From my limited experience, I've found recurves to be more forgiving for me. They are easier to shoot. Some have some handshock but for the most part, it isn't noticeable on most recurves. They also tend to be faster by design than longbows. However, they are noisier than the LB. Longbows, in my opinion, point easier than recurves do and are usually lighter in the hand. Then you have the r/d longbow/flatbow like the Crusader, that is a good combination of a recurve and longbow. In my opinion, giving the best qualities of both styles to the shooter. They are more forgiving and faster as well as retaining the quiet and pointability of the longbow, making for one heck of a combination.