I have been rifle hunting on our private property in northern Minnesota for the past few years. A lot of big deer on our land. I am now thinking about getting into bow hunting. Any input on bows would be appreciated, as I know nothing what so ever at this point. It's the usual story. My wife has just gotten over the shock on the firearm purchases, now I have to hit her up in the archery equipment. That's part of life I guess.

Where abouts In northern Mn are you? I know of a few shops up there.

What kind of budget are you looking to spend within?

Well you can outspend your firearm purchases with a bow if you realy want to. Unless you bought realy fancy firearms.

I think you can get a realy nice bow for around 300 all dressed up. Then you have arrows which are maybe another 100. Less if you only by 6.

However, you have to remember if you haven't shot a boy you cannot expect to shoot a realy heavy weight. Go try pulling a 60 lbs compound. It may be fine it may be to heavy. I currently shoot a 70lbs longbow and a 74 lbs compound. But I have shot for 22 years. You should be able to easily pull your bow straight back without having to lift the bow hand raising the bow up. Think about a deer being close and you have to not spook him.

As for what bow you'll like. Its all up to you. If you find one to get started on cheap you can build yourself up to a better weight and then buy a nice bow...Just a thought.

Also a suggestion. If you end up shooting lower weight stay away from mechanical Broadheads. Most require more Kenetic Energy than a lower weight compound may produce. Thats my opinion of course. A good cut on contact BH will not fail.

Just starting out,I strongly advise against doing this.

Speaking strictly as a novice myself (5 years) dont break the bank. youll know it when you pull one and get a big ol smile !doesnt have to be the fastest , best blah blah blah. Im sure youve noticed its a small fortune to get goin. so pick wisely !

Yeah me too....typing isn't my strong suit! LOL

Obviously it should have read "bow"

lol, WHAT????

Imagine you ask that SAME question to 5 of your best rifle buddies, just reverse the words bow and rifle....do you think you'd get even 2 of the same answers?!?! NO.

We are all here at your every need, for sure.....but you're throwing a dart in the dark right now. First, you need to tell us what kind of bow hunting you're thinking of. The bows you imagine your typical native american hunting with 100 years ago are a thing of the past for most people. They're still used and they're called recurve bows. Most of us prefer to use compound bows which have cams to increase bow veloctiy TREMENDOUSLY giving us longer range, and more accurate shots at those extensive ranges.

Back to my first part....you've got to guide us at least a little unless you want us all to shout random stuff, just like I did......let us know....

Getting back with some specifics.

Live in Woodbury, MN, and have property by Lake Kabetogama, MN area.

Looking a compound bows in the $500 range plus accessories.

Wouldn't use the broadheads but over all this is the best deal out there in my eyes in that price range.

http://www.huntersfriend.com/2008-Fred-Bear-Lights-Out/Bear-Lights-Out-Bow-Package.htm