I am new to bow hunting and I am trying to sort through the virtually hundreds of types of arrow rests. Any input about the pros and cons of the different types would be greatly appreciated

If you are just starting out, the prong-style rest would be a good plase to start. It will help in keeping you from developing bad habits in your form and they are easy to set-up and adjust.

agreed. go with a prong or fall away

I would suggest you look at a fall away rest, but not all fall aways are created equal. A fall away that offers some soft of arrow containment would be best for starting out (heck I think it is best for the most veteran bowhunter). I would point you at the QAD Ultra rest (www.qadinc.com). This rest is fairly easy on the wallet, is easily tuned, and is very functional. Please know that when you ask 100 people what is the best of anything, you are likely to get 100 different responses.

If you are looking for a Full containment rest then a Hostage Pro deserves a serious look.

If you are thinking of a fall away then the Limb Driver is the Best on the market, and with the new containment arms it is going to be even more popular with hunters.

I've hunted with one the last couple of years without one issue.

Dan