I don't know if its normal or not but I use to draw 30+ inches with a finger held compound and now after not shooting for quite a few years and 2 rotator cuff injuries my new compound bow (Hoyt Alpha X 30) with release I'm at 28.5 inch draw length. I suspect age and shoulder injuries play in the difference for the most part though??
You can adjust it a little with the D loop, but things will be different depending on the release you use, your anchor point etc.
My draw length measures about 29.5 but I have a really short DLoop and when I switched to a handheld release (nock 2 it), it’s really short so I ended up going to a 30” draw length.
I wouldn’t recommend buying a Bear bow. I’d lean towards a PSE, Matthews or Hoyt.
A couple years back I jumped back into archery after a lengthy absence. I don't keep up on archery tackle anymore at all, so there could be a lot better options out there but,..... I picked up a PSE Embark. The bare bow was just under your $1000 price point. My draw length is similar to yours, and it is draw length adjustable. There are probably shorter, faster, lighter bows out there but this one ticked all the boxes for me and I am completely happy with it. From what I can see they no longer have it in their lineup but must have something similar now.
When I jumped back in I went to a recommended shop and had the owner fit me and set up the bow. Years ago I did all that stuff myself, but I tell you when you have someone that knows what they are doing, have all the right equipment, and can look and see what you are doing it's the cat's a$$. I spent an hour or two and walked out the door with a bow that was set up perfectly for me and was a dream to shoot. Easy Peasy, money well spent (didn't charge me for anything more than the equipment)
So what are the recommendations for rests,sights and releases,all opinions are welcome.
Budget friendly is also welcome as i spent more on the bow than intended,i'm hoping it will keep me happy for years to come without feeling the need to upgrade.
If you have any used components feel free to message me.
something to be said about a basic no frill whisker biscuit for a rest, less moving parts to cause potential issues in the bush, if thats where ya plan to take it that is!