I started shooting recurve when I was about 8 years old..that is all I shot until I was in my late teens and started shooting a compound bow..still shoot a recurve once in a while, but 90% compound. In fact my last 9 elk that were shot with a bow were all with a compound.

I have shot Browings, Hoyt, PSE and Mathews...Mathews is what i have shot for the past 8 years..really like the feel of their bows and the model I have is fairly light..

SHot for years with fingers..25+..but switched to a release about 8 years ago as well and will never go back to fingers..much more accurate with the release..shoot a Scott Little goose--you can get a velcro or buckle--i like the buckle that way its in the same setting every time.

Release info:

http://www.eaglearchery.com/item.asp?PID...2--IBoCQwHw_wcB

As to start weight, provided you are in good shape, with a compound they are usually adjustable in 15lb increments..so mine for an example can be shot anywhere from 55# to 70#'s..this allows you to start low get good form and work you way up to what is comfortable for you.

IMHO, one of the MOST IMPORTANT aspect to shooting good is getting fitted so that you have the CORRECT DRAW LENGTH. I lowered mine after 20 years and it made a HUGE difference in my shooting..

Bows today are getting shorter and shorter in axle to axle measurements. Typically the shorter the less forgiving they are.. Also brace height is a consideration..normally a bit more brace height is a bit more forgiving as well..--I would try to stay above 7" or more

I suggest going to a pro shop and shoot some..all of the shops over here let you grab them and shoot them a bit to see which one feels good and most natural to you

Little goose is my release..montana black gold are the sights I use..mathews is the bow..

sight info: these are made in my home town

http://blackgoldsights.com/

Bow info:

http://mathewsinc.com/

A few other good bow companies

http://www.bowtecharchery.com/#/home?r=-1&i=0

http://www.hoyt.com/

I shoot carbon arrow and have for a dozen years..IMHO, the only way to go

You can spend anywhere from $700 to around $1500 plus for the entire set up..all depends on what you like and how serious you are..

For me living here in Montana..I hunt elk every year with my bow during the rut..its one of my favorite things to do each year..

You will hear from the purists that compounds are cheating and vice-versa..my opinion is, just like most things, its up to you..I have shot elk with my COMPOUND anywhere from 3 yards to the furthest of 52 yards..usually will NOT shoot farther than that as elk are big and I want penetration..antelope is another story and have shot them further ..but typically closer..

Hope this helps a bit..in a little hurry --will check back in later to see if you have any further questions..

Take care

Ripp