Archery
 

Hi all.

I'm just getting into target archery at my local club...
It's been fun so far but now I need to think about buying my first bow.
I'm thinking long term... I would rather buy something good now than have to replace it down the track.

Most of the shooters at the club use take down "re-curves", mostly Samick, but I'm very interested in the more technical "compound" bows.

What would you recommend? I've looked at Hoyt and Samick.

Who makes the best bow?

What about a custom US made bow from a smaller manufacturer?

Are Hoyt actually US made? (or made in China and marketed as US made)

Interesting release options??? I'm using a cover over my fingers now but love the idea of using a precision release.

Come on guys... Surely there's a "good old boy" who knows his stuff.
I have no plans for hunting... Just target shooting for me.

Pic for views...

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1271043781.jpg

Re-curves are great, if you go compounds shoot them all as demos. Don't buy unless you demo a Matthews, they are cutting edge.

Thanks for the input.

I've heard lots of good things about Mathews... They have a great web site.

Darton Archery.....they make some of the most advanced compound bows in the market place.

Small family run business. Great warrentee.

The bows are very fast (upwards of 350 fps). I shoot a older one which hits 300fps

I shoot with a release. It gives you more control over shooting than with fingers. With a tab/finger release the string has to roll off your fingers or the tab. The release is a trigger giving you more constant control.

Does a brand new novice really need "some of the most advanced compound bows in the marketplace?"

I'd suggest getting an entry level bow and see if you REALLY like it first, before plunking down big money.

He said "I'm thinking long term... I would rather buy something good now than have to replace it down the track"

With archery equipment you pay for precision, which equates to improved shooting.

I guess. I have just seen sooooo many people dive into a hobby with both feet and plunk down thousands just so said purchase could sit in their basement for years collecting dust within a few months of the first purchase.

We all have.

Thanks for the input guys.

More about me.... I've been shooting with the club for about 6 months.
We meet every Saturday and I have to tell you I love it.

I'm actually pretty good and I've also found it helps with controlling my blood pressure.
Well I think it does as I feel more relaxed and sleep better since taking up the sport.

I plan to keep shooting as long as I'm able.

So I guess the question is Compound or Re-curve.
I've only shot re-curve but I know I should shoot a compound as soon as I can.
There is an Archery shop near my place that has a shooting range in the back.

Also there are some nice looking ladies at the club ;)

Well now you did it! Pix or ban! :D

After a deer ran into my daughter's car, I bought a Browning compound for use close to the neighborhood. I like it. I use a release & wear long sleeves or use kind od a guard on my forearm.

I'll have to sneak some with my mobile phone... :D

if you buy a bow that fits you perfectly (draw length) you shouldnt need an arm guard. maybe just to keep puffy clothing out of the way. a modern compound bowstring going up against the arm would peel it! ouch.

anyways, most of the target guys i see at the range shoot hoyt target bows. most of the hunters, and 3D guys shoot mathews or bowtech.

IMO, Archery equipment is like computer stuff, 6 month old and it's old news already. You can buy older bows for cheap money, compared to new. All bows these days are good, PSE, Hoyt, Mathews, Martin etc. Look for a longer axle to axle bow with good amount of brace height. (the distance from the string to the grip) The longer the brace height, the more forgiving. Same for axle to axle. Speed is not what you want for target, it's accuracy. Period. I am an avid 3-D shooter and bowhunter with 20 years of experience, as well as a bowhunter instructor for the state of NH. Do a mechanical release and large diameter arrows (line breakers..) and you'll be having fun!!! Good luck!!!
Here's my latest 3-D rig...

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1271093988.jpg

and my 6 year old daughter!!

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1271094022.jpg

NICE! i'm currently shopping for a Z7. what bow did you move up from?

I'm assuming your talking to me.... I must admit, I cheat. I shoot for an Archery shop, so I get 2 bows a year. My last bow was a Mathews Drenalin (2009 model). I hunt with a 2008 Drenalin. Nice bow.... the Z7 is smoother and faster. I'll use it for 3-D.

Moe ~ yel911

Thanks for the input. That bow looks lethal! Damn nice...

I must admit I do like the technical nature of the modern compound bows.
Re-curves are nice and simple but looking at the latest offerings from Mathews and Martins it's hard to resist.

Ok so... (more questions, please forgive me)

What's the benefits of compound versus re-curve?

I know compounds are easy to hold at full draw but which of the two is more accurate?

Why do they only use re-curves in the Olympics?

sc_rufctr, a recurve or long bow (traditional bows) have no set draw length like a compound, so how far you draw back will influence your shot, along with a solid achor point. As for the Olympics, I don't know why, but one things for sure, a traditional bow is the hardest to shoot. Those archers have a talent. A compound does require a solid anchor point also, but usually has a rear peep sight and a front sight pin to align on the target, like a rifle. Hopefully I'm answering your questions...

sc_rufctr, one more thing, check out "ArcheryTalk.com" it's what Pelican does for Porsche's to Archery.

Peter

As a kid / teen I used to shoot at Eden Hills Archers in Adelaide. Where is your club?

Go compound I say:D More grunt is addictive!

My club is Kidman Archers Inc... Western Suburbs.

I have been to Eden Hills. Great location.

Eden Field Archers

Kidman Archers Homepage