I am looking at some used compound bows and wanted to get some suggestions on what brands, models, specs other guys are using for deer, yote, hog?
Any red flags I should be looking for when inspecting these that may be safety hazards on a used bow or must have accessories, maybe I can find one already with the neccessary accessories included.
There seem to be a lot of 60-70lb bows for sale, is it because they wear you out? overkill?
Any help would be apperciated.
I was in the same boat you were. I went to a few shops and try 5 or 6 and learned. Then I asked a lot of questions. But there is too much to know for someone new to bows to really make an informed decision so when you are buying new you are following the recommendation of the shop.
I started to think about buying used and since it is not my first rodeo buying used stuff, i researched what parts and service would cost : sight, string, tune up, stabilizer, rest, arrows, other maintenance, wax bla bla ..
I figured if I found a used bow and if it needs anything I would add to the cost and compare to a new one.
A couple of hours ago I purchased my first bow. It is a used bow that I found on Craigslist yesterday (yes I move fast if I have the right info) As soon as I saw the add I started to research the make and model, the year, looked at reviews and called the manufacturer..just looking for history on that model and year to see if there some issues... I also looked the same bow for sale used online and that gave me an idea.
After I determined the price was good, I asked the seller if they would be ok with making the transaction at a Archery shop in Esco. where I would have the guys from the shop inspect it and make sure it would work for me. (I already knew my draw length and lbs.) I did not want the shops opinion about weather the Bow was a good deal or not in front of the seller. I did not want to put anyone on the spot. That's when your research and friends feedback is key.
The shop remember there was an issue with a Bowtech model around that year but locally it was not the model for sale. They inspected it, fitted for me, let me shoot it and they felt comfortable that would suit my needs and it did not need anything, not even a new string yet....I paid the seller cash right there and then, and we lived happily ever after..I told the shop what I paid after the seller left and they said it was a very good deal. I also paid $38 to the shop for their fitting and help (A bargain, if you asked me) I will eventually upgrade the rest (anywhere from ($70 to $130) which I will buy from the same shop because they treated me so well. "Willow Creek" in Escondido has earned my business, despite that there is another shop closer to me I will drive.
The bow came fully set up with a case, 8 arrows, quiver, even the release (not a great one but it does jut fine)...Very happy with the purchase.
In my opinion there seems to be a big number of people who get out of bow hunting with in a year of two because they don't have the time...they are the ones you want to buy from aslong as it is a quality bow...the bows rarely get used. The experienced bow hunter in the other hand probably put a lot more wear and their on their bows.)
I hope my story helps you, and good luck finding what you need.
