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9 Best Arrow Rests To Buy in 2023

Posted by Andy Ryan

Posted at March 12, 2023

If you are in the market for the best arrow rest, this is the article for you. There are many different types of arrow rests on the market but how can you make sure you buy the right one?

Below, I share my reviews of the 9 best arrow rests out today and some tips on choosing the right arrow rest for you. Take a look—I’m sure you’ll find a rest that suits your needs.

1. Quality Archery Products HDX Arrow Rest

The Quality Archery Products HDX Arrow Rest is made from stainless steel and looks very professional. Oriented for the right hand, this rest comes with a limited lifetime warranty.It is a versatile arrow rest that works for most archers.

This is considered to be the best arrow rest for those who only ever want to use the best quality model. That might well be, because the capture bar is curved and the rest also comes with advanced vibration technology.

This is certainly a good quality arrow rest, there’s no doubt about that. With a blocking mount that claims to be more compatible than ever, the ability to adjust the timing cord to your desired length, and full draw indicator marks, this is an impressive arrow rest, to say the least.

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2. Truglo Down-Draft Cable-Driven Drop-Away Arrow Rest

The Truglo Down-Draft Drop-Away Arrow Rest has a very rugged finish. It looks like a piece of equipment you’d take hunting with you.

With a high-performance drop-away design, the Truglo comes with sealed bushings. This ensures that there is an increased downward speed when the arrow is launched. This makes the Trugo a pretty impressive arrow rest that will give you better shots every time.

With the ability to attach itself to a moving bus cable and with easy installation, using this rest should be a breeze. What’s more, there’s no bow press required, making this rest even more of a pleasure to use.

Another really good thing about the Truglo is that there is no unwanted bounceback when you’re firing. This could easily be the best arrow rest out there, but let’s take a look at the other products before we even think about crowning a winner.

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3. Ripcord “Code Red” Fall Away Arrow Rest

The Ripcord “Code RED” drop-away arrow rest is made from aluminum and has a very tough-looking finish. With a containment arm that provides 360 degrees of containment, you’re likely to find that this arrow rest is easy to use. Couple this with quick installation and a quiet shot provided by internal dampeners, and the Ripcord could be the a great arrow rest for you.

The launcher can be manually locked into position and it will disengage when you’re at full draw. This means you can have complete arrow clearance, which is always great.

With an adjustable mounting arm, this arrow rest can be mounted on almost any riser. There’s a screw included and it also comes with windage adjustments. This means you can use this rest with wide riser shelves. If that isn’t enough, you get no bounceback thanks to the internal brake system.

This is a very nice looking arrow rest, it has to be said. The design is very modern and it certainly does look more powerful than the others we have seen so far. If you do a lot of target shooting this is a arrow rest you should take a closer look at.

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4. NAP Apache Drop-Away Arrow Rest

The NAP Apache Drop-Away Rest Right Hand Camo 360 Degree Sound Dampening arrow rest comes with a camouflage finish that make it look as tough as old boots.

It also has 360-degree sound dampening for very quiet operation. While you’re unlikely to have a totally silent operation, it will be quiet as a whisper, which makes many other arrow rests seem very loud.

One of the things I like about this arrow rest is that you don’t need to use any tools to adjust it. All you need to do is set it and get on with the job in hand.

Another impressive feature of this rest is the laser graduations that make fine-tuning very easy. Made from rugged metal and ideal for use in a range of conditions, the NAP Apache arrow rest could be the one you need.

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5. Vapor Trail LimbDriver Pro V

The Vapor Trail LimbDriver drop-away arrow rest has a very professional-sounding name, and it certainly looks good. With a shiny black and red finish, this arrow rest means business.

Compete with full containment and easy setup, it also comes with adjustable spring tension so you can get it just right. I like that it has full fletching clearance, which means you’ll have excellent accuracy. It has the potential to help you improve on all of your skills and get better results every time.

The launcher arm rotates upwards when the cord goes slack and the cord itself is attached to the limb rather than the cables. I think this makes the Vapor trail Limbdriver Pro V rest one that is well worth considering. It’s certainly one of the best-looking arrow rests out there and could be a good contender.

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6. Quality Archery Designs QAD -Drop-Away Arrow Rest

This rest from Quality Archery Designs looks good and feels good to use. This is because of its velocity draw technology and the total arrow containment. The easy-adjust timing cord comes complete with a cable clamp, and the breakaway safety feature makes this one of the top arrow rests out there.

The mount and action body on this rest are very well made, and the finish is also good. The manufacturer has put lots of effort into the finish, which makes it much nicer to use. If you are looking for an arrow rest that looks and feels good, consider this one.

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7. Quality Archery Products Pro Series Drop Away Rest

The Quality Archery Products Pro Series Ultra Arrow Rest comes with full containment and offers complete arrow clearance every single time. However, it does not have the same features as the HDX model. This is a lightweight arrow rest and it’s been made to work well every time you use it.

This particular arrow rest has a rugged finish and looks as though it means business. The cord has indicator marks and there is also a cord that you can attach to a cable.

While this rest does not have the features of Quality Archery Products’ other models, it is ideal if you want a good arrow rest and you’re left-handed.

8. Trophy Ridge  Whisker Biscuit Arrow Rest

The Trophy Ridge Whisker Biscuit Kill Shot Arrow Rest looks completely different from any of the arrow rests we have seen so far. It is considered to be the most popular arrow rest throughout the world.

Used by hunters of all skill levels, the Trophy Ridge Kill Shot comes with a reversible mount design. This makes it ideal for both left- or right-hand bows.

Complete with easy corrections for elevation and advanced windage, this is an impressive bow rest. The composite-encased biscuit provides even more strength, and the silent arrow loading also comes with rubber boots.

Available in seven different colors and three sizes, if you want an arrow rest that stands out from the crowd, this could be the one you need. While it’s not essential that your arrow rest looks good, it’s nice to have one that looks unique and better than the rest.

Vanes will slice through the bristles easily, and the arrow will have a consistent trajectory and velocity. This means you won’t have to worry too much about your arrow’s performance. Known to be one of the most reliable and safest rests around, this is an arrow rest worth considering.

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9. Trophy Ridge Quick Shot Whisker Biscuit

The Trophy Ridge Quick Shot Whisker Biscuit is a sturdy-looking piece of equipment. It’s ideal for those who want a fail-safe arrow rest that’s used by hunters of every skill level. Complete with a reversible mount design, both left- and right-handed archers can use it.

This Whisker Biscuit model comes with a huge increase in strength when compared to Trophy Ridge’s previous models. Available in three different sizes, this could well be the best arrow rest for you.

In addition, those with low or high anchor points will find this particular arrow rest ideal for them. With the ability to make easy corrections thanks to the advanced windage and its elevation adjustments, it also comes with reference marks that make this arrow rest even easier to use. Couple this with the silent arrow loading and you’re onto a winner.

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The Different Types of Arrow Rests

Containment Arrow Rests

Containment-style arrow rests are some of the most popular rests among hunters. This is because they make sure the arrow does not drop from the rest.

Very easy to install and tune, containment arrow rests encircle the arrow and come into contact with it in three different places. This ensures that the arrow is held in place until someone shoots it. When it is shot, the arrow is let free.

New shooters might like this type of arrow because it doesn’t fall and allows them to work on their technique. However, one of the downsides of this type of arrow rest is that it is in contact with arrows for much longer. This means it is less forgiving if you were to make an error. There is also a small reduction in speed, which might not please everyone, but it’s something you’ll have to put up with while you perfect your technique.

Containment arrow rests do offer quite a few advantages. If, for example, you wish to shoot from the ground or a treestand, the containment ensures your arrow is ready and waiting to be shot all the time. If you’re a bowhunter, a containment arrow rest might be a good arrow rest for you. This is because you will have one less thing to think about when you spot your prey.

Drop Away Arrow Rests

This type of arrow rest has been around for quite some time. However, they have become much more popular in recent years. This is thanks to the more sophisticated design.

Also known as ‘fall away rests’, they are made to drop out of the way. This means you won’t need to be concerned about any fletching. When you have a full draw, the arrow rest will ensure that the arrow is firmly held in place. When the bow is fired, the rest moves down and out of the way. This means that even helical fletchings do not come into contact with the rest.

There is little chance that an arrow will fall off this type of rest, which is never a bad thing. However, there are a few types of drop away arrow rest, which could get a little confusing. Most types of drop away arrow rests move when the bow’s buss cable or cable slide moves. Some rests use the movement of the limbs. Many drop away arrow rests come with vibration dampening and micro-adjustability.

Pressure/Plunger Arrow Rests

Also known as a ‘shoot around’ rest or a ‘finger shooter rest’, this is a rest that pushes back from the side. This ensures the arrow’s horizontal oscillation is counteracted when it is released with fingers.

However, this type of shooting is becoming much less popular as more people look for mechanical releases. But there are still manufacturers happy to continue making rests that are ideal for finger-released arrows.

This type of rest lets the shooter adjust the amount of tension that the rest itself exerts on the arrow. This is to ensure that you get the best tune from the bow.

Shoot-Thru Arrow Rests

Shoot-thru arrow rests are also known as ‘prong rests’. This is a very popular type of rest and they’re easy to install. Shoot-thru arrow rests also work in most applications.

With two prongs that are spaced around two-thirds of the arrow’s diameter, there is a cradle of sorts for the arrow. The arrow sits on top and settles in the gap between the prongs.

The prongs are spring-loaded and can move both down and forward. They are able to do this when the shot takes place to prevent any disruptions during flight. They also allow for additional clearance for fletching. Once the shot has been taken, the prongs return to their original position so you can shoot again.

3D and Specialty Arrow Rests

Many types of arrow rests are known as specialty arrow rests. These tend to be:

• Bow fishing rests that are used when you have heavy fiberglass arrows
• Flipper rests that are used with traditional bows and non-center shot cutaways
• Specialty competition 3D rests, which are also known as ‘lizard tongues’
• Springy rests for those who like to shoot with their fingers

These types of rests are usually created for a specific purpose. They are not ideal for use in bow hunting or its applications.

You can print out 3D arrow rests, and there are many designs available online. However, they might not always be suitable for every type of bow or arrow.

How to Attach Arrow Rests

1. Make sure that the area where the arrow rest will sit is free from dirt.
2. Clean the area with a commercial cleaner that can remove sticky residue.
3. Peel the backing off the arrow rest.
4. If you have a bow with a plunger recess, ensure the hole in the rest is centered over the bow’s plunger hole.
5. If there is no plunger hole, line the arrow rest up vertically with the handle. Ensure it’s above your hand’s webbing when you grasp the handle.
6. Leave five-eighths of an inch between the very bottom of the sight window and the arrow. The sight window is located just above the handle.
7. Once everything is aligned, attach the rest to the bow. Do this while using pressure.
8. Now you need to install a nocking point, a U-shaped metal piece. The nocking point clamps on usually with pliers. This will ensure that the arrow is consistently in the same place.
9. Place a bow square on the installed arrow rest, making sure it’s against the bow’s string.
10. Measure 5 mm above the square. This is where you nocking point will be. When you place an arrow in the bow, it will rest on this point.
11. Now it’s time for you to test the setup. If there’s vertical movement or the arrow moves slowly without gaining height, you will need to adjust the nocking point.

How Arrow Rests Work and Why You Should Use One

Arrow rests work by ensuring the arrow leaves from the same place every time. Rests also help to keep the shot as quiet as possible. This can help while hunting as there will be very little sound to deter any game.

If you are shooting with either a recurve bow or compound bow, you should combine an arrow rest with a single pin bow sight. This is the combo I love.

I have gotten much better results on my archery target after I started using an arrow rest. Archers should consider using arrow rests as they can help to keep the arrow in place when it’s being drawn back. This is ideal for beginners or those with little experience, as it makes shooting the arrow so much easier.

There are many different types of arrow rests out there, but some rest will only work with particular bows. This means you will need to find a rest that suits your bow and your preferred method. There are different arrow rests for different types of usage for example a arrow rest for target shooting can be different than for hunting.

The arrow rest should be able to handle the arrow speed of your bow as well. You should check this before you do a purchase.

F.A.Q

What is the best arrow rest?

This all depends on what you are looking for and how experienced and skilled you are. Take a look below and find out which arrow rest is ideal for you.

– If you want a high-quality rest

If you are looking for a high-quality rest, you may want to opt for the Quality Archery Products HDX as it comes with a break-way design and the bow’s balance isn’t affected when it’s mounted on the bus cable.

– If you’re on a low budget

If you’re on a low budget or you simply don’t want to spend much money, the Truglo Down-Draft might be the ideal rest for you.

It comes with an excellent drop away design and can be used from a tree stand. This rest is camouflaged to help users blend in with their surroundings. With durable bushings, arrow speed is increased. This arrow rest can also help you improve on your accuracy.

– Best Value Drop Away

If you are looking for the best value drop away arrow rest, you might want to consider the Ripcord Code. This rest is very popular and it also comes with excellent containment. Made of aluminum, the rest is lightweight and will not hinder your arrows.

What does an arrow rest do?

An arrow rest works to cradle your arrow and keep it exactly where it needs to be. It also works to secure it in the same place every time. It can hold the arrow in place regardless of whether the bow is horizontal or vertical. Some arrow rests also help you to have quieter shots, ensuring that any game you’re hunting does not hear you.

Arrow rests can also help you work on your aim, which is great for beginners. Some arrow rests are ideal for those who have a lot more experience, but in any case, they can help you hit your targets and be more successful every time.

Is a drop-away rest better than a whisker biscuit?

That’s a good question, and the answer depends on what you are looking for. If you need a rest that works well and has no moving parts, then a whisker biscuit is better.

Drop away rests, however, are better in terms of accuracy and groupings. So, you need to think about what you want from a rest before deciding which is the best one for you.

– Drop-away rests

Drop-away rests are very popular and they have been since the 80s. They cause a very small amount of friction, which means you’ll have greater velocity. They allow for better accuracy and groupings if you’re an experienced archer.

Drop-away rests need to be regularly maintained so there is no mechanical failure. Another downside of a drop away is that the arrow has the potential to jump or fall off the rest while it’s being moved. Finally, the price of a drop-away tends to be a lot higher than a whisker biscuit.

– Whisker biscuits

Whisker biscuits are very easy to use and they ensure the arrow is less likely to fall to the ground. They have no moving parts, which mean they are unlikely to fail. What’s more, whisker biscuits are very quiet and simple, so you don’t have to think quite so much when you’re about to shoot prey.

On the downside, whisker biscuits can reduce the accuracy and speed of your shots. However, these differences are minimal and you’re unlikely to notice

How Do I Choose the Right Arrow Rest for Me?

As you can see, there are a lot of different arrow rests around right now. This could make choosing the right one quite difficult. However, there are are few things that can help you:

• Your budget – How much you want to spend will impact the arrow rest you walk away with. It might not offer all the features you’re looking for if you buy a cheap rest.
• How much experience you have – If you don’t have much experience, you should opt for an arrow rest that is ideal for beginners. The good news is that some of them are also good for those with more experience. This means you could end up with an arrow rest that could potentially last you a very long time.
• What you’d like your arrow rest to do – Do you want it to just hold your arrow in place, or would you like it to help you achieve a better shot? You might have to compromise on some of the features. Therefore, it makes sense to work out what functions are most important to you.
• Whether you’ll be shooting prey or a stationary target – If you’re shooting prey, you’ll need an arrow rest that quietens your shooting. The quieter it is, the less likely prey will hear you. If you shoot a stationary target, you might not even need to consider shopping for a quiet arrow rest.

If you liked this guide, make sure to check out our recent articles on trail cameras and crossbow bolts!