Suggest a bow /equipment for novice.

R11

Halfway through my beginners archery course and starting to really enjoy it. Think I'll join the club and am starting to look into getting equipment. Where's the best place? The lads in the archery club said there's a guy in Trim who does a good package with SF equipment and all accessories for €200. Would that be the norm? Or should I get second hand stuff?

barney1

These guys are very competitively priced. alternativess dot com. Where are you doing the course.

R11

Thanks, that site looks good but is there any packages or sets with everything I would need?

whiterebel

I got my son his kit here: https://www.aimarchery.biz. Google archery shop Ireland, and you will find some alternatives, such as Archery Shop Ireland, Shooting style etc. Very difficult to recommend Master Archery as they are so slow to deliver, and difficult to contact. Quicks is another good UK site. Alternative as recommended above is a good shout too.

R11

Whats Merlin Archery like?Was looking at this recurve beginner set - http://www.merlinarchery.co.uk/recurve-archery-kit-olympic-3-upgraded-20859.html#section-reviews
Or this- http://www.archerysuppliesdirect.co.uk/products/Adult-Red-Pro-Core-Metal-Recurve-Bow-Pack.html

Or can someone recommend a better kit?Thanks

was.deevey

The lads in the archery club said there's a guy in Trim who does a good package with SF equipment and all accessories for €200

Thats sounds about right, depending whats in the package. Normally I would say stay far far away from "all-in-one packages" as you will end up with a ton on junk rather than a few bits of quality gear.

Personally I would go with something like this to start:

SF Axiom Light Complete Bow

SF Axiom Plus Complete with sight and stabilizers and Fastflight string

Yes you will also need arrows and a cheap quiver, but you'll have gear that is honestly a million miles better than the other links you sent.

Get a bow with ILF limbs so you can upgrade easily (Personally I'd go with SF or Krossen)

Get 6 Aluminum Arrows to start with (Easton Jazz are a good cheap starting point @ around 6 euro each)

NOTE: DO NOT BUY FIBERGLASS ARROWS - Seriously.

A decent string - Fastflight or at least D97. 

A cheap Quiver

A cheap Bowstand

Yes, you'll end up paying a bit more. But you will thank me later as you'll have a modular rig where you can replace individual bits easily as you grow as an archer. 
My two cents

Wabbit Ears

My advice would be to NOT buy any gear right now.

Wait till the begineers course is finished and spend some time shooting alonside some other archers. Nearly all clubs will let you use the club bows for a while after the course ends and you buy your own gear.

Keep an eye out for secondhand beginners kit, let your coaches and the committie guys know you're in the market and they may well know of someone selling stuff. Keep and eye on the Facebook pages 'archery ireland buy and sell' and 'Archery equipment for sale or swap Ireland'.

SteveBabyface

I agree with Wabbit Ears, don't buy anything until you know exactly what you need. Do you know your draw length? What poundage are you comfortable drawing?

In Dundrum Archers we have beginner recurve bows that beginners can borrow until they are sure they want to progress. We even went so far as to buy a second hand SF bow, arrows, quiver, stand and bag that can be borrowed too. Ask the coaches for their advice and go from there

was.deevey

In Dundrum Archers we have beginner recurve bows that beginners can borrow until they are sure they want to progress. We even went so far as to buy a second hand SF bow, arrows, quiver, stand and bag that can be borrowed too. Ask the coaches for their advice and go from there

[*]

If they'll let you do that then its certainly the best route - never even thought that would be an option. Over here in they charge $8 an hour to rent your basic (beat up mostly) kit excluding range fees :O

bobdcow

Sorry to hijack the thread but I am in the same situation, would archers recommend the SF brand or would Hoyt be better?

R11

From my very limited knowledge, SF are a perfectly good starter brand. Hoyt would be a step up.

Wabbit Ears

Hoyt are higher end and cost more. You wont shoot better with a hoyt but you wont shoot worse so its down to personal preference and budget.

bobdcow

thank you, I'm coming to the end of my beginner course so looking for all opinions and advice.

Wabbit Ears

On the last week of our beginners course we do all the measurements for the archers so they get the right size gear so wait till that section and if they don't do it ask to be measured up by your coach before buying anything.

bobdcow

they have mentioned that - not to get anything until we are all measured up - I'm trying to figure out the cost/budget for when I get measured up - I do want to stay with the sport, having a great time at it!

R11

My budget is very low so I'm trying to source best bang for my buck. Is this decent value- http://www.ebay.ie/itm/New-Right-Handed-Black-SF-Archery-Axiom-Recurve-Take-Down-Bow-Set-Complete-/152410046056?var=&hash=item237c58be68:m:m_Nq_fEPsi2c8_IbRN1v33A

was.deevey

R11 wrote: »

My budget is very low so I'm trying to source best bang for my buck. Is this decent value- http://www.ebay.ie/itm/New-Right-Handed-Black-SF-Archery-Axiom-Recurve-Take-Down-Bow-Set-Complete-/152410046056?var=&hash=item237c58be68:m:m_Nq_fEPsi2c8_IbRN1v33A

Its about the right price. The one I posted before included the Stabs and Sight for £160 ... You might not need them yet though. 
Its also available here for £99 https://www.bowsports.com/acatalog/SF---Axiom

---

Bow--540103.html No idea on the shipping cost.

R11

Thanks for that,last link looks to be a very good price. I'll check out shipping.Could always use Parcel Motel or similar.

Johnboner

200lb English longbow

R11

The lads in the archery club have recommended I go over to Shooting Style in Trim where I'll get sized up and properly fitted out. That could be pricey(€275+) and I'm kinda broke. Could I just buy a decent riser online and bring it over to the guy in Trim? Seems better value online. Might try out different poundage limbs at next week's shoot.

greysides

Try second hand stuff. There's an Archery Ireland Buy and Sell on Facebook. Also Ebay.

was.deevey

The lads in the archery club have recommended I go over to Shooting Style in Trim where I'll get sized up and properly fitted out. 

The archery trainers in the club should be able to tell you what you need to get so you can shop around at your leisure or online rather than sending you somewhere else IMHO.

R11

With second hand stuff, I might just be buying someone's else's problems. For an extra €50,i can get brand new gear and upgrade. Bowsports.com that wasdeevey linked above seems to be best value. I can get SF axiom plus bow deal for £99. Then get basic sight, tab, chest guard, arm guard, 6 Easton Jazz arrows,stringer, basic quiver and bag for about €220 delivered.
I emailed guy in Trim who said it'll be about €350 to kit me out.... And that's without bag /quiver.
So I think I'll try out different limbs at next week's shoot to help me decide to go for 30,32 or 34lb limbs.

barney1

R11 wrote: »

The lads in the archery club have recommended I go over to Shooting Style in Trim where I'll get sized up and properly fitted out. That could be pricey(€275+) and I'm kinda broke. Could I just buy a decent riser online and bring it over to the guy in Trim? Seems better value online. Might try out different poundage limbs at next week's shoot.

Get the club trainer to suggest what size bow you need i.e. 66 or 68 inch etc... And what length of arrows. Try different bows in the club to find the correct draw weight you are comfortable with starting off. Once you know all that you can buy a bow anywhere. All you have to do then is decide what way you want to start. You could get cheap limbs first or you might decide to go for intermediate limbs etc...

R11

Yes, I'll do that next week so. Much better value online.

R11

Last week done of beginners course, definitely gonna sign up. Shot at 24lbs today, felt fine. Trainers recommended 68" limbs. My draw length is about 30", have been using easton jazz 1816 so will probably stick with them. They're still recommending I get sized up in Trim but he's too expensive so I'm gonna get my kit online. Just unsure whether to start at 28lbs or 30lbs.

greysides

Use the club kit for a while. Build up your strength, get your form correct at low poundage, put aside some money. Buy later.

barney1

R11 wrote: »

Last week done of beginners course, definitely gonna sign up. Shot at 24lbs today, felt fine. Trainers recommended 68" limbs. My draw length is about 30", have been using easton jazz 1816 so will probably stick with them. They're still recommending I get sized up in Trim but he's too expensive so I'm gonna get my kit online. Just unsure whether to start at 28lbs or 30lbs.

Why are you looking at 28 or 30 pounders when you were comfortable with 24 ? Dont feel you have to go higher poundage because others are. Look this guy up on youtube "NUSensei" great tips for beginners.

R11

I'm a big enough fella so figure I could handle 28lbs. I'll try different limbs again next week and decide then.

R11

barney1 wrote: »

Look this guy up on youtube "NUSensei" great tips for beginners.

Yeh, he's very good, watched a few of his videos.

barney1

R11 wrote: »

I'm a big enough fella so figure I could handle 28lbs. I'll try different limbs again next week and decide then.

Ok, but just don't rush into anything. If you are struggling with a bow you will never get your form right. Remember shooting a 30 pounder for 10 or 20 ends is a different ballgame than trying it out for five or ten minutes. Whatever you decide happy shooting

SteveBabyface

A 24# bow is the weight at 28"draw length, you draw length is 30", therefore you are drawing 28# (2# extra for every inch over 28"). The max I would suggest when starting out is 26#, which will be 30# for you.

One of our members is giving his first set of 26# limbs to the club because they were too heavy for him. He had to buy 24# limbs instead and once he is used to them he will move up to the 26#.

bobdcow

I recently bought a bow with 24# limbs and a set of arrows. I found it tough going at the first training session, with the weight of the riser, the 24#'s and firing off up to 8 arrows each round as opposed to the previous 6 weeks, the training bow with 3 arrows each round. It's all about getting the correct form now and then up the #age when I get the groupings sorted. It's slow but enjoyable!

R11

Yes, I think I'll go 24 or max 26 lbs. Gonna try both on Saturday, then buy online.

One other thing, I'm getting easton xx75 jazz arrows 1816 which I'm using already with the training kit. When ordering online, it also asks for length - so do I put in 30 inches?
Also what vane length? Gives 4 options- EP16, EP23, EP 26 and EP 40? Which is best?

bobdcow

How did you get on ordering on-line?

R11

bobdcow wrote: »

How did you get on ordering on-line?

I'm gonna wait another 2 weeks or so.Coaches found today that my draw length is more like 28" and not 30" so I'm still trying out different limbs. Also not sure what arrows to get,Easton jazz 1816 or 1616 but I'll figure it out over next few weeks..Saving a bit of money and going to get the SF Axiom Plus riser and limbs.
What kit did you get?And what arrows?

Unilad12

Hi are you looking for a second hand bow because im selling one

R11

Unilad12 wrote: »

Hi are you looking for a second hand bow because im selling one

I'm going to get a new one but if you're selling second hand sight, chest guard, bag/backpack, bowstand etc PM me

comeon

Complete novice to archery, there is no local or surrounding archery club. im at ye're mercy.
browsing the internet for the past few days & finding the info overwhelming Im looking for a safe beginner/moderate bow, to use in my (big & safe) back garden.

R11 post this link a few pages back, seems decent, good brand, best price ive seen so far. it comes to 130 euro including post. Not a huge investment if i mess up the sizes or dont fall in love with the sport.

http://www.archerysuppliesdirect.co.uk/products/Adult-Red-Pro-Core-Metal-Recurve-Bow-Pack.html

So im around 5"11 - 6 foot so 68 bow length should suffice?

Im around 15 stone (stronger than average) so im thinking 24lb draw weight maybe 22lb?

I know ye all recommend going to a club, but unfortunately i dont have that luxury.

thanks

Wabbit Ears

A pity there are no local clubs.

Before buying a bow do a few things

1) Check if youre right or left eye dominent ( this has nothing to do withright or left handed). The side with the dominent eye is the side you shoot from. This link will tell you how to check that, its pretty easy http://www.learn-archery.com/eye-dominance.html

2) Next is check your draw length.You just need a tape measure and some help. Basically its measure your arm span and divide by 2.5. another link http://www.learn-archery.com/proper-draw-length.html

3) Buy a bow combination that matches your draw length. http://www.learn-archery.com/proper-bow-size.html

A 22 pound bow is fine for a beginner but if your a big lad you may find it a bit to soft. Id suggest 24 which would be light enough to be easy to use and get your technque right but enough punch to be somewhat satisfying. You could spend more money and get an ILF riser which takes a larger variety of limbs and accessories but youre effectivly doubling the price.

greysides

Can you give us a vague inkling of where you live? Archery can be picked up on your own but it makes it very difficult. If there are no clubs near you then I'd suggest you make arrangements to get some private coaching, maybe as part of a weekend away. Once you have some good basics you can build on those.

comeon

@greysides - Honestly between time & transport i cant. not for the foreseeable future.

Is "core archery" a good brand?

Wabbit Ears

its is what it is at the pricepoint. You'd not really see many folk beyond a beginners course shooting them.

Why a takedown recurve out of interest? Why not soemthing like this? http://www.shootingstyle.ie/view_large.php?prod_id=331

was.deevey

comeon wrote: »

@greysides - Honestly between time & transport i cant. not for the foreseeable future.

Is "core archery" a good brand?

Simply: No, its not a "Brand" anymore than "Adidadas" or "Hike" when it comes to shoes. 

Wabbit Ears wrote: »

its is what it is at the pricepoint. You'd not really see many folk beyond a beginners course shooting them.

Why a takedown recurve out of interest? Why not soemthing like this? http://www.shootingstyle.ie/view_large.php?prod_id=331

I love one piece bows but I'd stay away from them as a beginner - more difficult to transport, and not possibility of upgrading weight - most start at #30+as well (nothing specified on that one mind you on the description or their site pretty sure they are manufactured by Greatree in China though).

However My 2 cents, if someone is INTENT on trying to learn archery on their own via youtube academy and google.

Get a Samick Sage@ 25lbs, a cheap plastic screw in arrow rest, some 1716 Easton Jazz arrows and just start shooting after watching (in depth) some decent videos of how to properly string the bow, pull and release.

It wont break the bank, theres no adjustments or learning curve beyond stringing it and you wont lose any much money selling it when you are done and want to upgrade - tough as nails as well. 

HOWEVER: You are likely to pick up potentially un-correctable bad habits by trying to learn by yourself in the backyard.

If you are considering a bow with sights, stabilizers etc as your game ... I would not advise backyard training whatsoever without at least a chat with a trainer of some description - its simply a much more regimented discipline to Trad Archery (Think F1 vs Rallycross).