Recurve v Longbow v Compound

[steve58]

If you want to shoot longbow, shoot longbow. BUT without regular careful practice it is an unforgiving discipline.
I think there may be some truth in the accusation that it attracts those who want to shoot but also want a ready excuse for missing (how often have you heard someone come off the line and say something along the lines of "gold, flag, number board, typical longbow")
It does not have to be that way. I have seem one of our lady recurvers pick up a longbow, shoot it exactly like her recurve (including quite a long hold), and score 400 for a Portsmouth at the first attempt. Not seen her shoot a round outdoors yet, as she is shooting mainly recurve for one more season, but expect she will do well.
I have nowhere near that experience, but managed to shoot a western with only two misses today, and I knew they were both entirely down to me.
Not sure all recurvers always hold for ages at full draw? Personally I find that if I do I let down a little and the shot is weak as a result, even so I find I shoot slower than most longbowers and do OK

[darthTer]

I currently shoot recurve as my main choice...however, I also have an AFB.

I find that the flatbow offeres a bit of a diversion to the recurve. I am not great with it, but I can hit the target fairly well. I also find that the flatbow is a lot more fun/enjoyable to shoot. This is possibly due to the lack of "technology" on the bow.....

The alternative style you opt for, will probably be determined by your reasoning for change.....I was looking for a realtively low cost alternative style to recurve....the AFB cost me less than £100 and does everything I require of it.

If possible, try your hand at both choices.....