Hey all,

I have been thinking about the different designs of longbows and since I have VERY LITTLE experience and am basically starting over, I would like to ask you all for some advice.  I apologize in advance if the questions are dumb or repetitive.

I am only going to be able to comfortably shoot MAYBE 45 pounds of draw weight.  This fall I would like to go deer hunting with a longbow.  But the ONLY way I'll go with a longbow is if I KNOW the type of bow I have will do the job.

I know the R/D type of longbow produces a faster arrow flight and it should be able to launch a heavier arrow faster than a straight limb longbow.  I started thinking about what the difference would be in low draw weight bows like what I am going to be using.  I see that Howard Hill Bows say that the owner can expect to get 115 fps + his draw weight which would come out to around 160 fps.  What would the results be if I had a R/D bow like a Thunderstick MOAB or a Turkey Creek and shot the same arrow?  Would I see a PRONOUNCED difference in performance or would it be negligible?  At that low draw weight would both types of bows perform pretty close to the same?

Thank you all for your time and help.  I appreciate it.

Nala

P.S.  I wish I could afford an Adcock and then I wouldn't worry about these things.

Nala,what is your draw length? Unless it is really short you shouldn't have any problem with 45lbs sharp 2 blade head and 9 or more grns per pound of draw weight on a deer.

Never tried a Thunderstick but I know the Turkey Creek double carbon is a performer.

Many deer have been killed with 40-45 pounds.  Keep your shots short and to the spot, sharp broadhead, don't take chances.  Bingo.
ChuckC

The R/D design stores/releases energy a bit differently then the D style LB. I'm a recurve shooter but I believe the R/D LB is a bit more efficient, less handshock, ect. A modern 45lbs R/D longbow with well matched arrows and sharp heads will perform well on deer. A TD LB might afford you the ability to purchase heavier limbs as your shooting progress's. Got to do your part to place the arrow where it belongs and you will be a skinnin fool before you know it    

JL

When shooting low draw weights your arrows and broadheads become more important than the bow.Perfect flight is also a must.Make good decisions picking arrows and any old bow will work at that weight. jmo

My draw length is about 29" give or take a smidge.

Thanks for the help and suggestions.

Nala

As has already been said,45# with the right arrows and broadheads will work just fine.

James is correct-any ol' 40 pound bow will do. Regarding your performance question-The deflex reflex style tends to be a little faster but the differences are seldom huge and become LESS pronounced with increased arrow weight.( If you are shooting heavy arrows from both bows the  Hill style may run neck and neck with the RD.)