I'm S.O.L

I went to the bow store today to talk to Jay about getting a new bow or figuring out what was wrong with my bow.. I pretty much am in a lose-lose situation being that I am so tall. I told him i was interested in the Quest bow line but the max of their cams are only 30" and my draw length is 31.5 or so. The PSE i have now is too short so i'm done shooting it and putting it up for sale. My only choice is an expensive Hoyt or Matthews that will go to 31 inches. There is a Martin Ridge Runner bow that goes to 31 as well at runs about $400. I might not have a choice but to buy it. Ed

My current bow is 2 inches too short.. I have a string loop and a longer shaft already on the release.. Right now im looking at prices for the Fred Bear Mauler and the Martin Panthera. Ed

Ed - most bows are 30 and under because it is extremely rare a shooter has such a draw length.   How tall are you ?    Tall guys are notorious for shooting bows too long for them.   Your shoulders should be straight up from the outside of your feet in your stance.  You said your draw length is 31.5 "or so"   -- you should have no issue getting it to the exact half inch if you form is consistent.   The "or so" comment also makes me wonder how much detail your shop is paying attention to.   Not trying to pick on you or your shop but over 30 is really really rare on a perfectly tuned bow shot from someone with perfect form.  I expect you to say 6'6" or greater.     Are you going to a pro shop ?   Have they watched your form ?  Do they have a bow set up to measure your length ?   Are you locking your elbow ? (because you shouldn't be).  How long is your string loop ?

Silver, I went to Jay Peake yesterday. He put a quest bow on the max draw length and it wasn't even close to fitting me. I'm 6'5 as well. I pulled it back right in front of him and we were just like wow this is not even close. I shoot with a 1" string loop. We never truly measured my draw length because once i pulled back that quest bow we just knew i needed atleast an inch more.. I called another guy and he told me to bend my elbow and i would be ok. I have to call him today. As of now there is a Martin bow for $400 with a 31" in draw. Ed

So what exactly brought about this sudden idea that your current bow is now inoperable?  Can you group well with the bow you have now?  I understand that it may not be ideal, but it will get you hunting if it shoots well.  I have seen/know plenty of people who have shot bows with drawlengths that were off by more than 2" for them, and they still managed to shoot well.

IMO, buying a bow is a big investment and not something to be rushed into.  Make sure if you go that route that you are not buying a bow only because the shop tells you it is the only bow they have which fits you right.  You will presumably have the bow for 5+ years so make sure it is the right bow for you. 
 
 

That certainly sounds like a tough spot to be in.  I was just hoping that there was a way to buy you some more time to find a new bow.
 
Best of luck with whatever you decide.

I hope it works out for you whatever the case may be. Good to see you realize your limitations.

I haven't heard good things about Nelsons.

I would trust what Jay is telling you. He never steered me wrong in the 12 or so yrs I have been going there.

A good condition "used" bow that fits you would be your best bet at this point, IMO. Just tough finding a few that first "fit," and secondly feel good when you shoot.

I went "cheap" in '09 with a Martin Cheetah (Bonehunter at Dicks) and I have no complaints whatsoever. The adjustable draw length modules are pretty convenient, esp. if you decide to sell it later. If the used one doesn't work out, I'd go to Dicks Sporting Goods and have them let you shoot the model you are talking about. I think they have a "Rack Rage" Pkg. for $499 that comes with the STS and some pretty good accessories (drop away, 5 pin copper john site, quiver, string loop, peep, etc.) Ask them about any 10% off deals or ask around and see if any of your buddies have any discount cards for them. They are usually floating around. If it feels good, get it but take it to Jay or some other pro shop and have them set it up for you. You should be stacking shots at 20 yds before you leave the shop.

Good luck and hope you get something worked out.

Hey Ed here are a few bows from a few years back that have long draw lengths. Remember just because some one has one for sale say 30" you might have a chance of swapping out the, or both modules for your length. Gota do your homework though. I'm sure you will find something. Good Luck

http://www.huntersfriend.com/2007-Bow-Reviews/compound-bows-long-draw-only.htm