Hi all, I'm completely new to Bowhunting due to me being a California resident and living in Colorado and not being able to own a firearm (at least for a while). Anyways, I'd really like to get into bowhunting, and I've been researching around for a while for a decent beginner bow that won't break the bank but will be a quality bow. I visited Cabela's and saw they had a few outfitter packages made by Parker for around $250-280, that come with sights, arrows, etc. I also visited my local archery pro shop and was shown a beginner Matthews for $320, that only came with a 3-pin sight. Lastly, I visited another outdoors store and looked at a Whisper Creek for $320 also, with just bow and sight. Now I know Matthews makes a damn good bow, but would the Parker outfitter packages be fine to buy as a beginner? Do they make quality bows? I've tried to find reviews and such, but I've only been able to find a few around the web for parker, and one or two for Whisper Creek. I'd like to purchase one soon so that I can start practicing before next season, and I'll be hunting small game and deer only. Thank you guys for any input on this!

I think a PSE Brute or a Bear Lights Out would be a good place to start. they shoot fast, light weight and are quiet.

Thanks for the suggestion! I failed to mention that I'm trying to keep the price from being above $350 if I can. If Parker or Whisper don't make a good bow, I can save for the Matthews, it will just take me longer. I'm one to rush into a purchase, but I do want to start practicing as soon as possible since I'm new so that when I go on some planned hunts with buddies I'll at least be a halfway decent shooter.

As far as I know Whisper Creek is out of business and only New Old Stock is available. Parker makes a good bow and is a good company to deal with. I would think Parker would be your best bet, but I wouldn't go for the bottom of the line.

I bought a Martin Bengal a little over a year ago and really like it. It was priced right, has a smooth draw, and shoots where you aim it. Not the fastest bow on the market, but it'll certainly do the job.

This is a good time to start checking out the shops, lots of the "older" bows will be dropping in price as the new models hit the shelf

IMHO Look for a bow that has at least a medium length A to A, and a Brace height of 7" or plus. Shoot the bow and make sure it feels good to you. Also a Bow that has an easy Draw Length adjustment will help in getting the bow setup to you properly. Having a Good fit is very important and can make a huge difference in your success and enjoyment of the Sport.

Brands I would check first if I were you would be Bear, Diamond, & PSE.

Good Luck!

Dan

parkers are very nice beginner bows.

my opinion is go on and get a better bow. archery is very addicting and you will be upgrading soon after buying a cheaper bow. not that they are bad you will just want something better. i would recommend you try a bunch of different bows. my personal favorite is Athens. if you have a athens dealer near you try one out. they are very resonably price also.