aim at and enjoy your hunting. When it gets a bit dull, take a step in the other direction and try the next step of challenge, be it muzzleloader, pistol, compounds, crossbow, longbow recurve of self bow.