Been shooting & hunting compounds for 20+ years. I want to get a recurve for elk, deer, bear, lopes, etc.
I don't want to go top shelf . . . but will not want bargain basement either. A good, solid, accurate, comfortable, bow.
But I know very little about brands, makes, materials, etc.
My compound draw length is 27" with a release, and set to 60#.
So what do ya think? I'd like to keep it at or below $500.00. Looks like there's a lot to choose from in that price range.
I would love used, but not sure how to recognize someone elses problem.
I would have to have 50-55#'s at 29" draw.

Have you ever shot a recurve? If not, I'd go with a Samick Sage. Bargain basement price, but a good bow. Out of stock most places for now, but due in soon.

If you haven't shot, you need to start out light and work your way up. The Sage is a take-down, extra limbs are cheap. Once you have shot a while and get a feel for what you like, then you might want to look at something more expensive...or you might not.

Chad

ditto...
i started with a used bear kodiak mag i got for 20 bucks

From what I've read, and for what's available (used), I'm leaning towards a used Bear, Nice looking bows.
I will be taliking to a couple recurve shooters and get a chance to pulkl some (again). Then there's the question of which one gives my 50+ pounds at my draw length topic. Which string? Kisser? Clicker? Quiver? Tab or glove? Knock point? etc.
Gotta love the toys!

I'm sure you can find used recurve bows on e bay or at Amazon look over the sites. If you are just starting out, start with a bow of around 35# (lbs) but certianly no higher than 40# or 45# if you are in fair shape. Most bows come today with fast flight strings but the older bows will break or be damanaged if you use a fast Flight (FF) string with them. D-50 strings are best for the older bows.
Also if you are planning to use wooden arrows make certian that the arrows you choose are at least 10 to 15# heavier in spine weight than what you bow is rated i.e. a 40# bow should use wooden arrows in the 50-55# range.
As a rule of thumb the 125grain point FP or BH is the standard a heiver point will weaken the spine of the arrow. Conversly a lighter one will increase the spine weight of the arrow. There are various other factors which come into play. But I will not go into them here.
Hope this helps a bit.

Cyrille