[Big John]

Starting out in longbow is so different to using modern materials. If the question was about modern recurve then the usual answer would be to try before you buy and you always have the benefit of upgrading limbs later. With longbow, trying is not as easy - I am reluctant to let anyone shoot my custom longbow. Do take care not to get caught out by the desire for a macho weight - it is much more important that you are not overbowed as at best you will not enjoy shooting much and at worst you could hurt yourself.