Long time gun guy here but I have pretty much no experience with bows. Would like to get one to start practicing with so that I might could possibly hunt with it in a year or two. I know some of the big brands but I have no idea as far as models and such. I'm left handed, 5'10. Ideally would like to stay around $500 but if needed could probably go up to $1k

The biggest thing you can do is get to an archery shop and try out different bows.

And as for the budget you have, remember you have additional items to purchase - sight, peep, string whispers, release, quiver, and arrows.

Diamond infinity edge pro is a great starter bow.

$1k will put you in a different league but for $500 you can have a ready to hunt bow in the infinity edge. Both my boys have them.

I have setup many Infinite edge pro bows and the edge SB-1 is another good one to look at that is a little larger frame and heavier that some like. Both can be setup to shoot very well. Bear Cruiser II is another to check out. PSE Stinger as well.

Also new bowhunter here,

I went to a shop in Fort Worth with a $700 budget. Problem was that my draw length was too long for most so I had to pony up and buy a Mathews Traverse. Got a new 2019 model that the owner discounted for me and set me up with all the accessories + arrows + broadheads.

Out the door I spent $1200 but I think it was well worth it to spend the extra money and get a quality bow from the start. After 1 week I am confident enough to go hunting because its so easy to shoot and feels comfortable. Plus, if I hated it, at least it was a Mathews and resale would be easy and I would recoup all my money (most likely).

I just started hunting with a bow(xbow actually) and I was surprised to know how much I didnt know. Lots and lots to learn about bow hunting if you want to do it right. Theres a whole lot of difference in being able to SHOOT a bow and being able to HUNT with a bow. So many nuances go into the shot and then the recovery is a whole new ballgame. When shooting a target you dont have to worry about it moving or about running off after the shot. It can be rewarding but if you care about recovering what you shoot at it can be challenging.

I suggest getting a longbow or recurve for starters. You don't need a lot of draw weight, 35-45# would work. With this set-up, you will learn proper form, arrow trajectory and arrow tuning. This will transfer enormously to a compound bow if you choose to continue there. There is a huge benefit in understanding and learning the foundations of archery and the principles before getting into compounds with let-off, rests, sights and releases.

As JabHunting stated I would look for a longbow or a recurve and get to know how this "archery stuff" works. A used one in good condition is a cheap introduction. Then find out if you have the self discipline to get good at shooting at targets.

Echo this. Any quality bow show will take the time to set up several bows for you and let you shoot them to find what fits and feels best to you.