Hi Mark;

I found it easier to find a cheap used recurve than a longbow so that's how I went. The grip is similar to the compound so it was an easier transition for me as well.

If you're shooting some of the newer, short ata compounds, your draw length may not change much. Mine was 45" ata and my draw went from 29 with a wheel bow to 27 1/2 with the longbow and slightly more with a recurve, but not much.

I would suggest buying a used (cheap but still a sound bow) recurve. You'll be using different muscles to pull the stick, so go lower in weight (another reason for cheap, you may want to upgrade later) say in the 45# range @ 28". That would make it between 40-45 at your draw. You can see all kinds of them on ebay and if you stay with an ethical seller (according to feedback rating) you will end up with a good bow. If the bow doesnt have a good string on it, get one. Also get yourself a bow stringer and some arrows spined for the bow and head for the bales. Ask lots of questions, either here or other sites and find some folks shooting trad and get them to help too. Take your time, get close to the target butt and concentrate on proper form, solid bow arm, solid and consistent anchor and smooth release instead of accuracy. The accuracy will come automatically if you're doing the basics consistently. Don't get discouraged. Some take to shooting sticks like ducks to water and some, like me, gotta work hard at it to be average. Most of all, have fun. That's what it's all about.

Mike