Hello, Can you be a beginner if the last time you went hunting was in the mid 80s? Looking to get back into hunting, and I am thinking bow hunting is much more sporting. So for a beginning bow hunter, where do you start? Thanks
Well, in my opinion it all begins with the bow. If you have hunted in the past then you should have an idea of how to hunt the animal you intend on bowhunting. So I would go to your local bow shop or sporting goods store and try shooting a few bows and see what suits you best. Do a lot of research before hand and see how others have rated different bows so you know which ones you'd like to try but I wouldn't base your decision soley on a particular brand or model just because it's the latest and greatest or because someone said you should get it. There are a lot of deciding factors that might help you eliminate or include a particular bow to your "potential buy list" such as noise, letoff, weight, split limb/solid limb, fps, cam size, riser size/axle to axle length, sights, arrow rests, ready to shoot or build it yourself. Not to overwhelm you but compound bows have come a long way since the 80's. Once you have the bow, the rest kind of falls into place, you find the right size/weight/spine of arrows for your setup then get measured and they typically cut them to length for you at the shop (or you can buy them online). Then decide if you want to use a trigger release or a finger tab. After that, I'd start practicing at least 2-3 times a week for at least 2-3 months before even thinking about hunting. The clothes, boots, and stand/blind come next if you don't already have those. Man I could go on forever...maybe my wife does have a point about hunting and how much time and money it requires...nah, what does she know.
I am just getting into bow hunting myself, so I thought a beginner's perspective might be good. I bought a bow on price-point alone. I wouldn't recommend that as it's extremely limiting and I didn't try any other bows at all. Fortunately for me the bow I got is very forgiving and I like it (keep in mind I have nothing to compare it to). Spear was right on about going to a proshop though. The internet does have tons of information as well. I did a lot of reading, bought the bow, had them set it up, and started shooting the day it came in the mail. The more I read and the more I learn, this site is a great resource as well, the more my opinions form as to what I think I should get, how to practice, and what to work on. Find a bow you like and shoot the hell out of it. If you start basic you can always add on later.
Are you anywhere near West Dundee Il? if you are come over to our shop and we will help you get all set up and ready to go. Most of picking out a bow is going to depend on you and your budget. But a pro shop is the best way to go to make sure you are fitted with the best bow for you.
