Suggestion
 

Hey guys: I have shot a bow a couple times before but basically have 0 experience. I am interested in getting into bowhunting and purchasing a bow. First question is it worth getting a bow if I am not experienced with all of the technical stuff. Basically can I use it and take care of it without knowing a lot. If so any suggestions on first bows. I am working with a somewhat limited budget. Thanks

RE: Suggestion
 

Absolutely it's worth getting a bow. You should go to a few shops and try lots of bows. Any good shop will be able to help you with learning what you need to shoot, and maintain, a bow.

RE: Suggestion
 

Sure it's worth it. I've been doing it for 35 years now; shooting and bow hunting. How much experience do you need? Well, I would guess that all of us "shooters" started at some time with NO experience per se. You learn as you go.

I would suggest to you that you patronize a local bow shop (pro-shop, that is). Get measured for the correct draw length (most important) and find the poundage you can draw. Don't get carried away on the draw weight. It's hard to learn how to shoot a bow if you are struggling with it. They are adjustable. And make sure it's adjustable for draw length as well.

I would suggest buying a decent used outfit, but not knowing what you NEED it's hard to suggest anything specific. And it's usually cheaper in the long run to have the proper help in choosing gear. Try to shoot a lot of bows and find what fits you (draw length and weight)and what feels good to you. If it's something beyond your budget right now then keep saving. Don't rush into something.

RE: Suggestion
 

BG nailed it...you dont need to know much of ANYTHING...that comes in due time...the more you get into it, the more you will accidently learn...and then you will find yourself trying to learn more and more...

my suggestion, set a price range for a completed bow and arrows. head to the bowshop. tell them you are looking into getting into archery and am looking to buy your first bow. tell them you have XXX$ to spend on a completed bow..any good bowshop will take care of you..

and no, it doesnt need to be costly. you can find used bows fairly cheap...i had my buddy flinging arrows with 130$ spent total and his setup wasnt half bad for a first...

also, dont be afraid to post questions...lots of good, knowledgeable guys here willing to help...

good luck

RE: Suggestion
 

I am in a similiar situation as you. I got interested in bowhunting, took a bowhunter safety course and bought a bow all in the lastthreemonths. Now I am going on my first bowhunt for deer this weekend.

I went to my local archery shop and I talked with the owner about what I wanted and what I wanted to spend. So for a little over $400 I was fully outfitted with a great bow. He put me on to the Misson bows that are made by Matthews, http://www.missionarchery.com/index.asp?CompID=44&PageID=bows

After a few weeks of practice, talking with the shop owners, and reading the forums (here & AT) I have become very proficient with my bow. I have already killed a turkey and I'm excited about my hunt this weekend.

Good luck and most of all have fun.

RE: Suggestion
 

thats great stuff. Thanks a lot everyone for the help

RE: Suggestion
 

Finding a mentor would be a big help. Although you can get a lot of good information from a local pro shop, they are basically in it to sell you stuff. I have a buddy who procrastinated all summer, after drawing an archery deer license; and finally decided to get outfitted on October 13th for a three month season that started on October 1st. We got him outfitted with a Fred Bear Instinct (on sale now that the redesigned 08's are out) and all the accessories. After a little tuning and sighting in, he is shooting so well he is damaging nocks and fletching at 20 yards. Not bad for starting from scratch only three weeks ago.

RE: Suggestion
 

Pro shops are a great place to learn. First, you can probably get a used bow for a good price and will give you a chance to get some shooting in until you REALLY know what you want. Remember in the pro shop, the staff are great for technical and maintenance information, BUT they are there to sell things. Almost to a man, they are avid hunters, as well. Also, at the pro shop, you will find a lot of target shooters, hunters and lurkers. They are a good source of information, as well, BUT they speak mostly from personal experience and "lore" from other people. This practical knowledge is great, but often tainted with their personal bias. Someone who has been shooting Hoyt for 20 years is going to tell you that they are the best bows out there, but may have never shot another manufacturer. Listen, learn and SHOOT AS MANY BOWS AS YOU CAN before you buy.