What Bow to buy and why???

[grizzlyadams]

I am really excited about finally making the decision to start bow hunting. Going to buy one this fall and get in tons of practice for next year but there are so many makes and models, its got me confused a bit. I need to hear from you archery guys and gals out there about which one is the best or at least one of the best. I plan on hunting all the big game from now on with it. Tell me about arrows if you have time as well or any other must haves that need to be purchased. Sorry I'm a newb at this archery stuff but I am trying to minimize wasteful spending on bad equipment.

Thanks all. i apreciate the help.   

[gallion_t]

You beat me too it. Im looking to pick up a bow this fall or winter and start practing. Its something ive wanted to try for awhile now.

[sirfunkeybut]

i just bought a martin exile and love it. Ive never shot any other brand besides bear. I also would suggest finding a sight with a level. I have a 5 pin verticall sight and will never go back to horizontal. When i switched to the exile from my jaguar my grouping became awsome. before 60yard groups where in the 10in range and no im down to about 5-6 in groups. not much of an input but its something   

[buglin4bulls]

Welcome to the club  I would go with a longer ATA (Axle to Axle) bow since your just starting out. Something around 35 inches long, and a brace height of around 7".  When i started out i bought an 08 Elite gt500. Great bow! Elite has a lifetime transferable warranty that cant be beaten. But i wanted to try something new, So i traded it for a Hoyt Alphamax 35. So far the Hoyt is the best i have shot to date. Bow is dead in hand, quiet, great backwall, and 80% let off. Its all up to you. You need to get to a local bow shop and just SHOOT SHOOT SHOOT! Everybody is different and everybody likes different bows in there hand. Also i highly recommend becoming a member of Archerytalk.com. You will find so much helpful info on there and you will also find great deals on new and used bows under the classified section and everything you need to start out. Good luck and enjoy 

[grizzlyadams]

Thanks everyone.... I was thinking about a Martin or a Hoyt and thats good advice about the sight with the level. I know it can make a huge difference. So what about arrows? Is there a brand or material I should look for. I think carbon arrows are the way to go, but what about brand. Also, in your opinion, what is the most lethal and accurate broadhead ?

[bobcat]

I've bought two bows in my life, both Martins. Partially went with Martins because I wanted to support an in-state company, but also because of the relatively low price for what you get. I like that they use modules that allow the draw length to be changed easily and at very little cost. This is nice especially when you're buying used, because you can just look for the bow you want at the right price, and not worry about what the draw length is set at. Other bows, such as Matthews, I believe to change draw length could cost up to around $100. But, for some reason Martins don't seem to be as popular as other brands, and it may be hard to find a used one, unless you look on ebay, or possibly Archery Talk.  You may want to check with some of your local bow shops and see what they have to offer.

[Kola16]

Uncle Ted uses a Martin. I have been looking to get one because of what you get for the price like bobcat said, but know that bobcat said that it is an instate brand, I want one even more.

[Jellymon]

Dont pick a bow for any other reason than that it feels good and fits you well. Shoot every brand and model in your price range and the bow will pick you. If you buy a bow just because of the brand or speed you will be sorry.

[DOUBLELUNG]

Dont pick a bow for any other reason than that it feels good and fits you well. Shoot every brand and model in your price range and the bow will pick you. If you buy a bow just because of the brand or speed you will be sorry.

That is spot-on advice right there.

[sirfunkeybut]

im shooting easton excel 340's with blazer vanes graced with a fine muzzy 100gr. 3 blade broadhead. Its my first year shooting blazer vanes and can only say good things about them. The dont seem to be affected by wind so much out past 40yrds like the 4in vanes. And like said before, find a dealer that will let you shoot a few bows and see which one feels the most comfortable. Its better to shoot something thats feels better and have to spend a little more than shoot something uncomfortable and spend a 100 or so less

Thanks everyone.... I was thinking about a Martin or a Hoyt and thats good advice about the sight with the level. I know it can make a huge difference. So what about arrows? Is there a brand or material I should look for. I think carbon arrows are the way to go, but what about brand. Also, in your opinion, what is the most lethal and accurate broadhead ?

[rosscrazyelk]

I would shoot as many bows as you can and get what feels right.. I have a parker and love it

[Button Nubbs]

I didn't read all the posts but look for something with a longer ata. Don't be concerned with speed. Look for something that feels good to you.

[grizzlyadams]

Thats great advice from all of you. I sure appreciate it. We tomorrow I am off to go try a few out. I am really excited to get one and start practicing.

[BOWHUNTER45]

Hey I agree with you guys ... no need to spend big money until you see if its going to be your thing ... besides most bow hunters now want speed which is definately a good thing but slower bows have killed just as many animals as faster bows ... maybe even more ...its all in knowing your limitations and never go beyond them ... I know what shots I can make and if its not a high percentage shot then I will pass... just get a bow that properly fits you and practice....it will not belong before your whackin and stackin......good luck !