Best Compound Bows For Target Shooting And Hunting

Looking for the best compound bow for target shooting or hunting? In this guide we reveal the best compound bow for all archers.

What archer of this era doesn't dig a compound bow?

In recent years compound bows have seen a rise in popularity, and with this rise comes an increase in demand. Today, you’ll find hundreds of compound bow models available, which can make it difficult to identify the best compound bow from your run of the mill starter bow.

best compound bow

In this comprehensive compound bow guide, we will walk you through the best compound bows you can find on the market right now!

These bows can be fun to shoot and will give you a killer workout of sorts. They’re also the perfect choice for the hunter who is looking for more of a challenge, as modern extra powerful crossbows are now making the job of taking down big game easier and more effortless than ever.

Important note: you might notice that this round-up compound bow review is not featuring expensive premium models or "big names" such as Mathews or Hoyt. This is because when we choose the "best compound bows", we look for options that can fit a variety of users with different archery needs, styles, and budgets.

Without further ado, let's take a look at our best compound bows for target shooting and hunting. To make it easier, on this table we've only listed the most important compound bow specs that you need to choose the best compound bow for you: max speed, draw weight range and handedness. For more detailed specs on those best compound bow, jump to the comparison table.

Important: These compound bows are not listed in descending order of preference. Each one of these  compound bows has its own unique features, pros and cons, that make it suitable for specific archery or hunting needs. The compound bow that we prefer the most could differ from your preference. Pick the bow that best suits you!

Best Compound Bows

Compound bow name

Max Speed (FPS)

Draw weight range (Lbs)

Hands

Price

310

5-70

L&R

315

30-70

R

350

45-70

L&R

310

0-70

L&R

Topoint Archery M1 

(Best Compound Bow For Women)

320

19-70

R

AW Pro (Best Compound Bow Under $150)

320

20-70

R

320

30-70

R

206

40-55

R

SAS Rage (Best Compound Bow Under $200)

270

55-70

R

315

30-70

L&R

Cell

29-40

R

GENESIS Compound Bow (Best kids bow)

Cell

10-20

R

If you're new to the world of compound bows, we recommend you to read this guide until the end. You will find a comprehensive buyer's guide and a comparison table with all the compound bow features explained, which will help you choose the best compound bow for your archery needs and skills.

Best Compound Bow Reviews

Now, let's go through the features of the best compound bows  in more detail. The bows featured in this round-up review cover a huge variety of needs, styles and budgets. 

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1. Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro - Best Seller Compound Bow

The Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro is perhaps the most flexible, and undoubtedly among the best compound bow packages available on today's market. This bow is an absolute bestseller, and has proven extremely popular among both beginner and archery professionals. It features 3 different adjustability settings, and draw weight settings ranging 5-70lbs, which makes it a fantastic choice for young shooters and women or smaller framed users. 

While not the fastest shooter on this list at just about 310fps max speed, this compound bow has yet an edge over the competition for its vibration-free performance and great accuracy and power which will help you take down just any size of game. We absolutely loved to test this bow. 

In the video below, we explain why the Infinite Edge Pro is one of the best compound bow packages available on today's market, and why so many archers love it

The package is beginner-friendly and includes top-end accessories which are of impressive quality for a bow in this price range, and will enhance your shooting experience both in target archery and bow hunting.

What we like

What we don't like

  • Virtually infinite flexibility
  • Great accessory package
  • Beginner-friendly
  • Stealth features
  • If anything at all, the square grip can be a bit uncomfortable for some, but you can replace it if needed

2. Predator Archery RAPTOR - Editor's Choice

The Predator Archery RAPTOR compound bow is a hunting/ archery bow that has only recently appeared on the market, but that has already become very popular, thanks to its outstanding value for money and powerful features. With hundreds of thousands of bows sold last year alone, the Predator Archery RAPTOR truly deserve its success, as its performance is comparable, if not superior to that of premium compound bows costing hundreds $$$ more. 

This bow packs a surprising amount of accuracy and powerfar exceeding the expectations for a compound bow in this price range. User have also praised the flexibility, smooth draw cycle and maneuverability of the RAPTOR, which makes it a great choice for bow hunting.

Some users have reported minor complications reported with the cable guard, but this is a non-issue if you make sure the screws are tightened well before taking the bow out in the fields.

We experienced the RAPTOR compound bow as very fast and accurate, and it features solid and durable manufacturing. It's versatile, flexible and relatively easy to setup. It also comes with good quality accessories to shoot right out of the box, all at an incredibly low price tag. 

What we like

What we don't like

  • Powerful and accurate
  • Stealth features
  • The hottest bow at the moment
  • Great offer 
  • Some minor complications reported with the cable guard

3. Bear Escape - fastest compound bow

The Bear Escape is the flagship for Bear Archery, a name that needs no introduction among archers worldwide. Powered by H15 hybrid cam technology, this premium bow features an accurate noise-free performance and fires arrows at an incredible 350FPS. Available in two different poundage configurations and in a women-friendly version, the Escape is still very popular among all hunters and huntresses in need for that extra speed and strength to take on the next challenge.

The Bear Escape features the new H15 hybrid cam eccentric system design (which is something in between a single and a twin cam). This configuration ensures an extra smooth draw cycle and stability. We experienced that this bow is also very quiet thanks to the excellent noise-taming dampening system, a "must-have" for any serious bow hunter, and the blazing 350fps will take care of the rest.

One thing to bear in mind, is that the Escape has a 6″ brace height, which makes it much less forgiving than other bows, if your release is not clean.

Really, if you're looking for that extra thrill on a compound bow from a reputable brand, you can't go wrong with this Bear model. 

What we like

What we don't like

  • Extra speed (350fps)
  • Amazing durability 
  • Stealth features
  • Reputable brand
  • Short brace height (6") makes it less forgiving

4. Sanlida Archery dragon x8- one of the best budget compound bows

This compound hunting bow has great performance for a great value. The bow has a wide range of adjustable draw lengths, from 18-31". The bow has a draw weight of 0-70 lbs without needing a bow press. The Dragon X8 compound bow is a great bow for everyone, perfect for beginners, but also for experienced archers.

The beginner package contains everything you need to start shooting! A 5 pin sight, arrow nest and stabilizer. 

Anyone can use this bow, the bow is known as a perfect bow for beginners. But don't let this stop you as an advanced archer. Even for advanced archers this bow is a gem. The bow is incredibly easy to use, you don't even need a bow press to shoot it. The height of yourself or your child does not matter. Any height can shoot this bow.

What we like

What we don't like

  • Starter ready package
  • Good value for money
  • You can start shooting as soon as it arrives
  • No vibration dampening on the limbs and the string

5. Topoint Archery M1 - best Compound Bow for women 

The M1 by Topoint Archery is one of the best entry-level archery kits currently available. It features a well-designed, flexible bow and comes with $200 worth of plug-and-play accessories to get you started in archery and bow hunting right away.  While most of those accessories are not top-notch and would require upgrading at some point, the value on this offer is impressive.

We've rated the M1 the top compound bow for women, because of its lady-friendly features: the wide draw weight adjustments (19-70lbs) and extra light weight of only 3.3lbs. Combined with its high speed of 320fps and noise dampening system, this features make the M1 a top first choice for all aspiring or pros huntresses on a budget. Check out the awesome muddy-girl color finish on this bow!

The release trigger in this package can be a little extra sensitive and it isn’t tension-adjustable. This can be a major issue as it might affect shooting accuracy, at least until you get used to it. It can be a good idea to replace the bow release with a better quality adjustable one.

Overall, few offers on today's market can offer this combination of value, speed, hunting features, flexibility and affordability in the same package, so if you're on the lookout for a great beginner-friendly and/ or lady-friendly deal, the Topoint Archery M1 might be the right one for you. 

What we like

What we don't like

  • Fast bow
  • Lady-friendly
  • 200$ worth of accessories
  • Stealth features
  • Most accessories are not top grade and will need upgrading or replacement

6. AW Pro - Cheapest Compound Bow Kit (Under $150)

This is another all-inclusive, ready-to-shoot archery/hunting bow kit with lots of powerful features at a very affordable price. This package would be the perfect choice if you're just starting out in archery or bow hunting and want to see if this sport is right for you. It's one of the most affordable, good quality kits we could find on the market among those that have good durability, performance and user ratings. 

The AW Pro beats the competitors in the entry-level/ beginners market for the value for money offered in the package, and the quality of the bow, far beyond the expectations for this price range. Many users that purchased the AW Pro as a first bow have commented that, despite having upgraded to more professional models as their archery/ hunting skills and needs have evolved, they still keep and shoot this bow.

One of the best features that make the AW Pro an awesome choice for beginner archers is the 8" brace height, which allows for great shootability and forgiveness, despite the bow being a fast one at 320fps max speed.

As with other entry level packages, don't expect top-notch accessories: the release trigger will need replacing, and the included arrows are not of great quality either (although good enough for a package in this price range).

All in all, the AW pro compound bow is an a excellent choice for anyone who wants to get into archery or hunting, and find out if it's their thing without breaking the bank.

What we like

What we don't like

  • Fast bow
  • Very affordable all-inclusive kit
  • Stealth features
  • 8" brace height
  • Great for beginners
  • Accessories and arrows of questionable quality

7. SereneLife SharpEye - Best Compound Bow For target Practice

We couldn't leave this awesome compound bow package out of the list, as this deal is not to be missed. The Serenelife SharpEye is a solid starter bow that has appeared recently on the market, but it's already one of our most ordered product, and it's looking like it will become a best seller. 

We recommend the SereneLife SharpEye as a first time buy for the more "serious" beginner archer/ hunter, which is willing to put down a little bit more cash into a made in USA first bow investment, than what it would be on a cheap knock-off. We guarantee it will be worth it!

One great thing about this bow is the 7.4" brace height which makes it extremely forgiving and very easy to shoot, again good news for all the beginner archers with many hours of target practice ahead of them.

Remarkably, this SereneLife bow impresses for the sturdiness and quality of its USA-made materials, making it ideal for enduring long practice sessions or field trips. It's also fast (320fps max speed) and accurate, so you've only got yourself to blame if your groups are not tight or the white tail deer doesn't drop dead.

The quiver will need replacing as it has been reported to make the arrows hit the rest, and thus bend.

Needless to say, this is a shooter to keep an eye on, with accessories of more than decent quality for this price tag (make sure you get the package with the release included, as the bow is also sold separately).

Pros

Cons

  • Made in the USA
  • 7.4" brace height
  • Fast and accurate
  • Decent accessory package
  • Quiver needs replacing

8. siege SAS - Outstanding entry-level compound bow for beginners

Are you looking for a bow to take your archery skills to the next level? Or are you a starter looking for an easy-to-use quality bow? Then the SAS Siege 55 lbs 29' compound bow is perfect for you! This bow has a draw length of 29" and a draw weight of 40-55 lbs. 

The Siege SAS 55 compound bow is one of the best on the market for beginning archers. Thanks to the compressed ABS limb, the bow has perfect balance, weight and strength to continue the life of the bow.

The Siege SAS 55 can pull weights up to 55 lbs. The number of cut outs in the riser gives the compound bow a cool look. When the string of the compound construction is released, an arrow is launched at a speed of up to 206 feet per second. This is perfect for hunting.

From experience I can say that this is one of the finest bows to use as a beginning shooter. Several years ago I bought the Siege SAS 55 for my son and he still uses it to this day. He is extremely happy with it and can recommend this bow to anyone!

Are you looking for a compound bow that is perfect for beginners? Then the Siege SAS 55 is a gem. For both target shooting and occasional hunting.

What we like

What we don't like

  • Great value for your money
  • Perfect for beginners
  • Looks are great
  • A little heavier than similar sized compound bows

9. SAS Rage - Best Cheapest Compound Bow Kit (Under $200)

If budget is an issue, or you're simply looking for a bow kit to play with before deciding that archery is your thing, you can't go wrong with the SAS Rage compound bow. The value offered on this kit far outweighs its price tag, and that's why the user rating for the SAS Rage is still one of the highest we could find among bows in this category.

We feel to recommend this compound bow kit to anyone who wants to develop their archery talent, before moving on to more professional models.

The SAS Rage is made in the USA by a reputable manufacturer (Southland Archery), and its materials feel solid and durable. While not very fast (270fps), the SAS Rage is surprisinly accurate and easy to shoot, which makes it perfect for improving your archery skills, be it with target practice or 3D-shooting. 

If we were to list all the things we didn't like about the SAS Rage, this box would probably take up the entire page. The awkward draw cycle, overall loudness and cheaply made accessories would probably be at the top of this "black list". 

Some of these things have less impact than others on the overall quality of the package, however, remember that this is a USA-made ready-to-shoot compound bow that's sold at less than $200: a real bargain! 

Give the SAS Rage a try if you've decided to start out in archery/ bow hunting but have budget constraints. You won't be disappointed by the experience, but remember that the sport of archery is heavily equipment-reliant, which means that it's best practiced and appreciated with high quality gear in hand.

What we like

What we don't like

  • Made in the USA
  • Accurate bow
  • Starter kit available for under $200
  • Durable materials
  • Not a fast bow
  • Harsh and loud shooting
  • Cheap accessories

10. Raptor Compound Hunting bow- The budget bow pick

This Raptor Compound Bow is made in the USA. The bow has an adjustable draw length of 24.5 to 31" and a draw weight of 30 to 70 lbs without needing a bow press. 

The Compound bow comes in a package with a 5 pin sight, cookie style rest, stabilizer, 4 arrow quiver and string stop. Peep sight and d-loop are already installed. The bow is explicitly for right-handed shooters and available in black or camo.

The Raptor compound bow can shoot up to a speed of 320 feet per second. The bow is perfect for beginners and can be used for both hunting and target shooting. In addition, the bow can be adjusted for almost any length in minutes without using a bow press!

According to reviews, this is one of the best compound bows for beginners and is rated 4.7 out of 5. The compound bow is fully adjustable and super durable.  

What we like

What we don't like

  • Easy to adjust
  • Ready to start shooting within 5 minutes
  • Easy to shoot
  • Great for families
  • Only for the right handed

11. Dragon X8 Compound Bow- One of the very best budget compound bows

We believe this compound hunting bow has great performance for a great value. The bow has a wide range of adjustable draw lengths, from 18-31". The bow has a draw weight of 0-70 lbs without needing a bow press. The Dragon X8 compound bow is a great bow for everyone, perfect for beginners, but also for experienced archers.

The beginner package contains everything you need to start shooting! A 5 pin sight, arrow rest, and stabilizer.

Anyone can use this bow, the bow is known as a perfect bow for beginners. But don't let this stop you as an advanced archer. Even for advanced archers, this bow is a gem. The bow is incredibly easy to use, you don't even need a bow press to shoot it. The height of yourself or your child does not matter. Any height can shoot this bow.

What we like

What we don't like

  • It comes in a starter-ready package
  • You can use the bow directly
  • Good value for your money
  • No vibration dampening on the limbs and the string

12. PSE Archery Mini Burner Compound Bow- Beginners bow for kids

Are you looking for a good compound bow for your children? Then the PSE Archery Mini Compound bow is a good choice for you! The bow has a draw weight of 29.40 lbs and a draw length of 16” to 26 ½”. The compound bow is available for both left and right-handed shooters.

The mass weight of 2.7 lbs makes this a bow that can be easily carried during the first hunt. It is a perfect introductory bow for youth or beginning archers. It includes a ready-to-shoot package with everything you need to start archery. A 3-pin sight, arrow rest, arrow quiver, stabilizer, and three carbon arrows. The bow is made in the USA.

The nice thing about this bow is that it is a compound bow that is easy to hold up. This is often the problem with smaller children. It is easy to adjust draw length and poundage without a bow press, even if you have never done it before. 

The PSE Archery Mini Burner Compound bow is perfect for beginning shooters and children! It is one of the best compound bows for beginners on the market.

What we like

What we don't like

  • Very easy to adjust
  • Lightweight
  • 1-year warranty
  • A fantastic and affordable way to introduce a child to compound bows
  • Probably need higher draw/speed for game animals

13. GENESIS Compound Bow- One of the best Right-handed beginner bows

The GENESIS Compound bow is used by many archery schools across the United States. It is also the official compound bow of the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP). The bow is great for all archers.

Kids can't outgrow this bow because it doesn't require a set length. It has a single-cam design that provides minimum arc noise, no tuning difficulties, less recoil, and more accurate firing.

Archery, according to GENESIS, has the potential to benefit you and your family. That's why their arches are meant to remove any potential roadblocks to getting started. With this arc, barriers like cost, complexity, and intimidation are no longer an issue.

This compound bow was created with no let-off and no precise draw length needs in mind, making it ideal for novices of all ages, heights, and athletic skills. It's the ideal compound bow for beginners!

What we like

What we don't like

  • Amazing bow for beginners
  • Great bow for all ages and heights
  • Great value for your money
  • Perfect for children and adults
  • Might need adjustment

Best compound bow buyer’s guide

Whether you're new to the compound bows world or you're just in need of a refresh, this guide will help you navigating through the most important things that you need to know before purchasing a compound bow. Let's get started!

IBO speed rating

IBO Speed is a standard measurement of the speed of a 350 grain arrow released from a 70 lbs bow with a 30 inch draw length through a certified chronograph, measured in feet per second (fps). Note that this is a standard measurement, which means that using a different draw length/weight settings and different arrows type your effective maximum IBO speed measurement may differ.

A bow capable of shooting at over 320 FPS is generally regarded as a fast bow. We recommend at least 300 FPS for hunting, as a faster bow allows for better penetration and is therefore more lethal.

% Let-off

The let-off of a compound bow is defined as the point during the draw when the archer can hold less draw weight. This is a characteristic feature of compound bows and it's possible because of the energy stored by the cams. In contrast, recurve bows and longbows draw all of their power from the limbs flexing. As a results, the string becomes harder and harder to pull as you draw it back.

For example, a compound bow with a 70lbs draw weight and a 80% let-off will only require the archer to hold back 20% (100-80%) of its weight at full draw (14lbs). As evident from the graph above, the archer will still need to reach the peak of the force-draw curve before the force is let off at the "valley". This means that you still need to choose a bow within your draw weight category.

Axle-to-axle length (AtA or A2A)

The AtA is defined as the distance measured from axle to axle when the bow is at rest. Ideally, this measurement should be taken with the draw weight bottomed out, in order to obtain precise results. A longer AtA is usually associated with a more stable and accurate bow. However, longer bows may be less manoeuvrable and heavier than those with a shorter AtA. A bow used for target shooting will usually be longer than a hunting bow.

Brace height

Another feature you'll hear archers going on about a lot is the brace height. This is defined as the distance between the bowstring and the back of the handle. The shorter the brace height, the faster your bow will fire arrow. However, shorter brace height bows are also less forgiving, which means that your form needs to be "spot on" in order to shoot well.

AtA lenght and brace height

Min/Max Draw Length

The compound bow will draw a certain distance before the string stops. This amount of distance is referred to as the draw length. Most compound bow models feature a range of draw length so that they can be adjusted to fit the user for a more comfortable form when shooting. It’s crucial that the user finds the appropriate draw length configuration for many reasons.

To start, if the draw length is too short, it can negatively impact your accuracy because maintaining a reference point for your aim can become too difficult. When the bow is at a full draw, the user will have an anchor point. A draw that’s too short means you’ll have a floating anchor point, which often leads to inconsistency when shooting. It can also cause increased torque which will also affect accuracy.

If the length is too long, the user will naturally end up leaning back in an attempt to properly see through the peep sight. This can cause many problems such as poor posture and poor shooting form. The wrong shooting form will only add torque and tension to the bow, which again, will lead to inaccuracy. And even worse, this will probably cause the user’s bow arm to extend too far, placing the inner elbow in the path of the string.

For the beginning archer, we recommend visiting a Bass Pro Shop’s archery department to get measured for the appropriate draw length. Using the correct length will improve your form, accuracy, shot consistency and most importantly, safety.

Min/Max Draw Weight

Next up is draw weight. You must match your strength to a bow’s draw weight. A heavier draw weight will produce faster speeds, however, it’s more important to find a weight that you’ll be able to steadily hold at a full draw without putting too much stress on your body. The draw weight involves the peak amount of weight you’ll pull as the string is drawn back before released. When you’re considering a bow’s draw weight, look also for the (%) let off.

What hunters and target shooters also need to consider is the bow’s potential to be drawn back for long periods of time as you’re waiting for the best shot. Shooting in adverse conditions can also be a problem if the draw weight is too hard to hold for a long time or too heavy. Because of this, it’s important that you match the weight to your strength. When you’re testing out a bow, try drawing it for twenty to thirty seconds without shaking. If you’re able to, this means the draw weight is a good choice.

Accuracy is another important factor. Using the draw weight that you’ll be able to hold easily will allow you to have a more accurate and steadier shot.

Right-handed or Left-handed

Perhaps one of the most important decisions you'll need to make when choosing a compound bow is whether to shoot right-handed or left-handed. This is not necessarily related to whether you are right-handed or left-handed, but rather to whether your dominant eye is the right or the left eye. Usually, the dominant eye is on the same side as the dominant hand, but this is not always the case.

Best Compound Bow

To find out your dominant eye, hold both your hands at arm's length and form a small triangle between your thumbs and forefingers, as in the picture. Now, center a distant object through this hole and with both eyes open, slowly bring your hands closer to your face, while focusing on the object in the center. Close your left eye. If the object remains in view, you are right-eye dominant. If instead closing your right eye keeps the object in view, you are left eye dominant. 

Performance

The modern compound bow is able to shoot upwards of 350 feet per second. A bow that’s able to shoot heavy arrows at faster speeds offers the potential for greater penetration, which is crucial for the hunter. A faster arrow will also shoot flatter, working to improve downrange accuracy.

Noise will also be important to hunters. A bow that is quiet is preferred over a loud one. When you shoot a bow, the energy stored in its working components will be transferred to the arrow. However, some of the energy is lost as vibration. This can result in a loud sound with each shot you take. But thanks to advances in compound bow design, the energy loss is usually minimal. A vibration dampener is an accessory you can buy that also works to absorb any type of leftover vibration.

For the beginner, it’s important to understand the difference between the ready to shoot models and the bare bow. A compound bow is made to use accessories when shooting. Common accessories include a quiver, sight, and arrow rest. Ready to shoot models that are sold as starter packages will have these accessories already installed on the bow.  If you purchase a bare bow, then you’ll need to purchase these accessories separately.  Either way will work fine, just keep in mind that a bare bow requires some additional work and cash before you can take it out shooting.

Cam style

Over the years, a lot has been written about a bow’s wheels, more commonly referred to as cams. Check out our detailed guide if you want to know more details on how a compound bow works. A compound bow’s wheel shape can be either eccentric or round (old school bows feature rounded wheels). The individual features, shapes, and styles are numerous, but usually, they can be narrowed down to just four major types: single cams, dual cams, hybrid cams, and binary cams. Each style offers its own set of characteristics that will determine their best application.

Single cam models feature a round idler wheel. These bows are probably the most popular style, which is why pretty much every bow manufacturer produces this style. Because this type of compound bow features only one cam, they’re very easy to tune.

Dual cam (twin cam) models usually offer faster speed compared to the single cam, but they also often require more maintenance and tuning. Both of the cams must be synchronized in order to maximize shooting potential.

Hybrid cams features two asymmetrically elliptical cams: a control one on the top, and a power cam on the bottom. Their speed is often compared to dual cams. This  type of compound bow will function the same as a solo, as the idler wheel will be replaced with another cam. But adding the second cam works to offset the movement of the nock when compared to a solo model.

Binary cams are similar to dual cams, but offer a unique design. Both of the cams rotate the same amount when shooting and drawing, which makes this system pretty much maintenance free after you initially tune it.

Round wheel models were common in the early days and are the slowest type of compound bow. However, they’re very smooth and accurate, which is why they’ve become more popular over the years. They’re also relatively quiet, with minimal vibration.

Binary cams on the Infinite Edge Pro

Riser styles and material

The handle portion of the bow is referred to as the riser. Risers are available in a wide variety of materials, designs, and shapes. Most commonly, they are made out of aluminum, but carbon risers are also available. Their design and construction will greatly influence the price, performance, and function of the bow. Just like cams, each type of riser will feature. If you want to know more details on riser styles and how they work, check out or detailed guide on compound bow parts.

Price

As desirable features such as high flexibility, power and technology become a priority, the price tag will be a big factor as well. Remember however that your compound bow is an investment. If you’ve decided to get serious about archery, choosing a shobby bow to save money will end up making you lose money in the long term, as you will need to replace it. If you’re a beginner and still unsure as of whether you would like to pursue archery long term, you can take advantage of the many good entry-level starter kits available. 

Bear in mind that prices usually fluctuate seasonally, and oftentimes retailers have sales and offers that can save you a few bucks or more. Keep up with us and subscribe to our newsletter to make sure you won’t miss the next bargain!

 

Comparison Table of The Best Compound Bows For You

Now that you are more familiar with the compound bow specifications you can be confident in your choice of the best compound bow for your needs. Use the useful comparison table below to compare the best compound bows features in detail to choose the one that is best suited for you. By clicking on the little arrows in the column headers you can sort this table by whichever specification you want. Best rated? Fastest or cheapest bow? Highest draw weight? Just click the arrow corresponding to each specification to find out which bow meets your criteria.

This table is scrollable, also on mobile devices. Just use the scrollbar at the bottom to reveal the columns hidden on the right.

Click on the rating value under “Our RATING” to read the full review for each one of the compound bows.

Compound bowOur RATINGPriceMax IBO Speed (fps)Let-Off (%)ATA lengthBrace Height (inches)Min draw (inches)Max draw (inches)Min draw weight (lbs)Max draw weight (lbs)Bow mass (lbs)Riser materialHands
9.2$$3107531713305703.1AluminumL&R
SAS Rage7.8$27070357263055704.4AluminumR
M19.0$$32080287193019703.3AluminumR
AW Pro9.0$$32080308172920703.6AluminumR
RAPTOR Hunting Bow9.0$$3157530724.53130703.6AluminumR
Bear Cruzer G2 Ready To Hunt9.2$$31570306.512305703.6AluminumL&R
Bear Escape9.2$$$3507532625.53045704AluminumL&R
PSE Madness 349.1$$$3428034624.530.535,42,4950,60,704.1AluminumR
Serenelife9.1$$32075307.423.530.530703.9AluminumR
Leader Accessories 9.3$$296,300,31075-8028,31.57.519,2529,3125,30,5055,703.3,4.1,4.4AluminumR

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What’s the best compound bow for me?

This is the question that archery gear shops gets all the time, and for which there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer.

The number 1 rule when shopping around for a compound bow, is to make sure you get the best compound bow package for your archery/ hunting needs and skills. If you choose right, your bow will be a lifelong investment, and will make you enjoy the experience of archery or bow hunting for years to come. Not so much if you choose wrong. Many people abandon the sport of archery because they follow the wrong advice or choose the wrong equipment.

Choosing the best compound bow for you ultimately boils down to personal preference and will depend mainly on what you’ll be doing with it. Of course, if you’ve never used a bow before, it will take time and practice before you’re able to get a decent shot off.

Regardless of make and name, all bows will feature similarities that you should consider before you buy. Ask yourself why are you buying a bow? Will you use it mainly for target practice, or are you an avid hunter? Both applications will require different specs. But before you even begin to narrow your choices down to a few models, you’ll need to determine what size will work best for you. This way you will be sure that your final choice will be the best compound bow for you. 

Be sure to look for models that are user-friendly and manageable based on your size and desired application. Price will be a big factor in terms of which model you choose, but it shouldn’t be the deciding factor. Comfort, ease of use, style, and overall power should be at the top of your list.

FAQ

Which is better: compound or recurve bow?

A mighty compound bow is simpler to aim than a strong recurve because the string decreases the complete draw due to let-off.

The compound bow is smaller, adjustable, and available in various models and markets.

Is a compound bow stronger than a crossbow?

Regarding overall strength, the crossbow stands out as the winner. But when it comes to mobility, the compound bow takes the cake.

Crossbows have a speed advantage over compound bows of around 30 fps and 30 fps velocity

How to shoot a compound bow?

-Grip the bow so that the weight is equally distributed between your fingers and thumb.

-snap an arrow into the notch.

-Attach the mechanical release to the string near the point where the arrow is attached.

-Focus on the target and release the trigger by putting your finger down.

Who invented the compound bow?

Holless Wilbur Allen transformed a bow that had been relatively unchanged for years into a more impactful, accurate device that shot faster arrows with much less effort from the archer.

How to sight a compound bow?

-Align the bowstring upwards with sight pins.

-Nock an arrow to align the bowstring to the arrow's center point and sight.

-The sight must be parallel to the bow.

-Allow the sight to sit overnight after attaching it.

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