Interested in trad archery, but where to get a longbow?

[N.Vodden]

Good Morning all!

Im interested in getting a longbow and trying my hand at traditional archery, it's definitely the path i want to go down, far more fun that pulleys, bells and whistles

I was just wondering though, can you pick up a decent begginers longbow in my kind of size/weight range ( currently shoot 70" recurve, 32lb but can do up to 35lb comfortably ) for around £120?

It Doesnt have to be anything special, just something to learn and practice with until i feel ready to invest in something a little more tasty

I was thinking of the re-enactment type longbows, as i prefer the round cross section type to flatbows and thier around the 30lb mark which suits me perfectly to start as it'd only be used indoors to start with. Are these any good?

thanks in advance!

Neil.

[provins]

Look on www.nfas.net smallads.Also try JF Tibbetts on 07816 461724,he buys and sells secondhand and new trad gear.

[dtalbot]

Many of the online and real Archery shops sell longbows within your budget, give google a go and see if you find anything you like!

[gino]

from my experience you should be able to pick up a beginner bow of that poundage for £120 or less. To date I bought a 35lb bow from Keith Rayner for £97, a 35lb Yew bow for £50 (not well made but its for reenactment and looks the part) and I bought a 27lb longbow for my club (for beginners) for £81 off ebay. But be careful if you buy longbows off ebay if you've not bought one before. Make sure they're a reputable bowyer (check feedback statements) and if possible get another experienced longbow shooter to have a look at the listing before you put a bid on it. I'm sure most people on this forum would be happy to offer their opinion on potential bows.

Gino.

[N.Vodden]

Thanks for advice

got my eye on a 30lb 70" re-enactment longbow, self nocked white ash for about £50. Nothing special and not expecting top qual, just something in the longbow style to use on the indoor range for a little while and see if its for me

[kernowtom]

I agree with the above. I bought my first longbow off ebay and it is still shooting better than me. Just a couple of additional thoughts.. I expect you know this anyway - but its probably best to get a bow that complies with GNAS/BLBS regs.. I only mention this 'cos I have seen a few longbows on ebay with self nocks, which I wouldn't go for myself. My other thought is about draw weight. You can certainly shoot very successfully at 20 yds with a 30lb bow. But when you get a nice sunny day and shoot outside, although you will be able to shoot longer ranges.. you might very soon be hankering after a bit more weight, particularly knowing that you can handle it anyway. I am not saying it would be wrong to buy a lighter bow - just that you might want to move on faster than if you go for something a bit more arrow speed and reach. Others may disagree, but I went up a few lb in weight from recurve to longbow and didn't regret it. Finally, do factor in arrow costs in your budget; the arrows are as imnportant as the bow in target shooting. I hope this is helpful. Good shooting!!
tom

[N.Vodden]

aye very helpful indeed

one of the coaches at my local make wooden arrows to order, really beautiful ones it'd almost be a shame to use them! so i can get them made to match my bow no problem.

[N.Vodden]

aye very helpful indeed

one of the coaches at my local make wooden arrows to order, really beautiful ones it'd almost be a shame to use them! so i can get them made to match my bow no problem.

[stevezodiac]

Give Ron Palmer a ring on 01843 842999 he is prolific in the south east and has been making longbows for over 60 years, he makes a super bow and to quote him "I guarantee them for life!!! that's my life" (with a rye smile- he is 80 something!!)
you won't go wrong and it will be within your budget.