There are a lot of things to know before stepping into the field on your first hunting bow. A lot of people come to the sport knowing someone who can teach them the basic guidelines, but others must teach themselves. A lot of research will be necessary and there are some guidelines to know before even stepping into the store to buy your first hunting bow.

Some people buy their hunting bow under the misconception that it is best to have the heaviest bow they can use. This is definitely not the case. It is essential for a bow to feel good in a hunter's hands; otherwise he won't get true shots, or won't use the bow at all due to discomfort. The only time it is good to use the heaviest bow possible is when hunting for big game, such as elk, ox, or bear. A strong bow can also be used in 3-D tournaments when using very fast arrows and a flat trajectory. Otherwise, when hunting whitetail, turkey, and even small black bear, using a compound bow in the 50 pound weight range is the best choice. This size can put an arrow all the way through the target, while still being comfortable for most hunters to handle. The only exception to this is when using recurve bows, in which they require a larger weight. Women usually prefer a bow in the 45 pound range.

The most important factor when choosing a hunting bow is finding one that fits the individual hunter. Bows are not one size fits all, and different types and brands will all fit differently. Be sure that it is comfortable in your hands. It should feel balanced in your grip, and you should be able to pull the bow at it's draw weight comfortably. Many hunters use bows that are too heavy for them; they assume that the bow will either loosen up, or that their muscles will develop more when using it. Using a bow that is too heavy can throw off your shot and ruin your accuracy. Another important thing to do when shopping for a bow is to browse around. A name brand bow isn't always the best choice for every hunter. Choosing a reputable brand with good construction is important but be sure to browse around too. Spend what you can afford, and buy the bow that is best for you.

The last suggestion for newcomers to bow hunting is to shop at an outfitter with an archery expert. An experienced hunter who knows his way around bows is often able to make a good decision, but a newcomer needs some guidance when making his first investment. The archery expert will be your number one resource in regards to buying your first hunting bow.  After visiting with your outfitter and finding the perfect hunting bow for you, you can save some serious cash by shopping online. 

By visiting your archery outfitter first and then shopping online for your next hunting bow you can be assured of finding the best bow for you at the best price available. 

Good luck and happy hunting!