Upgrading my bow-hunting setup - practical advice requested

John Spartan · #1 06-09-2007, 01:36 AM

About 20 - 25 years ago I got into bowhunting with a PSE 60 pound compound bow, had fun with it and was the terror of many gophers. A few years later, I got a 71 pound Browning Mag-flite (IFIRC) compound bow that I used for much the same reasons. Then I lost interest and went into other types of hunting.

This past winter I've become interested in preparing myself for bowhunting big game in 2008 and still have the two bows along with various accessories.

Should I look at taking the two in for an expert tune-up or consider trading them in for a good top of the line bow featuring the best of today's current technologies? I don't have a problem laying out good money for quality equipment, but don't want to get over-gadgetted with unnecessary stuff.

For the experienced bowhunting forumites, what practical advice can you offer me, please?

Thank you,

#2 06-09-2007, 05:26 AM

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WCTHEMI · #3 06-09-2007, 05:57 AM

I was facing the same problem, I upgraded the sights and rest on my old bow last year, then I made the mistake of shooting the new X Force this spring. I had to have one. It was

at first shot.

bearbait · #4 06-09-2007, 08:25 AM

hey hemi,
did you try out the kodiak titan 32...i shot mine against the pse with glen and while the pse was faster by 20 fps mine shot smoother and quiter...still loved the pse though...
as for the tune up or new qustion...i went new...i had a good run with my old pse but the new bow was day and night to me...im happy with the upgrade...
rob

Zak 150 · #5 06-09-2007, 05:35 PM

I've found that even a lower end, new bow is way more efficient than the bows of even 10 yrs ago. I would highly recomend going to a range and shooting as many bows as you can until you find one that suits your needs!

Stinky Coyote · #6 06-09-2007, 10:05 PM

I vote with the other guys...life is short and you only get one go...so giver shyt...you'll be happy you did.

TreeGuy · #7 06-09-2007, 11:05 PM

I'd say take 'em in for a tune up and see what the tech says. Keep in mind he may be trying to make a sale, so work the situation accordingly.

Personally I have (company year end bonus, thanks Mike!

) a Browning Rage. We went out that day and I drew back over 20 different bows. The Browning was the one I was the most comfortable with due to its 'smoothness'. It draws sweet and consistant without the dramatic let-off. Also, under $500. Good luck!

Tree

CNP · #8 06-10-2007, 12:35 AM

They need new cables and strings as a minimum. Probably 50% let-off on those 20-25yr old bows. Not that this is a problem.......just not as technically advanced as todays bows. You wouldn't get much at all for trading these bows in on something newer......they probably would not want them. If you've really got the bug back (the archery bug), I would get a new bow. Top of the line Hoyt/Mathews/Bowtech isn't necessary. You can get a top of the line Darton for a couple hundred less (same for Martin/Browning/Bear....good quality accessories are more important in my mind (arrowrest and sight being the most important). Wholesale in Edmonton is still trying to sell their Champion bows for premium $. What's up with that? Champion went under 3 years ago and there is no warranty on those bows.