Interested in Bowhunting

[WRS77]

Hey all, have hunted for years with rifles and shotguns, have never picked up a bow. I was wondering what you all might suggest as a good start up set-up??? My son is getting interested in hunting and he is interested in the bows as well. Looking for some info on gear and the what not. I appreciate any suggestions... thanks in advance....

[Whitetail fever]

I would go down to your archery shop and shoot a couple bows and see what feels comfortable to you. Also what is your price range? You can find a good bow at a resonable price. Its really up to the individual. Good luck.

[WRS77]

Well with price range, I don't wanna break the bank, but a few hundred won't hurt that bad, as long as what I get is of quality, I don't want a toothpick with some yarn strung between it or anything.. hehe. Not really sure what out there is good or not so good. I really have no background in bows. I am not even sure what I should be looking for, recurve, compound or something else. Trying to do my research as much as I can, like I said now my son is asking and I am coming up short on the answers. We would both like to hunt with a bow, but am lost. I am new to this area of Ohio and not sure where a local shop is at. Thanks again....

[Whitetail fever]

Today, most compound bows will get the job done. Bows range from $200 and up. There are many different compound bows to choose from. Shoot a couple and see how they feel. Go to different compound bow sites and do some research. Many will have a locate a dealer near you.

[OHBOW76]

First and foremost go to a relaible bow dealer in yoru area, tell him flat out what your willing to spend, and above all get properly measured and fitted for a bow from the get go. Get fiited and have it set up by soemoen who knows what they are doing and you wont regret it. Have it dont half-a@# and you will get frustrated really quick.

[WRS77]

Thanks, That was one of the biggest questions was what type of bow, appreciate it...

[geezer II]

Start with a crossbow :whistle:

[Tufelhundin]

Ditto

[bowhunter1023]

See if you can't hook up with someone to shoot just to see if you like it. I would love to help out, but I have a feeling you are long way from my neck of the woods. Compounds are the way to go in my book if hunting is the ultimate goal. If you just want to shoot and have fun, go get a recurve or a long bow. I love shooting a long bow, but it would take me forever to get confident enough to hunt with it. But alot of that comes from what I expect. I can't stack arrows in a coffee cup at 40 yards with a stick and string, so I lack confidence.

O yeah, and don't listen to Geezer. He has had one too many Nutter Butters today! :biggrin:

Or Tuffy. He's a crazy cajun swamp rat! ;)

[TheCream]

As far as what to buy, you really just need to go to a shop or good store and let them properly size you and let you get your hands on several different bows. That will get you started on the right foot.

As far as economical brands that are still good quality, I would look at Reflex bows. A friend of mine bought one 2 years ago to replace his old compound and he loves it.

If you are just getting into bowhunting, keep realistic expectations. What you see on TV and in the videos with all these giant bucks getting killed with bows is really not representative of just how tough it really is and can be. Don't go out there thinking you have to arrow a Pope and Young deer right away. When I started bowhunting, my friends all had already had bowhunting success and I tried to hunt by their standards of what to shoot and what not to shoot, and I went 2 seasons before I stuck anything! I finally decided to arrow a doe and forget about bucks for a while, and let me tell you, you WILL get amped up even on does. Don't worry about putting one on the wall right away, worry about putting something on the ground and feeling success. Like other folks say, EVERY DEER taken with a bow is a trophy!

You will really enjoy the extended season, especially here in Ohio, and that you can be in the woods hunting at different times of year that all have their advantages and disadvantages. Get the bow, get out and practice, get some time in the woods and successfully harvest an animal and you will be hooked for life! :biggrin:

[OHBOW76]

Absolutely you will love archery season. I 'll tell you what if Heaven has an archery season as long as Ohio's I will be a happy man when I die.

[ohiosam]

I see you are from Salineville. Go to Glenn's Archery in Lisbon,, actually it's near Guilford lake. He has an indoor range where you can try some different bows.

[WRS77]

Thanks, I was searching for one but hadn't come up with a shop yet,

[ohiosam]

My son bought his bow there and the owner was very very helpfull.

["J"]

Ohiosam you beat me to it, Glenn's is a very good archery pro shop to start with, just go up 164 to lisbon then out 30 west to 172 and then you'll see the sign for it, or look it up in the phone book and give him a call. Good guy and very fair.

[ap0317ah]

Shoot them all and go with out brand biases. Bows are custom fitted to the shooter but there has to be a starting place the bow its self pick the one that fits YOU not me or anyone else then focus on the goodies sights, rests quivers and what have you. Just because I shoot a hoyt doesn't mean its what will shoot the best in YOUR hands.
Good luck
Tom

[WRS77]

Hello again all, went by Glenn's today, what a nice guy, had a fairly de cent selection, newer 08 models are starting to fill up the hangers. I was looking at a browning Micro Adreniline, seems like a nice bow to start with. He also has it in left handed, which I am. Nice lite and rather compact. Anyone heard any good or bad about these bows, looking forward to hearing what ya'll have to say....

[OhioHunter88]

http://www.hunting-fishing-gear.com/review-display/1216.html

theres a review on it, even tho it was in 05, im sure they are better now, ill see what else i can find...

[Tee_Whet]

I just bought a new set up... $1500! hahaha... but it is a mathews. And plus that includes a new release, sights, rest, arrows, case, quiver, etc.

But you could go the mission route and get the bow for like 200.

[Custard]

I just bought a new set up... $1500! hahaha... but it is a mathews. And plus that includes a new release, sights, rest, arrows, case, quiver, etc.

But you could go the mission route and get the bow for like 200.

So you feel spending $1500 on a bow set up will make you a better hunter? Are you also driving an Escalade to your hunting site? Do you bring along a poor mexican boy to gut and drag your deer out? What else would you like to share about your finances to make you feel that you are better than everyone else?

Don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about. The whole purpose of your post was to brag about how much money you spent. Let me guess, you get a new bow every year.

[ZMAN]

So you feel spending $1500 on a bow set up will make you a better hunter? Are you also driving an Escalade to your hunting site? Do you bring along a poor mexican boy to gut and drag your deer out? What else would you like to share about your finances to make you feel that you are better than everyone else?

Don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about. The whole purpose of your post was to brag about how much money you spent. Let me guess, you get a new bow every year.
:yeahthat:
TYPICAL MATHEWS PRO(WANNABE) DIFFERENCE IS YOU SPEND 1500 SO THEY CAN AFFORD TO GIVE THE PROS THERES FOR FREE. NICE DONATION.:coco:

[teambringit33]

well back to topic, if you can only do one thing, make sure the bow fits you from a drawlength standpoint. I would also recommend not going cheap on a sight and rest because those are the business end of bow/shooter relationship.

todays bows will all perform very well, so get what feels good to you.

[bmiller]

:yeahthat:

[Tee_Whet]

So you feel spending $1500 on a bow set up will make you a better hunter? Are you also driving an Escalade to your hunting site? Do you bring along a poor mexican boy to gut and drag your deer out? What else would you like to share about your finances to make you feel that you are better than everyone else?

Don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about. The whole purpose of your post was to brag about how much money you spent. Let me guess, you get a new bow every year.
So you feel spending $1500 on a bow set up will make you a better hunter? Are you also driving an Escalade to your hunting site? Do you bring along a poor mexican boy to gut and drag your deer out? What else would you like to share about your finances to make you feel that you are better than everyone else?

Don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about. The whole purpose of your post was to brag about how much money you spent. Let me guess, you get a new bow every year.

I’m sorry... I just thought I would explain to the guy that it would get pricey. I felt that I had credibility, since I just bought one. I do not get a new bow every year. This was the first time I have bought a bow. I have been shooting hand-me-downs from my step dad.

As far as the bow making me a better hunter, you are correct, it does not. But a better shooter? Yes. But I also bought the bow and everything with the knowledge that I was going to join leagues and compete. So I did do to the extreme on some of it.

I do not drive an Escalade. I’m a Ford guy. So if I was going to go Luxury like that it would be Lincoln. But no, I am not in a position to be spending 50k on a vehicle. But what does it matter what vehicle I drive? It is a vehicle; it does not define me on who I am. Why can I not drive an expensive car and hunt? I am sure there are a bunch of guys here that drive F150s, F250s, F350s... Obviously you have not priced trucks recently. Some of the new F-Series trucks can go for $65k+. I believe an Escalade is somewhere around $45k? If you want to insult me you could have said I drive a BMW or some other car like that. But none the less... once I’m in the wood it doesn’t matter what I have to drive, deer don’t care. And so what if I drive an expensive, flashy vehicle? I just look better when I pull up to the range and out shoot you.

To me you just seem insecure. If I wanted to rub in what I make... I would let you know and mention I am only 21 and give you my credentials. ;)

[uncle odie]

I’m sorry... I just thought I would explain to the guy that it would get pricey. I felt that I had credibility, since I just bought one. I do not get a new bow every year. This was the first time I have bought a bow. I have been shooting hand-me-downs from my step dad.

As far as the bow making me a better hunter, you are correct, it does not. But a better shooter? Yes. But I also bought the bow and everything with the knowledge that I was going to join leagues and compete. So I did do to the extreme on some of it.

I do not drive an Escalade. I’m a Ford guy. So if I was going to go Luxury like that it would be Lincoln. But no, I am not in a position to be spending 50k on a vehicle. But what does it matter what vehicle I drive? It is a vehicle; it does not define me on who I am. Why can I not drive an expensive car and hunt? I am sure there are a bunch of guys here that drive F150s, F250s, F350s... Obviously you have not priced trucks recently. Some of the new F-Series trucks can go for $65k+. I believe an Escalade is somewhere around $45k? If you want to insult me you could have said I drive a BMW or some other car like that. But none the less... once I’m in the wood it doesn’t matter what I have to drive, deer don’t care. And so what if I drive an expensive, flashy vehicle? I just look better when I pull up to the range and out shoot you.

To me you just seem insecure. If I wanted to rub in what I make... I would let you know and mention I am only 21 and give you my credentials. ;)

pay no attention to him,spend YOUR money any way you see fit. if you want to spend $1500.00 on a bow,thats your business,and if you want to use an ESCALADE for a recovery vehicle,that also is your business. so go for it and GOOD LUCK!!!

[deerhunt45]

pay no attention to him,spend YOUR money any way you see fit. if you want to spend $1500.00 on a bow,thats your business,and if you want to use an ESCALADE for a recovery vehicle,that also is your business. so go for it and GOOD LUCK!!!

Ditto what odie said. Some folks get their kicks stirring the pot or trying to push somebody's buttons from behind a keyboard. That's all I think that post was about.

You handled it very well, good post.

[Eric45653]

Its funny...im sitting here reading this thread and reading my new cabelas bargain cave i got in the mail (did anyone else get theirs?). Anyway, on page 8 there having a sale on compounds. Names are: Rampage, Reflex, Bear, Parker, and PSE. I dont know the first thing about bows, but the sale prices are between $400-$500. I guess thats good.

[HeartLunger]

Ditto what odie said. Some folks get their kicks stirring the pot or trying to push somebody's buttons from behind a keyboard. That's all I think that post was about.

You handled it very well, good post.

I’m sorry... I just thought I would explain to the guy that it would get pricey. I felt that I had credibility, since I just bought one. I do not get a new bow every year. This was the first time I have bought a bow. I have been shooting hand-me-downs from my step dad.

As far as the bow making me a better hunter, you are correct, it does not. But a better shooter? Yes. But I also bought the bow and everything with the knowledge that I was going to join leagues and compete. So I did do to the extreme on some of it.

I do not drive an Escalade. I’m a Ford guy. So if I was going to go Luxury like that it would be Lincoln. But no, I am not in a position to be spending 50k on a vehicle. But what does it matter what vehicle I drive? It is a vehicle; it does not define me on who I am. Why can I not drive an expensive car and hunt? I am sure there are a bunch of guys here that drive F150s, F250s, F350s... Obviously you have not priced trucks recently. Some of the new F-Series trucks can go for $65k+. I believe an Escalade is somewhere around $45k? If you want to insult me you could have said I drive a BMW or some other car like that. But none the less... once I’m in the wood it doesn’t matter what I have to drive, deer don’t care. And so what if I drive an expensive, flashy vehicle? I just look better when I pull up to the range and out shoot you.

To me you just seem insecure. If I wanted to rub in what I make... I would let you know and mention I am only 21 and give you my credentials. ;)

You didn't answer the question about the poor mexican boy!:confused: :p You see where his mouth got him...it got him banned!:bouncy: Good job handling that pot stirrer. What a looser that guy was.

[switchback xt hunter]

:yeahthat:
TYPICAL MATHEWS PRO(WANNABE) DIFFERENCE IS YOU SPEND 1500 SO THEY CAN AFFORD TO GIVE THE PROS THERES FOR FREE. NICE DONATION.:coco:

It is so funny to me that the only defense people have against Mathews is that the pros only use them because they get them for free.

Are you guys that naive to think that Mathews is the only company throwing bows at these guys. They probably had 5-10 manufacturers begging them to use their bows. They chose to shoot a Mathews over those other brands. I obviously chose a Mathwes becuase it was the best one one I shot.

Ya'll would hate to hunt with me. I shoot a Mathews bow and a Thompson Center Pro Hunter muzzleloader.

[Whitetail fever]

Mathews makes a very nice bow, i chose the Martin Slayer, At 320fps, thats fast. with todays bows after all the goodies added on, its easy to wrap up $1000 or more. The key to any bow you shoot is accuracy, and being consistant. If you got a million dollar bow, but cant hit the broadside of a barn, its worthless to ya. Practice, practice,practice.:)

[Tee_Whet]

Thanks for the support all. I was pretty offended that the guy thought I was throwing my personal business around. I was pretty p'oed. I pride myself in where I am at, in this point of time. I never ask someone how much they make, or mention my salary. The thread was asking about bow prices... I answered the question. I didn't think I was rubbing it in.

I didnt know he got banned. I hope he can still read this and the other posts. I have learned a lot and enjoy reading these threads. It just sucks that some guy has to come in here and try to be a internet tough guy. But then again, it is as easy as creating another username!

[bowhunter1023]

Thanks for the support all. I was pretty offended that the guy thought I was throwing my personal business around. I was pretty p'oed. I pride myself in where I am at, in this point of time. I never ask someone how much they make, or mention my salary. The thread was asking about bow prices... I answered the question. I didn't think I was rubbing it in.

I didnt know he got banned. I hope he can still read this and the other posts. I have learned a lot and enjoy reading these threads. It just sucks that some guy has to come in here and try to be a internet tough guy. But then again, it is as easy as creating another username!

Congrats Tee. I spent about the same this year on bow, release, arrows, and all the accessories. Its your money, spend it how you want. I could have paid bills with my money, but I wanted a new bow. Some guys are jealous cause they can't drop that on hunting equipment and know they would if they could. Others don't see the need. Thank God we live in a FREE country. Enjoy your bow. I love mine and I'm sure you will love yours. How can you not love a bow that makes you better looking, smarter, and a much better hunter!?! ;) :D :mischeif:

[CritterGitter]

Congrats Tee. I spent about the same this year on bow, release, arrows, and all the accessories. Its your money, spend it how you want. I could have paid bills with my money, but I wanted a new bow. Some guys are jealous cause they can't drop that on hunting equipment and know they would if they could. Others don't see the need. Thank God we live in a FREE country. Enjoy your bow. I love mine and I'm sure you will love yours. How can you not love a bow that makes you better looking, smarter, and a much better hunter!?! ;) :D :mischeif:

Yeah, your funny!

"What like funny, ha ha or funny lookin?"

"Huh, which is it"

"Now you think I'm funny"

"What, like I'm just here to freakin amuse you"

"Am I still funny now?"

I probably screwed it up, but I suppose you'll get it. :D :bouncy: :D

Kyle

[bowhunter1023]

Yeah, I get it. :D

Basically I'm sexy cause I shoot a Mathews! HAHAHAHAH

[Tee_Whet]

You both lost me.

I was at league last week and some guy was talking about a release that cost $200!!

Now that is overboard!

[bowhunter1023]

You both lost me.

I was at league last week and some guy was talking about a release that cost $200!!

Now that is overboard!

Not really. I am one of the few guys on here, at least at last count, that shoots a back tension. I shoot a TRU Ball BT Gold - Ultra 3 for target and a TRU Ball Pro Diamond Extreme when I hunt. I have $200 in them together. The Stan Islawski back tensions are unreal when it comes to smoothness. Last I recall, most of them are in the $200 range. You get what you pay for. When you get to be in the upper realm of target shooting, every advantage helps. Those releases really do make a difference if your form and ability are good enough to allow them to show you that.

I shot in a league in Portage Falls when I lived in Kent and a lot of those guys shot Stans. That is how I got started on back tension releases. They are worth every penny whether you buy the $90 I have, or a $200 Stan. They can make you a better shot once you learn how to shoot them.

[Tee_Whet]

Yeah I shot league @ Broken Arrow in Newark and I heard someone talking about a back tension costing that. I was dumbfounded.

As far as allowing someone to show you something... you are dumb to not at least listen and learn. But I am sure I dont have to explain that to you. You seem like you got a nice head of your shoulders.

[Big H]

Yeah I shot league @ Broken Arrow in Newark and I heard someone talking about a back tension costing that. I was dumbfounded.

As far as allowing someone to show you something... you are dumb to not at least listen and learn. But I am sure I dont have to explain that to you. You seem like you got a nice head of your shoulders.


You two aren't going to kiss or anything are you? :tsk:

[bowhunter1023]

Yeah I shot league @ Broken Arrow in Newark and I heard someone talking about a back tension costing that. I was dumbfounded.

As far as allowing someone to show you something... you are dumb to not at least listen and learn. But I am sure I dont have to explain that to you. You seem like you got a nice head of your shoulders.

Thank you. It took a lot of convincing to get me to shoot one. I just could not grasp the whole concept of not knowing when the release would fire. I had a horrible night one Wednesday and I said to myself, "What do I have to lose?" I was surrounded by top-notch shooters and had two multiple state and national champs telling me I should try one. I did and never looked back. I went from last place to third by making the switch. It pays to listen :D

[deerhunt45]

WRS77, how many bows have you tried and what do you like, did you decide yet?

switchback xt, most "pros" would love to have one manufacturer as a steady backer. I don't think it's quite as gravy as your statement suggests it is. However, I do know when they get a crack at Hollywood, their"perk" is for the bow sponsor of the show to send him a new bow completely setup for him, obviously they want him to use it on the show. It all depends how his personal sponsorship is set up if he has one. It can be a deal breaker I'm sure. Mathews is on top of their game right now as is Hoyt and some of the others. That's why they can afford the Hollywood time.

countyroad was quoting from the movie "Goodfellas" (Joe Pesci)

1023, you got me interested in trying a back tension release this spring. Thanks for the advice!

[hntwhitetail]

You both lost me.

I was at league last week and some guy was talking about a release that cost $200!!

Now that is overboard!


For a great target release.... you do have to spend some jack. I have 3 carters, and a BT Scott..... The stan's are also a great release..... I get my Carters 1/2 off retail... since I shoot staff... so the helps out ALOT.