I want to start going to a local archery range. To do that I will obviously need to get a bow and equipment. I don't want to spend an arm and a leg right off the back but i would like to get a compact bow that will last. I am hoping to only spend $200 to $300 on a bow. That may be tight but thats what im shooting for. I have been advised to possibly get a used bow and then have it restringed. my only problem with this is the only place i know i can buy a used bow is on the internet and I cant test the bow or feel it if i buy through internet. Any advice would be good. Thanks!
First off, Welcome to the site Your best bet is to find a local proshop, and I'm not talking about the bow counter at Gander, Cabelas or the like. A reputable archery shop will have a good selection of bows, both new and used that you can shoot right there. this is the best way to buy a bow, especially when you are first starting out. The folks at the shop will be able to answer questions, get you set up and give you pointers. I'd avoid the internet for your fist bow.
I don't think you will have any trouble finding a decent bow in that range if you do some homework. The most important thing is getting to shoot it first and make sure that it feels good to you. Like Fitz said you should be able to find some pro shops that shoudl have a selection. Also keep an eye out for some for sale in your area but ask the pro shop what they will charge for them to go over the bow and inspect it before purchase if you go that route. No different then getting a mechanic to check out a used car before purchase! Good luck in your search and welcome to the site! Keep us posted on how it goes!
Welcome, I too am a new bow shooter (can't say hunter yet as I have to wait until Sept 15 for that)! I got my bow, with arrow rest, fiber optic 3 pin sight, tru-ball release, 3 arrows with Thunderhead broad heads and a hard plastic case off of craigslist. I traded an old shotgun for it. The man I got it from is a bow hunter and it was a bow he got from a friend and told me to take it have it checked out and if I decided it wasn't right we would trade back (I went to his house so I know where he lives). I do not know anymore about the history of it. The first thing I did was take it to the local pro. He had it for two-weeks!!!! But he checked it out and tuned it up for me- the bow-tech also measured me for peep site alignment and arrow length. It is an older Mathews FX2 and to me it shoots pretty well. This may not be the route for you but I had two bow-shooters that were shooting straight with me about this bow, so I may be the rare case of this worked out. But I also had several other people intersted in trading that offered me to come and shoot their bow before the swap too.... Good luck and you found a great place to get all the info and support you will need!
I would go on craigslist there are so many great deals out there. if they are a real hunter then they will let u shoot the bow before u buy it. I bought 2 mathews bows 1 full setup 1 bare paid 300 sold loaded bow for 300 so i just had to accessorize mine good luck u will soon face addiction lol
I know that Genesis makes new compound bows in your price range. In general, you can always find good online deals on archery equipment but go to a physical shop to try-out the model you want before ordering online.
