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So i am starting to look for a new bow. I bought a Bear off the shelf at Cabelas almost 3 years ago now. I took a long break from bow hunting and and wanted to make sure it was something I wanted to invest time and money into again. I hit hit the rut perfect my first year back and have been hooked. I feel I have somewhat out grew my bows capabilities and now want a new one. I shot a few different bows but when it comes down to it I am still on a budget. Does anyone have anything for suggestions on something with a budget around 500 or am I just crazy for thinking that price.
You can get a pretty nice used bow for $500. There are a lot of people who buy a new bow every year. Archerytalk has one of the best used markets for bows. Likely can get a bow that cost close to 1000 last year or 2 years ago in your price range. Now if you want a fully equipped bow, you are likely looking to spend more for a top end bow or a model that is more than a few years old. The nice thing about bows is that despite all the hype, there really hasn't been any major changes in the technology. My 2008 Elite isn't that much different than the new bows on the market.
I'll second the archerytalk classified section, just make sure to do your due diligence about buying from someone who has positive feedback and make sure you see pictures of the used bow. I bought my last bow from there...2015 Prime for less than half the price it was brand new.
For your price range what about Mission Archery?
For the $$$, Mission makes a good bow. If you are anywhere in SE WI suggest going to the "Trading Post" in Arena (on Hwy. 14). Good set-up & great customer service!
Thanks for the info! I appreciate it. I am just north of Milwaukee so there are plenty of pro shops around. Just need to carve out time to get to them to shoot and see what feels good.
PSE also has some good bows in that price range fully setup.
Ackerville Archery Slinger Wis,,,,,
You may want to stop in West Town Archery in Brookfield, off Lisbon. They typically have a pretty good selection of quality used bows - just another option to keep in mind.
Get a Hoyt you'll be glad you did. I have the Spyder 30 and I love it. Plenty of used ones out there. Also can check this sites classifieds as well as Rockslide classified
Like Helgermite said. PSE has bow models starting at $300. And more adjustability than the Mission models. Lifetime warranty. Why buy used ?
Bowtech rpm 360. Google it.
Get a used bow. There’s all kinds of good stuff available that you’ll find is “used” is as good as new. I would venture to say that most bow owners don’t shoot enough to really even wear in a bow let alone wear one out. Lots of great used bows available.
PSE all the way. Not just because I own one, but because they are a great bow for a great price. I don't think you will find a better new bow for the price. Why buy used? There is huge adjustability on draw length as well as draw weight. I've been more than satisfied.
With all that said, I'd shoot everything you can, and find a bow, model or brand that suits you best. I'm sure your original bow is more than satisfactory when it comes to killing a deer. I am a release shooter. I like a hand held thumb release, and honestly spent a lot of money on the item that dictates a considerable amount on the shot. Before upgrading on a bow, upgrade to a good release. I think you'll find this piece of equipment a real game-changer.
Lastly, consider traditional archery. A modern compound is almost cheating. I feel like a total loser at times for making the hunt so easy. I'm hoping for a separate season for traditional versus the modern compound, and with the help of several true archers, we are pushing for a separate season. Fingers crossed!
Mac, Shoot as many bows as you can before you buy. Don’t pay a lot of attention to the brand name. Talk to your local bow shop. If they are worth their salt, they’d will find you something.