Bow hunters...

[J-Dub]

I want to get into bow hunting (Elk and deer). Should I buy a package deal?

Should I just go to Cabelas and get measured and buy a package setup?

Im a gun guy, I know almost nothing about compound bows. I've actually shot a lot with recurves but for hunting i'd like a compound.


Suggestions?

[ryan]

Go to a Pro Shop, not Cabelas.

[ridgerunner70]

You need to start off by you not picking the bow , but allowing the bow to pick you. Go to a archery shop and shoot as many different hunting bows you can. Go back in a few days and shoot the ones that fit you the best and start narrowing it down from there. You will need to be measured for draw length this will help you anchor in the right spot everytime for consistent accuracy. Find somebody that can shoot with you and coach you through untill you are comfortable on your own. Bowhunting is my favorite hunting it allows you to get close and personal with the game your hunting.

[ryan]

I would stay away from package deals because generally the sights, rest and quiver are junk.

Are you hard on hunting gear? If so pony up the jingle for good stuff.

I shoot Hoyt bows, recurves and compounds, but others make good stuff too. Take a hard look at the Bear Motive 6/7 and Anarchy.

SpotHogg bulletproof sight, QAD drop away rest etc.

I hate my quiver being on my bow, I use a CatQuiver II.

I shoot footed Easton 330 Bloodlines in my compound and footed Easton ST Excel 400 in my Recurves.

I hate mechanical broadheads, I shoot Muzzy 3 blade 100 grain heads in my compound and Grizzly single bevels in my recurve.

I have killed 6 does with my RazorTec so far this year and waiting to connect with the recurves.

[J-Dub]

I knew I'll need to be measured and "fit" to a bow. Most of the pro shops around here dont have ranges. If I cant shoot it before purchase, is that a huge deal?

Also Im not looking to drop 1k on a bow setup. Maybe 600 for the entire bow setup (not including arrows, target, ect). I dont need the latest and greatest. Just something that will work, and work well.

And no, I take care of my gear.....

[ryan]

Its a deal breaker if you cant shoot it first.

Both of my local pro shops have a place to shoot it, one has a full on 3-D course and a TechnoHunt.

I'd be willing to bet the Proshop has some where you can shoot the bow.

For economical bows Bear, Diamond, Mission, Martin and PSE mainline bows are great values.

[Japeatr]

Bowtech for me! But i agree shoot all of them, price shouldnt even be mentioned until you find one you like

[ryan]

Bowtech for me! But i agree shoot all of them, price shouldnt even be mentioned until you find one you like

My wife shoots a Diamond (by Bowtech) Razor Edge, great bow the amount of adjustment it has is incredible.

[Watrdawg]

I shot 4-5 different bows and settled on a Hoyt. My brother did the same thing at the same time and he picked a Matthews. We shot the same bows and had different opinions of each. This is a good example of why others are saying shoot various bows and pick what you like best. Once you have done that then choose sights, arrow rest, arrows etc. You will save yourself some money and possible frustration compared to a package setup that may not suit your needs or actually function for you properly.

[J-Dub]

Makes sense. Kinda like building an AR. I'd rather pick and choose exactly what I want rather than just getting what they offer on a package bow.

Already making plans to head to a pro shop with a 20yd range..

I'd like to be practicing all spring to prep for hunting season.