As we’ve just completed a beginners course, I thought it would be good idea to post some information and ideas about buying your archery kit.
The first piece of advice I would say is you don’t necessarily need to buy the most expensive piece of kit going, a classic CORE PULSE TAKE DOWN RECURVE BOW is all you need, this is exactly the same type of bow used in the club for training and provides an excellent starting point for your kit. Saying that, if you want to invest in something a bit more tasty that is entirely up to you. People ask me “what size and poundage bow should I get?“, and my answer is always “get measured up“. When you get measured they will take into account your size, draw length and workout what poundage you can pull, also they can factor in things like medical conditions so that you are not pulling over your weight. However, if you know all of this information you can just buy online, but I think is nice getting properly measured up as it provides useful information for you to have in your archery notebook for the future.
Next, buy aluminium arrows they are better than fibreglass, which can shatter if you manage that elusive Robin Hood shot and allows buy at-least 6 so that you can practice a variety of rounds.
If you plan to shoot a lot of Freestyle archery then get yourself a fairly good sight, I recommend starting off with a JOOMONG SCORPION SIGHT (about £25), which is made from strong lightweight aluminium and has a solid extension bar and grooved sight block for a more accurate adjustment.
Lastly, the extras; I would always buy a good side quiver with space for score book, pens arrow puller, etc., a decent finger tab, a bracer that is comfortable for you and a big enough case to hold all your bits.
All in all, you would be looking to spend around £120 – £250 for a kit depending on whether you are junior or adult and if you want a basic wooden recurve training bow or a bit better one with metal riser and International Fitting Limbs (IFL).
I have added a couple of videos from Merlin Archery to illustrate the types of bows I would recommend when buying your kit.