Landon I guess I got lucky. I wanted a bow that I could afford......and I'd held a longbow and a recurve (and shot both). I liked the feel of the longbow, better. it also seemed "more" (don't ask me why....I just felt that way) "traditional".

Matt/PA turned me onto the Fred Bear Montana longbow....and I ordered one. I've had opportunities to shoot more trad bows since buying mine...but I honestly haven't shot one I like better. Good news!

If I were more serious about trad hunting.....I'd maybe think differently. Right now...I see me hunting with mine about 10X year. I've been out 4X, so far, this season with it.

I also think it has the type grip people are saying you SHOULDN'T get....lol. I love it, though. It's simplistic....and it fits me.

Good luck. I'm glad you're considering it.

I have shot both, I like the Longbow better, I don't know why because I shoot the recurve very good as well! Like Bob said go with a used bow, most times if you don't like it you can re-sell it and get your money back! I went with the Montana Longbow because it was the bow that I shot best with my choices available when I was looking. I now know what I like, I'll be ordering a custom in the next few months for next season! I tell ya just jump on in you will NOT regret it, I did and never looked back! Its a pretty awesome feeling just walking thru the woods with my bow and hunting what ever comes along deer, squirrels, rabbits, pheasants, leaves and stumps ......whatever ya want...... awesome I tell ya, awesome!!!!!!