Blog - Archer Den

Reviews of the Best Crossbows for 2021

When checking out the market for the best crossbow to fit your needs, the expanse of options is overwhelming. The following guide contains information about how to choose the best crossbow for every situation. You will also find a concise breakdown of crossbows to fit all budgets. This guide will provide a clear understanding of a crossbow’s capabilities, the features that are most coveted, and familiarize you with some of the best brands of crossbows on the market today.

The #1 Crossbow We Recommend

It is nearly impossible to pick a single crossbow to recommend, especially considering the wide range of options. But, if we had to do it, our #1 pick would be the Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow. While it is moderately priced, it is also an extremely high-quality weapon that fulfills most shooter’s needs. The Barnett Whitetail Pro is one of the top sellers on the market and has excellent reviews from both customers and professionals.

Best Crossbow for Hunting

The top pick overall is also your best bet for hunting — the Barnett Whitetail. With its 165 lb draw weight and 400 fps shooting speed, it is more than capable of handling game animals. It also is reasonably priced.

Best Tactical Crossbow

The CenterPoint Sniper 370 is a wildly popular tactical crossbow with a 185 lb draw weight. The forearm and stock are fully adjustable for your convenience. To avoid scaring your game, the string has integrated noise dampeners to make the firing process less noisy and cumbersome. It doesn’t have the full silencing system that other CenterPoint products do but the noise dampeners are better than nothing. The scope on the Sniper 370 is a 4x32mm that gives ample zoom and clarity in conjunction with the crossbow’s range.

Best Youth Crossbow

The Barnett Recruit Terrain is the perfect crossbow for a youth looking to upgrade from his or her beginner’s weapon. It features an impressive 140 lb draw weight and can fire bolts at up to 330 FPS (Feet Per Second). It has the same 4x32mm scope that comes on most higher end and advanced crossbows, so you won’t be missing out on the competition in terms of range. Regardless if you are right or left handed, the Recruit’s safety is double-sided for convenience for both types.

Most Powerful Crossbow

The Barnett Ghost 420 Revenant CRT is one of the most powerful crossbows you can buy, and the price is exceptional for a bow of this quality. The speed of the bow conquers 420 feet per second, sending a bolt screaming toward its target. The draw weight on the bow is 185 pounds. The bow has a mid to upper-level price between $875.00 and $1,200.00 for the unit. The Barnett Ghost 420 comes complete with a premium variable scope, talon sling, three bolts, a quiver, and a rope-cocking device. The bow features a riser made of Carbonlite® materials, thereby offering a five to one safety factor and the ideal balance between speed and weight.

Best Crossbow Under $600

Priced under $600, the Barnett BC (Buck Commander) Raptor Reverse Draw Crossbow has a form specific geometric design for ease of hand placement repetition. The design of the crossbow allows for elevation of your index finger for the perfect placement, and the perfected design allows for ease of target acquisition. The limb pockets are positioned closer to the bow’s trigger assembly so the bow’s center of gravity shifts nearer to your body and lends to a balanced bolt shot each time. The Barnett BC Raptor Reverse Draw Crossbow shoots a bolt at a speed of 330 feet per second and the bolt is backed by 97-foot pounds of kinetic energy. The butt pad is adjustable and the unit comes with an anti-dry-firing trigger.

Best Crossbows Under $400

The Barnett Quad Edge Crossbow shoots bolts at a speed of 350 feet per second. The model bears a price tag under $400. The Barnett Quad Edge is crafted with a riser made of magnesium, finger reminders, a foregrip with pass-through features, and comes sold with three bolts, a quiver, and an anti-vibration foot stirrup. The unit has a CNC machined 7/8 Inch Picatinny rail. This bow will also appeal to the consumer who appreciates buying products Made in the USA.

Priced as an entry-level crossbow beginning around $389.00, the SA Sports Crusader Crossbow is a promising piece of equipment for the avid archer. The limbs are crafted out of compression fiberglass and camo colored. The manufacturer constructs the bow out of durable machined aluminum. The unit comes with the quick detach quiver, anti-dry fire features, and a 4X32 Multi-Reticle Scope. Fitted with a 225-pound draw weight, the Crusader features a 13.5-inch power stroke, a precision trigger assembly, ambidextrous auto safety functions, and a rear stock that is lightweight and cleanly designed. This camo-dipped crossbow comes with the assembly hex keys and four 20-inch carbon bolts for firing. Also called the Crusader 330 FPS, the overall weight of the bow is 6.5 pounds.

Best Crossbow Under $300

The SA Sports Ambush Crossbow has a listed price between $235.00 and $299.00. The bow is light, weighing in at only 6.5 pounds. The limbs are created out of compression fiberglass and the unit comes complete with four bolts, a quiver, and a 4X32 Multi-Reticle Scope as well as a Rope Cocking Device. The model features a 150-pound draw, a large stirrup, and can shoot a bolt at a speed of 285 feet per second. The SA Sports Ambush Crossbow is an ambidextrous option and requires 16-inch 2219 Aluminum arrows or 20 in carbon bolts.

Best Crossbow Under $200

With a starting price of $179.00, the SA Sports Empire Terminator is an exceptional entry-level bow. This model is available in a camo or black exterior, has a 175-pound draw, and has a speed of 260 feet per second. The Empire Terminator is lightweight (only 4.5 pounds) making it easy to tote around. Some call the Empire Terminator one of the best values in the industry. The Empire Terminator Crossbow has a quick detach quiver, ambidextrous auto safety, a Precision trigger assembly, scope mount, and the manufacturer’s trademark Gull Wing™ design.

Best Crossbow Brands

Barnett

Barnett has proven a tremendously successful name in the arena of archery equipment sales. The company has sold as many as a million crossbows to date. Barnett was launched over fifty years ago, and with each passing year works to make improvements on its existing line with groundbreaking patents. Barnett ranks number one in terms of crossbow manufacturers and the company creates bows built for hunting as well as bows known for their efficiency, accuracy, and speed. Barnett is known as the creator of the first compound crossbow, called the Demon, and the Commando Self-Cocking Crossbow.

The Barnett Whitetail Pro is a spectacular specimen in terms of what this company has to offer. The mid-range price makes the bow affordable, with an upper price of about $400.00, and the unit comes complete with a premium red dot sight, bolts, a quiver, a cable system, synthetic string, high-energy wheels, and a mmilitary-stylebow stock. This bow is capable of shooting an arrow at a speed of 315 feet per second and has a draw weight of 150 pounds.

Excalibur

Excalibur is a refreshing player among archery competitors. Rather than focusing on major profits from the archery industry, the company was established by hunters who exude a passion for hunting and enjoy building high-quality crossbows. The brand Excalibur is in no way cheap as the manufacturer places value on quality over affordability. The goal of the manufacturer is to make bows that are accurate, reliable, and efficient. No engineers work for Excalibur, rather the ideas come from those who are familiar first-hand with hunting. The company has been in business since 1983.

The Excalibur Matrix Crossbow features a 260-pound draw and delivers a speed of 380 feet per second. Excalibur crossbows are the upper-level bows on the market, with a listing price between $1029.99 and $1,099.99. The bow is equipped with an ergo-grip stock meaning it is ergonomically designed to ensure a proper grip for maximum comfort and minimal risk of injury. This recurve bow promises functionality, reliability, blazing bolt speeds, and a quiet shot. The bow comes with a Tact-Zone compact crossbow scope.

TenPoint

In 2012, TenPoint saw its 20th year in the business of selling archery equipment. The company is headed up by Richard L Bednar, who serves as the CEO, Chairman, and President. Rick’s father is Bill Bednar: The Archery Hall of Famer, and his mother, Edith, is the Ohio-based Portage Archery Center’s founder. Rick and his sisters Joanna and Cindy operate TenPoint as a family business. TenPoint has a number of innovations under its belt, including the 1995 patented VibraCush®: a bow to barrel sound dampener. The company also created the Dry Fire Inhibitor, a mechanism made specifically for the prevention of accidental firing. Since 1995, TenPoint has gotten 29 US patents, two Canadian patents, and now has at least 19 more in pending status. TenPoint also acquired Horton Archery and the Wicked Ridge line in the acquisition.

Tenpoint Stealth FX4 The TenPoint Stealth FX Crossbow has a starting price of around $1,270.00 and an uppermost price of about $1,300.00. The bow can shoot speeds up to 370 feet per second. The archer gets an impressive and unparalleled level of maneuverability with the TenPoint Stealth FX Crossbow because of the bow’s lightweight construction. This crossbow weighs 6.8 pounds in total. The Stealth FX is one of the sleekest, most compact, and shortest crossbows TenPoint designs.

Also, Tenpoint now sells Wicked Ridge models with ACU-52 features. The Wicked Ridge Invader G3 has a listing price that is between $500.00 and $550.00. The Wicked Ridge can shoot bolts at a speed of 330 feet per second. The bow only weighs 6.6 pounds and has a 3.5-pound trigger, a quiet shot, and a 165-pound draw. The body of the bow features the Mossy Oak® Treestand® camouflage pattern, thereby making it a perfect choice for hunting. The bow’s riser is made of aluminum materials and features cutouts that minimize the weight of the bow while simultaneously increasing the crossbow’s strength. The dry fire inhibitor feature is also included with the addition of Tenpoint’s DFI.

SA Sports

Mark N. Ambrose is the founder of SA Sports, LLC. Ambrose has at least two decades of industry-related experience, particularly with the crossbow, and remains an avid outdoors enthusiast. SA Sports makes premier outdoor gear and crossbows. The company keeps innovation and customer value at the heart of every product it creates. The current line of archery equipment includes the Ripper, Vendetta, Fever, Crusader, Ambush, and the Empire Recon, Terminator, Dragon, Beowulf, and Aggressor. SA Sports offers a one-year warranty with all of its equipment.

Priced between $600.00 and $650.00, the SA Sports Vendetta Crossbow is an affordable mid-level bow with a superior design. The Vendetta has a draw weight equal to 200 pounds and weighs 8.5 pounds in total. Each shot from the SA Sports Vendetta moves at 375 feet per second. You can expect top-notch performance from the SA Sports Vendetta and get a series of features that make the crossbow a worthy investment, some of which are associated with the far pricier models on today’s market. The SA Sports Vendetta comes with an ambidextrous auto safety feature, a 4×32 illuminated and multi-range crossbow scope, a 3.5-pound Precision Ultra Refined crossbow trigger pull, and anti-dry fire protection. The unit is sold with four-carbon bolt, a quick-detach quiver, hex keys for assembly, a padded shoulder sling, and a rope-cocking device along with the included scope.

How to Choose the Best Crossbow for your Needs

In this section, we will cover the factors that should be taken into consideration when buying a crossbow, as well as provide a general overview of crossbow features and use.

History and More

Crossbows are an innovation first occurring in the 4th-century B.C.E. Their ease of use and accuracy of striking a target led to the adoption of the weapon for use in battle. Circa 209 B.C.E., China had an army in which every soldier was armed with a crossbow, all 50,000 of them. If you want to read more about the history of crossbows, check out the Wikipedia entry on the weapon.

all about crossbows The crossbow’s greatest asset is the simplicity of its use. The user can aim the bow and fire, just like using a gun, and the learning curve for using crossbows is fairly mild. The same was not the case with the Welsh longbow, however, as the bow was more difficult to draw back and to control the direction of the arrow.

So many crossbow options are available, it is not uncommon for the neophyte archer, or even the individual experienced in archery, to be confused about where to begin in the shopping process. In fact, in the past two decades alone, the equipment available for archery, whether for competitive or hunting purposes, has changed dramatically. Brand new bow designs, arrows, strings, sights, and materials are making archery equipment more durable and diverse than ever before.

Crossbow Types

Two chief forms of this innovative weapon are in use today: the compound and the recurve crossbow. Each bow type has pros and cons, and understanding these will affect the choice you make when looking for the best crossbow for your individualized needs.

Design

Recurve crossbows were in use before compound crossbows. In terms of bow design, it becomes easy to identify the recurve configuration of a bow: the limbs of the bow will form an inverted letter “U” and the end of each limb will curve out and a bit backward. On a compound crossbow, however, the limbs do not curve at the ends. The recurve crossbow is equipped with few breakable components. The recurve does not have the asymmetrical wheel or round wheel components found on a compound model. The bow is simple to maintain and if the string becomes damaged or breaks, it can be easily replaced. Recurve bows don’t have a cocking mechanism, which makes cocking the bow a bit more difficult. The absence of the cocking mechanism makes the recurve model slightly less accurate than the compound crossbow. Between the recurve and compound crossbow, the recurve is the unit with the quieter shot. Beginners looking for a suitable bow will do well by the recurve crossbow, it is less expensive and generally easier to use.

Strength

If having a strong bow is of great importance, the compound crossbow is the better option. Recurve crossbows end up being weaker because they have greater width than the compound bow. The wider bow makes recurve bows more difficult to handle. The compound version of the crossbow is fitted with pulleys that attach to the limbs. The bowstring is shorter and drawing the bow is easy due to the inclusion of a cam system. The cam system makes for easy drawing of the bow. The system permits the storage of energy, and it helps to make the compound crossbow more powerful. Bolts released from a compound bow fly faster and a cocking mechanism makes for easy bow drawing. With shorter limbs, the compound crossbow is ideal for the archer who covets a bow that is easy to manage, especially in tight areas.

Bear in mind that the extra components on the bow, like the pulley system and camshaft, add to the weight of the bow. In addition, more components means more parts that potentially need replacing in the future. In terms of price, an archer can expect to pay more for the compound model.

Modern Innovations

Modern design has resulted in a change of material used for crafting the crossbow. Just a few decades ago, every crossbow was fit with limbs made of durable steel. Current models are made of composite materials or fiberglass. Split-limb composite builds lend to the equalization of stress and a reduction in the bow’s weight.

Modern bow stocks are laminated wood and plastic with reinforcing metal components. Molded stocks allow for greater variation of design and style. If looking for a bow with a lighter weight, the archer can choose one with a skeletal stock to contribute to the weight reduction. Bear in mind, however, that heavier crossbows have greater firing accuracy; heavyweight contributes to bow stability.

Power

powerful crossbows Crossbows are ranked according to pull weights ranging from 80 to 200 pounds. The string is stressed and in turn propels a bolt at a speed up to 340 feet per second. For hunting deer, a 150-pound draw weight is sufficient and should be The latter easy enough to accomplish when making use of the foot stirrup. Using a rope cocking aid lends to greater accuracy and an evenness of the string drawback. Plus, it lessens the weight of the pull by as much as half. If you opt for a crank cocking aid, it takes between 10 to 15 pounds of pressure to cock the bow. The crank aid is cumbersome and slow.

Crossbow Uses

Its good consider why and how you will be using the crossbow. Do you plan to use it for hunting game, target practice, or competitions? There are different bows better suited for different uses. If you plan to use the equipment for target practice with field points or arrowheads, the size of the crossbow and the weight of the unit do not play a serious role, since you can fire the arrows while remaining stationary. In this scenario it will also be easier to avoid the tight spaces where you might have trouble maneuvering a crossbow. Alternatively, if you plan on hunting prey, it becomes necessary to buy a durable crossbow, preferably one with a scope for ease of spotting prey during the hunt.

Draw Weight

Before buying a crossbow, know how you plan to use it. The draw weight for a crossbow appropriate for hunting will differ from the draw weight one needs for target shooting. To that end, some states have issued laws regulating the minimum draw weight a crossbow can have as well as the weight of the bolts it uses. You will need to look into the acceptable draw weight for hunters/archers in your residing state. The average range of draw weight noted in varying state regulations falls between 75 and 125 pounds. This amount is sufficient to kill a white tail deer when within a moderate range of the animal. The crossbows crafted by leading manufacturers in the industry feature draw weights between 150 and 175 pounds on average, with some bows having a bit less in terms of weight or climbing as high as 200 pounds for a draw weight. The higher the poundage, the faster the shot a crossbow delivers.

Manufacturer

Its not a bad idea to find out a bit about the crossbow manufacturer. The more you know about the company who creates the bow, the more you know about determining bow quality. Check out the official websites of crossbow manufacturers who make the bows you are considering for purchase. Additionally, look into the company’s reputation, the year of launch, and make sure you use some research tools to see what other archers are saying about the various crossbow brands.

Noise

The amount of noise a crossbow produces is of particular importance when planning to hunt live game. Keep in mind that you cannot escape making some kind of noise with a crossbow, but there are some models that prove quieter than others. For instance, a that bow features cam mechanisms will be noisier than a bow that does not. A compound bow is often noisier than a recurve crossbow. If the crossbow features parallel limbs, it will likely have a quieter shot.

In the event you are dissatisfied with the noise level of the crossbow you buy, there are accessories to muffle the noise. These accessories are made for the purposes of diminishing the amount of vibration generated by the crossbow’s limbs once a shot is fired. The archer must attach noise-dampening accessories directly to the limbs to quiet down the movement.

Velocity

If you are concerned about the amount of speed your bow will deliver, you should opt for a compound crossbow rather thane recurve models. The compound crossbow is capable of storing a greater amount of energy. Using the correct bolts with your bow will also influence the speed of each shot. When buying a new bow, the bow’s manufacturer provides you with information on bolt size. If bolts are not the correct size, your bolt firing will end with erratic results. Even worse, if you use an excessively light bolt with a powerful crossbow, it can end up breaking the bolt or causing potential damage to your equipment.

When it comes to the velocity of the crossbow, references of speed will appear as feet per second or FPS in a crossbow’s description. This figure explains the amount of force behind each arrow. Speeds over 200 feet per second are ideal for hunting small game, even though you can also use such crossbows for target practice. If you want to hunt big game, you will need a crossbow that has a velocity ranging from 201 to 410 feet per second. The latter velocity range is commonly found in upper level crossbows.

If you choose a crossbow that delivers considerable speed it will likely be noisier than a crossbow with a lower velocity. In addition, the higher speed crossbows will most certainly deliver a harsher recoil when you fire a shot. The main difference between a crossbow that shoots 200 fps and a crossbow that shoots 350 fps is that the latter will deliver a trajectory that is flatter once you fire the weapon. The flat trajectory lends to the ease of making distance judgments. Many manufacturers increase the speed a crossbow can deliver by increasing the bow’s weight, power stroke, and by adding cams. The tradeoff for additional speed includes increased recoil intensity, and a louder shot.

Weight

Weight is an important factor to consider. Firstly, if you plan to use the bow for hunting, its important to consider the portability of the unit. That said, you will find heavier crossbows lend to greater shot accuracy. This is because the weight of the bow stills the bow and causes less vibration that lighter options. Hefty crossbows are recommended for the novice seeking to get an accurate shot. As an archer, you need to consider your physical limitations as well, and what bow weight you can handle with the most ease. Bear in mind that if a crossbow is excessively light, it can cause the bow to have a harsher recoil when fired, and in fact, can be more difficult to control. In contrast, a crossbow that is too heavy can be tiresome and difficult to control.

Accessories

crossbow accessories While shopping around for a crossbow, some will be sold with a kit containing everything for immediate use. Others may require specific accessories such as rope-cocking devices or a scope. Take the time to price and compare accessories so you can create the ultimate crossbow setup.

Triggers

Its important the trigger of your bow is of good quality. The creep affect and trigger poundage play a role in how accurately the crossbow shoots. A trigger without any creep is one that essentially releases a bolt with no warning or travel before release. The latter type of trigger and creep combination can prove dangerous. In contrast, a trigger with excessive creep can become difficult to squeeze or set off with any level of consistency. The premium triggers on the market lend to the accuracy of your shot because they have optimal poundage and travel.

Crossbow Buying Tips

Tip #1: Check out more than one crossbow option before you buy. Make sure you take the time to examine several different brands before you make your final purchase. Before ordering a bow online, you might want to visit a local dealer so you can compare prices, try holding the different crossbows to see how they feel, and talk to the dealer to get some advice about a crossbow investment. Whether you buy from a shop online or in-store, it is your job to do all the comparative research in terms of features and price. It is better to take your time to discover all the options available than to act on the first good deal you find. There may be an even better deal waiting for you in continued search.

Tip #2: Make sure you know the laws regulating archery. It is important to reflect on the kind of bow you desire, the type of archery you will perform, and what you are willing to spend on your bow investment. As a future archer, you must find out about state and local laws pertaining to bow use and adhere to all state and federal hunting regulations. Each state has varying laws regarding crossbow use.

Tip #3: When shopping for a crossbow, do not forego quality for a lower price tag. There are crossbows for sale that can meet any kind of budget imaginable. It is of incredible importance that you take the time to assess a crossbow’s features, what others have to say about a crossbow, and the reputation of the bow’s manufacturer before you buy. Do not let a low price rush you into buying before fully considering the investment. Durability and longevity are key considerations to get the most for your money.

Tip #4: Consider purchasing a complete package instead of an individual crossbow. In addition to the bow itself there are packages containing everything you need to get started with archery. Packages often contain the crossbow, quivers, bolts, and scopes. Of course, the initial pricing for a package will be higher than the price for a bow alone, but packages can save you a considerable amount of shopping time. Additionally, packages are pre-packed by the manufacturer which ensures that all the bolts are the correct size and weight.

Tip #5: Review the crossbow’s warranty, if applicable. Check to see if a warranty comes with your purchase, and if so, how long it lasts and what it covers. Knowing what a warranty covers is crucial since some warrantees have clauses that include an explanation of actions that are not allowed in terms of the care/repair of the crossbow. If you violate the terms of the warranty, you will likely lose the coverage entirely.

Conclusion

Due to the precision a crossbow can provide, crossbow equipment is in high demand. To address this high demand, manufacturers create a variety of unique crossbow models which thereby increases the number of options a consumer has to consider. When shopping for a crossbow, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. The key to finding the best crossbow for your needs is in understanding different bow styles and what they as well as how certain accessories work in compatibility to a particular bow. In depth research of bows and accessories (in terms of both cost and features) is imperative to find a crossbow that will serve your needs for many years to come.

Compound Bows

Reviews of the Best Compound Bows for 2021

hunting with a compound bow

Archery has evolved from a primitive means of hunting to a modern sport with advanced technology and a plethora of brands. There are different bows for different activities, and there are options to fit every archer’s specific needs.

In this guide, you’ll find an overview of the technology used in modern bows, the different options you have, and recommendations for some of the top compound bows within your budget.

My #1 Recommendation

It’s difficult to choose a single compound bow as the best overall, but what I recommend in the majority of cases is the Diamond Infinite Edge. With its insane 13″ to 30″ draw length range, and 5 to 70 lb. draw weight range, the Edge is a bow that is exceptionally user-friendly. Weighing only 3.1 pounds, it can fire an arrow at 310 FPS, making it the perfect hunting companion or target shooter.

If you buy the package, it will come with a 3 pin sight, quiver, peep sight, Hostage XL arrow rest, and more. And if you don’t want to take my word for it, Amazon.com has over 100 reviews worth reading. All in all, it is a great, highly versatile bow.

Table of Contents

My #1 Recommendation
Choosing the Right Compound Bow
Best Compound Bow for Hunting
Best Compound Bow for Competition
Best Compound Bow Under $500
Best Compound Bow under $400
Best Compound Bow under $200
Best Compound Bow for Beginners
Best Youth Compound Bows
Best Compound Bow Brands
Conclusion

Choosing the Right Compound Bow

When it comes to choosing the right compound bow for your needs, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. For instance, whether you need a right-hand or left-hand bow, what draw weight will work best for your hunting scenarios, and the ideal draw length. In this section, I’m going to clear up any questions you may have about the elements of the compound bow. Later, we will discuss the right compound bow for beginners, youth, hunting, target shooting, and the overall value for the money.

Should you get a right-hand or left-hand bow?

right handed compound bow If you write with your right hand, you’re going to require a right-hand bow, and vice versa. Although straightforward, if you’re a beginner who has never shot a bow before, it might be confusing to orient yourself with the correct form.

Right-hand bows are actually held in the left hand and pulled back with the right hand. A left-hand bow is going to be held in your right hand and pulled back with the left hand. Choosing your bow is based on the hand that is pulling back the bow and not the hand that is gripping the frame! The hand that pulls back the bow is the hand that is in control of aiming, which is why it should be your dominant hand. In addition to learning the technique of holding bows in training, you also have the opportunity to watch an excellent YouTube tutorial promoted by The Marketing Heaven, which is very easy to find due to the huge number of views.

What draw weight range do you need?

The draw weight of a bow comes in ten-pound increments. Some bows have more choices than others, but a typical bow will have choices of 40 to 50 pounds or 60 to 70 pounds. This means the bow can be adjusted to any draw weight between 40 and 50, such as 46, or 60 and 70, like 67. However, the first bow that has a weight of 40 to 50 pounds cannot be adjusted to 67, just like the second bow cannot be adjusted to 46.

If this is your first time shooting a bow, you will need to estimate a comfortable range. The following chart should give a bit of context, however, keep in mind that this is just an estimate and you may find that you need a bow that has a slightly smaller or larger weight range. The best way to figure out which one you need is to go to a local dealer and see what they suggest.

Age, Gender, and Weight	Weight Range
Small Child between 55 and 70 Pounds	10-15 lbs.
Small Child between 70 and 100 Pounds	15-25 lbs.
Child between 100 and 130 Pounds	25-35 lbs.
Small Woman between 100 and 130 Pounds	25-35 lbs.
Medium Woman between 130 and 160 Pounds	30-40 lbs.
Athletic Child between 130 and 150 Pounds	40-50 lbs.
Small Man between 120 and 150 Pounds	45-55 lbs.
Large Woman Above 160 Pounds	45-55 lbs.
Medium Man between 150 and 180 Pounds	55-65 lbs.
Large Man Above 180 Pounds	65-75 lbs.

You should note that in some states compound bows are required to meet a specific draw weight minimum in order to hunt larger game, such as deer. Be sure to check out your state’s particular rules and regulations.

In general to hunt larger game, such as a deer, a compound draw weight of 40 to 50 is sufficient. A draw weight of 50 to 60 is better for larger game.

While you’ll need a bow that is powerful enough to meet your needs, it’s also very important not to get a bow that is TOO heavy for you to use properly. Here is a video explaining more:

What draw length do you need?

The draw length of the bow determines how far it can be pulled back. To find a measurement, hold your arms at shoulder height away from your body as if you were going to hug a large tree. Keep them as straight as possible and have someone measure you from fingertip to fingertip. You shouldn’t be stretching, you should be comfortable. Take that number in inches and divide it by 2.5.

This amount is the approximate draw length for your body size.

If you’re someone of average proportions, your arm-span will likely be roughly equal to your height. However, if you’re someone who is particularly lanky or stocky, then the measured arm length will be more accurate.

If you’re unsure of the accuracy of your measurements, or if you’re in-between sizes, it’s best to go with a draw length that’s slightly less than your size, rather than a little more. Too much draw length will hinder accuracy and form, and might even lead to the unfortunate event of a painful string slap on your forearm. You will likely be more successful and enjoy the bow more if you choose the lower-end draw length.

What let-off setting do you need?

With a compound bow, the draw weight is going to decrease at the end of the draw stroke. This is known as a “let-off.” Your bow will come with a choice of low or high let-off options. When there is a higher let-off percentage, there will be less holding weight when the bow is fully drawn. This lets you have more time to aim without straining. A lower let-off is going to require that you hold more weight when the bow is fully drawn.

Compound Bow Let Off Here are a few elements to consider to determine which would be better for you. The average archer is going to find the mid to high let-off bow more comfortable. That’s why it’s the most popular choice among new bows. In fact, some bows only come with a high let-off option, so you don’t get to choose. Be sure you read the bow’s description to see if you have an option at all.
There are some benefits you may want to consider if the low let-off option is available. A bow set at 65% let-off is going to shoot a few FPS faster than a bow that’s set at 80% let-off. In addition, if there is resistance when you are fully drawn, you will likely maintain alignment. Most avid bow hunters and competitors will argue that a bow at 80% let-off is too sloppy and too loose, and they prefer ones with low let-off options.

What type of arrows do you need?

It likely goes without saying that you can’t use your compound bow without arrows, so it’s necessary to know which ones will work best for specific uses. A “fletch” is the plastic material or the feathers at the end of the arrow that comes closest to your face. Let’s go over the different material options for the feathers, and their pros and cons.

It’s pretty obvious plastic vanes are going to be more durable than feathers. Vanes are best for youth archers and those who handle their equipment without a delicate touch. They are able to be crumpled and abused and usually still come back into shape. Since they can be fletched three different ways, they can be used with just about any style of arrow rest. Vanes are definitely the most popular choice for compound bow owners.

However, there are many who opt for feathers rather than plastic vanes. One big incentive is that they are almost three times lighter than plastic vanes. This means arrows made with feathers will fly faster and have a flatter trajectory. Feathers also add to a front-of-center balance, especially for hunters and competitors who are using lighter tips. Feathers are usually fletched in a helical configuration and have amazing stability for broadheads. However, you have to be careful how feathers are handled because they are easily ripped, ruffled, and tattered if not delicately preserved.

Vanes come in many different colors, and for good reason. While a deer is most likely not going to notice your orange vane, you are going to want to be able to find it if you miss. There are going to be times when your aim is not as accurate as you’d like, and you don’t want to be kneeling on the forest floor as you hunt through the leaves for your arrow. The colored plastic vanes offer greater visibility, and for this reason are highly valued among hunters.

Feathers will automatically get a helical turn. They have a natural twist, so they are fletched in a spiral style clamp. If you choose vanes, however, you will have to figure out if you want them to be straight, offset, or helical.

So what’s the difference?

Straight fletches will not rotate in flight. They have the fastest flying configuration, work well with any arrow rest, have the least amount of air resistance, and do not have fletching clearance problems. However, they are less stable when it comes to long-distance shooting, require a well-tuned bow, and have low broadhead stabilization.

Offset fletches will rotate a bit during flight. They have more stabilization when it comes to using broadhead arrows, work with most arrow rests, have very little loss of arrow velocity, and are stable at moderate distances. However, they do lose a bit of velocity and potentially have clearance issues while hunting.

Helical fletches will rotate dramatically in flight. They are preferred when it comes to using broadhead arrows as the tips tighten when you practice and they have the best long distance accuracy. Again, fletching clearance can be challenging and they have less arrow velocity.

It’s safe to say that the type of arrow you choose will depend on your preferences and priorities.

What is the nocking point system and which one should you use?

There are two different types of nocking systems commonly available on the market: the direct string with an e-button, and the string loop systems. The nocking system is where you fit the back end of the arrow into the bow string in order to pull it back and keep it steady.

A direct string with an e-button nocking system allows the operator to nock the arrow directly to the string of the bow. You can get a nocking system that has an e-button, which will provide a cushion between the release and the nock of the arrow. This keeps the arrow from falling off the string when you’re at full draw, and will protect the nock from being damaged by the metal caliper.

The direct sting with an e-button is the better choice for longer axle bows.

A string loop is a good option if you want to hook the caliper release in a string loop. A brass nocking point is going to be installed and the arrow will be put just beneath it, in the string loop. This protects the bow from the abrasive effects of a metal caliper.

The string loop is the better choice for short axle bows.

Choosing Your Peep Sight

The peep sight serves the same purpose as the rear sight of a gun. The peep sight is a small, donut-shaped ring installed in the bow’s string. To aim, look through the peep sight hole when are you at full draw, and locate the front sight in the field of view. From here, place the pin on the intended target.

There are three different types of apertures for peep sights. They all have their pros and their cons, but most people choose the medium size because it gives them the best of both worlds. The smallest peep sight is 1/16” which gives the hunter or competitor the most accuracy, but challenging visibility. The medium size is 1/8” which provides good aim and is also easier to see through. The 3/16” has the most visibility, but is the worst for aiming.

Best Compound Bow for Hunting

The SAS Siege is one of the best compound bows for those who are new to hunting. Most online reviewers seem to agree with over a hundred reviews and almost a perfect five-star rating! This bow has a draw length of twenty-nine inches, a draw weight of 40-55 pounds, an AtA of 41.5”, a let-off of 70%, a max speed of 206 FPS (which is plenty for hunting game animals), and is only four pounds. That makes it a pretty powerful bow that’s relatively light and ready for action!

Another one to check out is the Bear Archery BR33. It features a draw length range of 27” to 32” with a peak draw weight of 45-60, 55-70 pounds. It comes fully equipped and ready to hunt, making it a great deal on a highly rated compound bow brand.

Best Compound Bow for Competition

Competitive shooters swear by the Genesis Pro. With competitive target shooting, you want the ability to get the bow set up to your specifications and with the gear you want. The Genesis Pro is designed for just that. It’s a fantastic all around bow that you can build to perfection. It fits most archers, again making it a really good choice for anyone getting into competition.

Best Compound Bow Under $500

If you’re on a budget take a look at this compound bow under $500.

The PSE Surge RTS combines high performance with an awesome price. Although it’s below $500, it can shoot an impressive 320 FPS. What really impresses reviewers is that when compared to other 70 lb. draw weight bows, it feels effortless. If you’re willing to sacrifice a little FPS for accuracy, this is the right bow! Reviewers like that you get a lot more for the price, the shooting experience is wonderful, the vibration and noise are almost non-existent, and it has a smooth draw.

The specifications are as follows:

320 FPS
7.25” Brace Height
32.5” AtA
75% Let-Off
29” Draw Length
19.5-30” Draw Length Range
50/60/70 Pound Draw Weight Ranges

Best Compound Bow under $400

If you’re looking to go even lower than $500, take a look at the Infinite Edge. The Diamond bows are manufactured by Bowtech, which is one of the world’s biggest archery suppliers. It’s the most versatile and best-selling compound bow out there, and the wide range of settings makes it great for beginners and experienced shooters alike. The draw length can be adjusted from 13” all the way up to 30,” and the draw weight can range from 5 pounds to 70 pounds. Unless you’re a giant, you can adjust this bow to just about anywhere for your liking. It can be used for hunting, and produces the necessary energy to take down large game from as far away as fifty yards.

The specifications are as follows:

310 FPS
13”-30” Draw Length
5-70 lb. Draw Weight
75% Let-Off
31” AtA
3.1 Pounds

Best Compound Bow under $200

For beginners, or those looking for inexpensive bows to develop skill, something under $200 will be sufficient.

The SAS Rage is durable and high-quality for the price. It definitely gives you way more than you’d expect from an entry level bow. The materials used for the bow are high-quality and all standardized so you can easily replace them if necessary. This bow is an excellent bargain, and while it may not come from a top brand company, it still has a very good shot!

The specifications are as follows:

270 FPS
26-30” Draw Length
55-70 lbs. Draw Weight
70% Let-Off
35” AtA
4.4 Pounds

Best Compound Bow for Beginners

There are many things to consider as a beginner compound purchaser and user. Before reviewing specific bows, let’s discuss these considerations.

Price

best compound bow for beginners Let’s face it, you’re a beginner, and no matter how much information you find out there on the Internet or in this article, you will most likely end up trading in your old bow for a new one after a few years. This means your first bow should be adjustable, but solid enough to grow with experience. With this in mind, look for an inexpensive option for your first bow.

Most compound bows cost more than $500, but there are some great options that cost less than $400. Make no mistake, “entry level” compound bows are just as deadly as more expensive options.

FPS Speed Considerations

When choosing a bow based on FPS speed, keep in mind that the faster the bow shoots, the more aggressive the cam is going to feel and the more difficult it’s going to be to draw. There is no way around that. As a beginning archer, it’s best to avoid an aggressive draw while learning to shoot properly. Therefore, you should stick with a bow that has an advertised speed of below 330 FPS. Even a 320 provides more speed than you will likely need and can still be used to hunt some of the largest game in the world.

Brace Height

Brace actually doesn’t matter quite as much as it used to. Back when compound bows were just being manufactured, the models that had a lower brace height were more difficult to aim and shoot. They were harder to hold, harder to draw and aim, and more likely to slap your forearm when released.
Some believe it’s better to go for a brace height that’s seven inches or longer. Realistically, it probably won’t make such a noticeable difference, but if you want a range to look for, shoot for between six and eight inches.

What About Let-Off?

Let-off will affect how hard it is to draw the bow back and hold it in place as you aim. The higher the percentage, the easier the bow is to hold. Therefore, beginners want to go for a let-off that’s higher because they will have a lot more time and comfort as they learn how to aim and perfect their form.

If you’re a beginner, try to find a bow that’s between 75 and 80% let-off.

ATA Length and Weight

For hunting, the axle to axle length should be less than 33 inches and lighter than 4.3 pounds. Since you will be carrying the bow while you’re hunting, and might need to maneuver it in the bush or in a tree stand, compact sizes and lighter weight options will be a lot easier to handle.

If you dream of one day target shooting with Team USA, you will want a longer bow that will have better stability and less vibration. However as a beginner, don’t worry about this too much. Just be sure the bow isn’t too long (over 35 inches) and that it is light-weight so you don’t tire easily.
So which bow would I recommend for beginners?

Diamond Infinite Edge

The Diamond Infinite Edge has an adjustable draw weight between 5 and 70 pounds, so you can adjust it after purchasing the bow. It has a draw length of 13-30 inches which will fit almost anyone. The brace height is 7 inches, which is right in between the recommended brace height for beginners. The IBO speed is 310 FPS, so it’s more than powerful enough for a beginner who wants to hunt large game or just practice with a target. The let-off is 75%, so it’s easy to hold the arrow in place and pull it back without too much strain. You’ll be able to practice a long time without your arms getting too tired! The AtA length is 31” and its weight is 3.1 pounds, so it’s user-friendly for beginners and experienced hunters.

Best Youth Compound Bows

Keep in mind while looking for youth compound bows that purchasing one for an adult is a bit different than purchasing one for a child who is just getting into archery; they don’t care about brand, they care more about comfort and how easy it is to draw the bow back and hold it.

Some adults will make the mistake of purchasing the “best bow for youths” for their kids based on their preferences and not by carefully analyzing the qualities they should consider for their child. In these situations, kids end up with a bow they’re not able to shoot comfortably and lose interest in the sport entirely. To prevent this from happening, you should make a list of bows you find on the market that fit the bill and find a place where they can test them out before purchasing.

There are many different crucial factors to consider when looking for a compound bow for your child.

Age

Although both use youth bows, a four-year-old and a sixteen-year-old will have vastly different needs. There are many bows for young children that will last from the age of four to about ten, and then your child will likely need another youth bow. If you come across a phrase in a bow’s description that states ‘this is the only bow your child is going to need because it will grow with them,’ keep in mind that is only relevant for certain age ranges. If your child is starting at a young age, you will likely need to buy one or two more before adulthood.

Bow Mass Weight

Bow mass weight is a very important factor when choosing a compound bow for a small child. While older children can easily hold a youth bow, smaller kids are not going to be strong enough to hold a heavier one and they’ll need a lightweight bow.
It’s also important to note that some bow manufacturers don’t make lightweight compound bows for children. Be careful to check the specifications before you make a decision. Most importantly, ask your child how they feel about holding the bow. If they believe it’s too heavy, don’t buy it.

Draw Weight

When a young body that’s still growing is stressed, it can cause some serious health complications. Pulling too much weight might lead to over-developing some muscles and under-developing others. Doctors say that young shooters should not try to pull too much draw weight because their joints and muscles are still growing, and this can lead to long-term damage. Be careful to choose a bow that your child can pull back comfortably. Also, take caution to set the appropriate draw weight on the bow and adjust it as they grow rather than just leaving it at the manufacturer’s setting. For example, a child who is four should never pull a weight more than ten pounds. Take a look at the following chart to determine what the right draw weight is for your child.

It’s important to explain to your child that a good archer is not someone who can pull more weight, but someone who is accurate and consistent with their bow.

The following recommendations are based on the age and weight of the child.

Compound Bows for Younger Children

For younger children who are interested in getting into archery, an inexpensive set is the way to go. The Barnett Outdoors Lil Banshee is a cost-effective but well-made bow with an 18-pound draw. This will be too much for the smallest kids, but makes a great option for new archers who are approximately 8-12 years old.

For even younger children, you want to find a bow with a small 6-10 pound draw weight. An inexpensive option is the Crosman Upland which is specifically designed for beginner youths. It has a super low draw weight and is meant to help teach the fundamentals of archery.

A very different option is to find a compound with a large range of draw weights that will last your child a long time. The one we keep talking about, the Infinite Edge, has a huge range of 5-70 pounds. It might be a bit much for the smallest archers to hold and shoot, but would make an excellent investment for the newcomer who is just starting out but intends to shoot for years to come.

Compound Bows for Older Children

For teens, a draw of anywhere from 14-28 pounds is a good range to aim for. Pre-teens might need a bit less (10-16 pounds or so). The Crosman Elkhorn is an inexpensive option that would be a good starter. It has a draw weight of 12-21 pounds and a draw length of up to 26” inches.

The Genesis Bow for beginner or intermediate archers has a draw length of 15”-30” and a draw weight of 10-20 pounds. These specifications make this a great bow that will last a while, even for kids who are still growing. It also holds the distinction of being the official bow for the National Archery in the Schools program.

Compound Bows for Athletic Children

The Bear Archery Brave is a 26” compound bow that’s a step up from the Crosman Upland or Genesis bow. Its sports a slightly higher maximum draw weight between 15 and 25 lbs. For a right-handed compound bow, the Brave combines affordability and power that’s perfect for the athletic child. The Brave also has an equipped Whisker Biscuit (the arrow rest), 1-pin sight, and quiver. It comes in a couple of different colors which vary in cost but most versions are below $50 in value in total.

Best Compound Bow Brands

For those most concerned with high-quality brands that are reliable and pristine, the following is a list of the top three brands for compound bows, with the top seller for each brand.

PSE

PSE is notorious for claiming they’re the top compound bow brand in the world, and they have a lot of experience and knowledge to back it up. While they may look like they lack attention to detail in their design, what they lack in flashiness is made up for in the quality of their materials and their products.

Bear Archery

Bear Archery has been one of the top brands in compound bows for some time. Every year they reveal a new bow that hits the high scores. They put almost twenty new bows on the market in 2014 and released five new ones for 2015.

The Bear Cruzer definitely competes with the Diamond Infinite Edge when it comes to being adaptable. It has an adjustable draw length of 12-30”, and a draw weight of 5-70 lbs. This bow is perfect for growing archers and for female archers!

Martin Archery

Martin Archery began in 1951 and almost went extinct a few years back, but they’re making an amazing comeback, and their bows are better than ever.

Diamond Archery

Diamond Blackout Diamond Archery was actually bought by Bowtech, but they remain their own company with their own values and bow design. Diamond Archery prides themselves on being one of the highest-quality compound bow manufacturing companies while still maintaining affordable prices for their customers.

Conclusion

Compound bows are light, versatile, and overall a wonderful piece of equipment for hunting and target practice. While there were many companies listed in this article, there are many more that you should explore to find the right compound bow for you. It’s out there, waiting for you to find it and take that first shot!

Recurve Bows

Reviews of the Best Recurve Bows for 2021

Recurve bows have recently made a big comeback as a popular weapon for hunting, target shooting, and even some competitive archery. With all of the options on the market, finding the best recurve bow to suit your individual needs can be a time-consuming process. This guide will break down the many differing bow options on the market, outline which bows are designed for which purposes, and review the most important considerations when purchasing a bow.

The #1 Recommended Recurve Bow

The SAS Spyder is one of the most popular bows on the market and for good reasons. It has a number of different sizes (some with stringing tools) and of course, left or right handed options. There are a couple of different installations on the handle where you can attach reels, sights, or stabilizers. This makes the Spyder one of the more versatile bows on the market at 28” draw length.

Best Takedown Recurve Bow

The Samick Sage is a wide and powerful 62″ bow that is a perfect weapon for all ages. Samwick has it rated as a beginner to intermediate level of difficulty. It is constructed of are hard maple wood with black fiberglass above and below the handles. Samwick gives you a number of options to choose from right or left handed and eight different draw weights ranging from 25-65lbs. Many users have complimented the Sage’s power in the smaller draw weights, mainly the 25-35lb weight.

Best Recurve Bow for Hunting

The SAS Spirit is a 66” take down bow with a handful of different sizes for your convenience. Hunters of all experience levels will find the Spirit a worthwhile tool. Regardless of the size you get, it’s still moderately priced at just over $100. As usual, you can purchase a left or right-handed version. The handle is made of a couple different types of wood- chuglam, gmelina arborea, and beech, which are some of the finest bow materials around.

Most Powerful Recurve Bow

The SAS Courage is a 60” bow that isn’t too heavy on cost but is still a high-quality weapon. The wood is made of Bintangor, Makore and Chuglam materials, which are common in SAS products. Many customers have remarked on the Courage’s all-around prowess-perfect for target shooting and hunting. There are a couple of draw weights available and the 45lb version seems to be a popular seller. Compared to other takedown and recurve bows, the Courage is remarkably easy to construct and use. It doesn’t have any hardpoints for attachments, leaving it a simple rest and pull bow.

Best Recurve Bow for Beginners

If you are new to archery and want to get a taste before investing hundreds of dollars into the sport, the Bear Firebird Youth Recurve Bow is priced at an affordable $47.00. The bow has limbs made of composite material and is compatible with both left hand and right-hand dominant shooters. The bow measures 60 inches and has a draw length of 22 to 28 inches. The draw weight of the Bear Firebird is 30 to 35 pounds, meaning its a better bow for learning to shoot, rather than hunting. This bow is ideal for people ages 12 and older. Another plus for beginners, the Bear Firebird Youth Recurve Bow is covered by a warranty that addresses any issues with the limbs during the first five years of ownership.

Best Youth Recurve Bow

The SinoArt Takedown bow utilizes the same wood and fiberglass materials as most adult and advanced bows do. This takedown bow’s handle comes with built-in sight and arrow resting mounting holes so you can make your own additions if necessary. In addition to the bow, you also get an arm guard and arrow rest with your purchase. Keep in mind that this particular model is a right-handed version. It comes in either a 48” or 54” string version and between 12-22 lbs draw weights.

Best Recurve Bow for the Money

The Bear Archery Super Kodiak Recurve is a mid-level bow with an exceptional design. This bow has been the favorite of many archers due to its durability and accuracy. The bow has a 60-inch length, a leather side plate, bear hair mat, and an arrow shelf cut on center. The structure of the bow is rich and deep brown hardwood laminates. For under $550, you definitely get your money’s worth with the Bear Super Kodiak.

Best Recurve Bow Under $300

The Ragim Archery Black Bear is a higher-end one-piece bow that sports a 58” string. There are multiple points along the handle where you can attach stabilizers and sights among other attachments. The riser is constructed out of Padouk Wood, a material not commonly found on more well-known brands. There are other versions of the 58” Black Bear including 40 and 50 lb draw weights. This particular model is a 45 lbs draw weight.

Best Recurve Bow Under $200

Mandarin Duck isn’t as well known of a brand, but the Black Hunter 60” is high-quality professional bow equipped to make the toughest shots with pinpoint accuracy. This 60” model comes with a couple of different draw weights between 30-60 lbs, perfect for the serious marksman or hunter.

Best Recurve Bow for Target Shooting

The Martin Saber by Martin archery is a powerful bow, with this particular model holds a 29 lbs drawing weight. A notable feature of the Saber is that it is equipped with VEM (Vibration Escape Modules) that reduce noise and make the firing of the arrow smoother. In target shooting-focus and concentration are everything, and the Saber really strives to make the entire process as streamlined as possible. Since these bows are pretty popular, the stock and inventory can shift around a bit. You can also check out the 35 lb draw weight Saber. So far, Martin Archery has separate listings for its individual bows.

Best Recurve Bow Brands

PSE

When compared to the other companies in the archery industry (such as Martin, Hoyt, and Bear), PSE is newest to the scene, with its beginnings in 1970. Former Magnavox Corporate engineer Pete Shepley offered his ideas to other, already established companies, but when they didn’t bite, he decided to pursue his passion for archery full-time and started up his own company. Shepley began making release aides, arrow vanes, and compound bows, and in the early 1980s, the company moved to Arizona. Today the company’s home office, factory, and facilities span an entire city block. The company has more than 20 patents for archery products and bow design. PSE was one of the first businesses to machine accessories and bow risers from solid aluminum materials, and the company has developed an innovative, four stage creation process for making ultra-light bows.

Martin

Martin Archery has been in the industry since 1951 when the company was first established. The company has existed as an American icon for nearly 65 years, which makes it even harder to believe that following Martin’s death in 2013, the company faced difficulties and near extinction. An executive, Rich Weatherford, saw promise in Martin Archery and thought the business would be a good investment to turn a profit and create American jobs. In October of 2013, both Weatherford and Diversis Capital partnered up in a joint venture to buy Martin Archery a mere three days before the company was to be put on the auction block. Weatherford seeks to revive the ideals of the founder of the company, Gail Martin.

The new owner seeks to integrate the best technology for manufacturing compound bows. Three new product lines have been added to the company since 2014 including accessories, compounds, and takedowns. In fact, in 2014, Weatherford ensured the revamping of the entire Martin product line. As of 2015, the company entered the market with 14 brand new compound bows, a revamped takedown bow product line, and bows that have been added for both target archery as well as bow fishing lines. The brand new compound bows are sporting high-end, durable upper and lower limbs. Clearly, Weatherford has put a breath of life back into the company as he pursues business success backed by dedication, passion, and hard work.

Hoyt

Hoyt is a company that sells compounds, recurves, and archery accessories. The company has been in the archery industry even longer than Martin Archery, preceding the launch of Martin by two decades. Hoyt was officially established in 1921. Today, Hoyt has 14 compound bow models available, including Carbon Spyder ZT, Tribute, Faktor, Ignite, Nitrum, Ruckus and Ruckus Jr, Pro Comp Elite FX, Freestyle, and Charger. Additional compound options include the Pro Edge Elite, Podium X Elite, and Pro Comp, and Elite FX. In terms of recurve bows for target archery, Hoyt has the Formula Series Limbs and Risers and the Grand Prix Series Limbs and Risers. Additional recurves made available by Hoyt include the Gamemaster II, Tiburon, Buffalo, and Dorado. The recurves come with natural or camo finishes.

Bear

Fred Bear is the founder of Bear Archery. After seeing a documentary on bow hunting, Bear became interested in archery and crafting his own arrows, bows, and strings, and he mastered the art through the teaching of Art Young. In the early 1930s, Bear was making equipment for himself as well as his friends, and within six years he had dedicated all of his attention to the creation of Bear Archery. By the late 1940s, Bear Archery moved to Michigan. The founder of the company passed in 1988, but his dedication and commitment to crafting high-quality equipment remain alive and well in the heritage of Bear Archery.

The Bear Archery Grizzly Recurve bow is for a right-hand dominant individual. The price of the bow is right around $400.00. The Bear Grizzly Recurve bow comes with limbs made of a clear Maple core surrounded by fiberglass material. The structure of the Grizzly bow has remained unchanged since 1964. The bow features a Dacron Flemish string and is crowned. The bow is fitted with a cut on center arrow shelf featuring a Bear Hair Rest and a leather side plate. At the very end, I must mention that you can order and pay for all the above-mentioned bows online, preferably using video id verification systems such as Fully-Verified, just to make sure your transaction and your data are secure.

How to Buy the Best Recurve Bow for Your Individual Needs

Recurve Bow There are many different factors to consider when buying a bow, and all of the options listed above may have added to the confusion. If that is the case, continue reading this guide on how to buy the perfect bow to fit your needs.

What is a Recurve Bow?

The recurve bow is a weapon that can be traced back to 2000 B.C.E. in Asia. The bow is crafted from multiple pieces in order to achieve the curved shape. Early recurve bows featured limbs that were thin and wide. When the bowstring was removed on earlier bows, the bow limbs jutted forward from the bow’s grip. The recurve bow differs from the longbow in that the bowstring connects with the bow’s structure. The string on the recurve bow has a few inches of contact with the end of each bow limb, whereas the string on a longbow connects at two distinct points. When using a recurve bow you will find the limbs are forced vertically which speeds up the rate at which the arrow travels while simultaneously minimizing the shock to the hand holding the bow. To learn more about the history of the recurve bow and how they work, check out this Wikipedia entry.

Bow Performance

Getting the perfect recurve bow for your needs requires that you determine the bow’s performance level. The formula for determining bow performance is the combination of assessing how a bow shoots, how it feels when used by the archer, the accuracy of the shot, and the level of smoothness the archer experiences when making the draw. The same formula also requires the assessment of grip comfort, the amount of hand shock the bow produces after an arrow is released, the quality of the bow’s structure, the materials the bow is made of (hinting at its durability), transport conveniences, and the speed of the arrows used.

One way to get a good idea about what bow might serve you well is to talk to other archers. Other people familiar with archery can make recommendations pertaining to the bows and brands they have used in the past specifically for target practice or hunting. Dealers in sporting goods stores or archery shops are also useful for recommendations. You should consider taking a close look at reviews online, especially those written by users of the product in question. Check out customer feedback to see what features bows have to offer, which are favored, and which ones users say you can do without. Of course, the specific features of your bow will be based on your particular user interests and your current archery skill level.

Recurve Bow Structure

The term “recurve” describes the framework of a bow. When you look at a recurve bow the equipment’s structure features a riser in the middle and two limbs extending from the riser. The bow is made of carbon, fiberglass, or wood. Each limb has an end portion that curves out and slightly back, resulting in a recurve. The framework was originally designed in ancient Egypt. The benefit of this design is that the bow can store up a greater amount of energy and can also deliver that energy with greater precision and effectiveness than a straight limb bow counterpart.

You will see the recurve bow is used heavily in the Olympic competitions, and the bow I personally prefer for hunting and field practice. In the past, horsemen used recurve bows as a form of protection. If you are a neophyte archer, you might opt for using a bare bow recurve fitted with a single bowstring and a rest for your arrow. Archers with a greater amount of skill might choose a recurve bow with all the bells and whistles including clickers, stabilizers, sights, and pressure buttons.

Recurve Bow Variants

Recurve bows are available in three types: Basic, Takedown, and Composite. If you invest in a Basic Recurve Bow, which is the least expensive option, the bow is made of opposing grains put together with glue or wood laminates. This process allows for the bow maker to get the right curve in the bow’s structure. The Takedown Bow is one that can be taken apart for ease of transport from one place to another. There are different methods for the breakdown of a Takedown Bow, including the Fred Bear Takedown option or the pocket and locking system method. Finally, a Composite Recurve Bow is the oldest type of bow, which were made from materials like laminated sinew, wood, and horn. Many hunters like recurve bows because they are lightweight, easy to use, and shorter and faster than other options. Before investing in any of the recurve variants, however, it’s important to determine your correct draw weight.

Deciding What Recurve Bow Works for You

Before you make that important bow investment, make sure you cover all your bases. There are certain things to watch out for when buying a recurve bow and there are definitely some coveted features to keep in mind when purchasing a bow. Here are a few things to consider while you are looking to buy the best recurve bow on the market.

The Reputation of the Manufacturer

Have you looked into the bow manufacturer and how long the company has been in business? What kind of bows does the company make? Are there any available user reviews that can tell you something about the quality of the bow you want to purchase? The top-notch companies working in the archery industry take pride in their work and make bows out of quality, lasting materials. It is in your best interest to invest in a recurve bow made of exceptional materials and preferably one that comes with a product warranty. In contrast, some manufacturers are not as reputable and may produce a bow of substandard quality. Potential issues to keep in mind include, but are not limited to, the following:

Inflexible bow limbs — The limbs on a recurve bow need to have the right level of flexibility in order for the bow to work correctly.
Poor quality bowstring — The bowstring needs to be of the highest quality which also means you will need to wax the string occasionally to ensure the bowstring’s integrity.
Uncomfortable poorly made bow risers — The riser of the bow is the portion in the mild of the upper and lower limb. As the grip area, it should be comfortable.
A bow that cannot adapt to changes in the atmosphere — This can lead to potential damage to the structure of the recurve bow in the future.

Bow Weight

Bow weight and draw weight are two entirely different things. When considering bow weight a lighter recurve bow will serve you well. If the bow is light it is easier to tote around and will allow more shooting time without exhausting yourself physically. Of course, with practice, you will be able to extend the amount of time you use the recurve bow with each session. Experts recommend a recurve bow less than three pounds in overall weight if you plan to use the bow for actual hunting. If the bow is for a female or youth, weighing closer to two pounds is ideal. However, if you are just using the bow for a bit of target practice, the weight of the bow should not be a profound concern.

Draw Weight

Getting a recurve bow with the appropriate draw weight is crucial for your shot to be accurate. The draw weight is the amount of force put on the bowstring to make a desired shot. For the purpose of hunting live prey, a bow with a minimum draw weight of 40 to 45 pounds is required. If there is a draw weight less than 40 pounds and you attempt to cover an length of greater than 15 yards, it is more likely to miss a lot of shots during the hunt. This is due to the arrow not having enough force to penetrate the prey. The draw weight will determine the amount of force an arrow uses to penetrate your target. If your main concern is target practice, draw weight is not as critical as when hunting live game. Having a correct draw weight on your recurve bow will ultimately allow you to make an ethical kill as it contributes to the consistency of your shot.

You need to determine your draw weight based on your own gender and body weight. If you are new to using a recurve bow, go for the lighter draw weight that is ideal for your body type so you have an opportunity to get used to drawing back and using a bow. After spending time with the recurve bow, drawing back the bowstring should become more familiar. As your strength improves, upgrade to a bow with a higher draw weight. At this time, you can begin to base your draw weight on comfort level. Below are the draw weights recommended for beginner youths, women, and men:

For small children who weigh anywhere between 70 and 100 pounds, the recommended beginner recurve bow weight is between 10 and 15 pounds.
For older children who weigh anywhere between 100 and 130 pounds, the recommended beginner recurve bow weight is between 15 and 25 pounds.
For females who weigh anywhere between 100 and 160 pounds, the recommended beginner recurve bow weight is between 25 and 35 pounds.
For small-framed males who weigh anywhere between 120 and 150 pounds, the recommended beginner recurve bow weight is between 30 and 45 pounds.
For other males who weigh 160 or greater, the recommended recurve bow weight is between 40 and 55 pounds.

Recurve Bow Length

When making a recurve bow investment you must consider bow length. To be able to make long shots, a longer recurve bow is necessary. Take for example the longbow when it was used in medieval England — the bow was often a bit taller than the shooter and the greater size of the bow allowed it to cover a distance of some 200 yards. A recurve bow that is 60 inches or greater in length is within the realm of being a “long bow.” To test the length, hold the recurve bow out in front of you as if you were releasing an arrow. The bottom limb should not come in contact with the ground. A bow 10 inches longer than your height is sufficient. Alternatively, you can use a formula of doubling your draw length for determining bow length, thus, if you have a draw length that equals 30 inches, you will need a bow length of 60 inches.

Quality of the Bow Riser

When buying a recurve bow, look for one with an ergonomically styled grip for maximum comfort during use. A good grip helps to minimize bow vibration following arrow release. It is good for the riser to have brass bushings so it can add important accessories to your bow as well, such as a bow sight and a stabilizer. The riser will be crafted out of aluminum or hardwood. Either way it needs to be light, but durable.

Quality of the Bow Limbs

Typically, a recurve bow’s limbs are made of fiberglass material. The fiberglass will make the upper and lower limb less prone to breakage over the course of time. The exterior of the limbs might be camo dipped for additional color, or the limbs might be a solid color like black. There are even some bows featuring a pink camo exterior for women.

Special Options

Some recurve bows come with special features. Take for example the takedown recurve, where you can remove both limbs from their connection with the bow’s riser by unscrewing the screws that connect the parts. Essentially, the takedown bow is all about convenience and ease of transport, and it is in no way a necessity. The benefit of a takedown bow is that if something breaks you can replace a part instead of the entire bow.

Some new bow buyers wonder if they should invest in a left handed or right handed bow. The selection should be based on your dominant hand. If you are right-handed, you will buy a bow to hold in your left hand, and if you are left handed, you will buy a bow to hold in the right hand. If you are ambidextrous it does not matter, as long as you are comfortable holding the bow. Essentially, bow orientation focuses on what hand you use to draw back the bowstring, not hold the bow itself.

Accessories

There are a number of accessories you can use with recurve bows, all of which help to have an improved experience during target practice or hunting. Some of the primary accessories to consider include stringers to help get the bowstring on the bow more easily, and a bow holder to ensure the safekeeping of your recurve bow when it is not in use. An armguard can prevent potential injury in the event the bowstring accidentally strikes your arm. The arm guard is actually a sheath that you place on your bow arm. It is sometimes identified as a bracer. A recurve sight helps to see the target with greater clarity and from a distance. An arrow rest is an accessory that attaches flush to the bow’s riser and holds the arrow in position until you release the bowstring.

Conclusion

Clearly, when it comes to recurve bows, there is a vast array of models to choose from, which means it is important to have a good sense of what you are looking for before you shop. It is a good idea to sit down and note the different features you are looking for in a recurve bow. Make sure you know the draw weight, length, and whether or not you want a takedown structure. Also, consider how you plan to use the bow. To begin, check out models from any of the leading manufacturers mentioned in this guide.

Hunting Gear

Reviews of the Best Binoculars for Bowhunters

Binoculars today are much more efficient than those used in the past. Bulky binoculars with vision that does not last past sundown are nearly obsolete. The optics used nowadays have the ability to collect light in complete darkness, which is very convenient for the adept bowhunter. Regardless of the animal or the landscape, a good pair of binoculars is a key asset for catching prey.

Key Aspects to Look for When Purchasing Binoculars for Bowhunting

Before trying to identify the best binoculars for bowhunting, take the time to know exactly what qualities you are looking for. Here are some of the key aspects to consider before purchasing binoculars for bowhunting.

Amplification

Binoculars are sold in three primary powers of amplification: 8x, 10x, and 12x. The amplification indicates how magnified the target will appear to your eyes.

Lower magnification (7x or 8x) provides a larger view and heat waves are less noticeable, which means the view will be clearer in warmer temperatures. Naturally, a more high-powered pair of binoculars will provide better detail.
Medium (and sometimes lower) powered binoculars can be useful if you often experience headaches and weary eyes during long periods of glassing.
High powered bowhunting binoculars offer superior zooming ability at longer ranges to determine tines or the animal’s sex. However, these binoculars often have a restricted field-of-view (FOV), making them less practical for glassing unidentified animals. However, if you have already identified the animal’s location, and there is no need for “spotting,” higher magnification binoculars are ideal to reflect finer details.

Objective Dimension

In addition to amplification, it is important to consider the binocular’s objective dimensions. Objective dimensions are represent the diameter of the back of the lens. For example, if you have a pair of binoculars that are 10×50, the first number indicates the amplification and the second number indicates the objective dimensions. A larger objective dimension number means the lens is wider, which allows more light to pass through, and enhances vision as dawn and dusk, or in any situation where light is limited. However, a larger objective dimension will likely be heavier than smaller sizes that don’t collect as much light.

Price

The prices of bowhunting binoculars can vary widely. Some cost as low as $29.00 while others can cost beyond $3000. It all comes down to your specific binocular needs. As a rule-of-thumb, the more pricey the binoculars, the better the lens. Pricier binoculars will also likely have enhanced clarity and light gathering features. That being said, by prioritizing your needs and evaluating the trade-offs, there’s no need to raid your savings in order to purchase a good pair of binoculars. Consider also the warranty provided by the manufacturer. Some companies offer an unconditional lifetime warranty, which is most likely the best option available, and should be factored in to the total price you are willing to pay for the product.

Secondary Aspects to Consider When Purchasing Binoculars for Bowhunting

Field of View (FOV)

There is no set guidelines for selecting the “correct” field of view (FOV). If you plan to use your binoculars in broad open spaces, high FOV will be beneficial. However, if you are more focused on finding game that moves quickly, a high FOV is not required.

Prism Category

Hunting binoculars come in two key “prism” categories: porro prisms and roof prisms. The main difference between the two is that porro prisms are usually larger and heavier as they require a larger model to reflect the light several times, while roof prisms are usually lighter, with a sleeker design. As a result, roof prisms are typically deemed more practical, and porro prisms tend to be more affordable.

Eye Relief

Eye relief is a key consideration if you wear eyeglasses or sunglasses. Eye relief determines the distance you can hold your binoculars from your eyes while maintaining the full image in focus. If you are a bowhunter who wears eyeglasses, a minimum of 14 to 15 mm will likely be the best fit.

Focus Style

Binoculars come equipped either with a center focus, or a separate eyepiece focus. The separate eyepiece is helpful for medium to long distance use. Additionally, if your target is more than 30- 40 yards away, binoculars with a separate eyepiece require zero focusing on your part. There are also no exterior parts, which makes them more resistant to dampness and wear-and-tear. Center focus binoculars work best for targets that are not more than 30 yards away.

Dimensions

Even for the most experienced bowhunters, full-sized binoculars can feel quite heavy. The type and quantity of glass used to execute the binocular design adds significant weight to the product, which can be especially burdensome while hiking. If you plan to be wearing your binoculars around your neck for long treks, be sure to consider that a lighter, 30 mm objective design may be easier on your back and neck.

Water Resistance and Rubber Coating

Rubber coating is a key feature for bowhunting binoculars as it makes it easier to grip the binoculars during damp weather and provides greater durability. Water resistance or waterproofing are also important factors to consider, along with resistance to soil, dust, and other weather conditions. Additionally, a sealant can keep binoculars from fogging up or leaking.

Accessories

From time to time, manufacturers will include a decent set of accessories to come along with binoculars, usually a case, strap, and body harness. Out of these three, the case is probably the most important as it protects against abrasions and damage during transport, and provides additional protection for binoculars that are not rubber coated or waterproofed.

Six of the Best Binoculars for Bowhunting

Below are six of the top binoculars for bowhunting, in no particular order. Keep in mind that the origin of manufacturing is crucial not only to ensure quality, but also to know that there is a local branch near you, should any problems arise. The quality of the manufacturer can hint towards the quality of warranty and after-sale service. If you are planning to make worthy investment on your binoculars, companies with a good product and reputation should be given preference.

Prices are categorized by lower-range (under $300), middle-range ($300-$599), and higher-end binoculars ($600 and up).

1. Vortex Optics Viper HD 10×42

This superior binocular is one of the best on the market and comes equipped with a myriad of features, including an O-ring that seals against moisture (fog), water, and dust. The Vortex Optics Viper HD has a multi-coated design that provides superior image quality due to its highly dense and extremely low-level dispersion glass. With a high user rating, this state-of-the-art binocular is for the serious bowhunter. The rubberized structure and custom grip is unparalleled in other models. The Vortex Optics comes with a variety of accessories as well. Some bowhunters may find this model a bit heavy, but not uncomfortably so. In addition, the FOV (field of view) is smaller compared to other higher-end models.

Features:

Durability
HD low dispersion glass
Multi-coated lens offers sharp details with supreme hues and clarity

Price: Higher-end

2. Upland Optics Perception HD 10x42mm Binoculars

Upland Optics Perception HD is a more reasonably priced choice among the highly rated binoculars for bowhunters. With a 10x magnification and a 42mm objective lens, this multi-textured binocular is a moderately priced option for more casual bowhunters. Buyers of the Perception HD found the product a superior optic purchase with quality imagery and lucidity. On the whole, this model has great value for the money.

Features:

Enhanced magnesium chassis
Dielectric coating and multi-coating enhancing color, images, and light transference
Moisture, fog, debris, and dust protection
Small hinge for easier management

Price: Medium-range

3. 40049 Leica 10×42 Geovid HD-B Ballistic Range Finder Binocular

Listed as one of the best-selling binocular models around the world, this 40049 Leica 10×42 is unmatched when it comes to superior quality. The Leica brand has a pristine reputation not only for producing amazing binoculars, but for producing some of the top-rated microscopes and cameras on the market today. This binocular model has all the features you are looking for as an experienced bowhunter. Probably the biggest disadvantage to this model is the high-end price. Nevertheless, it’s filled with up-to-the-minute ballistic properties, a barometer, thermometer, and inclinometer. This binocular design is worth saving up for.

Features:

Water and fog proof
Nitrogen filled
Advanced technology for effortless hunting

Price: High-end

4. Leupold Rogue Binoculars

This top-quality binocular offers more than sufficient attributes on the lower-end cost spectrum. The Leupold Rogue Binoculars offers bountiful eye relief and a large knob for focusing on prey.

Features:

Generous eye relief
Waterproof
Porro prisms and multi-coated lens
Great price

Price: Lower-end

5. Swarovski Swarovision 10×42

The Swarovski EL Swarovision is one of, if not the most, elegant and sophisticated pair of binoculars on the market today. They are the Rolls-Royce of binoculars with a hefty price tag to match! A top-quality protective cover and amazing lens with additional top-of-the-line attributes place this pair of binoculars at the top of the market. You will see what you’ve been missing once you look through the lens of this superior product. It will be hard to find a better pair of binoculars for hunting to compete in form, texture, size, lavishness, and overall sleekness. The Swarovski Swarovision 10×42 is a bit heavier than less costly hunting models, but its to be expected when purchasing higher-end binocular designs.

Features:

Field view of 336 ft at 1000 yds
Crystal clear images
Three different types of coatings: Swarobright, Swarodur, and Swarotop
Outside lenses coated with Swaroclean guaranteeing incredibly easy cleaning

Price: High-end

6. Vortex Talon HD 10×42 Binocular

The medium-range Vortex Talon HD binocular is reasonably priced for the included attributes. With extra low dispersion-glass and HD, this set of binoculars is both lucid and damage resistant. What’s more, a view of nearly 350 ft at 1000 yds is exceptional and rare for a 10 power, 42mm objective binocular irrespective of the price. Vortex cleverly designed this mid-priced quality product with features comparable to higher-priced, European models.

Features:

High Density ED Glass
Waterproof and Fog proof
Phase Corrected

Price: Middle-range

Conclusion

Finding the ideal binoculars for bowhunting will require time and effort. You will need to consider particular qualities like eye relief, FOV, focus type, and more. Nevertheless, if you know what you want, you will find your perfect pair of binoculars with a bit of patience. By doing your research, you will be a happy hunter with the perfect bowhunting binoculars to help capture your game!

Hunting Gear

The Best Rangefinders for Bowhunting

A rangefinder could be a useful tool for your next hunting trip. As there are many options on the market, each with their own set of pros and cons, it can be tricky to identify what’s best for your needs. Keep in mind, not all rangefinders were created equal.

It is always beneficial to make an informed decision; in this post, we will review rangefinder basics, and what to consider when buying one of your own.

What is a Rangefinder?

Rangefinders operate as a type of monocular fit with a laser that can be pinpointed onto a target. Rangefinders measure the time it takes for the laser to reach the object and return, which allows the hunter to judge the distance between himself and the target.

As you can imagine, this means rangefinders aren’t very efficient in foggy conditions, or in situations where the target isn’t very reflective. Every laser rangefinder features a target reticule, which helps you pinpoint the target.

Some rangefinders use LCD displays that superimpose black lines over the target. Although helpful, it will be a bit harder to distinguish between objects in low light conditions.

Other rangefinders use LEDs to supplement vision. While most LEDs are adjustable, they tend to get washed out in very light conditions making them nearly useless. Using an LED rangefinder can also really hamper your night vision if your eyes have adjusted to low light conditions.

Basic Considerations

It’s important to keep the obstruction of view in mind, as it will carry over to anything else that appears on the screen. An LCD display with a backlight will allow you to hunt in all light conditions.

The size and weight of all your equipment will have a big impact on your hunting experience. It’s vital to bring enough to be adequately prepared, but too much weight can wear you out, and make you less agile. This means a lightweight and compact rangefinder is likely the best choice.

Priority Modes

Rangefinders are typically either set to be in first priority mode or second priority mode.

First priority mode is commonly used for golfers, as it finds the first object in sight and disregards farther objects. This is ideal for an open area (like a golf course) where the unobstructed view allows you to flag the target with pinpoint accuracy.

Second priority mode, on the other hand, is better for hunting, as it disregards closer objects to range more distant ones. This means that any foliage that lies between you and the quarry will be ignored, and the rangefinder will focus on the target instead.

There are rangefinders on the market that allow you to switch between the two modes, utilizing each of them at the appropriate time.

Rangefinders are usually marketed to highlight the maximum distance they reliably range a target. Keep in mind, though, that this distance is often only obtainable under perfectly optimal conditions. Take some advertisements with a grain of salt.

It’s also important to consider how waves from the sun, glare off of snow, and air pollution could all contribute to your rangefinder being impaired. Consequently, a game animal can typically only be successfully ranged at one third or one half of the distance that was advertised for the rangefinder.

Some models of laser rangefinders come equipped with magnification capability, which means they effectively function in the same way as a common set of binoculars. It’s important to note, however, that this doesn’t extend the potential range of the rangefinder. This feature only works to magnify small objects in order to make the ranging process feel a bit more streamlined.Since magnification won’t work if your lens is cloudy or foggy, companies often also offer updated lenses to enhance the ranging experience.

In addition to first priority or second priority mode, rangefinders also come in either horizontal mode or scan mode.

Horizontal mode is useful in mountainous regions. This feature uses trigonometry to factor in elevation changes when ranging so you can range uphill or downhill.

Scan mode allows the hunter to “scan” back and forth over a ranging area in order to look for multiple targets at the same time.

With these rangefinder basics in mind, we are going to take a look at a few rangefinder options and evaluate pros and cons to help you make a more informed purchase.

SIMMONS RANGEFINDER VOLT 600

The Simmons Volt 600 uses an LCD display that can range between 10 and 600 yards. In much the same way as their rifle scopes, Simmons uses state-of-the-art technology to get the job done.

This option is totally weather proof, making it durable and useful in any conditions. The simple design doesn’t have as much advanced technology in its components, but as a result, is reasonably priced.

NIKON ACULON LASER RANGEFINDER

Similarly to Simmons, Nikon is known for both its superb rifle scopes as well as rangefinders. Nikon produces many rangefinders, but the Aculon proves to be their most representative product at a reasonable price.

The Aculon is the smallest rangefinder on this list, meaning its easy to pack and saves space for other priority items. The owners manual for this rangefinder claims accuracy up to 550 yards, but some have claimed it remains accurate up to 650 yards. The optics are all multi-layer coated providing an optimal viewing experience.

The Aculon also has a clear and easy to read LCD display, as well as a one button operation. The simplicity of the product gives you more support to focus on catching the quarry and spend less time adjusting the rangefinder. The Aculon is waterproof and rainproof and is affordable even for those on a budget.

WILDGAME INNOVATIONS HALO XRT LASER RANGEFINDER

The Halo XRT rangefinder is a multipurpose tool that is great for the golfer and the hunter alike. This rangefinder has gained popularity for its ergonomic design and can range up to about 500 yards with a 6x magnification level. It has a built-in scan mode which makes it ideal for hunters who are constantly on the move. This rangefinder is also completely waterproof.

As mentioned above, hunters swear by the ergonomic design of this rangefinder. Not only does it have a gripped hold, but it includes finger indentations that make it even easier and pleasant to use. It’s priced surprisingly well, which is a nice bonus.

BUSHNELL MICHAEL WADDELL BONE COLLECTOR CAMO VERSION

This simple, lightweight rangefinder is ideal for hunting. It can target at up to 600 yards and has a 4x magnification. What sets this rangefinder apart is that it’s both rainproof and has a frame that is much sturdier than many other rangefinders on the market. The durability of this rangefinder can withstand the inevitable knocks and bumps of an extended hunting trip.

Another great feature of the Michael Waddell Bone Collector is that it performs well even in low light conditions. This will help you squeeze out every last bit of light in your hunting excursion. Although relatively new to the market, it’s become a quick favorite in the hunting world.

While this list isn’t exhaustive, it should give you an idea as to what to look for in a rangefinder. All rangefinders are not of identical quality, so it’s best to shop around and compare specs before you buy.

Accessories

Drop Away Arrow Rests: The Best Options for Your Bow

A good arrow rest can make a world of difference for the performance of your compound bow. Regardless of whether you prefer to go hunting with, or spent time on the target range, an arrow rest is an integral component to the optimal functioning of a compound bow set up. There are different types of arrow rests oriented towards beginners and pros, and hunters and target shooters. For those archers who are not rank amateurs or total nubs, a drop away arrow rest offers the best balance between top notch performance and mobility. And these arrow rests can function equally well on the target shooting range as well as in the wild as part of a hunt. So if you are a pro, a drop away arrow rest is the best addition to your compound bow.

What is a Drop Away Arrow Rest

there are different kinds of arrow rest designs out there, ranging from the shoot through or prong arrow rests, to the full capture or containment arrow rests and the drop away or fall away arrow rests. The latter combines the best features of the former in an advanced package ideal for the more experienced bowmen.

The other two designs face some problems when it comes to the arrow fletching clearing the arrow rest. If parts of the arrow rest comes in contact with the fletching, it can seriously affect the accuracy of the shot and even cause damage to the arrow. In a drop away arrow rest, this problem is completely taken out of the equation due to its innovative design. In the other arrow rests, the parts that touch the arrow shaft and anchor it in place are what usually comes in contact with the fletches as the arrow leaves the bow. But in a drop away arrow rest, a trigger mechanism pulls down these parts as the arrow is released, creating ample space for the fletching to pass through unimpeded.

In most drop away arrow rests, the arrow is usually placed in a “Y” shaped cradle that has to be pushed up into place. There are different trigger mechanisms available at present. The installation and calibration of these mechanism can be a little tricky, which is why a drop away rest is considered more appropriate for archery pros rather than beginners.

Things to Consider While Picking A Drop Away Arrow Rest

Unlike other arrow rests, a drop away arrow rest has no compatibility issues with different arrow sizes or fletching designs. As long as you are talking about a modern compound bow, the primary considerations when buying an arrow rest of this kind falls into the following main categories:

Cost: drop away rests tend to be the most expensive arrow rests in the market, due to their complicated designs and advanced trigger systems. The top of the line products from some high-end brands could set you back by a few hundred dollars even. So if you are on a tight budget, you might find your options somewhat limited when compared to the cheaper arrow rest designs.

Bow condition: drop away rests are not simple plug and play attachments. Their performance will have to be tuned to match the speed and power of individual bows. And in order to get this done, you have to ensure that your bow is properly tuned, especially if it a brand new one. Once that is done, the arrow rest trigger mechanism has to be fine tuned to match the release speed of your bow, to ensure that the cradle falls away at the optimal time. Unless you fully know what you are doing, these operations are best left in the hands of seasoned pros.

Trigger Mechanism: Buss operated systems are easier to install and calibrate for the average archer. Limb driven designs, on the other hand, offer better performance, though they can be a bit of a pain to properly install. Improper setup can result in fletching contact and damage, while a perfectly installed system will give you more accuracy and forgiveness than the average buss operated rest. Another newer variant of the buss system, called the inertia trigger release can be found in some higher end variants. They offer total containment, which is of vital use to hunters in the field, while providing full clearance even for bigger arrows and fletchings. Each of these designs have their pros and cons, and the choice is entirely dependent on the requirements of the individual bowman.

Top Drop Away Arrow Rests Reviewed

Vapor Trail LimbDriver Pro V Rest

A smooth functioning and efficient drop away arrow rest from Vapor Trail, the LimbDriver Pro V is a limb driven system with not too complicated set up. Once you manage to install it properly, the drop away function performs flawlessly. Since this is a limb drive system, you don’t have to get yourself tangled up in any kind of buss cable or slide trigger mechanisms. The V shaped rest will hold position longer than average, ensuring a stable arrow flight, will still finding time to duck out of the way of the oncoming fletching. You will have to pay anywhere between a $100-$150 for this baby, but the performance and hassle free use is well worth that price.

Pros

Extremely easy to install and set up, compared to the average drop away arrow rest.
Ideal for target shooters looking for tighter groupings.
Lightweight, improves stability and accuracy.

Cons

Doesn’t have full containment, might not suit some hunters.
The plastic build doesn’t guarantee the most durable arrow rest in the field, again a con more for hunters than target shooters.

NAP Apache Drop-Away Arrow Rest

New Archery Products are well known for their evocatively branded Apache series of rests. This is purely a hunting oriented arrow rest, or at least, that is how the manufacturer has branded it. With an all metal durable frame, wilderness camo, sound dampeners and full capture, it is not hard to spot where its ambitions lie. At sub $100 retail prices that drift closer to the $50 mark with discounts, this is an affordable drop away rest for hunting enthusiasts. At the offered price, the Apache has a nice array of features that should make this a worthwhile purchase for almost any hunter.

Pros

Easy to install and tune.
Sound dampeners are effective in the field.
The rugged all weather build quality with camo is great for hunting.

Cons

The large mounting bracket may not fit all bows.
The all metal construction means that this is definitely a heavy rest.

QAD Ultra W-QURH Rest Quad Hunter

This innovative drop away design from Quality Archery Design uses a proprietary velocity drop away technology. It has to be attached to the downward buss cable to trigger the mechanism. With little contact to the arrow, this is a great option for both hunters and target shooters. Hunters especially will appreciate the full containment design and noise dampening rubber parts during stalking. The trigger mechanism works superbly, dropping away only at actual release. You can come to full draw and it will stay up even during slow letdowns. At around $40, this is a great piece of equipment that could keep a lot of bowmen very happy.

Pros

Innovative VDT technology
Full containment and noise dampening for hunting.
The rest stay up solidly and will only drop away if the arrow is launched.
Has a very quiet thumb switch to engage and disengage the trigger mechanism.
Excellent pricing.

Cons

Not the most durable options out there.
The fasteners and screws can give some problems.
Some users have reported regular fletching contact.

Ripcord Technologies Ace Micro Rest

This is a really good fall away rest with ultra slimline clearance for excellent vane clearance. And it also offers full containment for the bow-hunters. If you use some of the newer vane designs, this Ace Micro Rest is one of the options that have managed to keep up with the evolving arrow design technologies. Though they don’t exactly come cheap at beyond the $100 mark, you get what you pay for, with advanced micro adjustment options. Pro target archers and tinkerers alike should find its feature list to their liking.

Pros

Works well even with the shorter thicker vanes.
Advanced tinkering options are great for pros.
Doesn’t fall away if you come to full draw and let down.
A ThumbCock allows for speedy and efficient reloading with one hand.

Cons

More oriented towards pros and target archers rather than beginners and hunters.
The price might be a deterrent for some.

Conclusion

As far as the question of choice is concerned, there seems to be a great diversity within the drop away or fall away arrow rest models available in the market. From the amateur-hunter oriented $40 rests to top of the line models for pro target archers at $150, there is something for every kind of archer out there. And most drop-away rests are advanced enough to handle both hunting as well as target shooting. If you are an archer who likes to dip into both jars, this category offers a lot of choices.

Accessories

Reviews of the Best Arrow Rests for Archers

There is nothing too complicated or convoluted about arrow rests when it comes to their purpose. They hold the arrow in place on the bow, giving it support until you draw and let loose, shooting the bow. That is all there is to it. It aids in improving your overall stability and accuracy of your shots. Though its purpose is straightforward, choosing the perfect arrow rest is not that easy. If your choice is a design that is not compatible with your technique, skill level or purpose, the arrow rest will adversely affect your accuracy and aim.

Table of Contents

Why Arrow Rest Designs Matter
Shoot Through Rests
Containment Rests
Drop Away Rests

Why Arrow Rest Designs Matter

The complications arise because in archery, there is wide diversity in terms of bow design, archery stances, release aids, body alignment, and whether you plan to use the bow for hunting or target practice. So archery encourages a fair amount of diversity. Beginners may prefer a simpler recurve bow while the more seasoned pros will usually opt for a modern compound bow. You may opt for a traditional finger release or a more modern mechanical trigger release.

Problems arise because the performance of a particular arrow rest will differ depending on how you hold the bow at a particular angle, the type of arrow you use, and your release technique. The fletching of the arrows in particular, will get affected by a particular arrow rest design if it is not compatible to a particular release mechanism. Also some arrow rests will fail to hold an arrow in place in certain situations. So there can be no single design which can claim to be the best arrow design for all bowmen. What works well for one may actually ruin the experience for another. So depending on your requirements, the best arrow rest will vary.

So lets keep things as simple and straightforward as possible. There are three major arrow rest designs popular among archery enthusiasts at present. They are:

Shoot Through Rests (Prong rests)
Containment Rests (Capture rests)
Drop-Away Rests (Fall-Away Rests)

We will broadly analyze their features, capabilities and suitability for different kinds of archers. The reviews of some of the top arrow rest designs in each category will also be included therein.

Shoot Through Rests

These are one of the oldest arrow rest designs still in the market. And they are still popular despite the arrival of more modern arrow rest designs because of their simplicity and effectiveness. And they are also one of the cheapest arrow rests around.

The Design: they have two prongs, whose spacing can be easily adjusted, depending on the diameter of your arrow. These prongs create a kind of “cradle” where the arrow will stay at rest until released. They have a spring loaded mechanism that cause the prongs to fall forward creating an extra space for the fletches to pass through without getting impeded by the prongs. After the arrow has been fully released the mechanism brings the prongs right back up again.

Pros and Cons:

They are easy to operate and adjust.
They are the cheapest models.
They don’t work with arrows with helical or offset fletchings.
They don’t secure the arrows properly.
They use outdated technology.

Suitable For: A very cheap option for beginners and especially target shooters. Though they can be effectively wielded by all kinds of archers, hunters will face more issues with the prongs. Inclined shots or canted bows tend to cause the arrow to fall away from the rest position, delaying your shot and wasting precious seconds that might allow your quarry to get away. They have been largely eclipsed by the more modern arrow rests.

Recommended Products:

NAP QuikTune 800 Arrow Rest

A very cheap arrow rest that can be had for anywhere between $20-$45, this will work well in all weather conditions. They are very easy to attach, tweak and tune. Good value for money.

Mossy Oak Steady Launcher Arrow Rest

If you need a dirt-cheap arrow rest with no frills ideal for beginners, this could be the arrow rest for you. At less than $15, you get exactly what you pay for. Nothing more, nothing less.

Allen 171 Archery Arrow Launcher Rest

Another inexpensive option for beginner target archers looking to improve their scores on the range. You may have some issues if you have a recurve bow as this is better suited for a compound bow.

Containment Rests

These modern arrow rests offer a direct improvement over the older prong based models. The patented “Whisker Biscuit” type arrow rest has become one of the most popular arrow rest designs in the market.

The Design: Instead of having the arrow rest precariously on prongs, the containment or capture rest totally encircles the arrow shaft, in essence “capturing” it and holding it firmly in its grasp. While the very popular Whisker Biscuit variant has a disc of soft bristles with a hole in the middle where the shaft of the arrow rests, the “three point contact” models have three spokes that hold the arrow shaft firmly in place. This design has the maximum contact on the arrow shaft.

Pros and Cons:

Firmly anchors the arrow in place, with zero chance of the arrow falling from the rest, even in different stances, alignments and angles
Whisker biscuits work with all types of arrows while the 3 point variant will require standard fletchings.
They dominate the market with numerous models and variants.
The increased contact means that prolonged use will cause damage to fletching and vanes.
There will be a decrease in forgiveness as well as performance of shots.

Suitable for: Bow-hunters without even a shred of doubt, especially beginners. The firm grip on the arrow means that it will not dislocate from the rest even while moving. This level of stability is exactly what hunters need in the field. Target shooters will not benefit much from this, since they largely shoot from stable stationary stances. And the performance hit will put them at a slight disadvantage in competition. These rests are great for beginner who are still learning to keep a stable stance and aim.

Recommended Products:

Wingeler Medium Arrow Rest

Incredibly cheap at around the $10 mark, this is a great option for beginners and especially kids to hone their archery skills. A basic Whisker Biscuit design, it offers adequate performance so long as you don’t expect too much from the cheap plastic frame.

Trophy Ridge Sure Shot Pro Whisker Biscuit

A more expensive proposition at around the $80 mark, this original Whisker Biscuit model is nevertheless worth that extra cash. With its sturdy aluminum body frame and durable nylon bushings, this is an arrow case made for rough use in the field. Excellent choice for hunters who mean business.

NAP QuikTune 360 Capture Arrow Rest

A decent three point contact model in a sea of whisker biscuits, this design allows minimal to zero vane contact and improved speed and accuracy for pro hunters who don’t like the performance tradeoffs that whisker biscuits make. A good product around at around $30.

Drop Away Rests

A modern improved take on the older shoot through rests have resulted in the fall away or drop away arrow rests. They offer some of the best performances of all arrow rests thanks to zero contact with fletchings upon release. But they are also the most complicated to setup and get running.

The Design: The prong design has been improved to create deep often “Y” shaped cradles where the arrow can rest snugly without much risk of falling off. Some designs even offer an extra arm above the prongs to fully contain the arrow. When the arrow is released, after a set time, the cradle will fall away completely, leaving the arrow fletchings free of any encumbrances in their path. To achieve this, the rests have a push up design, one that has to be raised into position with a nylon cable/cord. The release of the bow triggers a movement in its buss cable or cable slide, either of which is connected to the

triggering mechanism of this rest. This movement triggers the rest to fall forward, but only after the arrow has achieved stability in its flight.

Pros and Cons:

Combines the best aspects of shot through and containment arrow rests
Zero trouble with all fletching designs.
Can accommodate a wide variety of vane sizes.
They are complicated and require some effort to set up, which can be hard for beginners.
The most expensive type of arrow rests.

Suitable For: both hunters as well as target shooters. The more experienced they are, the better. The triggering mechanism has to be properly programmed according to the characteristics of the bow being used. This can be a bit overwhelming for beginners. But provided they can get a pro to take care of that, this can be a fantastic option for beginners as well. Works exceptionally well in the target ranges. Is also favored by pro hunters who dislike the performance downgrades on whisker biscuits.

Recommended Products:

QAD HDX Archery Rest

Drop away rests tend to be quite expensive and this model from QAD has a decent price of around a hundred bucks. For that price, you get a sturdy stainless steel frame, a sleek design and all the top of the line features like lock down, vibration dampening and velocity optimization. Excellent for both target shooters and hunters.

TruGlo Downdraft Drop-Away Arrow Rest RT Xtra

For a more budget oriented drop away rest, this TruGlo model ticks all the right boxes at around $80, and can be picked up for as low as $50 on sale online. With sealed bushings and rubber dampeners, it offers superior performance and silenced arrow loading, crucial if you are a pro hunter. For added flavor, it comes with a camo finish.

RipCord Technologies Ace Micro

A top of the line full containment model, this will put you back by a good $140, slightly lesser if you can get it at a discount of course. Designed for pros, this has all the advanced adjustability features that target archer would want. If you want to improve your scores on the range, this might be one of the best option for you that money can buy.

Conclusion

Regardless of you skill level, purpose and choice of equipment and arrows, there is an ideal arrow rest out there tailor made for you, at a budget you are comfortable with. The challenge is in identifying your needs properly. Hope this article helps you in that in some meaningful way. Happy target shooting/hunting!

Accessories

Choosing the Best Bow String for Your Bow

When you own a bow it features three basic parts that are considered fundamental to its operation. Your bow is made of a riser, limbs, and a bowstring. If the bowstring is absent or it breaks, the bow is no longer operational until the bowstring is replaced and restrung. The bowstring you choose for your equipment is significant as it influences the fine-tuning of your bow, the amount of noise a released arrow produces, the amount of vibration generated from a released arrow, and the size of the groupings that are the end result of several shots striking a selected target. Contemporary bowstrings are made of different materials depending on the manufacturers of the bowstrings you choose.

Bow String Materials

Dracon: For hundreds of years, bowstrings were primarily made of waxed linen material and this was the basic structure of the bowstring right up to about 66 years ago. The other materials used for making bowstrings include Chinese grass fiber, silk, catgut, cotton, and horsehair. By the late 1950s and early 1960s, synthetic materials were preferred over the waxed linen so often used for bowstrings. Of all the synthetics used for making bowstrings, the very first to be introduced to the industry is the Dacron polyester material. Dacron is a highly stretchable material, gives a 2.6 percent stretch and it has a 50-pound strength per included strand. Dacron is still the ideal material for bowstrings fitted to older bows, wooden bows, and archery equipment for the neophyte.

Kevlar & Vectran: The Dacron strings were considered the best string on the market for about ten years when the 1970s and 1980s brought the novelty of the Kevlar non-stretch bowstring: This ended up replacing the coveted Dacron in terms of popularity. Kevlar, and another synthetic material, Vectran, both of which are liquid crystal polymers, offered archers faster shooting speeds due to the thinner threading. The advantages of Kevlar and Dacron included longer durability, the ability to remain long lasting even in extreme temperature changes, and moisture-proof attributes. The downside to Kevlar, which only has a 0.8 percent stretch and offers 70 pounds of strength per strand, is that the string will last about 1000 shots before it breaks and requires replacement. Kevlar intensifies bow limb stress, and because of its bending at the nocking point, it will often fatigue to the point of sudden and abrupt breakage.

Dyneema & Spectra: In the early to mid-1980s, the introduction of Dyneema and Spectra bowstrings served to remedy the issues that were are common with Dacron and Kevlar strings. The Hoyt Archery Company brought the Allied Signal Spectra bowstring material to the forefront of the industry and it proved wildly popular: more so than any other material in the prior three decades before its introduction. Both Dyneema and Spectra are made of a special fiber material called Ultra High Modulus Polyethylene or UHMPE for short. There are a few differences between Dyneema and Spectra, but, for the most part, they are similar. The strings are durable, resistant to moisture, environmental conditions, and solvents. Only seriously elevations in temperature weaken the string, which presents as stretch and creep issues following the introduction of high tension and heat, often times during a competitive event.

Blends: In the mid-1990s, manufacturers were yet again looking for a means to improve the quality of bow strings on the market. This is the time when blending of existing synthetics came into play and the first blended material was a combination of UHMPE and Vectran. The latter mix ended up remedying issues related to creep, but eventually the string would wear out. However, the issue was manageable if the bow owner took good care of the string and waxed it regularly with some string wax.

Bow String Construction

If a bowstring is constructed with care, it can contribute to the bow’s performance and the archer’s accuracy. First, when a bowstring is manufactured, the strand tension needs to remain consistent throughout the string. If there is no symmetry and evenness in the tension of the string strands, it will make the string unpredictable in terms of the way it will behave. The lack of consistent tension can contribute to irregularity in shot consistency and it can make getting tight groupings on a target next to impossible to achieve.

In order to make sure your string has the appropriate amount of tension per strand and that there is a decent distribution of the tension required, you can remove the bowstring from the packaging and remove any twists in the bowstring. Take the string and using your stringer you can string your bow. Then, take three to four shots just for practice: doing so helps to stretch out the material in the bowstring. Allow your bow to set aside for at least eight hours. Then restring the bow after you have retwisted it so that it fits to the brace height you need. You should have about 20 to 60 twists in the string when you have got the right brace height. If you want less noise and a slower shot, put more twists in the string. If you want some speed and fewer twists, brace yourself for a little bit more noise when an arrow is released.

Tips for Buying a Bow String

When buying your bowstring you will need to get one of the appropriate length. If you fail to get the correct length it will be impossible to achieve the brace height and the overall bow mechanics will be negatively affected s well. If you have a string on your bow already, your problem is half solved: All you need to do is to take its measurement from one end of the bowstring to the other. However, if you have no string to measure, there are several steps you can take to try to figure out what the right size bowstring is for your needs.

First, check out the factory numbers on your bow. Bear in mind the numbers on all bows are not always accurate and the numbers you do see may not be all inclusive in terms of measurement. For example, Hoyt bow factory numbers reflects the length of the cable but not the yoke. The next best thing you can do is call the manufacturer of the bow to find out what size bowstring you require: You can often get this information for the company’s tech support.

In the event the company that made your bow is out of business, you can sometimes still find owner’s manuals online. You might do well to contact a professional at a sporting goods shop who can advise on figuring out the correct string length. Otherwise, you can put the bow in a press and use some fishing line to make mock thread for gauging in order to get a sense of the size string you require.

The B-50 Dacron Recurve Bowstring

Cir-Cut Archery Products is the maker of the B-50 Dacron Recurve Bowstring. The string is available in several sizes and strands. The 12-strand string is recommended for bows up to 40 pounds. The 14-strand bowstring is recommended for bows with a draw weight up to 50 pounds. The 16 strand strings are ideal for bows with a draw weight of 65 pounds. When you buy the string it ends up being four inches shorter than the actual measurement you order as the string’s measurement is different when the bowstring is under tension. The bow is available in 48, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, 64, and 66 AMO lengths. You will find the string more than reasonable in terms of pricing as well.

The Samick Sage & Polaris Replacement String

Another excellent bowstring you can buy for restringing your equipment is the Samick Sage & Polaris bowstring. The bow is available in a 14-strand version suitable for bows with 24 to 40 pound weights. Alternatively, for bows weighing 45 pounds or more for draw weight, you can get the 16 strand bowstring as well. Each string is pre-twisted and the string is adjusted for brace height. The Samick Sage & Polaris is a bit more costly than Cir-Cut Archery Products’ B-50 Dacron Recurve Bowstring.

The Flemish Fast Flight Plus Bowstring

Trad Gear Archery sells the Flemish Fast Plus Bowstring that is suitable for bows that can easily handle high performance, low stretch bowstring material. The string is twisted in such a way it allows for a quieter shot, and the bowstring’s tuning will adjust naturally as the string is stretching. The strings contain 18 strands in all in a construction presenting as three bundles of string. The nock fit is perfect and the string is a good thickness to ensure its longevity. The string color is primarily black while the strands are bronze and black in color. String sizes vary from 44 inches up to 62 inches. The sleek and durable design makes this bowstring a coveted option among archers.

In Conclusion

Since your bowstring is one of the most basic components of the bow and the equipment will not work without it, it is a good idea to spend some time shopping around for the best bowstring on the market. You do not want a bowstring that will not allow for shot consistency, and you do not want a string that is too weak and ends up breaking at a critical moment during a hunt. Locating the perfect string has all the advantages an archer requires: noise reduction, greater control, a better shoot, and bow longevity.

Accessories

Reviews of the Best Bow Stabilizers

If you are an archer and you are interested in hunting live prey, you want your initial shot from your arrow to be as quiet as possible. You do not want to startle the animal and give your prey a warning of your presence before your projectile ever takes flight, as it may very well cause the prey to do what is called “jump the string.” Essentially, your selected target will hear you release your arrow and will bolt off into the woods to safety long before your shot can make contact. Now, while there is no way to eliminate all the noise that a bow produces when you are hunting, an investment in the best bow stabilizer can help in minimizing the bow vibration and noise releasing an arrow produces. A quieter shot will definitely contribute to a greater likelihood of getting that kill shot to happen.

Achieving a Quiet Shot

Even the avid archer who has been years of experience backing every single shot can benefit from buying one of the best bow stabilizer selections on the market. While some archers believe they can take down a deer or other prey by speeding up how fast the arrow actually travels, this is not really the case.

Essentially, the belief that the arrow will be able to fly fast enough to get to the animal before the sound of releasing the bow gets to the selected target is physically impossible, despite how fast the arrow might actually be moving. Consider the fact that some of the top of the line bows can release an arrow at a speed of about 400 feet per second. Next, consider that the majority of bow users are relying on equipment that allows for arrows to release at speeds between 250 and 300 feet per second. The fact that the speed of sound travels at a rate of 1088 feet per second flies in the face of the notion that any arrow will ever reach the prey before the sound produced when you release your bow.

When you release an arrow not all of the energy that comes from the tension of the bowstring releases with it. When the arrow flies, the energy that remains following the shot passes through the body of the bow and results in some sounds and vibration. The sounds that are produced are both low and high-frequency noise. The bow has an upper limb and lower limb that vibrates and makes an extremely quiet thumping noise. At the same time, the bowstring and the accessories on the bow produce additional noise, with the string vibrating at a fast rate so it produces a high frequency reverberation.

This is when buying the best bow stabilizer becomes so important. The stabilizer is capable of dampening some noise and, when coupled with a high quality silencer, you will find you can quiet the bow considerably. Hunters and tournament archers alike appreciate high quality stabilizers because the accessories come with so many benefits. For instance, in addition to taking on a bit of the vibration from a shot, the stabilizer lends to greater shot accuracy, and it helps in reducing the torque and achieving bow balance. Of course, stabilizers have the most important job of stabilizing the bow and shot.

Bow Stabilizers: The Basics

You get plenty of selection when it comes to choosing a stabilizer for your bow; the accessory is sold in various sizes, shapes, and under different brand labels. Any stabilizer you buy will have to be attached to the bow via screws. To that end, some bows are sold with a stabilizer as part of the package. If you got a stabilizer with the bow package, you can test it to see what it does are far as helping improve the accuracy of your shot and the stabilization or steadiness of the bow.

Design

At one time a bow stabilizer was of a very basic construction and manufactured with either a rubber or metal body. The stabilizer was attached to the bow with screws and with this attachment the two pieces were unified into a single body. This allowed the stabilizer and bow to share any vibration made, but it was not really effective in quieting the noise produced. In contrast, today’s stabilizers have an evolved design combining the weighted frontend, dampener made of rubber, and the metal stabilizer body. The combination of all three features allows for a significant difference in terms of sound dampening and vibration control.

Stabilizers are manufactured out of an array of materials including plastic, metal/stainless steel, and rubber or a mix of all the latter. The primary part of the stabilizer, the rod, is created out of a tube-shaped piece of material: Usually, this material is extremely light in terms of its design. ABS plastic and carbon are the two most common materials used in contemporary stabilizers, whereas older stabilizers were often made of a metal material. Many archers have demonstrated a preference for the models made of light, durable, but thin carbon material because it is durable and resistant to the wind.

Dampening Device: The best bow stabilizer will also feature a piece made of sand, gel, or rubber material: This is the dampening device. While it is true that all of the latter materials are something that will quiet the vibration of your bow, the rubber material is what you will find in the best bow stabilizers because rubber easily absorbs the shock to which it is exposed. Some stabilizers are sold with the dampener and sometimes the unit is sold separately.

Weighted: Some stabilizers are fit with a weighted front portion and this piece is most efficient if it is positioned at the stabilizer’s end and at the furthest point from your bow. In the frontend position, the weight becomes a convenient counterbalance and contributes to shot stability. With improved stability, it allows for more consistency for each shot and smaller, tighter groupings. The weight that goes with your stabilizer is usually sold with the unit. Sometimes you get more than one weight, so the counterbalance becomes adjustable.

Stabilizer Length

The best stabilizer for one archer will differ from the best model for another archer: This is because there are so many factors that go into choosing the unit and one such factor is length. If the archer is using the stabilizer to shoot at targets then a longer stabilizer is a great choice. The longer length lends to greater accuracy with each shot because there is extra stability. Hunters do not necessarily need a long stabilizer and some are actually more comfortable working with those of shorter length. The best way to decide what length is right for you is to figure out what will help you make the most accurate shot so that you also end up with a humane and ethical kill. A stabilizer as short as one inch in length may be all you need if you are shooting close range, but longer lengths are best for the hunter who plans on using blinds and stands.

Still, longer stabilizers come with some major benefits. Since many new bows today feature reflex limbs and measurements from one axle to the other equaling roughly 35 inches: This means that most stabilizers are not as necessary as they once were. A stabilizer ranging from 4 to 10 inches is sufficient for any hunting endeavors. For tight groupings with each shot, you can rely on a 6-inch stabilizer. With the combined used of the rod, dampener, and weight system, you can reduce the vibration of the bow, minimize torque, diminish hand shock, and limit noise.

Trophy Ridge Static Stabilizer

The Trophy Ridge Static Stabilizer is one of the best bow stabilizers you can buy. The unit is reasonably priced, and it features a durable, but light design. The bow stabilizer is the perfect length to give you stability and a quiet shot: It measures 6 inches in length. The stabilizer comes with two weights that are customizable for added balance and weight. A wrist sling made of braided materials comes with the stabilizer. The special design of the rod, where there are holes in the body, allow for air to move through the stabilizer if it happens to be windy outside: You can remain steady in windy conditions. The stabilizer also comes with a Ballistix Copolymer system.

The Pro Hunter Maxx Stabilizer

Bee Stinger is behind the development of the Pro Hunter Maxx Stabilizer unit. The model comes with a SIMS de-resonator and the bar is a full 10 inches in length for tighter shot grouping s with every shot. You get three one-ounce end weights for adjusting the unit. The model comes with an internal Harmonic Dampener, and a 100% Ultra-Rigid Carbon Rod. This bow stabilizer is nicely priced too, and you can get in one of 11 colors. The Pro Hunter bow stabilizer supplies you with exceptional shot control.

SAS Archery Aluminum Bow Stabilizer

The SAS Archery Aluminum Bow Stabilizer weighs all of 5.3 ounces and it measures 5 inches, 8 inches, or 11 inches. The stabilizer is fit with a dampener to reduce vibration, and it has a high quality aluminum design. The unit comes with a full draw counter balance. The unit features a unique design with holes all through it so it is something that will still lend considerable stability if you are shooting in windy conditions. The exterior is solid black in color.

In Conclusion

Whether you have a penchant for striking targets on the range, participating in archery tournaments or you crave the chance to take that kill shot when you are hunting, a stabilizer is an exceptional accessory to use with your bow. A quiet shot is vital to a successful strike on an animal, and some of the best bow stabilizer selections allow for noise and vibration dampening. With greater control over the shot and the noise it produces, there is a greater likelihood that the hunter will get more kills on various hunts.

Arrows

The Best Arrows to Shoot in 2019

With different manufacturers making arrows of varying lengths and material, shopping for arrows can be overwhelming. There are arrows suitable for fishing, hunting, target shooting, and competitive use. In addition to the use of the arrow, keep in mind the materials used in crafting the arrow, and the length and weight of the arrow as well. Below is a brief guide to make your arrow evaluation process a bit friendlier.

Arrow Types

The oldest evidence of the use of arrows as a weapon with a tip made of stone dates back 64,000 years ago. Arrows crafted out of pinewood materials date back some 10,000 years, and 4,500 years ago the practice of archery as we know it now came into being.

Arrows for fishing and traditional use: Since arrows used for fishing will be shot into bodies of water, they have to be made with extra durability in mind. Despite hitting water, fishing arrows are projectiles that stop short after release from the bow. When fishing, the arrows will likely strike parts of the underwater landscape such as rotting logs and rocks, so while they must be durable, these same arrows must have a set degree of flexibility so they do not break when they come in contact with obscured landscape. These arrows feature barbed tips made of aluminum material. Near the nock one will find a line where the fishing line can be inserted and attached to the arrow; this same line is connected to a bow mounted fishing reel.
As an alternative, one could use traditional arrows made of cedar or pinewoods. These wooden arrows are exceptional when using long bows or recurve bows, and are fairly dense and stiff. When an arrow is made of wood it can certainly be used in the hunt or even target practice, however, the spine and weight of wooden arrows can often be inconsistent thereby making such arrows less ideal for tournament usage.

Arrows for hunting and target practice: Hunting and target practice arrows are specifically designed to deliver a greater degree of shock and more kinetic energy when released. Arrows for hunting are crafted out of materials like carbon fiber or aluminum. The type of metals used to make these arrows make them stiffer and heavier than the types of arrows one would use for recreational pursuits. Arrows used for target practice usually have plastic or metal non-piercing pointed tips. These arrows must be light and flexible yet durable enough to penetrate a target made of hay, insulation, or foam materials. The most common kind of target arrows are those made of carbon fibers since such arrows are a perfect blend of lightweight and flexibility contributing to greater consistency in every shot. Points have a precise weight to ensure flight balance and down-range target accuracy.

To learn more about the types of arrows available, here is a Youtube video on the subject:

Design

It can be beneficial to familiarize yourself with some of the common terminology used to describe arrows and their use before purchasing. “Shaft” is a term used for describing the main portion of the arrow; it is a tube made of graphite composite, carbon, or aluminum. The tube is hollow so it is light and aerodynamic. Each arrow shaft has one end with an arrow tip or head and the opposite end fit with a molded nock made of plastic materials. The “arrowhead” is what pierces the target or prey. The “nock” attaches to the bowstring and makes it easier to draw back and take a shot. An “insert” is at the arrow’s upper end; this insert is what fits between the arrowhead and the shaft, connecting the two. A “screw in tip” allows you to swap out different points including fishing, field, and judo points as well as blunt-tips and broad heads. The “fletching” of the arrow is made of feathers or plastic vanes of varying colors. There are often three fletches, two of matching colors, and one of a mismatch. The non-matching colored fletch is also called the “cock-fletch.” Each of the fletches has a parabolic shape.

Aluminum Arrows: Affordable, Straight, & Well Constructed

First hitting the market in the ‘40s, then increasing in demand in the ‘70s, aluminum arrows are still the most desired arrows on the market today. These arrows are affordable because they are inexpensive to make, and the integrity of the arrows in terms of construction is exceptional. Aluminum arrows have excellent rebounding qualities, are resistant to humidity and other weather conditions, and have nearly perfect straight shafts to ensure down-range shot accuracy.

Carbon Arrows: New, Improved, Stronger, and Split-Resistant

The earliest carbon arrows offered the archer great flight, but their excessively small diameters limited arrow strength. Modern carbon arrows, however, have overcome the limitations of their predecessors and are stronger and straighter than ever before, which means they are more resistant to splitting. Carbon arrows are wrapped or weaved to reduce the likelihood of splitting and to increase their strength. What’s more, with lighter weight arrows, the archer is getting more feet per second with every shot. Carbon arrows have good energy transference, are straight flying, durable, and are becoming more affordable with each passing year.

Arrow Hybrids: Carbon & Aluminum Mixes

A bit less common than aluminum or carbon arrows alone are those that bring the two materials together in a single arrow. These hybrids give the archer the best of both worlds by providing them with a stiff, but light, fast flying arrow with superior energy transference. The hybrid arrows are as powerful and flexible as aluminum arrows. The shaft is light and made of an aluminum core wrapped in a carbon covering. There are also new carbon core, aluminum covering hybrid arrows as well. The hybrids are the priciest of arrow models to date.

A Word on Draw Weight

Shopping for arrows requires you know your draw weight. A comfortable draw weight will determine what, and how much you can shoot with an accurate shot. At a comfortable draw weight you should be able to fire 25 arrows, one after another. If after eight or nine shots you are starting to feel fatigued, reduce your draw weight to something more comfortable. Keep in mind that draw weight is not determined by your experience as an archer, rather by what you can comfortably handle at a given time.

To Determine a Comfortable Draw: Using a bow release that is locked so it cannot fire, attach the release to the bowstring to the nocking loop. Only hold the release and allow the bow to hang as you imagine you are in a tree stand looking down on your prey. Behaving as if you will make a shot straight toward the ground, bend at the waist, grab the bow grip, and pull back the string. Remember to bring your elbow all the way back past your ear so your hand aligns with your ear and lower jaw. Gain your anchor point and then release slowly by letting it down as you guide the string back into position.

Common Buying Considerations

Before you buy, figure out your bow length and your draw weight as well as the kind of tips you are planning to use. All of these will factor into your arrow selection. Arrow charts are available for use with listings for point weight, arrow length, make, model, brand, and whether to use a recurve bow, modern long bow, medium cam, compound bow, or medium hard cam. These charts can help you quickly find the appropriate arrow for your target practice, tournament, or hunting needs.

Straighter, lighter, and longer arrows are the most expensive as the quality of the make lends to a better shot. There is a big difference between aluminum and carbon arrows when it comes to weight. For every three grains an arrow varies in weight, it increases or decreases the speed of that arrow by about a foot per second, respectively.

Carbon arrows do not bend as easily as aluminum arrows. When an aluminum arrow strikes the target, the remaining kinetic energy will force the arrow to flex from side to side. Carbon arrows do not have this type of flexibility, and the remaining kinetic energy naturally causes the arrow to drive forward with the impact.

You should use the same arrows for hunting and practice. When you use the same arrows, your sights remain the same, the weight feels the same, and you are honing your skills using the same arrows you will use during the hunt. Practicing with your hunting arrows means greater familiarity with the look, feel, speed, and penetration of the arrows you have chosen initially.

Best Hunting Arrows

By far the best hunting arrows on the market are produced by Easton. Their XX75 Jazz Aluminum Arrows are available in packs of six and come in 28, 29, and 30-inch lengths. The arrows are feather-fletched and made out of an aerospace alloy with a weight tolerance of ± two percent. Every XX75 Jazz arrow features a hard-anodized finish. The arrows are ± .005 straightness guaranteed, and precise, nock designs featuring a flawless throat design. Easton’s Jazz arrows are great for archers ages three and older. Easton makes the arrows with a right helical three to four-inch fletched feather for the purpose of causing the shaft to spin while in flight. When spinning in flight, the offset causes the arrows to have greater flight stability. The fletch feathers are Easton’s Trueflight feathers, meaning that authentic domestic turkey features are used to make the fletches or each arrow. The arrows are ideal for 15 to 50 pound bow weights. Best of all, Easton’s XX75 Aluminum Arrows are inexpensive.

Best Target Arrows

Wizard Archery makes the best target arrows appreciated for their high quality design and affordability. The fiberglass arrows are available in a 12-pack, and are available with a black-colored spine measuring 26, 28, or 30 inches. Wizard makes the arrows with extended durability in mind; each arrow comes with a high-quality target point made of steel and an Eastern nock. The arrows are perfect for both synthetic and Styrofoam targets, and work with long and recurve bows alike. The tips in the arrows are permanent and made of nickel-plated stainless steel. Wizard’s target arrows are exceptional for beginner archers as well as adept archers looking for a durable set of practice arrows for target shooting. The AAE plastic fletching and nock are colored.

Best Carbon Arrows

By far the best carbon arrows an archer can buy are the Maxima Red arrows by Carbon Express. The arrows come complete with nocks and collars, and they arrive with shafts in full length. The arrows promise the archer a consistent shot thanks to the repositioned arrow flex, the section of the arrow the manufacturer identifies as the RED ZONE™, which minimizes font end oscillation. With a reduction in oscillation during flight, the archer benefits from tighter groupings with every shot. Each arrow comes complete with the LAUNCHPAD™ Precision Nocks for superior control when the arrow is released. The nocks also ensure greater arrow alignment and shot consistency. Each arrow also comes with Blazer® vanes, Plastic fletchings, and the BullDog™ Carbon Express® Nock Collar to minimize impact on the arrow shaft. The Maxima Red arrows are available in two sizes: 250 and 350, and with shafts measuring between 33 and 34 inches in length.

Best Arrows for Recurve Bow Use

Allen Company makes some of the best arrows for recurve bow use. The manufacturer makes Adult Carbon Arrows and sells them in an affordable three pack. Each arrow Allen Company produces is tested to ensure its durability and quality. These arrows are made for users that might be a bit rough or tough when handling the arrows during the hunt, thus the shafts are made of carbon. They arrows are rated for 55 to 70 pound draw weights and every arrow has a helical fletching to lend to greater flight control, reduced oscillation, modeled vanes that are individually injected, and shafts with a high carbon content. The inside diameter of each arrows is .245 inches. The exterior diameter of each arrow is .295 inches.

Best Arrows for Compound Bow Use

The ICS Hunter Classic by Beman is one of five arrows the company manufactures. Absolutely the best arrows for compound bow use, they are made of multilayer carbon shafts available in four sizes: 300, 340, 400, and 500. The available weight grains/inches are as follows: 9.5, 9.3, 8.4, and 7.3. These arrows have a straightness of +/-.003 and they include CB inserts. Direct S-Nocks are also pre-installed on the arrows for you. These carbon arrows even feature the words “Don’t tread on me” along the shaft. They are priced at a midrange level thereby making them relatively affordable for every hunter seeking quality arrows for use with a compound bow.

Best Arrows for the Money

XT Hunter’s Gold Tip 5575/400 arrows are fit with blaze wraps, blazer vanes, and are made of carbon material. By far the best arrows for the money, they can be purchased by the dozen for under $150.00. These arrows are durable, light, fast in flight, and accurate. The vanes on the arrows are chocolate and white colored and the wrap has a mossy oak camo pattern. These arrows are good for a 55 to 75 pound range. The arrows are rigorous, stiff, stringent, and tough. These arrows are 8.2 grains for every inch of shaft. The spine deflection on the arrow is .400. Each arrow has an aluminum insert and a nock that rotates 360 degrees.

Conclusion

Getting the right arrows for target practice, tournaments, or hunting will undoubtedly define the overall success of whatever archery endeavor you undertake. Even the most powerful, well made, visually appealing bow on the market won’t be effective without the right arrows to supplement the perfect shot. When shopping for arrows, prepare in advance by knowing exactly what you require. Knowing the type of archery, the draw weight, the preferred material, and the ideal speed per foot will help you get the best arrows for all of your archery pursuits. The right arrows mean a more accurate shot, a more ethical kill, and a more productive target practice.