crossbow,
I own a horsebow and my particular model is the Magyar Sport and is a Hungarian recurve style. They're fun to shoot, but I would recommend a laminated recurve over them for consistancy and overall performance.
At
www.horsebows.com is where you can see some of them. I ordered mine from
www.3riversarchery.com and they're in Ashley, Indiana.
IF, I were to order another one, it would have a shelf. I don't care for shooting it off of my hand. I have a special glove for my bow hand that has a piece of leather glued on it (made it myself) that protects my hand.
www.salukibow.com is a good example of this type of bow with a shelf, but they're "over the rainbow" for what I want to pay.
To answer your question about the performace of a horsebow....well, they draw like a self-bow...kinda springy soft, light weight like a longbow, but have a lot of cast. Most of these bow designs will surprise you for how far they can sling an arrow. They're no speed demons, but none the less will put an arrow out there at surprising distances....and with low poundage too. Keep in mind: this bow design ruled the middle and far east for over 5000 years, so there's something to them.
Whatever your decision considering a traditional bow purchase, before doing so, PHYSICALLY put your hands on it first. There's a lot to be said for the "fit and feel" of a traditional bow that will make a lot of difference toward how well you'll shoot it.
Good luck with your choices!
Good hunting, Bowhunter57
