Cbloom, look in this forum, and you'll be able to find top of the line bows (Bowtech, Elite, Hoyt, Mathews & Obsession bows) for sale. These guys will buy a bow this year, and sell it next year, because they want the greatest and newest. I have a Bowtech & Elite I purchase from that site, and the bows were practically new, and got them for about 40% less than what you'd pay at a store. You can also learn from this site. Don't go to a pawn shop to buy a bow, those guys usually do not know what they have, which could work in your favor too.
Have you gone to Basspro or Cabelas? I know they usually have their brand, and they are usually set up like the bear is. Just to give other options, and maybe even shoot the bows in the store.
http://www.archerytalk.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?f=100In regards to the Bear bow set up; it's not a bad deal at all and like others have said not a bad starter set either. Let's assume that you like archery hunting, you can use this bow until you get better and you get more $$ to upgrade to another brand. Usually these set up are setup with inexpensive accessories, but will work for you while you learn. If you happen to not like archery hunting, then, you are only in the hole for a bit over $400.
Once you know your measurement, you'll know if you can get this bow or not, this bow only adjust to 30" . Also, you need to look at the brace, some are 6", 7" or 7+", and the higher the number the more forgiving the bow is. With the new bows, you are paying for a name, and you are also paying for speed. People have been killing deer with recurve bows, so, if this bow is slower than the top brand, you'll still be able to kill a deer or hog.
Get a good set of arrows, at least 12, if you could get 18-24 even better (you'll break them & lose them). Take 6 of them for practice, and 6 of them for hunting. Take a class if you can, or pair up with someone to teach you how to shoot a bow. Not knowing if you've shot a bow or not. Practice, practice, practice, and practice some more. Oh, did I say you have to practice? Well, practice!
I'm sure the base has a range. BTW, have you checked your BX to see if they sell bows?
Shoot, this is a long post for me. LOL!!!!! If you have any questions, or if I could help you in any way, let me know. Good luck to you, and let us know what did you end up getting.