Back when 3D was first introduced, we mostly used whatever we were using for hunting equipment. Of course, back then, they were big old tanky bows with long ATA and deep brace, barely capable of getting 220-240 fps. scoring was 10, 5, too, which made a huge difference on accuracy, basically if you could hit a small watermelon at unknown yardages you were in.(with some of the bows back then, it was a wonder we could even do that!)Tons of fun! Of course things changed, the sport got more competitve, and the 10-8-5 scoring was implemented, then later on X-10-8-5, or 12-10-8-5. People started figuring out that any increase in speed would make for a larger "hit window" (how many yards you could be off and still hit the 10) so then we started to see everyone cranking up their bows to 80+ pounds.(no 5 grain rule yet) That was still not enough, so over time they've implemented overdraws, hatchet cams, lower brace heights, carbon arrows,(then the 5 grain rule) thinner strings, shorter ATA, Perimeter cams, nastier draw force curves, etc, etc, etc. All in the name of speed to make up for blown yardage calls! (Easier to learn yardage, don't you think?<img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>) What they all failed to realize during this process of evolution was the fact that they were giving up forgiveness and shootability simply for that speed. I fell into the trap too, just like everyone else, and found myself shooting those darned "rat-traps" (35" bows with sub-6" brace heights with draw force curves that would completely rip a rotator cuff. Stupid!) Luckily my brain works again now. (most of the time, anyway.<img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>)
Each application calls for a different bow for top performance.That's it in a nutshell. Hunting rigs generally are shorter for tight treestand work, and lighter for packing around all day. They are available in both solo or twin cam. Target bows are long ata, deeper brace, and altho most target archers choose twins because of their more inherently forgiving design, some choose solos as well. The top shooters can shoot either with astounding accuracy. The solos are more critical for the average shooter when it comes to this application, however.
Which brings us back around to 3D. I have had the opportunity to compete in this format for over 2 decades now, seen many "fads" come and go, and in all honesty cannot see shooting 3D nowadays with these shorter bows.Back 20 years ago when the scoring was 10, 5, sure, but not nowadays. Not if you want to be truly competitive. I agree with Frank, and recommend a bow with at least 36-38" ATA,(longer is better, I'm back to over 41" for 3D now) at least a 7" brace, with eccentrics that will give you DECENT speed. (280-290 range) It doesn't have to be a barnburner, IMO. (Just learn your yardage!) 3D has become full-fledged Tournament shooting now, and is no longer hunting practice.(Waah! <img src=icon_smile_shock.gif border=0 align=middle>) You are shooting for X's or 12's, and need the most forgiving and accurate setup you can find to get you to the top, IF that's where you want to be.
For the person that does OCCASIONAL 3D's, these hunting rigs in the 31-35" range will allow you to have fun with friends and possibly even win a local or State event, but IMO would severely hamper your chances at going for any IBO or ASA Regional or World title that calls for many X's and 12's to be shot to win. These bows that "try to cover it all" will get you into the 8 and 10 sometimes, but you need just a little better stability and forgiveness to get you into the 10 and X's or 12's consistently, IMO. I agree with Ossage, the Patriot needs a big brother with that great VFT. Just my own thoughts, Pinwheel 12
Edited by - Pinwheel 12 on 03/04/2002 16:19:49