A new compound bow can cost a small fortune. Hunters already face a ton of cash hogs like a hunting lease, ATV, treestands, firearms and hunting clothing. By the time you have all these other supplies, it may be hard to spend over $1000 on a bow set up. For many buying a used compound bow is the best and only option. In many cases you can get a slightly used bow as a deep discount.

The first step in buying a used bow is determing your draw length. I suggest visiting a local bow shop and be professionally measured. This is a critical step. The bow will only shoot as good as it fits. Once you have determined your draw length, you know have to consider what draw weight you will be shooting. The technician at the bow shop will also help you determine draw weight. The final step in the bow fitting is shooting several makes and models. Each bow will handle a little different and just because your favorite celebrity hunter shoots a Mathews, does not mean that it will perform the best for you.

Now that you know what you are shopping for, it is time to locate a used bow that meets the make, draw length, and draw weight criteria you have specified. A great place to find used compound bows is EBay. EBay has revolutionized the process of selling and buying items at auction. Review each sellers feedback carefully and read each product description several times. You are buying an item based upon photos and a short paragraph and need to be as thorough as possible. EBay also allows potential buyers to post questions. Treat the transaction as you would if you were in a bow shop. Ask reasonable questions and expect reasonable answers. Use the advance search option to find what similar bows have sold for in previous auctions.