To the untrained eye, it’s difficult to tell the best longbow apart from the ordinary one, as they seem to look and function alike. However, an archer can tell you that there’s a world of difference between the best and the mediocre ones, and that is why it is absolutely important you choose the best one. Without further ado, let us review the four top long bows today.
Top 4 Long Bows Comparison
Picture |
Product Name | String Length | Weights | Review |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bear AFT2040145 Montana Long Bow |
64″ |
45 lb |
||
Martin Archery Savannah Stealth Longbow |
64″ |
40 to 65lb |
||
October Mountain Ozark Hunter Longbow |
68” |
45 or 50lb | ||
Mountain Man Sierra Longbow |
68” |
40 to 60lb |
4 Best Long Bows Review
1. Bear AFT2040145 Montana Long Bow
Long bow reviews have been giving the Bear AFT2040145 Montana Long Bow the thumbs up, and considering how quick and smooth it is, the accolades are well-deserved. The Montana bow first came out in the 1990s and quickly became popular with bow enthusiasts and has remained so.
As one of the best longbow for hunting, part of the Montana’s strength comes from its design. It is somewhat reflexed and has lamination on the tapered limb, and the limb have durable black fiberglass on the back and front, and the graceful design is apparent all around.
Like a traditional long bow, the Montana has handcrafted limbs, and there is plenty of fiberglass layering that provides extra strong draw for archers. A close look at the Montana bow also reveals it has clear white maple overlay on the maple limbs, and you also get FastFlight strings and a soft leather grip, underscoring its beautiful design. The Montana was created with Futurewood, which is very much like the natural wood used in classic bows in the 1970s.
Pros
- Built to last
- Quiet
- The bow is strong enough for game hunting
- Draw and release is smooth
- The limbs are forgiving
Cons
- The grip is a bit blocky
2. Martin Archery Savannah Stealth Longbow
This wood long bow comes in an assortment of accents and dark shades that is reminiscent of dark woods. Furnished with zebrawood accents, the Savannah Stealth also has a dark silver Bubinga riser that’s been specially reinforced. The limbs also have a Bubinga core and been laminated, making this one of the popular options available today.
Zebrawood is one of the best wood for longbow, and the fact that the limb tips are covered with it says a lot. A quick look at the Stealth shows that there are black fiberglass tip overlays, a really nice touch, and it really helps as far as durability is concerned. The brace height is 6.5” – 7.5” and the weight is about 1 lb. 7 oz. The draw weight is 40 – 65 pounds so it’s just right.
The Savannah Stealth comes with a self-adhesive leather patch for the plate, a string and a bow stringer. In terms of function the bow is smooth and reliable, and as has been indicated above, the design is top notch. The Savannah’s reflex deflex design also means it can retain energy without producing any hand shock that is typical in other longbow models.
Pros
- Shooting is smooth and consistent
- Beautifully designed
- The grip feels natural and good in your hands
- Built to last
Cons
- Some might find the colors too muted
3. October Mountain Products Ozark Hunter 68 inch Longbow
The Ozark Hunter is widely regarded as one of the best long bow products online as it offers superior performance with a slick draw. Also notable is the sleek limb and handle designs that reduces the shock that gets in your hands. A quick inspection of the handle reveals that it has multiple laminations and comes with a nicely designed arrow shelf.
As reviews point out, the Ozark Hunter measures 68” tip to tip and is constructed from walnut hardwoods, purple heart and hard maple. One of the best for hunting, the Ozark Hunter has reinforced limb tips, and the limbs have multi-laminate black fiberglass as well. This long bow is available in 50 and 45 lb. raw weights.
The Ozark Hunter has a recommended brace height of 6 ½ to 7 ½ “, and the fact that it is multi laminated means there is stronger compression in the bow’s belly. As a shooter you will get the additional tension essential for superior performance, and the lamination helps a lot in terms of durability as well.
Pros
- Smooth and easy to use
- Shooting is comparable to the more expensive bows
- Comes with a Dacron bowstring
- The bow is compatible with FastFlight strings
Cons
- Generates a bit of noise
4. Mountain Man Sierra Longbow
The Mountain Man is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a traditional one and its beautiful design is matched only by its performance and reliability. Just like a traditional long bow, the Mountain Man is made from the finest materials, in this case the hard maple and walnut plus it comes in a nice custom finish. Its use of hard maple (or rock maple as it’s sometimes called), helps solidify the built.
One of the reasons why the Mountain Man is often regarded as one of the best there is would be the way it combines elegance with power. The limbs are elegantly done and powerful too thanks to the clear fiberglass fortified limb tips. All bows are advertised as offering high performance and a smooth draw, but the Mountain Man has the specs to back up their claims.
The brace height is ½ – 7 ½ inches and is 68 inches long. The draw weight is 40 to 60 pounds, and the bow is fully compatible with the Fast Flight string, allowing faster energy transfer into your arrows.
Pros
- Can be used by right and left handers
- Fiberglass reinforcement is exceptional
- Made from fine hardwoods
Cons
- An arrow rest needs to be purchased separately
Conclusion
Whether it is a wood long bow or another type you are looking for, the key to getting the most value for your money is to be informed. Knowing and learning as much as you can about these products will help you find the best wood for longbow available. The few minutes you spend researching and reading these reviews will also go far in terms of helping you make the correct purchasing decision.