Lady Forge, I have no problems drawing the bow, but I have no accuracy unless I use a rest. I guess it weights too much. Also, it's really bulky going through the thick stuff. The first time I tried both the compound and crossbow, I was intimidated by all the adjustments that might be needed for the compound bow, so I bought a crossbow.I actully shot the compound bow quit well the first time, surprised me. I'll have the pro shop set it up the first time( going to see if he'll let me watch and learn!!) and maybe I'll be able to do the lower tech stuff.