Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Bowhunting Mathews Bows??

Are they worth the Money??<P>Mike

I'm in the same boat, ROTR, and have asked the same question Everywhere I ask, I get a resounding yes. Which one do you like?<P>Rick

I'm not really sure. I was in a shop the other day and the man had a riser(I think-the part the limbs hook to and goes in your hand) and threw it on the floor, it twanged for about 30 seconds. Then he took one just like it only finished out with the Mathews harmonic dampeners and threw it on the floor, it went thud and that's about it! I was impressed.<P>Everyone at the local shops says they are the best, as well as a few guys who have ponied up the money.<P>I've still got the old Whitetail II from 15 years ago, so anything new will be a monumental step forward for me! I argue with myself that if I shell out the cash this time I'll be set for the rest of my life, but fully dressed out we're probably looking over 1K$'s aren't we?<P>Too many wishes and wants the checkbook won't support yet!<P>Mike

I bought a Mathew's MQ-32 about two years ago from a pro shop in the area. It happened by chance actually. I knew zip about bows and just stopped by to see what a "decent" bow would cost. After explaining a few things and getting my pull measurement the owner recommended a used, but like new, Mathew's MQ-32 that was on consignment. Complete with a Scott release and roughly 20 Gold Tip carbon arrows, case, sight, arrow rest, etc. Bought the package for $450.<P> After adjusting the sight for my point of aim point of impact, and giving me a few pointers, I proceeded to place five consecutive arrows into five bulls at their indoor range. I was impressed with how quickly I was picking up shooting the bow. They said I was lucky to have a Mathews as my first bow. <P> To prove the point, the fellow brought out a PSE bow that he also had on consignment. It shot fair, however, it had an uncomfortable vibration after the shot that really affected my accuracy. I was told that you could injure your shoulder with enough use. The bow also felt about 3 times heavier than the Mathews. Though I'm sure it was'nt that much heavier.<P> In any event, the bow has amazed me with it forgiving nature and absolute sweet disposition. I've been told that I should have worked up to the Mathews in order to fully appreciate how far ahead they are. Don't know about that. Will say I am completely satisfied with it though. Any bow that can put a rank amatuer in the X ring his first day using it deserves mentioning. Is the Mathews worth it? For me, absolutely yes. <P>Regards, Matt.

And the procession of yesses continues. Starting to get redundant. I just wonder if a rank amateur, beginner, never owned a bow in his life before purchaser like me should pony up the dough for one? Of course, I know myself, which means I'll eventually get one or something like one if they are truly the goods. It's only a matter of time.<P>That's why I always go for the best first, whenever the checkbook allows of course. [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img] If not, I always end up buying things twice. At least that's my story. [img]images/icons/laugh.gif" border="0[/img]<P>Rick

Yes, they are probably the best bow out there. But that doesn't mean they kill any more animals than a used 100 bone PSE from about 10 years ago. The major differences that I can tell are in size and weight. They are mighty small and easy to carry in thick brush, and aren't nearly as heavy as some of the old school bows. They are slightly faster, and are pretty decent in the quiteness department.<P>Damn, after saying all of that,I guess they are pretty good bows!<P>Personally, I would start out with a much cheaper bow if you are a rook. There are plenty of quality bows out there you can get fully equipped for around 300 beans. Then if you feel the need to step it up in the future, go with one of the Mathews bows. Personally I tend to favor the Hoyt line, but that's just me!

I would definitely see if I liked bowhunting before buying a Mathews, however it will probably retain resale value. <P>I shoot my cheapo Whitetail II as well as I need to out to 30 yds(my self imposed hunting limit) It's just that the list of things that irritate me about the bow are many:<P>1.Too noisy, even with string silencers<BR>2.Too long for deer stand hunting(purely my opinion!<BR>3. Handle must be wrapped with something to not be slippery and cold on those rare cool GA mornings in September.<BR>4.The quiver sucks, although easily replaceable.<P>All of these things may be trivial but day in day out after several years of toting the thing add up.<P>Mike

Fellows, what do you expect from a bow that costs that much more than the rest? Of course it's that much better!<P>I hunted with a Darton wheelbow for years until it was accidentally broken. Then I went shopping. To make a long story short, the moment I picked up the MQ32 my decision was made, and dang the price. I laid down about $900 for my kit and am glad for every penny. And I don't shoot over 30 yards, either.<P>Could I make other bows work? You bet. But I won't.<P>It's just like good binoculars -- many will get the job done, but there's a big difference between the median and the best.<P>You can always sell the bow if you decide it's not for you. <P>Matt, you are either very lucky, very discriminating, very accustomed to just buying the best, or all three. I could not believe how easy the MQ32 was to shoot, and how forgiving. It has the sweetness that a rifle only achieves with a slick action, a heavier barrel, an excellent trigger, and a muzzle-heavy feel. It may be difficult for a non-archer to grasp what "forgiving" means, but suffice it to say that if you shoot the Mathews against anything else, you will notice just how good the Mathews feels.<P>One word of warning: If you don't want to go the Mathews route, don't pick one up. If you do you will become completely unsatisfied with anything else.<P>Regards, Talus

Talus, <BR> From what I've been told the regarding the MQ-32 I bought, "very lucky" would be most accurate;-). I would also agree that you simply have to experience a Mathews bow to a truly appreciate it. <BR> <BR> Could not agree more regarding excellent binoculars. There is indeed a great difference. <P>Regards, Matt.

rotr:Have you got Limb Savers on your bow?These little items do wonders for taking out alot of noise and vibration from the limbs.I don't bother using anything on the string as I find it unnecessary.The guys who use tarrantulas and other silencers on the strings are no quieter.If you stand on line and listen to a dozen bows being shot you will hear a dozen different noises.These are just some of my observations from shooting at a pro shop twice a week. [img]images/icons/laugh.gif" border="0[/img] [img]images/icons/laugh.gif" border="0[/img] <P>mike

Obviously you are going to get a mighty biased review from Mathews owners like Talus. <P>It boils down to this. Being a rookie, you really have no business buying one. Why? You have not developed your shooting skill to the point where that bow would benefit you. In fact, the small size and weight of the bow would hurt you, making you much less accurate than a longer, heavier bow would allow you to be. <P>And I couldn't agree more about the limb savers, worth every penny!<P>Just my two cents worth.<P>Chad

they are rilly good bows, but you can get other good bows if Mathews cost to much. I would probaly own one if i could afford it. If you think it is worth the $$ for your uses and you can afford it then they are grate!

Magnum Freak- No I haven't tried limbsavers yet. Is there a preferred manufacturer out there or are they all the same?<P>Mike

I have a hoyt now that I bought as a factory reman. I looked long and hard at the mathews bows. Nice stuff, big money. Very quiet,fast and short. As for the accuracy, I spoke to target shooters who told me horror storries of mathews bows that they could'nt place well with. After putting $1000 or more into a bow they sold them Immediatly for what ever they could get. I myself am impressed with mathews products,But I'm happy with what I have at the moment for my skill level. IMHO,It seems to me that the bowtechs and the martins are leading the way today. Bow tech makes ultra fast bows and martin has a new cam configuration out that is operator friendly and maintainance wise. <BR> By the way ROTR ,"limb savers" work well ,$25 a set for split limb and they are the most popular. But there are more dampening alternatives all the time . Many more types have showed up in the last year or two.

Bear Whitetails rule, doodz....<BR>I finally killed an elk with mine, before retiring it in favor of a takedown recurve. And by the way; do you know the best thing about recurves & longbows? If you get lost you can break them up & use 'em to start a fire ;-). A joke courtesy of a compound fan buddy...<BR>But, my son is 12 & able to bowhunt this year. I looked for an affordable Mathews, & couldn't find a deal. Didn't want to sink too much into it, as he'll be ready for a heavier bow in just a year or two. Also, he's not just a beginner, he's shot lighter bows in 4-H Shooting Sports for several years and does pretty good at it. Just bought him an Alpine Silverado on eBay for $185, though. It's the solocam, apparently licensed by Mathews. 45-60#, so it might actually do him for quite a while. I've got buddies that swear by Mathews, but talk about sticker shock...Anyway, I've heard the Alpines are good bows. Any opinions or comments?

Fellows, I respectfully disagree with oregonhunter. You will not find a bow easier to shoot well than the MQ32. I'm assuming that you wish to hunt with this bow as well as shoot for fun. If so, you will definately not find a sweeter hunting bow, in my opinion.<P>I bought my bow to hunt with, not to shoot 3D or tournament archery. With the MQ32, the average person will be shooting a very high percentage of their arrows into a saucer-sized group at 15-20 yards in short order. By this I mean days, not months. This is provided that person receives good instruction to begin with. Without good instruction, it dosen't matter what bow a newbie buys.<P>Go to an archery shop and shoot the MQ32 against any longer, heavier bow you like. If you don't agree with me, it's your money.<P>With the MQ32 you will have a bow that is dreamy to shoot AND dreamy to hump around in the bush with.<P>The primary reason the bow was made is because the shorter bow is so much easier to maneuver and draw in a hunting situation. Unlike a rifle, you can't stick the business end of a bow through the bushes and make a clean shot. You can't obtain a rest for it. It must be held at arm's length, pointed at the critter, and drawn effectively. If any part of your tackle is touching the brush at release time, you are in for a great disappointment.<P>You all know why a shorter rifle is better in certain situations. This advantage is proportionately much greater in archery, when you must move about with your weapon at arm's length and turned 'the wrong way'.<P>So if you're primarily into tournament archery, forget the MQ32. Otherwise, by all means shoot it against anything, of any length, you like. But compare first. Imagine yourself in a hunting situation.<P>I make no claims of objectivity or great experience here. Also, I may be offering the misdirected praise of someone who has paid too much for his kit. Compare and decide for yourself. I did. <P>Let's remember that the question was "is the Mathews worth the money?" I say yes, but it is entirely possible to have a geat hunting/shooting experience with many other bows.<P>Regards, Talus

I respectfully disagree again with Talus. <P>Smaller bows only make more evident shooting flaws in the archer, and being a novice, he is bound not to be perfect. In addition, the longer the arrow is on the string after the release, the less effect shooting error will play, the shorter time the arrow is on, the more flawless form comes into play. <P>And giving the example of it banging around less brush is somewhat ludicrous, it only saves you about 8 inches of "touching".<P>Speed means very little when you can't hit the broad side of a barn. And what goes hand in hand with speed is draw weight. I have seen far to many little weasel bow hunters who don't weight more than a buck fifty, trying to pull 70 plus to impress their buddies, when they should have been in the 50-60 range. Many a whitetail, elk, bear, etc., etc., have been harvested by much less draw weight than 70, even as low as 40.....but they were all accurate at their most comfortable weight.<P>Just my two cents.<P>Chad

I am by no means saying Mathews are garbage, they are one of the best bows on the market today. But for the rookie, a longer, heavier bow would make much more sense both shooting wise, and with your pocketbook.

Talus,I did just that today.I went into Jim Bows and shot the Mathews and what a dream [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img] Unfortunatly they're way out of my price range $800 Cdn.just for the bow.However I finally broke down and switched over to carbon arrows,Game Tracker Carbon Express.I got tired of wrecking alum.arrows.We shoot at pop cans at 50-60 yards and I bent 3 arrows in a row.kinda pricy [img]images/icons/frown.gif" border="0[/img] <P>mike

I would concur with Talus. I bought my bow as a rank amateur and it shot like a dream from the beginning. Which is has amazed more than a few older bow hunters. The Mathews shortened my learning curve quite a bit. Or so I have been told on more than one occasion. Regards, Matt.

Fellows, I agree with oregonhunter concerning speed. The novice should not even consider it when purchasing a bow. Speed does not kill, a well placed arrow does (archery experts, scroll down now).<P>From the novice hunter's point of view, my first reason for being wary of speed is this: You will find that when the moment of truth comes it is a VERY GOOD THING for your bow to be effortless to draw. This is MUCH more important than the trajectory advantage gained at long distances via heavy draw weights.<P>If you talk to any honest bowhunter who has taken a few critters, he/she will tell you first hand stories of not being able to draw the bow at the critical point. It dosen't matter if you can work up to the poundage at the practice range, or if Superhunter X uses a 90 lb. draw.<P>If you want to impress someone with the strength of your latissimus, go to a gym. Otherwise, you will be well served to shoot at 55 lbs or so -- this is an approximate number. This is very analagous to an amateur shooter being sold a 300RUM and developing a flinch, except that the new bow shooter WILL be able to do well in practice. It is during the hunt that he will pay the price.<P>I have paid the price myself while using a bow at a very un-impressive draw poundage! The experience is quite funny, but I have honed the ability to laugh at myself into an art form after much practice. It cost me a nice buck.<P>Don't worry, the low draw weights will kill your game stone dead when the arrow goes where it should.<P>I'm looking forward to the posts as we draw near to hunting season. Talus

I couldn't agree more Talus, well said.

I agree speed isn't the most important, I don't plan on fooling with overdraws on whatever I end up with. I also don't plan on any tournement shooting. Just the old foam target and deer!<P>I have been shooting for several years and am confident in my accuracy I guess silence is my number 1 concern and 60-70 pound pull is fine by me.<P>I think I'll check around for a shop with some Mathews bows set up and ready to shoot.<P>Thanks,<BR>Mike

To each his own...but in my opinion along with several "pro's" that I am friends with, a big mistake.<P>There are exceptions to the rule, but by and large the bigger, heavier bows are MUCH better for first timer's like yourself. I'd put about half of the money you will spend on that Mathews right back in your pocket and get a nice middle of the road priced bow, which will still perform excellent.

Oregonhunter- I'm not sold yet, but do want to try one out.<P>Compared to what I have currently the bottom line PSE and Hoyt bows seem nice and are light years ahead of my 15-17 year old bow!<P>Mike

Mike, I agree totally. Go to your local shop and shoot every bow in the shop, THEN decide by what feels the best, regardless of the name on it. <P>I tell ya what though Mike, a few years ago I sold my ANCIENT Pierson "grey ghost", with wooden limbs and the works. I shot that bow straight as hell, granted it was slow, but I killed many an animal with that ol' boy. The speed is nice with my expensive little Hoyt, but I'm not sure I shoot it any straighter! ;-)<P>Good luck with your bow search.<P>Chad

My 2 cents worth:<BR>Of the bows I have owned in my lifetime;<P>Browning<BR>Darton<BR>Golden Eagle<BR>Hoyt<BR>Mathews<P>the Mathews is my favorite, hands-down. Smoother, quieter, & faster. Everything a bowhunter wants, right? Good hunting!

Ok you guys have peaked my interest in these bows. I just found used ones on the nert starting about 350 bucks for a 1 and half to 2 year old model. Not the MQ-32 you guys are gushing over? Whats importatnt? Specuial models etc.. How old a bow is still good etc..<P>Howe about this deal.<P>Mathews Ultra Max w/ Xtras<P>30"draw length, #50-60lb model maxes out at #65lbs. Trebark II camo, hunted with for 2 seasons, no 3D abuse!! In great shape, only a tiny scratch here or there. Includes.....Brand new NAP Quiktune 1000 rest(w/ Teflon "Fork Tamers"), Your choice of either 7" "Doinker Stabilizer or X-Ring Hydraulic model, PSE "RS-Glo" fiber optic machined aluminum sight, SIMS Limbsavers installed, Brand new package of SIMS "String Leeches", Tied in nock set and eliminator buttons. Great shooting bow!....very fast, quiet and smooth. Will IBO near 310fps. Price includes UPS shipping to the lower 48, No trades please. Will e-mail pics upon request.<P>Its 410 bucks ?? <P>Tex

Tex, <BR> I've been waiting for someone with more experience with these bows to respond, however, as they hav'nt it would appear your stuck with my take;-). I would say that whether that bow is a deal or not depends on your experience as an archer. And of course the technical merits of the particular bow of which I am blissfully ignorant. What I have learned, however, is that your in money to find a good pro shop if you have more questions than answers. <P> I came real close on a number of occasions to buying a bow from Cabelas, Redhead, etc.. Even from my local Sports Authority which contrary to their name did not seem to be an authority on anything least of all bows. As hard to believe as that might be. <P> I picked up my MQ-32 with case, Scott release, 20+ Gold Tip carbon arrows, stabilizer, sight, and arrow rest for $450. This after being measured for my correct length of pull and finding out what I intended the bows usage for. From what I've read this is the reason Mathew's will not allow their bows to be sold by mail order. As the service from a local pro shop is almost impossible to beat over the phone or computer as the case may be. <P> I've bought rifles, scopes, and binoculars based on their reputation, however, I would not buy a Mathew's bow unless I knew exactly what I was looking for. Kind of like having a custom shotgun built to generic measurements. You might get lucky and wind up with a properly fitted gun or you might wind up with an over expensive door prop. In the end if your going to spend the money make sure your getting what you need and not what's on sale. fwiw, which probabely isn't much;-).<P>Regards, Matt.

Ok here is the question for all you experienced hunters.......<P>I have the money to buy the best bow, the first time. Local shops and indoor ranges to practice. My in-laws are avid bow-hunters. One is in the record books I am told in Colorado for Black bear with a bow. <P>If I can afford it, why not buy a Mathews first ?? Based on Matts post I don't see one?? Down side seems to be cost. But if you take cost out of the equation, why not ??? <P>This mind set (get it right the first time) has worked well in every area other than those where tech. advances move so fast that this years product is outdated in 2 years? It seems to me, that a quiet, light weight, fast bow would work for me for enough years that this bow would be "outdated" about the time I am "allowed" to buy another? Am I confused?<P>Opinions please ???<P>Tex

What Tex said!<P>Rick

I picked up my new Q2 on Thursday 7-26. It took the proshop owner about 10 minutes to <BR>put on the sight, nocking point, loop, & adjust the rest. I was amazed at how well it shot with so little "tuning". <P>I am really anxious to spend some time getting confident with this bow & preparing myself for the Wi bow season. <P>I was amazed at how easy this bow was to set up & the harmonic dampers make it a very <BR>smooth shooter too. <P>The price is a bit steep but if you want to <BR>have a bow that you can spend your time shooting, GET THE MATHEWS!!! <BR> Good hunting, oulufinn

Any more feedback here guys? I am not a accomplised bowhunter. I read Orygun hunters psots in which he seemed to thhink this was not a good bow to learn on and yet others here have described it in ways that make me think it might be the perfect starter bow. I am not looking for one with a heavy draw weight. Actually the opposite is true.<P>Want to hear others comemnts.<P>Tex

Mathews makes several madels that are long and hevie in comparison to many of their bows. These may be most opropret for your experens. I have a PSE nova solo-cam, it isn't the fastes bow but it's all i need right now(i'm not all that experenced myself) Then there is the argument, why not get a rilly good bow that will be good when you get more experenced. I personly feel that a cheaper bow like mine, which is fine for hunting, it a good start. when you get better then you trade the old bow in & up-grade to what you feel you need then. This way you don't need to make one large investment at once.

I kinda understand but..... Why do I need a longer heavier bow? Would someone explain please? Sounds like what I DON'T want in a bow. But I don't know Jack sh*t about bows either. Hey I'm honest anyway !!<P>I bought a old german weatherby 300 mag as my first B.G. rifle. I don't mind "used stuff" at all to cut price. Used Mathews versus new whatever... seems like no question to me?? <P>Waiting to hear WHY I need a cheaper bow to start. What advantages OTHER THAN PRICE??<P>Thanks for your patience.<P>Tex

I would probably try to meet with them and shoot the bow if I were you! Than buy it!!<P>I went to one local shop today. They had PSE and Hoyt, but no Mathews because of some(Mathews) rule about not having competing distributors within 30 miles of each other(??) They showed me several nice bows and told me all about the various benefits and strengths of each one. I told them I had three requirements! Accurate(stays tuned),light, and quiet! They said all of the top of the line bows that are designed to these specs are good, but wouldn't and couldn't tell me which one was best. I think they know it is a personal preference for each and everyone. There sister shop in a nearby town has Mathews so I'll try to go check them out later. They said I could come shoot various bows when I have time. This is going to be one of those extended evaluations I think. Plus I have to save the money.<P>Mike

Ready, if you can get a MQ32 for $500, all other questions are moot. I haven't shot the newer Mathews stuff and don't plan to. <P>Unless I get another bow for bowfishing (not likely), or my Mathews gets stolen or crushed, this will be the last bow I buy as long as I can draw a normal bow.<P>In a general sense, longer, heavier bows are easier to shoot than shorter, lighter ones. It's just like rifles.<P>So how many BR or tactical rifles do you see in the hunting woods? None. You know why. There are plenty of sporter weight rifles that shoot MOA, and the rest makes no difference in the field. <P>Then there's the quality and design difference. The short MQ 32 is easier to shoot than many long bows because it is better than they are.<P>Buddy, I wish you loads of fun pulling whatever string you choose. You won't be sorry if it's a Mathews, and you won't be looking to trade up in two years. If used MQ32s are available on the rack now (I can't imagine why anyone would sell one), then that's great for you.<P>I can tell from Matt's post that they are less costly now than when I had to order mine from the factory and wait a couple months for it (I'm a lefty archer, too). But I would do it again if I had to. And I am not a competitive archer and have no friends in the 'Mathews clique' that seems to be everywhere. Those guys know how to market!<P>Best of luck, Talus

I got the MQ32 today. I went to the shop twice and tried out everything that looked decent. The MQ32 just felt great. It was kind of like the first time I rented a Sage fly rod after I had used a Fenwick for ten years. I came home sad and dejected from fishing. Wife says "Why the long face, you usually have a good time fishing" Cause now I gotta find some way to buy a fishing rod that is most of $500. That MQ32 felt soo much better to me than the good bow that was second best. I am a newby. It was too much money. I won't be looking to get what I really wanted in a year or two. I did have the money and did get what I thought was the best of all the bows I tried. Being able to try them out was one of the best things of all. I feel much better about my purchase than if I had just ordered one from somewhere. I had a friend give me a good Browning bow. It turned out it was 2 inches too long for me. Nice to have a good pro shop near. My mom told me once that "One reason wealthy people have so much money is that they buy good stuff the first time and don't have to buy whatever it is, twice." Good hunting with whatever you choose. "D"

My'good' bow was stolen and it took me years to fine tune it exactly the way I wanted and about a $1,000 to get it there..then some POS rips it off. I wasn't about to drop another grand for a similar set up so I bought one recently off e-bay for $200, figured what the heck, something to shoot. It's an Xi and came completely set up, I took it to Silver Bullets house the other night and shot it for the second time ever and did a little fine tuning and am happy with the results. [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img] Smokiiiiiiiiiiiin!<P>It isn't always about having the best equipment, it's about being able to use what you have.<P> <P>

I loved Deltas answer. (and I have 3 sage rods and a beatiful ATH flyreel that is a work of art to be passed down to my children)<P>I understand what spike said also, and I know you Spike is currently on financial "restrictions" with new baby but....<P>I still have not heard any good reasons NOT to get a mathews except price. And that is not a big deal for me. I may buy a used bow first to cut costs but....<P>Anybody else want to join in this please.<P>Why not a Mathews for a beginner? EXCEPT PRICE.<P>Thanks Everyone for all your help here. <P>Tex

Long story short:Mathew's is the best. Assuming adequate funds,WHY would you purchase a lesser grade of equipment?.........

B.S. Thats what I keep asking. Oregon guy kept saying I should start with a longer heavier bow, and he sounded experienced so I just keep asking to try and get a better feel for why he felt the way he did ??? <P>Tex

Tex,<P>I've caught this thread and read it with much interest. We all have differing opinions,regarding most matters. When in doubt,always opt for the best gear you can get,that will eliminate many unforseen pitfalls and will make great results easier to obtain. That is a rule,that is hard to fault,in my estimation.<P> You can't purchase proficiency,but you certainly can purchase excellent equipment. Why settle for less,when you aren't forced too?<P>Back to Rabid's initial question(Are they worth the money?). Yep,EVERY penny.........

Stick: For what I found these dudes running for used on the web I don't think I can go to the local Pro Shop and get a whole rig with a just a decent name brand bow either? New don't mean crap to me in this stuff, as soon as I use a new one once its used too? I don't want something thats ragged out, but used and taken care of is no problem. I found them from 350 to 500 all rigged with all the extras, some with a dozen arrows etc...<P>Was trying to get someone else to agree with Oregon guy that a heavier longer bow was what a beginner needed. Sounded like what I didn't want (yucky) but was willing to listen to more experienced bowhunters just like when I have questions about rifles I go you. Your "da man". (grin) I have relatives that bowhunt and neither one had ever had the bread for a rig like this and couldn't comment either way? Have you shot one of these rascals? Or just sticking with your basic concept of "do it right the first time"? In which I too am a believer BTW. Crap I bought a used 300 Weatherby Mark V for my first Big Game rifle 20 years ago? <P>Oh well.................<P>Tex

Tex, if you've got the money certainly buy the best...we would all be foolish not to but keep in mind the Mathews is a highly precisioned piece of equipment, think of it as a Ferrari. It takes hours of shooting and practice to perfect form, concentration and release. The lighter and faster the bow the harder it is to keep quite and fine tune. One little change of the shooting equation will be amplified, if your anchor point is slightly different shot placement and forgiveness will be more effected. The heavier and longer the bow will result in being quiter, slower and more forgivable. Me personally...I would tend to go with the 'latesst/greatest' but I've also been shooting for 20 years and know what it takes to consitently shoot accurately. It's a major pain in the azz but once accomplished it's very rewarding. Go out and spend the big bucks and get the best and when you get bored and frustrated let me know and I'll give you 10 cents on the dollar for your gear. [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img]<P>Seriously, if you're interested just pick something up and try it for awhile, maybe it's not your cup of tea, if it is and you get into it than plop down the big bucks. Let us know what you end up with.<P>(oh yeah, the bow is the cheap part...it's all the other hundreds of different pieces of equipment that will break you.

Tex,<P>I'm a rifle nut,through and through. But my family are all avid Archers,due to the advantages associated with that,in their state(longer seasons,often enabling one to hunt the rut). They are all Mathew's fanatics,after having been the other route(every manufacturer,you could name,in assorted models). I've run the gamut,from Traditional Longbows,to recurves and assorted compounds of different manufacture. In regards to materials used,craftsmanship employed and innnovative features(that work)Mathew's reigns supreme in my opinion.<P>The point some posters were trying to make,in regards to a short bow(axle to axle length)aren't weak links,with the Mathew's. It would be akin to making the statement,"short barreled rifles CAN'T be accurate". Simply not true. Mathew's are famous for being easy to tune and quite forgiving,even in the "dreaded" shorter lengths. That is atypical,regarding most bows,of that description.<P>So while not an Archery Guru,I've dabbled quite a bit with them and have formed a strong bias. They simply work and better than anything else. They are the Holy Grail,by which all others are measured. <P>If you can find used Mathew's equipment,for real price savings,hell that only sweetens the deal. You've taken it from a can't lose situation,to a CRAZY if you don't(grin)..........

Men, after two pages of getting nowhere I think we have turned the corner to shoveling some serious info my way and I thank you all.<P>Spike: NOW THATS WHAT I WANTED DUDE !!! My question is have you shot one of these rascals? Not a short light bow but a mathews? What do you think ? The thing that impressed me was the couple beginners here saying that they seemed much more foregiving than many bows, allowing them to shoot Okll with only a little guidance? That was a big selling point to me. Not that it means I will not have to spend hundreds and hundreds of hours perfecting this art, but that it helped maybe cut the time? Can you see where I am coming from here? It wasn't a fancy pants name I was paying for, but a piece of equipement that would maybe help forgive some of my problems as I learned? I have access to people who can help school me and as long as there was not a serious downside these sounded cool. Not that it makes a beginner an expert, no rifle or bow can replace practice but that it might be more foregiving of my faults? It sounded like the short mathews bows might compare more favorably to a longer, heavier, cheaper bow. And the prices I had on the web used were for complete decked out bows with all the bells and whistles? Less then my local shop was wanting for a much cheaper new bow by the time they tacked on all the extra crap I needed?<P>Thanks you so much for your comments and keep em coming big guy !! <P>Tex

Tex, okay here's the skinny: the Mathews is SWEET...none better (yes, I've shot them..MQ1 and MQ-32)<P>I went back and carefully read each post and to be honost nobody is 'wrong', there is some very, very good information obviously obtained by several from first hand experience and it all comes down to you. If you can get a newer Mathews for $400 bucks what are you waiting for? It would be well worth it. I think the others are looking at it costing a minimum of a thousand bucks to get started when it's not necessary to spend that much and achieve similar results. One thing I didn't like with a shorter and lighter bow is it seemed more difficult to draw back. Remember 90% of your shots at game will be from a kneeling position (when on the ground) and most likely you'll be cold or in an uncomfortable position. You want total control over your bow, no matter what, to draw it smoothly, slowly and easily when a buck or bull is 20 yards away. Just remember Tex, the most important part is being able to hit what your aiming at, how you get there is up to you and you'll hear 100 different opinions from a 100 different people.<P>Here's my recomendation: Go buy a fully equiped Golden Eagle (or what ever) for $200 bucks on ebay. If you like the sport than blow your wad and step up for the best, besides it's always a good idea to have a back up bow. I don't think there will be much differences in a learning curve or ease of use between a quality five year old bow and an MQ-32. All you should be worring about when starting is perfecting your form. What bow you use to acheive it is really irrelevant at this point. Now go to your local pro-shop and flick a string......

Spike: I showed Robin the pic of you, your new replacement bow and the two bullseyes. She said "oh wow"! I realized at that point she never saw your bow or arrows??? (LMAO) Women just look at differant things I guess ?? (grin)<P>Thanks so much for the info. Helped a bunch.<P>Tex

Talus said:<P>"I can tell from Matt's post that they are less costly now than when I had to order mine from the factory and wait a couple months for it (I'm a lefty archer, too)." <P>Talus, <BR> I bought my MQ-32 close to two years ago. As I understood it at the time the MQ-32 had been released earlier in the year. I should have mentioned that earlier fwiw.<BR>Regards, Matt.

Matt: Come on and join in here. I got the money to get a used mathews in a deal like yours lets say. Should I get one as a first bow? At least with a used mathews its not like I won't be able to get my money out of it right? If you could of bought the Mathews you own as a first bow, would you see problems or disadvantages?<P>I really respect your opinions so get back here and throw in your two cents matt. (grin)<P>Tex

I wish I had all this advise when I bought my bow last year.There's nothing wrong with the PSE I bought but there were some new used Mathews on the rack that I could have had for a little more than I paid for my bow [img]images/icons/frown.gif" border="0[/img] ,live and learn.

Spike- [img]images/icons/laugh.gif" border="0[/img] Now that you have your ten yard pin set, how about backing up a little Huh! I mean come on those elk aren't gonna let you jump on their bck to shoot'em [img]images/icons/laugh.gif" border="0[/img]<P>Tex- Go for it dude, if the used Mathews doesn't pan out, just put it back on the auction block!!<P>Stick- Thanks for getting in here! The shops around here have been trying to tell me why the other bows are as good as the Mathews and haven't really been overly convincing yet. That demo of those harmonic dampers keeps ringing in my ears!<P>Wonder if I can sell enough bodily fluids to finance a new bow [img]images/icons/shocked.gif" border="0[/img] <P>Mike

har, har.... Mike [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img]<P>That was one shot at 20 and then backed up to 30 for the second shot. I wasn't about to ruin a good thing and try for 40...maybe next time.

Tex, <BR> Thank you for the kind words. The Mathews MQ-32 I bought WAS MY FIRST BOW. I've been elated with its performance from the very first time I shot it. Definately without a doubt some of the best money I've ever spent. <BR> <BR> The only disadvantage I see is not buying the best from the beginning and regretting having wasted your time and money on a second rate outfit. Cheaper to go first class the first time out. I've never understood this insistance on mediocrity when excellence is soo readily available. Just make sure you buy the right bow for you. Go to a pro shop and try them until you find the bow that's right for you. Your buying the best so make sure it fits you.<P>Regards, Matt.

Sorry Dude I couldn't resist [img]images/icons/laugh.gif" border="0[/img]<P>Mike

BTT for Newbowhunter...

Regards, Matt.

Try looking at the new Legacy. I had been out of archery for about 15-20 years when a friend of mine and I were talking and he sold me his old(1999) Hoty stratus. I shot it for about 1 month, the next thing you know I was at the local pro shop and shooting a Legacy and an LX side by side. The Hoyt shot fine but I wanted to shoot carbon arrows and the Hoyt sounded like a 22 rifle going of when I let a carbon fly.(I mean loud!)



To make a long story longer, I went and sold a shotgun and headed straight to the pro shop with the money. Put the Legacy on the counter and started plucking accs. of the wall for the dealer to get the bow set-up for me. I went all out. Mathews dropaway rest, Mathews 2 pc. quiver(heavy), string leachs, Doinker chubby hunter stab(like it's owner <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />), and 6 Easton Carbonearos Evolution arrows cut to my draw length. The pro shop set every thing up and in three shots I was shooting bullet hole in paper at 3-5 ft. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> The sound or lack of...is what sold me on the bow. The Legacy and the LX have string dampners on the limbs and the bow is very quiet. From 20 yards away all you hear is a very very quiet thump and the arrow hissing through the air. The sound of the arrow smacking the target is the loudest noise.



Shot the set-up at 20yards for about 1 week then started ruining the vanes of my arrows. Bought a fleching jig(more $$$) and like reloading, getting that feeling of shooting an arrow I put together myself is worth every penny. 1 and 1/2 weeks after buying the bow I robinhooded my first arrow(what a feeling) at 20- yards.



I told the dealer that as much as I use to love shooting bows in school, I feel like a Drugee that was clean for years that has taken a hit of crack or at least how I think they would feel <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />



Get the best and injoy every moment and don't look back and say I should have went ahead and gotten ...........?? I haven't



Darkside

FWIW,
I agree completely. You usually DO get what you pay for and from my limited experience bows are no exception... My Mathews was a joy from the moment I picked it up...

Regards, Matt.

Now to stir the pot a little. I am an avid hunter and archer. Have also been a pretty competitive 3-d shooter. Stopped doing the 3-d thing when all the fun left. Have no fun at all when you have to wait what seems like an eternity for some yahoo to shoot a target. Most of the guys today that shoot have more gear and gadgets on their bows than attack fighter aircraft come equipped with. But anyway I have been doing the archery thing for the last 17years. Have shot just about every brand bow out there at some time or another. First of all a lot of bows on the market are way overpriced. Matthews and Hoyt are probably the 2 most overpriced bows on the market today. Are they worth the money? They are both good bows but they aint that good. Hoyt has appeard to get a handle on their qc problems from a few years ago. For a long time they were having problems with limbs failing. They seem to have fixed that. Matthews has yet to get their act together. I work at a friends archery shop in my spare time and on my days off. Both of us will gladly rig you up a Matthews if that is what you want. But we have more Matthews bows come back for whatever reason(everything from bad limbs to warped risers and a lot of stuff in between) than any other brand we handle. Yes the work is warranty work but I want to shoot my bow. Not sit around hoping the factory wont be too long fixing it. Matthews bows are also tricky to shoot. Their grip is too easy to torque. This has a negative effect on accuracy. Yes some will pick up one of their bows and drill bulls from the start. Most will not. I had a Matthews for a while. A Z-max was the bow I thought I had to have. Hard to shoot, unforgiving and fast as hell. After the 3rd set of limbs, I traded it for something else. And before everyone starts making assumptions, I was shooting 63lbs with 540grn arrows. So I know my arrows were not to light. There are some good bows on the market that will do what a Matthews can do and for a good deal less money. I shoot Jennings bows. Have a buckmaster g-2xl. A little on the heavy side but I get the same speed at the same draw weight and it doesnt make hardly a sound. This year I am hoping to get a Fred Bear team realtree trx. This bow is a little lighter a little faster and just as quiet. Both have riser mounted vibration reduction systems that work flawlessly. The G-2 xl cost about 200 bucks less than the Matthews and the trx is almost 300 less.Is having a brand name worth that much extra cash? Unless you wipe your a** with dollar bills, hell no. Not in my opinion. But hey its your money. Just trying to help you save a little of it for some other worthwile cause(like a new rifle, or new camo, or new boots, or new treestand, etc.).

Tex,

Seems like alot of us are looking at getting bows <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />

The real question is, what bow is the easiest to shoot well? The answer to that is one that fits you well, and is tuned up to fit you, as well as one that is smooth and has no recoil.

One thing that hasn't been mentioned or questioned is whether you plan to shoot with a release, or with fingers. A short axle to axle bow can only be shot with a release, a 38" or longer bow can be shot either with release or fingers. Also the longer bows are reputed to be smoother.

What the new bowshooter really needs is a bow that is foregiving, and since I'm also a newbie, I don't have the answer to what that is.

I'm sure not going to bad mouth Mathews because they are excellent bows. The best? Only if it fits you well and you like the feel and you shoot it well. Buying one without looking at other makers is sort of, no offence intended to anyone, but foolish. There are dozens of makers that make bows that not only compete with Mathews performance and quality, for many they are better. Look at the new Hoyts, Parkers, Martins, Archery Research, Kodiaks, Bowtechs and the list goes on and on. Look at everything you can, better yet shoot them. If the Matt bow still feels best, buy it and be happy. There are some awesome bows out this year, I've gotten in a bit of trouble with the mrs., she didn't understand why I needed 2 more this year. I really do like the Legacy, but there are a few others I really liked better. Mathews are not magical bows, they aren't techno wonders either. What they do well is make some very fine products and employ the very best marketing team in the business. Mathews are not the most expensive bows either, just about every maker has a model or 2 that are similarly priced.
Some of you were asking about short ax. to ax., quiet bows that are easy to shoot take a look at the Parker line, now that is quiet. At the very least, they are equal to the Matt lineup. My personal taste is an '03 Cybertech, thats 35 inches of pure shooting perfection. (IMHO)

Given the many rave reviews for this bow ... of course it now appears to be discontinued.

Any word on which current Mathews bow carries on its characteristics?

John, The current short bow from Mathews is the SQ2. The next size up is the Q2 & that's the one I got to get back into bowhunting in 2001 after a 20 year break from the sport. I was amazed at how easy it was to be accurate with these new single cam outfits. Here's a link to Mathews site. To see specs on the MQ32 click on discontinued models.. http://www.mathewsinc.com/mathewsin...ogCategoryID=87&cboCatalogID=290

Awsome tools these folks build. Bruce

The SQ2 seems to be the closest. It is a nice short axel bow but it sure isn't for most beginners. It has a somewhat harsh draw cycle, little valley and despite a long brace height, it isn't that forgiving. If you let down on a full draw or creep a bit, pay attention or it will get yours quick.
Spike, good shooting with that Xi. They are nice shooters. I have two friends that won't give them up for anything.

Thanks, though I have to admit I get the drift but not all the particulars.

Guess if I take up bowhunting I will have a whole new lingo to learn!

I know what you mean, I went through the same thing when I got into it. Most people pick it up pretty quick though so don't worry. Pro shops are a huge help to beginners. If you are interested in getting started, I would suggest, probably like most everyone else, is to visit as many pro shops as you can. Tell them what you are looking to do with it. The good shops will show you a large number of bows and have you shoot them. Stay away from the shops that just hand you one bow and tell you this is the perfect one for you. Ask them everything you can think of, you'll get those answers and more. Ask other archers at the range questions, you'd be surprised how helpful they will be. Be a little wary of friends that tell you that you have to have a certain bow and pulling at least 70 pounds. The biggest problem I see is guys pulling more weight than they should, that and their draw length is too long. It is no fun if you have to struggle with every shot. Setup the right way, archery is more fun than it should be so get ready for a lifelong addiction.

Try a Techno-Hunt if you can find it near you, will definately help your shooting and it's a whole lot of fun.

i know that this is an old post but i want to put my .02 cents. matthews is by far the best bow on the market. their customer service department could use a little help, but other than that they are a great company. the bows are quality made and shoot fast and quiet. i saw an earlier post where the person said that competition shooters were having problems with their matthews. i think that is a crock. more competitions in the last 7 years have been won by matthews than any other. they are expensive bows as i have had my mq1 for 4 years and my icon for right at a year, i have not had the first problem with either. here is my advice if you can afford it, buy it. for what you pay for it you will want to learn how to shoot.

I never realized that this post was 2 years old until I replied. Mathews makes some very nice bows. They are the best on the market only if they fit you and you shoot them better than anything else. Mathews hasn't won a single competition but they employ some of the best shooters around that have. The thing is these guys would win shooting just about anything. Mathews dominates ASA and IBO competition because they own most of the shooters. Not so for marked yardage competitions. Not that they couldn't get more wins there, they just don't own as many shooters. It is a great marketing ploy that makes for great advertising. I can't help but wonder how much Mathews could knock off the price if they didn't take out 8 page adds in every magazine, bashing a competitor's product. Enjoy your Mathews, they are fine bows and may last you as long as my 23 year old Hoyt has. They may very well be the best for many people but unless you try other makes, you'll never know. I have friends that swear by them and others that swear at them and one that thinks the Mathews name is a curse word after his go around with one.

just want to say this. i have shot almost every manufactured bow on the market and in my humble opinion matthews is the best out there. i have a hoyt havoc that has claimed countless whitetails in and around the areas that i hunt. i love that bow. however, it is not as quiet, fast or forgiving as my matthews. i also have a pse that i shoot in competiton for about 2 years. it helped me win a few trophies, but it is also not a matthews. i have no affiliation with matthews what so ever, but they make a great product as do many of the other bow manufactures out there. for my money it will be a matthews. this is the same thing as remington and winchester, both make great products and some shoot better than the other, but i will go out on a limb and say that the equipment you use can make or break you in a hunting situation or a tournament situation. i can shoot all of my bows equally well( i have 5 differnt bows from 4 different companies). out of the 5 my 2 matthews shoot more consistent and comfortably than the others. that is what i base my opinion on.....

Sounds like you made a fine choice for yourself. Please don't get me wrong, I'm not bashing Mathews here. I think they are fine bows and I believe they are a good value for the money if and only if someone shoots them well and likes the feel over competitors bows. If they don't, then it is a mistake to buy one just because it says Mathews on it. I can introduce you to a number of diehard Mathews fans and they love them, I can also introduce you to a number of ex Mathews owners that have found something they like better. Lately that would be a lot of new Hoyt owners from what I'm seeing. But there are many that don't care for them either and there are some great bows out this year. It is a good year to be in the market for a new bow. There are too many fine bows out there to ignore just for a brand name and that's the point I'm trying to get across. They are not magical bows that turn everyone into Robinhood. They are not techno wonders, despite what their advertisement suggests. They are good, solid products that have drawbacks like any other design. They should have their own marketing school though because that is what they make people believe. For some they really are the best , for others, no. Personally, I like the feel of a 2 cam bow but there are many single cams I like as well. I also not a big fan of long risers, they feel a bit too top heavy for me. To each his own and that is a good thing. Just look how many new companies are making bows now. Parker, Kodiak, Bowtech, Storm, Champion, Archery Research (owned by PSE) and the list keeps growing. The competition is getting fierce and thats good for all of us. It takes more than advertising and some bolt on doohickeys to keep market share and that goes for more than just Mathews.

WELL STATED AND I AGREE 100% WITH YOU ON THE FACT THAT FEEL IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN NAME BRAND.

I first bought a mathews Q2 and i love it! Then i bought the mathwes Icon and its more acurate and its the best compound that i have ever shot period!

Slickhead