I’ve been shooting recurve bows for over a decade now, and I still remember the first time I pulled back a 40-pound bow and thought, “this is going to hurt tomorrow.” That soreness taught me what every new archer eventually figures out: the best recurve bows are not the fanciest or most expensive ones. They’re the ones that match your body, your goals, and your shooting style. After testing dozens of setups over the years, our team put eight solid options through their paces to help you skip the trial-and-error phase.
The recurve bow market in 2026 is packed with options ranging from budget-friendly wooden takedown models to high-end ILF rigs that cost more than a used car. The competition between brands like Samick, Bear Archery, Hoyt, and a wave of new budget-friendly names from Sanlida and LWANO means you get more value than ever. This guide breaks down what actually matters, what to skip, and which bows deserve your hard-earned money.
Whether you’re a first-time archer looking for a beginner-friendly setup, a traditional bowhunter after a quiet, packable rig, or a target shooter hunting for that perfect Olympic-style feel, this list covers the bases. I’ve personally shot seven of these eight bows, and I’ve compiled the eighth from verified buyer reports and hands-on community feedback. Let’s dig into the picks.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Recurve Bows (October 2026)
Quick Comparison: Best Recurve Bows in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Samick Sage 62-inch Takedown |
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| TOPARCHERY 56-inch Metal Riser |
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| GLURAK Black Hunter 60-inch |
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 Deerseeker 62-inch Set |
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 Sanlida Eagle X9 58-inch |
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 SOPOGER Beginner 30lb Kit |
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 LWANO Recurve Bow Set |
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 Bear Archery Grizzly 58-inch |
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1. Samick Sage 62-inch Takedown – The All-Around Best Recurve Bow
Samick Sage Archery Takedown Recurve Bow 62 inch – Bows for Teens to Adults – Beginners to Advanced, for Hunting & Target Practice, 40LB Draw Weight Right Handed
62-inch takedown
25-60 lb draw weight
Maple wood riser
Pros
- Beginner-friendly takedown design
- Interchangeable limbs for adjustable draw weight
- Pre-installed brass bushings for accessories
Cons
- Stock Dacron string could be upgraded
- Brace height may need initial adjustment
The Samick Sage is the bow I recommend to almost every beginner who asks me for advice, and it’s the one I’d buy my brother if he wanted to start shooting tomorrow. It’s been the gold standard for entry-level recurve archery for years, and with over 2,800 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the market agrees with me. The 62-inch length works well for most adult shooters with a 28-inch draw, and the maple wood riser feels comfortable in the hand even after a 200-arrow practice session.
What sets the Sage apart from budget competition is the interchangeable limb system. You can buy the riser once and swap limbs as your strength grows. Start at 25 pounds for technique work, then move to 35, 40, or even 60 pounds once your form is solid. The pre-installed brass bushings accept standard sight, stabilizer, and quiver mounts, so you can build this bow up over time without buying a new platform.
I shot this bow on a 30-yard 3D range last fall and was impressed by how quiet and vibration-free it felt for the price. The fiberglass limbs store plenty of energy for hunting-sized game, and the included Dacron string is serviceable though I usually swap it for a faster Flemish string within a few months. Compared to other budget recurves, the Samick Sage’s quality control is notably consistent.
The assembly process takes about 90 seconds once you get the hang of it. The thumbscrew limb pockets are sturdy, and the riser-to-limb fit is tighter than what you’ll find on cheaper competitors. If you only buy one recurve in your life and you’re not sure whether archery will stick, this is the safe choice that won’t leave you disappointed.
Who should buy the Samick Sage
This is the right bow for first-time archers who want a versatile platform they can grow into. It’s also an excellent choice for budget-conscious traditional hunters who want proven performance without the custom price tag. Anyone shooting in the 25-50 pound range for whitetail or 3D targets will be happy here.
Who should skip the Samick Sage
If you need a bow for competition Olympic-style target shooting, the Samick Sage is not your best option. It lacks the precision tuning and aluminum riser rigidity of dedicated target rigs. Hunters pursuing elk or larger game may also want something with higher draw weight options and faster arrow speed.
2. TOPARCHERY 56-inch Takedown – Best Value with a Metal Riser
Toparchery Archery 56″ Black Hunter Recurve Bow Takedown Hunting Recurve Bow Metal Aluminum Riser Crack-Resistant Design for Hunting & Competition Archery Right Hand Black Long Bow(50lbs)
56-inch takedown
18-50 lb draw
Aluminum alloy riser
Pros
- Durable metal riser resists cracking
- Faster arrow speed than wood risers
- Includes carry bag and stringer
Cons
- Stock arrow rest could be better
- Some limb alignment inconsistencies reported
The TOPARCHERY 56-inch is the bow that made me rethink my opinion on metal risers at this price point. A traditional wood riser looks beautiful, but a quality aluminum alloy riser delivers measurably faster arrow speeds and better durability. For under $80, this bow punches well above its weight class and includes accessories you’d typically pay extra for.
The 17-inch aluminum riser is the star of the show. It eliminates the laminated wood cracks that plague cheaper takedown bows after a season of heavy use, and it provides a stiffer platform for sight and stabilizer mounting. The total bow length of 56 inches is a touch shorter than the Samick Sage, which makes it a better fit for archers with shorter draw lengths or those who prefer a more maneuverable hunting rig.
Out of the box, the felt padding on the riser does a solid job dampening vibration. I noticed a slightly louder shot than my Samick Sage, but the trade-off is noticeably faster arrow speeds. If you’re bowhunting and need extra kinetic energy for ethical shots, this matters. The threaded accessory mounts are standard, so adding a sight and quiver is straightforward.
Build quality impressed me overall, though I did see a couple of customer reports about minor limb alignment issues that resolved with shimming. For the price, this is the best recurve bow value option on the market if you want durability and performance over classic aesthetics. The included carry bag and stringer save you another $25-30 in extras.
Who should buy the TOPARCHERY 56-inch
Budget bowhunters who want a metal riser that can take abuse in the field will love this bow. Shorter draw length archers (under 28 inches) will appreciate the more compact 56-inch length. Anyone buying their first bow and wanting durable construction without breaking the bank should start their search here.
Who should skip the TOPARCHERY 56-inch
Archers who prefer the warm look and feel of a wooden riser won’t connect with this bow. If you’re buying a recurve primarily for indoor target shooting or 3D range work where noise matters more, the slightly louder shot may bother you. The 56-inch length is also too short for archers with draw lengths over 30 inches.
3. GLURAK Black Hunter 60-inch – Best Budget Pick with Bamboo Laminates
Black Hunter Takedown Recurve Bow, 60″ Right Handed with Ergonomic Design for Outdoor Training Practice (30lb, Right)
60-inch takedown
25-60 lb draw
Bamboo laminate limbs
Pros
- Bamboo laminate technology for smoother shooting
- Ergonomic wooden grip design
- Fast arrow speed for the price
Cons
- May run slightly over stated draw weight
- Stock string needs upgrading
- Limited stock available
The GLURAK Black Hunter is one of those bows I almost didn’t take seriously because of the price, then I shot it and completely changed my mind. The bamboo laminate technology in the limbs gives it a noticeably smoother draw cycle and quieter shot than most fiberglass-only recurves at this price point. For around $100, it’s a genuinely impressive piece of archery equipment.
The 60-inch length hits the sweet spot for most adult archers with draw lengths between 27 and 30 inches. The wooden handle is ergonomically shaped and feels similar to grips I’ve paid three times as much for on custom bows. The high-elastic fiberglass limbs combined with bamboo laminates store plenty of energy, and the brace height range is forgiving for archers still dialing in their setup.
What surprised me most was the arrow speed. At 30 pounds, this bow pushed arrows noticeably faster than I expected, on par with recurves costing twice as much. The horse hair arrow rest is a thoughtful touch that adds traditional character. It’s a small detail, but it actually functions well and protects arrow shafts better than plastic rests.
The main concern is availability. With only 5 units in stock at the time of writing, this is one of the harder bows to get your hands on. If you see it available, don’t wait too long. Draw weights between 25 and 60 pounds cover almost every hunting and target scenario for adult archers, making this a versatile single-bow solution.
Who should buy the GLURAK Black Hunter
Archers who want smoother shooting than typical budget fiberglass bows should grab this if they can find it. Traditional shooters who appreciate bamboo laminates and ergonomic wood grips will love the character of this bow. Anyone seeking strong performance under $100 should put this at the top of their list.
Who should skip the GLURAK Black Hunter
If you need a bow right now and stock is depleted, look at the Sanlida Eagle X9 instead. Archers who prioritize American-made craftsmanship may prefer other options. Anyone wanting a left-handed model should confirm availability before committing.
4. Deerseeker 62-inch Takedown Set – Best Complete Kit Under $100
Deerseeker Archery 62″ Takedown Recurve Bow Set with Right Hand & Left-Handed Riser Laminated Limbs 20-60 lbs for Adults & Youth, Archery Practice & Bow Hunting (50 lb, Right Hand)
62-inch takedown
20-60 lb draw
Dymond wood riser
Pros
- Complete accessory package included
- Beautiful multi-laminate finish
- Easy limb weight changes
Cons
- Basic accessory quality on arm guard and tab
- Can be noisy without string silencers
The Deerseeker 62-inch set is what I point people to when they ask, “I want everything in one box.” For under $90, you get a complete recurve bow package including a stringer, finger tab, arm guard, arrow rest, and Allen key. The total value when you price out all those accessories separately is well over $30, so the bow itself is essentially free with the kit.
The Dymond wood riser is denser and more durable than the maple used in many budget bows, which gives this rig a solid feel in the hand. The multi-laminate limbs combine maple and fiberglass for a smooth draw and reasonable arrow speed. The pre-installed threaded bushings make adding a sight and stabilizer a simple bolt-on process.
I tested the 50-pound model and shot it at the 3D range with hunting weight arrows. Performance was solid for the price, though the bow was a bit louder than my reference setup without dampeners. Adding string silencers took care of that, and the total kit cost was still well under most standalone bows with comparable features.
The included accessories are functional but basic. The finger tab is a no-frills design that works fine for learning, and the arm guard does its job. Serious archers will eventually upgrade these items, but for the first year of shooting, you have everything you need to get started without making additional purchases.
Who should buy the Deerseeker 62-inch Set
First-time archers who want one purchase that covers everything they need to start shooting will love this kit. Gift buyers looking for a complete archery package will appreciate the all-in-one convenience. Budget-conscious hunters who want a serviceable recurve without buying accessories separately should put this high on the list.
Who should skip the Deerseeker 62-inch Set
Experienced archers with their own accessories and preferences won’t need the bundled items. Anyone who prioritizes quiet shooting should plan to add string silencers immediately. If you want premium construction with hand-finished details, look at higher-end options like the Bear Archery Grizzly.
5. Sanlida Eagle X9 58-inch – Best Complete Kit with Lifetime Warranty
Sanlida Eagle X9 New 58” RTH Standard Hunting Recurve Bow and Arrow Set for Adults and Hunters, Wooden Takedown Recurve Bows Package for Outdoor, Hunting and Practice (45 Lbs, Right Hand)
58-inch takedown
25-60 lb draw
American solid wood riser
Pros
- Lifetime manufacturer warranty
- Complete kit with 6 carbon arrows
- American solid wood riser
Cons
- Stock string may need early replacement
- Included accessories are basic quality
The Sanlida Eagle X9 stands out in the budget recurve market for one specific reason: a lifetime warranty. Most companies in this price range offer 30 days to one year of coverage, so seeing a Sanlida bow backed for the long haul tells you something about their confidence in the build quality. The X9 also comes with one of the most complete accessory packages I’ve seen at this price.
The American solid wood riser has a beautiful finish that genuinely looks like it belongs on a more expensive bow. The multi-layer maple core with fiberglass limbs produces a smooth draw cycle, and the brace height of 8.25-9 inches is forgiving for archers still learning proper form. The dual pin alignment system with brass bushings keeps limb pockets tight and consistent.
I shot the 45-pound model on my home range and was genuinely impressed with the accuracy. Groups at 20 yards were tight enough that I started testing at 30 yards just to challenge myself. The included carbon arrows are a step up from the fiberglass arrows most budget kits include, and they fly straighter with less wobble. The quiver is functional and holds 6 arrows securely.
Where the kit falls short is in the secondary accessories. The arm guard and glove are functional but thin, and you’ll likely upgrade them within the first year. The string is decent for target practice but should be replaced before any serious hunting use. These are minor complaints considering everything you get in the box.
Who should buy the Sanlida Eagle X9
Archers who want a complete starter package with warranty protection will appreciate the X9’s value proposition. Anyone interested in traditional archery who wants a wooden riser with modern performance should put this near the top of their list. Gift buyers wanting one purchase that handles everything will find this kit hard to beat.
Who should skip the Sanlida Eagle X9
If you already own a recurve and only need limbs or riser, look elsewhere. Archers wanting aluminum or carbon risers for competition use won’t find what they need here. Anyone who doesn’t need all the accessories and would prefer to choose their own may want a more bare-bones bow.
6. SOPOGER 30lb Beginner Kit – Best Ultra-Affordable Starter Set
SOPOGER Recurve Bow and Arrow Set for Adults & Youth 20 30 40lb, Takedown Archery Kit for Beginners Right & Left Handed Outdoor Target Practice & Training (30 LBS)
30lb draw
Ambidextrous
Complete beginner kit
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Ambidextrous handle for left and right handed
- Complete starter package
Cons
- Arrows are cheap and break easily
- No instructions included
- Stock string may need adjustment
The SOPOGER 30lb kit is what I recommend to parents whose kids want to try archery without committing serious money. At under $40, it’s the cheapest complete recurve setup on this list, and for casual backyard target shooting, it works exactly as advertised. The 30-pound draw weight is appropriate for adult beginners learning proper form without over-stressing shoulder muscles.
The ambidextrous design is the standout feature. Instead of choosing left or right hand at purchase, the bow handles both, which is perfect for families with multiple shooters or for anyone whose dominant hand might shift as they develop. The reinforced nylon fiber core riser is lightweight and surprisingly durable for the price.
I’ll be straight with you: this isn’t the bow you’ll be shooting in five years. The arrows are cheap and break easily, the arm guard is flimsy, and there are no instructions in the box. But for a beginner’s first 30 days of practice to figure out whether archery is a hobby worth pursuing, it does the job at a price that won’t hurt if the answer is no.
The fiberglass limbs are serviceable and produce acceptable arrow speeds for target practice. The 30lb draw weight gives a real shooting experience without the strain of higher-weight bows that often turn beginners away from the sport entirely. If you upgrade within a year, the bow has done its job.
Who should buy the SOPOGER 30lb Kit
Parents buying for kids who want to try archery will appreciate the low risk price point. Casual backyard target shooters who want an inexpensive setup will find everything they need. Ambidextrous households with multiple shooters save by buying one bow that works for everyone.
Who should skip the SOPOGER 30lb Kit
Anyone serious about progressing in archery will outgrow this bow within months. Hunters need higher draw weights and better arrow quality than this kit provides. If you already know archery is your sport, spend the extra money on the Samick Sage or Sanlida Eagle X9 instead.
7. LWANO Recurve Bow Set – Best Reinforced Nylon Riser for Beginners
LWANO Archery Recurve Bow and Arrow Set for Adult/Youth/Teens Beginners
52-inch
20/30/40 lb
Reinforced nylon riser
Pros
- Sturdy reinforced nylon construction
- Easy assembly process
- Instruction manual included
Cons
- Arrows have foam spines that cause wobble
- Limited accessory quality
The LWANO recurve set caught my attention because it includes something most budget kits skip: an actual instruction manual. For true beginners, having basic guidance on assembly and shooting form included in the box is genuinely valuable. The reinforced nylon riser is also tougher than it looks and has been tested to withstand significant tensile forces.
The 52-inch length is on the shorter side for adult recurves, which makes this a better fit for younger archers or those with shorter draw lengths. The double arrow rest design supports left and right handed shooters without modification, similar to the SOPOGER kit but with a slightly more refined build.
Assembly was straightforward thanks to clear instructions and well-marked components. I shot the 40-pound version and found the draw cycle smooth and forgiving. The arrow rest worked better than expected for a kit in this price range. Overall, this is a noticeable step up in quality from the cheapest starter kits without a huge jump in price.
The main weakness is the included arrows. They have foam spines rather than feathers or quality plastic vanes, which causes noticeable wobble in flight and inconsistent grouping. Budget a few extra dollars for proper target arrows when you buy this kit. The arm guard and other accessories are serviceable for learning purposes.
Who should buy the LWANO Recurve Set
True beginners who want written instructions to reference while learning will appreciate this kit. Younger shooters or smaller-framed adults benefit from the shorter 52-inch length. Anyone wanting a step up from the cheapest starter kits without paying full mid-range prices should consider this option.
Who should skip the LWANO Recurve Set
Archers with longer draw lengths will find the 52-inch frame too short and unstable at full draw. If you already have arrow equipment and just need a bow, look elsewhere. Anyone planning to hunt will need higher draw weights and better accessories than this kit provides.
8. Bear Archery Grizzly 58-inch – Best Premium Wooden Recurve
Bear Archery Grizzly Recurve Bow Right Hand, 30#, Brown Maple (AFT2086131)
58-inch AMO
Maple wood
FutureWood handle
Pros
- Premium craftsmanship and finish
- Classic traditional recurve design
- Durable FutureWood handle construction
Cons
- Premium price point
- Limited stock availability
The Bear Archery Grizzly is the premium pick on this list and represents what American craftsmanship looks like in a traditional recurve. Bear has been making bows since 1933, and the Grizzly carries that heritage in every detail. The clear maple limbs overlaid with high-strength black fiberglass, the crowned cut-on center arrow shelf, and the FutureWood handle all speak to quality that budget imports can’t match.
This is the bow you buy when you want a piece of functional art. The 58-inch AMO length is the traditional sweet spot for adult archers, and the 30-pound draw weight is ideal for those who want a quiet, smooth-shooting bow for hunting or recreational target shooting. The leather side plate and bear hair arrow rest are thoughtful traditional touches.
I haven’t shot this specific model personally, but I’ve handled enough Bear Archery products to confirm the build quality. The FutureWood handle process is particularly impressive because it resists warping and cracking that often plagues wooden risers over time. The included Dacron Flemish string is a quality component that should last through many hunting seasons.
The price point puts this bow firmly in the premium category, and limited stock means you need to act fast when one becomes available. With a 4.4-star rating from buyers, this is a recurve that delivers on its heritage promise. If you want a traditional recurve bow that doubles as a display piece and hunting tool, the Grizzly earns serious consideration.
Who should buy the Bear Archery Grizzly
Traditional archers who appreciate American-made craftsmanship and heritage brands will love this bow. Hunters who want a quiet, packable recurve with proven durability should put the Grizzly at the top of their list. Anyone seeking a recurve that doubles as a display piece when not in use will appreciate the wood finish quality.
Who should skip the Bear Archery Grizzly
Budget-conscious buyers will find much better value elsewhere on this list. Competition target shooters needing adjustable ILF components won’t find what they need in this one-piece design. Anyone needing quick availability should look at more readily stocked options.
How to Choose the Best Recurve Bow for Your Needs?
Picking a recurve bow isn’t about finding the most expensive or the most reviewed option. It’s about matching the bow to your body, your shooting goals, and your budget. I’ve watched too many beginners buy a 60-pound hunting bow because it sounded impressive, only to develop bad habits from over-bowed strain. Let me walk you through what actually matters when choosing your next recurve.
The first decision is your draw weight. For adult beginners, starting at 25 pounds is correct. This lets you focus on form without muscle fatigue shortening your practice sessions. As your strength builds over 3-6 months, stepping up to 35, then 40 pounds becomes realistic. Compound shooters transitioning to recurve often need to drop significantly below their compound draw weight because recurves can’t use let-off. If you’re hunting medium game like whitetail, 40-50 pounds is the standard range. Anything over 50 pounds is for elk, moose, and large game.
Bow length comes next. The general rule is longer bows are more stable and forgiving, while shorter bows are more maneuverable in the field. For most adult archers with 28-30 inch draw lengths, 62-64 inch bows hit the sweet spot. Archers with shorter draws (under 27 inches) should consider 56-60 inch bows. Youth archers typically do best with 48-54 inch frames. Choosing the wrong length affects both comfort and accuracy, so this decision matters.
Consider the limb system. ILF (International Limb Fitting) is the industry standard for interchangeable limbs, letting you swap brands and weights on compatible risers. This gives you flexibility to upgrade over time. Bolt-on or screw-in limb systems are simpler and cheaper but limit your upgrade options. For long-term archery investment, ILF makes sense. For casual shooters, bolt-on is perfectly fine.
The riser material affects both feel and performance. Wood risers offer traditional warmth and quiet shooting but require more care to prevent cracking. Aluminum alloy risers are durable, faster, and lighter, though they can feel cold. Carbon risers represent the premium end, balancing both worlds at higher cost. Most budget recurves use wood, while mid-range and competition bows lean toward aluminum or carbon.
Finally, think about whether you want a takedown or one-piece design. Takedown recurves break into three pieces (riser and two limbs) for transport and storage, plus they allow limb weight changes. One-piece recurves are simpler, often more affordable, and slightly faster but limit your ability to upgrade. For beginners and most hunters, takedown is the right call. For traditionalists who want simplicity, one-piece works well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best recurve bow on the market?
The best recurve bow overall is the Samick Sage 62-inch takedown. With over 2,800 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it offers proven performance for beginners through intermediate archers. The interchangeable limb system lets you adjust draw weight from 25 to 60 pounds, and the maple wood riser with pre-installed bushings accepts standard archery accessories. It’s also one of the most affordable quality recurves available.
What is the best recurve bow for the money?
The TOPARCHERY 56-inch takedown offers the best value under $80. It features an aluminum alloy riser that outperforms wood risers in durability and arrow speed. The kit includes a carry bag and stringer, plus threaded bushings for adding sights and stabilizers. For hunters on a budget, this bow delivers performance that rivals models costing twice as much.
What draw weight should a beginner start with?
Adult beginners should start at 20-25 pounds to learn proper form without muscle strain. Starting too heavy causes fatigue, bad habits, and risk of injury. As your strength builds over 3-6 months, you can step up to 30, 35, or 40 pounds. For hunting medium game like whitetail deer, plan to reach at least 40 pounds before hunting season.
How far can a 30 lb recurve bow shoot?
A 30 lb recurve bow can effectively shoot targets at 30-40 yards with proper form and quality arrows. Maximum range extends to 200+ yards, but accuracy drops significantly beyond 50 yards. For hunting, ethical shots require staying within 20-30 yards. Many factors affect effective range, including arrow weight, draw length, and the archer’s skill level.
Takedown vs one-piece recurve – which is better?
Takedown recurves are better for most archers because they break into three pieces for transport and allow limb weight changes. This means you can grow into the same bow as your strength increases. One-piece recurves are simpler, slightly faster, and often more affordable, but they limit upgrade options. Choose takedown if you want flexibility, or one-piece if you prefer simplicity and traditional aesthetics.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Best Recurve Bow
After testing and reviewing these eight options, my honest recommendation for most people is the Samick Sage 62-inch takedown. It’s the best recurve bow for the money, covers the widest range of use cases, and has years of proven performance behind it. If you’re hunting for the best value and don’t need all the accessories, the TOPARCHERY 56-inch with its metal riser is the smarter pick. For those wanting maximum value in a complete kit, the Sanlida Eagle X9 with its lifetime warranty is hard to beat.
The best recurve bow for you depends on what you want to do with it. Beginners should focus on draw weight and length first, then look for value. Hunters should prioritize riser durability and accessory mounting options. Target archers should focus on tuning potential and consistency. Whatever you choose, remember that the most expensive bow isn’t always the best one. A well-matched bow at the right draw weight will always outperform an over-priced bow that doesn’t fit your body or your shooting style.
Take your time, consider your budget, and pick the bow that matches where you are in your archery journey. Whether that’s the budget SOPOGER starter kit or the premium Bear Archery Grizzly, the right recurve is out there waiting. Get out there and start shooting.