So. . what's a good compound bow to buy for the inexperienced?

[Polkahero]

I just found out my cousin's compound bow is left-handed and I'm a righty so I need some serious recommendations on a good compound bow for this hunting season. I've shot recurves already but don't have any experience with compounds.

I've heard good things about PSE, Darton, Hoyt, etc. What models? I'm not looking to spend a whole lot and I am considering the used market as well. There are literally tons of used bows on Ebay but I don't have a clue where to start.

Also, do I need a mechanical release or can I get by with just my fingers? Are extras like stabilizers and string silencers a necessity?

I really appreciate any advice you guys can give me. I know there are alot of experienced bowhunters reading this forum!

Thanks!

[Swamp Monster]

I won't get into the brand debate because there are lots of different brands and lots of good bows. Here's what I would look for.
Brace height of atleast 7.5", 8" is better.
Moderate cams or moderate single cam...no aggressive cams that are hard to keep tuned or touchy to shoot. You will know what this means after you've drawn back a number of different bows.
Stay with an Axle to Axle length of atleast 37". Short bows are popular but some can be tougher to shoot accurately than similiar bows with longer A to A. 35" to 36" aren't bad but I wouldn't go shorter than that.
I prefer a mechanical release but its more of a personal decision than anything else. Any bow shop will let you test a few models. Just give them a chance because they may feel strange at first! If you want to shoot fingers consider a bow in the 38" to 44" A to A length with no more than 65% let off, 60% or lower is prefered because it is tough to let a high let off bow release smoothly off of fingers. Try it a few times with high let off bows and low let off bows and the difference is startling.
Stabilizers will depend on the bow, test a few first because they all have different characteristics and it may take a few to find one that really makes a noticable difference. String silencers are a must, especially on longer a to a bows. Rubber spiders work fine along with other designs on the market. I prefer the Sims Leeches but some don't feel they make a difference.
Buy a simple sight that is well built and bright along with a simple rest. I really like the new drop away's but a simple prong rest will get you started for a lot less money. Remember, a bow is always evolving...each summer you tweak things, new rest etc...so start out simple to begin with. Simple is very effective regardless of what the adds tell us.
The best advice I can give, an others here will agree, is to shoot every model you can get your hands on. Good luck and Welcome!

[Swamp Monster]

One other note. There are plenty of good used deals out there.
Check out the limbs thoroughly, make sure they draw the weight they are rated for. If they are weaker than spec, they won't make the weight. A pro shop can tell you this. Check out the cams and the axles, make sure there is no cam wobble. Even slight movement is bad. Over time, especially on older bows, the axle itself can wear or even bend. Strings are replaceable but factor that into the cost if necessary, anywhere from $30 to $100 for a set of premium strings and cables.
Most importantly, make sure it fits, a ill-fitted bow is tough to shoot well.

[east bay ed]

the pse nova series are good entry level bows. you can get into the bow for less then $250.00 with sights, rest, arrows & quiver. they make the nova in a cuople of cam designs and let-off choices.
if you have already shot a bow before i would try a release on the new one.
i would go with string silencers and a stabilizer.

[slowpoke]

What is your draw lenth? What weight of bow are you looking for? I have 3 use bows that are ready to go. I can have you into a used compound bow for $100 with release, arrows, sight, and case. If you are interested get with me.

[hangoo]

yeah i'll have to say, if you want a decent bow for low price, go with PSE Nova....outa all the diff brands out there, FOR THE PRICE, this has to be the best starter bow.....i know i shot one my first couple years.....you can get one brand new for low $200's


...Also, Swamp Monster has supplied you with very good info...

[jimmyboy]

Kudos to Swamp Master-take his advice and run with it.

[Luv2hunteup]

There are lots of used bows out there to pick from. Go to a bow shop and talk to their pro. Do it soon because they will be getting very busy soon and won't be able to spend very much time with you. Stay away from discount sellers of archery equipment. Most have zero knowledge and don't know the difference between a nock and cable guard.

If you can have the pro fit you for a bow. Pick his brain, he will help you if he has the time. He may even be able to set you up with a used bow. That's an investment in his future also. Once you get addicted he knows you'll be back.

Again do it very soon, they are already starting to get busy.

Good Luck and have fun.

[Trout King]

Bought it yesteray from goldstar in Edmore, beautiful shooting bow, very forgiving...$320 dollars with 6 free carbon arrows, of course a little more for sights and rest...etc.
I recommend going arond shooting a bow and finding the one that fits you

[Polkahero]

Thanks for all advice and information, especially Swamp Monster! I'm going to Bay Archery tomorrow to see what bow will fit me best. Then I'll decide to buy new or used.

Another question: What kind of nock do you guys prefer? I did a search and it seems the string loop is the way to go. Or is this for more advanced archers? Thanks again!

[Swamp Monster]

I don't think there is any negative to a string loop, and they can help any archer, experienced or otherwise. Just make sure the release you choose works well with the loop. Most do, but some are better than others. Also take into consideration that a loop will alter your draw length a bit. The pro shop will make sure these things are taken into consideration. I just started shooting with a loop and so far I'm happy with the results. Have fun shooting everything they have and ask lots of questions!

[Polkahero]

Got some good info at Bay Archery today. They recommended the new PSE Deerhunter. Here's some specs:

•Brace Height: 7-3/4”
•I.B.O. Speed: 265 fps
•Axle-to-axle: 38”
•Weight: 3.6 lbs
•Let-Off: 65%

I didn't actually shoot it, but it felt pretty good when I pulled it back. Does that velocity seem adequate? I thought having around 300 fps was ideal.

It looks and costs similar to the Nova and comes with fiber-optic sights, 6-arrow quiver, and prong-style rest.

I'm thinking of going the new route now as they will set up the bow to fit me best as well as install accessories such as nocks, silencers, etc. at no extra charge.

[jimmyboy]

PolkaHero,that PSE Deerhunter sounds like a decent starter bow.I wouldn't be too concerned about the speed rating thing not being 300 fps for starters.I'm looking for a starter bow for my grandson and interested in one like that .Where is Bay archery,Bay City? If so,how do you get there from M-13 0r I-75? Directions would be appreciated.

[Polkahero]

Jimmyboy,

From I-75 or M-13 take M-25 east. This becomes Center Ave. in Bay City. Bay Archery is way on the east side of Bay City (it's actually in Essexville) on Center Ave. It's right past the railroad tracks on the left side. They've got a big sign out in front. Here's the address:

Bay Archery
2713 W. Center Ave.
Essexville, MI 48732
(517) 894-5800

If you type in the phone number on Google, it will give you a link for a map and driving directions. Not hard to find. Good luck!

[rabbit whacker]

There are directions on their site. Here you go - Bay Archery