i just started shooting a recurve last year.

with my martin compund, at 62 lbs, i could only shoot maybe 75 arrrows and my arm would hurt. and i'd feel it the next day.

with my 50 lb gear recurve, i can easily shoot 200 or more arrows in a session without discomfort, and no bow shoulder "hangover" the next day...

don't know the reasoning behind it, just know that i've got a nice martin for sale!