3 Tips For Buying Your First Compound Bow
photo by Danielle Sorum
When buying your first bow, there is a little bit of a learning curve. Like starting anything new, you’ll need to figure out what brand, specifications, and accessories are best for you. Sure, do your research, read reviews and ask other archers for their recommendations but, in the end, you’ll want a bow that fits your body, shooting style, and budget. Buying your first bow can certainly be intimidating, but it doesn’t need to be.
Check out these three tips to help you navigate through your first bow purchase.
#1 - Look into Bow Packages
When buying your very first compound bow, make sure to look into bow packages. These typically include the bow and accessories like a sight, an arrow rest, a peep-sight, a quiver, and sometimes, arrows and a stabilizer. Then, all that’s left to pick out are field tips, a release aid, and a target.
Bow packages are a great option because they limit the number of accessories you have to pick out individually and they are much more budget-friendly. Bow dealers are able to save money on the accessories they include in their bow packages by buying them in bulk. They are then able to pass those savings onto the customer.
#2 - Consider the Draw Weight & Length
Looking at the specifications of a bow can also be overwhelming. There are a lot of terms you may not be familiar with if you are new to archery. Two specifications worth paying attention to when buying your first bow include the draw weight and draw length.
If you are buying a bow for a child or you are new to archery and buying for yourself, it is important to buy a bow with a larger range in the draw length and draw weight.
When buying for a child, you want a larger range in draw length to allow for adjustments as the child grows, versus buying a new bow each time they have a large growth spurt. A large range in draw weight (e.g. 7-70 lbs.) will allow a child or beginner to shoot with the strength they currently have, but also enable them to increase the draw weight over time. Shooting a bow engages muscles the average person doesn’t use on a daily basis. When you first start shooting, you may need a lower draw weight, but the larger range will allow for adjustments as your strength increases over time.
#3 - Try Before You Buy
Would you buy a car without test driving it? I know I wouldn’t. My next tip is to try it before you buy it. Most reputable pro shops have a small lane to shoot in, if not a full range. I highly recommend shooting a few different bows before you decide which one is right for you. The archery techs will be happy to help guide you if you’ve never shot before. Make sure you are comfortable shooting the bow you choose.
conclusion
Choosing your first bow may seem intimidating at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Most pro shops have very knowledgeable and helpful archery techs and staff. Keep these tips in mind, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Buying a bow can be a big investment, so it is even more important that you are comfortable shooting and it’s the right fit for you!
photo by Danielle Sorum