As a newbie (less than a few weeks with my first bow) I can tell you I really am glad I went to a local pro shop/sporting goods store. They sold me a reasonable package for just under $300. They assured me it was a good bow for a beginner and would be something I could use for at least a few years before I got antsy to get something more fancy. They also told me why, going over all the features and terms used in archery that I never had heard of. They also made me shoot the bow many times at their in-house range so they could keep adjusting it for me. I would say the service involved is the best part. The manager shoots competatively and deer hunts frequently. He's taken several of my calls these past few weeks and told me I could stop in at any time and we'll try to figure out any problems on their range. I'm not sure you could get that level of service over the internet (except for the advice I get here of course). Just my two cents. I shot some arrows again last night. I really love the bow!