Guns & Weapons

Best Compound Bow: Basics, Facts, Tips and Best Reviews

Evolution of compound bow

Compound bows are the latest invention of bows for outdoor shooting activities, such as hunting. The best compound bow is defined by the following: oblong cams, wheels, cables and limbs. When operating it, energy is stored in the bow by drawing it backwards in a re-curve manner while its holding draw does normally go down at let-off (full draw). So, in the end, the archer is able to hold the bow at full draw because of the reduction in weight.

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There are various models of compound bows in the market characterized by different levels of complexity, colors, sizes and shapes. To be an expert with this kind of sport of shooting arrows with these state-of-the-art bows, you need to have detailed information about them. This article is specifically structured to provide you with the most informative details about the bows.

Basics and facts explained

Generally, this bow has the following characteristics that distinguish it from other archery equipment in the market. It has shorter end-to-end length and they use wheels and cams to conduct energy of bow at all times. The most common release mechanism is mechanical release but, some archers may opt to use a finger tab instead.

Basic features

Let-Off

Basically, this is the force required to hold the string at full draw when compared to the weight of the bow, which is expressed as a percentage. A sixty-pound bow with 50% let-off will need a minimum of thirty pounds of force to hold the string.

Let Off

As far as most bows are concerned, they have adjustable let-off, which is in the range of 45% to 65%. From experts’ point of view, you should stick within the abovementioned range, in order to circumvent erratic arrow flight and release problems.

Limb

The bow has a more solid appearance along with limbs that are always flexed. But, limb design is fairly inconsequential and they may be parallel to each other. Variances in performance are usually negligible. Limb materials are divided into laminates and solid composites.

Draw length

This is the dimension of how far back you can pull the bow in a stable and natural draw, which is measured from the nock of the arrow to the front of the bow’s handle. You should not take any chances with the draw length, because it is an extremely important measurement, which you should make on the spot with a test arrow marked in inches.

Draw Length

The draw length is adjustable; however, if you are not sure of the adjustments to make, just consult a professional.

Wheels

They can be symmetrical or asymmetrical depending on the design. Symmetrical wheels are naturally round, but they are less efficient. A bow with this kind of wheels will apply force progressively to the arrow and the shooting will be quitter and smoother.

Asymmetrical wheels (cam wheels) on the other hand, store additional energy in the limbs, which allow them to deliver powerful arrow speed. However, they are not only noisier, but also less forgiving. Any bow with asymmetrical wheels applies maximum force to the arrow upon release. Usually, the bow does magnify the error in the event that the release is imperfect.

Handle/Riser

This is the parts to which the limbs are attached, which are mostly casted from metal; even though some are cut from laminated wood. Metal handles are known to be stronger and thinner when compared to wooden handles. The difference between them does not really matter.

Compound bow handle

However, thinner grips minimize any chance of twisting or torqueing in your grip. On the other hand, wooden handle feels nice and stylish.

What you need to know

A compound bow usually stores energy in the limb when you are drawing the bow. Once the draw length is reached, it lets off the pulling weight, with the help of a rotating cam. The cams allow this piece to come to a complete stop at full draw.

This simply means that the bow must be correctly fitted in terms of draw length. A vantage point with this archery equipment is the ease of holding the bow back longer for aiming.

In addition, to the ability to use fittings to balance, the lighter holding weight with the mass weight of the bow. Being able to set specific configurations by your self is extremely critical. This is so since this shooting gear comes with different adjustments for draw length and draw weight.

You need to match the bow with your draw length to be able to use it safely and precisely. This simply means that you must engage a piece with specifications that are unique to you.

Take compatible compound bow

When setting up your arrow, the very first thing that you must consider is the nature of the arrows. For this kind of bow to work properly, you need to ensure that the arrows you use are well-spanned. You need to choose shafts with respect to your equipment’s draw length and poundage.

Set the limb tiller accordingly, this is the distance between each limb and the bowstring. Depending on most pieces, the tiller is set in such a way that the bottom limb is either closer to the string than the top limb or even with the top limb.

You are strongly advised to set the top as well as bottom tillers to the same distance. Failure to do so may force the cams to turn over at different rates, causing irregular flight. For the best tuning, you should consider using an arrow rest that can be adjustable opposite page to align the arrow with the bowstring (center shot). The center shot alignment ensures that the arrow is suitably aligned with the power stroke of the string.

The most popular release used with this type of a bow is mechanical release. There are various forms of mechanical release that you can use. They use some kind of trigger device that releases the string.

The contemporary form of mechanical release uses the thumb or finger to initiate the trigger and by releases that are armed by you at full draw and then initiated when additional back motion is used. The operation of mechanical release is primarily based on the fact that a compound bow draws back only the required distance and then stops.

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You can have the perfect bow for compound shooting, but a strong shot does not only depend on the nature of bow you have. The following are the most crucial tips that you need to have at all times.

  1. Choosing a stance: A perfect as well as strong shot starts with the ground you stand on and the way you stand on it. There are various stances you can use, including: square stance and open stance. As a beginner you are urged to start with the square stance, because it will help you unearth your own stance. A feature unique to this stance is that it automatically line up your shoulders with the target. The open stance is a good choice for advanced archers, in which the rear foot is to some extent ahead of the front foot.
  2. Leg placement: You need to distribute your weight evenly on your legs and ensure they are relaxed. The fact that your legs play a big role as far as your overall stability and balance is concerned, makes leg strengthening an important factor in archery. You can only be a good compound shooter, if you develop good leg strengthening. You should also remember to relax your legs and not lock them.
  3. Hip and abdomen placements: These are two important placements that you should master. Your hip position normally works to stabilize your body. You can find the correct hip position by taking your shooting stance with your feet about around shoulder-width apart, and ensure that your buttocks are tilted upwards. Then tighten your abdomen gently, but do not pull our abdomen inward. Then relax every part of your body except your abdomen and maintain good body post5ure.

Other tips that are of great importance and you can learn directly from a professional archer who shoots compound include: taking up the string; positioning your bow hand; positioning your shoulders; positioning your bow arm; stabilizing your shoulder; aligning the shot; positioning your head; finding your true anchor; and stabilizing your draw.https://survival-mastery.com/diy/weapons/best-hunting-crossbow.html

See: Best Bow Sight: Finding The Best Bow Sight for The Money

Compound bow reviews

Compound bow technology has come a long way in the last decade and so. The current models are the finest to have ever been made and if you want to purchase your first bow or you want to move up to a newer and more efficient model, you should be objective. Concentrate mostly on those models that provide a 65% let-off in draw weight.

Compound bow reviews

This simply means that when the bow is at full draw, you will be holding back only a third of the actual weight of the draw weight. This will allow you to shoot a heavier weight bow using less muscle, and at the same time allowing you to keep the arrow at full draw until your game offers a window for the perfect shot.

Basically, bows with more let-off are user-friendly since they allow you to shoot for longer lengths of time. New archers should definitely engage these kinds of models.

You must be comfortable with a bow you can reach a high level of proficiency with your piece. The grip of the model you choose must fit comfortably in your hand. However, the draw length has to be correct and the draw weight should be within your ability to bring the bow to full draw without you using excessive force. If the grip is not perfect; then it can be extremely challenging for you to shoot in cold-weather. The following compound bow reviews will help you buy the best model.

SAS Sergeant 55 Lbs. 29” Compound Bow

If precision shooting is what you are after, then this is the correct model for you as it is designed to match the user’s shooting requirements. It will give you the highest quality gear to hit your target with precision and confidence.

It is uniquely designed in the sense that it features a 40.5-inch end-to-end, a draw length of twenty nine inches and it allows you to shoot at a speed of 235 FPS. You should not extend your search anymore, because this is a compact powerhouse.

This is the smoothest bow due to its CNC machined twin cams. You should expect negligible creep when you are about to shoot your first arrow, which is made possible by the twin cams. Unlike other models, this particular one is designed to be used for a long time given the fact that its design is composed of a strong piece-layered limb that can draw weight from fifty five pounds.

SAS Sergeant 55 Lbs. 29” Compound Bow

The limbs are well-secured by back pivoting limb pockets. They form a heavy-duty connection that exhibits remarkable tolerance for precision accuracy. This model covers you as far as the grip is concerned, because the bubbled grooves on the handle ensures that you realize a firm grip.

The unit’s package comes with: a user manual, cable guard, arrow rest, accurate sight, finger tab, twister arrow rest, two aluminum arrows, 4-arrow quiver black, and 3-pin aluminum bow sight.

Pros: It is high quality archery equipment fitted with a stabilizer mounting hole and the cam is very impressive. With a draw length of 29 inches, a draw weight of 55 pounds, bow length of 40.5 inches, brace high of 7.25 inches, let-off of 65% and maximum speed of 235 FPS; SAS Sergeant is highly resourceful and versatile.

Cons: No instructions for assembly in the package, which can be quite challenging for inexperienced archers.

Like this product? Then you can buy it on Amazon.

Crosman Elkhorn Jr. Compound Bow

This is the best compound bow for the money for young starter archers. Its general design is made up of high quality, long-lasting composite limbs along with an integrated composite center shot handle, fitted with large sight windows. You are guaranteed superior shooting performance thanks to the strong, all-weather cables and strings accompanied by cable guard.

This is the perfect piece for an inexpert archer, due to its 33-inch axle, which is just perfect for beginners. The draw weight, which ranges from 17 lbs. to 21 lbs., is best for new archers, especially the young ones.

Crosman Elkhorn Jr. is the ideal archery equipment to buy for your twelve-year old child. The compound mechanism is exceptionally helpful in achieving stability while preparing a shot.

Crosman Elkhorn Jr. Compound Bow

With its unique features and specs, this is a bow that is without a doubt cable of decent accuracy. It is also well-equipped for smaller frames. It is sufficiently accurate in such a way that an archer can amazingly progress to precision shooting in no time.

The package is fully equipped with everything that one may need, including: sights & arrow rest; finger tab; arm guard; 2-piece quiver; and 2 composite arrows.

Pros: Apart from its design, Crosman Elkhorn Jr. has just the perfect draw weight range of 17 to 21 pounds that is ideal for young and inexperienced archers. It is cable of precision accuracy.

Cons: This model is specifically designed for young starter archers; therefore, it is not the best model for adult archers.

Like this amazing product? Then you can check the current deal for it on Amazon.

SAS Rage 70 Lbs. 30” Compound Bow

Do you want to be the best archer to have ever existed? Well, SAS Rage 70 Lbs. 30” is the best compound bow for the money. This unit provides you with the correct gear that exhibits quality and durability.

Its basic features offers you decent accuracy, including 270 FPS, 30” draw length and 35” axle-to-axle length. The bow can be used for a long time, due to its compressed ABS limb, which spans strength, weight and balance.

You can effectively draw weight of up to seventy pounds with the strong piece layered limb. This is the perfect bow for an archer who is serious about decent accuracy when shooting. Its general design looks good and it is lightweight.

You can easily modify the design to meet your expectations by using the following: a parallel limb case, shock stop stabilizer, trophy ridge three-point sight, and a whisker biscuit. The bow itself is solid and the grip super comfortable.

SAS Rage 70 Lbs 30'' Compound Bow

You will be amazed with the rest, sights and all the content that comes with the package. You can definitely eliminate peep by putting a trophy ridge sight on front. Once you sight it, it will surpass your expectations for let-off poundage, which makes it easier to shoot arrows. The string that comes with the bow is long-lasting and it can serve you for a long time.

Pros: The unit has exceptional autumn camouflage color and compressed ABS limbs for long life. Its specific features (speed of 270 FPS, draw weight of 55 to 70 pounds and draw length of 26 to thirty inches) guarantee you decent accuracy.

Cons: It requires a number of modifications to achieve maximum performance. New archers will need additional information from experts, since the manual is not that informative.

Like this amazing product? Then you can check its price here.

Diamond Infinite Edge Compound Bow

If you are need of a customizable bow, then you should look no further, because Diamond Infinitive Edge is the best choice. This is the kind of bow that can grow with your shooting skills.

You do not have to deal with poorly performing bows anymore, because this particular model is extremely resourceful, versatile, adjustable and invaluable. With the draw weight range of fifty to seventy pounds and draw length range of thirteen to thirty inches, this bow offers you the perfect edge.

Diamond Infinite Edge Compound Bow

Basically, this model is an all rounded unit. It is ultra-quiet when shooting an arrow. Unlike other bows, this one has more than enough penetration power, which makes it enjoyable to shoot. This is a marvel of engineering given the fact that it has zero vibration and no kickback.

Apart from the rubber tube and peep sight, the bow package comes with everything pre-installed. It is so compact and lightweight that you can easily carry it anywhere.

Pros: This is a lightweight model that is designed for precision shooting. The specific features, such as draw length and weight are perfect for any archer.

Cons: You will have to take the bow to the Pro Shop in order to have the rubber tube and peep sight installed since they are not pre-installed.

You can find and purchase this product on Amazon.

Black / Camouflage Camo Archery Compound Bow

This is the best compound bow for the money given the fact that it is solid and well-made. It is designed with a comfortable grip and the whole thing is lightweight only weighing four pounds. This is the kind of bow that allows you to conveniently drop the draw weight from the maximum value to a more accommodating value. For instance, if the 70 pounds draw weight is too much for you, you can easily drop it to 36 pounds.

It is easy to make such adjustments, all you have to do is turn the limb bolts and then go ahead and test it by using a draw weight gauge. It comes with an amazing sight, which you can opt to use or you can settle for your own sight.

You can shoot at twenty five yards with six to ten-inch patterns after configuring it with your desired peep, whisker biscuit and stabilizer. Generally speaking, this unit is very nicely polished; in addition to providing you with excellent performance.

Check out our reviews of the best bow stabilizer to give you more options for upgrades.

Camouflage Camo Archery Compound Bow

Pros: Adjustable draw weight that ranges from 30 to 70 pounds and a conveniently fast arrow speed of 310 FPS. Lightweight and has a good let-off that ranges from 75% to 80% for precision shooting.

Cons: You will have to visit the Pro Shop to be advised on how to set the sight because the manual does not offer such information.   

If you like this product you can find and purchase it on Amazon.

In conclusion

Archery has been made easier with the presence of compound bows in the market. In fact, the current models designs take into consideration the needs of the archer. For instance, these bows have been made shorter with the intent of increasing arrow speed and improve maneuverability.

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This article has been mainly focused on the most important compound archery bow information, including basics, features and bow models. This information is more than enough to help you make a profound purchasing decision when you are shopping for your preferred bow.

With the help of this guide, you will most definitely be able to find and buy compound archery bow with your preferred features and specs.     

For tips and guidelines on choosing the best hunting crossbow, see our article on this important topic.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of these links and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Also, as an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If the information in this post has been helpful, please consider purchasing through one of the links in this article. Thank you.

About the author

Andrew McKay

Andrew McKay is a seasoned hunter and fisherman from Anchorage, Alaska. Andrew thinks that he is the luckiest person in the world, as he lives in the most gorgeous place in United States and does what he loves to do. As a member of Alaska Professional Hunters Association and International Hunter Education Association, he is always looking for the ways to improve his skills and to teach people around him.

5 Comments

  • As a beginner archer, I find this article to be very informative and I agree with Samuel that the best bow would be one that does not compromise pulling power over the weight.

  • The SAS Sergeant is really cool!

    It is easy to handle when you get used to it because it is heavier than most other bows I used before. The manual is frustrating and poorly written though, and it took me a while to assemble the bow, this was the only “bad” thing about it.

    It is suitable for beginners and helped in improving my aim. My next step is to go hunt with it soon.

  • Hi Nidal,

    Thank you for your review of the product. Most compound bows are easy to get used to, you just need constant practice. Comfort really is a personal choice so no matter what brand you choose, as long as you are okay with it’s fit and performance.

    Samuel

  • Your article “Best Compound Bow: Basics, Facts, Tips and Best Reviews” is very helpful for me. After reading your article I got a lot of knowledge from your article.MY name is John Robert and I have some knowledge about bow but after reading your article I think; I have to gain more knowledge about this topic. Thanks!

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