beginners buying

I just want to give a recommendation to beginners to talk to more knowledgable people when buying your first bow. I'd been told that, but of course I didn't really believe it.

I went to ASI (ArcheryShop Ireland) last weekend for my first bow, even though I had researched, felt I had a good idea of what I wanted, and I figured I'd probably pay less by buying online.

I got great advice from Keith; he took time to explain things to me. I was "talked down" from buying some bits I don't need for now. With some other items that would have been expensive, I was advised to get cheaper equivalents.

I've looked around since, I think the value I got was as good as I would have gotten online. And all that advice meant I ended up with more suitable equipment than I would otherwise have chosen myself.

For beginners like me, I'd seriously advise buying from somewhere you can talk about your needs/wants. I'm glad I didn't just chuck a load of stuff into an online shopping cart. I found ASI great (I'm not connected with them!), but I'm sure there are other good stores around too.