My first post here. I purchased my first super cheap compound bow 15 or so years ago. I shot it maybe for a year at targets then put it away. It maxes out at 40 lbs. Now my hubby has decided to start compound bow hunting deer. I'd like to go with him, but I know I need something stronger than 40 lbs. Especially when I can pull back 50#. I'm looking for something that maxes at or a little over 60#. I'm a 25" draw length. I have found a leftover '08 Mathews DXT for $650 bare bow, and after adding on everything I'm really hesitant for dishing out $900 without arrows, but I really like the bow. I tested the new Mathews Passion and was unimpressed. The DXT was much better for less money. I have also found a PSE Bow Master XS for $625 set up but minus arrows. I haven't shot it, but thought it was OK feeling in my hand. They didn't have the right pieces to set it down to a 25" draw length at Bass Pro so I could test it. Does anyone else have any other suggestions in a 25" draw length that I should look out for? I'd like to stay around $500 or less if possible, but may pay more if it's an exceptional bow. Do you have any advice on the bows I've already looked at?
Welcome! First, let me say... you don't need more than 40 lbs for deer. A well tuned, 40lb bow with good heavy arrows will kill deer all day long. If you do go heavier, look for something with a pretty good weight range. You may be able to pull 60 lbs but will it be comfortable? Will you tear up your shoulder? I used to shoot in the upper 50's for my compound and mid 40's for my recurve. At the time, I had much stronger upper body strength than the average woman. Today, I shot 41 lbs on my compound and can barely draw my recurve because my shoulders are worn out. Anyhow, look at the Diamond Razor Edge for a really good bow at a really good price. I'm hunting with a Bowtech Equalizer, which is where it's at for speed in a short draw length bow. Unfortunately, they quit making them last year. You might find a few stores that still have one in stock though. Good luck out there!
I have been helping a young man with his bowhunting and his DL is 25" also. I set up a 2008 Bowtech Guardian at that DL for him it it shoots extremely well. You can likely pick up a used 2008/07 Guardian for around $400. I generally buy my bows used from sources online, usually the Archery Talk classifieds. That should fit into your price range. If you do go the online route, let us know. There are plenty here that are familiar with online buying, the pros and cons.
I shoot the Diamond Razor Edge and love it. I have a 24.5 draw and am currently at 42#, pushing it up to 45 in the near future. It comes stocked and my only advice would be to replace the sight, i'm replacing mine this week. Good luck!!
I'll echo the others on the Diamond Razor Edge. I got one for my girlfriend this year and we've both been totally impressed with this bow. I'm astounded that it performs so well for something with such a large draw and weight range to it and the price is right. You should definitely plan on upgrading the sight and rest though.
My wife shoots a Mathews Drenalin, 26" and 42#. She loves it. Shoot a bunch, and go with what feels best in your hands. Welcome to the addiction! Sara and I love sharing archery and hunting together, I hope the same for you and your husband!
Another vote for the Razors Edge, my son has one and it smokes an arrow for his Weight/DL, awesome, awesome bow. The only thing I would do different is NOT buy the package deal because the sight on it is not up to par in my book, pins to dim in low light conditions! I like, well he like the Hostage rest and I put a Vital Bow Gear sight on it and it's a perfect bow for him for years to come!
Hoyt makes a great bow like all the companies out there now a days. Personally I wouldn't buy a bow off ebay and wouldn't buy a bow without shooting it first. Shoot as many as you can, you'd be surprised at what shoots good for you and what doesn't. Don't go on a brand or "popular" bow, go with a bow that shoots the best for you because your the one thats going to be shooting it!
I found another Trykon 75th Anniv edition on Craigslist. He says he bought it for his wife and she doesn't like it as much as she thought, so it's been in the case for the last year. I'll think I'll go look at that tonight. Is $350 too much for it? It only comes with the whisker bisket on it, no arrows, no sight. What accessories should I look into? Judging by the couple bows I've tried so far, I prefer a sight with 3 pins and a bubble level. Also, what is a "kisser"?
I have that same bow, it's a 2006 model, and I'd say that is a fair price! Though, on Craigslist, you may be able to talk the seller down a bit! What pound limbs does the bow have?? Accessories are personal preference, but as a beginner you will most likely want to go the route of a full capture rest, like the Whisker Biscuit, but there are plenty more on the market today. Same with sights, plenty out there and personal preference, the bubble level is a great asset! A kisser button, or kisser is something that goes on your string that adds another reference point, generally people will touch them to a certain part of their face as another anchor point. They aren't necessary, but I know a lot of people who used them when they first began shooting!
WELCOME TO THE SPORT AND THE SITE!! Congrats on the decision to get into this, it is really a fantastic thing, and i hope you enjoy it! First thing is first. The Entire 2009 Bowtech line-up will go to your drawlength and weight requirements! It makes for a bunch of bows to shoot and have fun trying out! Just about every manufacturer has a bow geared towards the Short draw archer and there is nothing more fun then going and trying em out. You should Very well be able to get a Dang nice bow for 400 bucks all ready to roll (Sub arrows) The Razors edge is Fantastic for the money, as are some of the martins, and Parker Really has a great lineup geared mor for Female archers! As far as accessories, there are so many to choose from, but dont let yourself get overwhelmed! This Cobra Is an Excellent Sight for the money! For a peep sight you cant go Wrong with the G5 A sims vibracoil stabalizer is 25 bucks and gets the job done across the board! Just some stuff to get you started inthe right direction! Good luck:D
