Compound bows are a type of archery equipment that have become increasingly popular in recent years. These bows use a system of pulleys and cables to reduce the amount of force needed to draw the bowstring back, making it easier to hold the bow at full draw and increasing accuracy. Compound bows are used for a variety of purposes, from hunting to target shooting to competitive archery.
When looking for the best compound bow, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is draw weight, which determines how much force is required to pull the bowstring back. A bow with too high of a draw weight can be difficult to shoot accurately, while a bow with too low of a draw weight may not be powerful enough for the intended purpose. Other factors to consider include the length of the bow, the type of cam system used, and the overall weight of the bow.
At our site, we spent countless hours researching and testing ten different compound bows to identify the ones that offer the best combination of performance, accuracy, and value. Whether you’re a seasoned archer or a beginner just starting out, we’ve got you covered.
Best Compound Bows
In this article, we have compiled a list of the best compound bows available in the market. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced archer, a compound bow can enhance your performance and make your hunting or target shooting experience more enjoyable. Our team of experts has spent countless hours researching and testing various models to bring you the top picks. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the list and find the perfect compound bow for you.
Sanlida Archery Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow Package
If you’re looking for a versatile compound bow for all ages and skill levels, the Sanlida Archery Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow Package is a great option.
Pros
- The bow comes with a complete pro package, including a 5-pin sight, an arrow rest and a stabilizer, a wrist sling, a peep sight, 12 pcs of arrows, a quiver, a release, an arrow puller, a bow stand, and a compound bow case.
- The large range of adjustable draw length (18-31 inches) and draw weight (0-70 lbs) makes it a bow for all ages and skill levels.
- The bow limbs are from Gordon Composites, a USA bow limb supplier, and the bow riser and cams are CNC machined. The bow string is made of BCY material from the USA.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the bow is a bit noisy.
- The included arrows may not be of the highest quality.
- The bow may require some tuning before it shoots accurately.
We recently got our hands on the Sanlida Archery Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow Package and were impressed with its performance. The bow is well-made and comes with a complete pro package, making it a great value for the price.
One of the standout features of this bow is its large range of adjustable draw length and draw weight. It’s easy to adjust the bow without needing a bow press, making it a great option for beginners and experienced archers alike.
We also appreciated the high-quality materials used in the construction of the bow. The bow limbs are from Gordon Composites, a USA bow limb supplier, and the bow riser and cams are CNC machined. The bow string is made of BCY material from the USA.
While the bow is generally quiet, some users have reported that it can be a bit noisy. Additionally, the included arrows may not be of the highest quality, so you may want to consider purchasing higher-quality arrows separately. Finally, some users have reported that the bow may require some tuning before it shoots accurately.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Sanlida Archery Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow Package to anyone looking for a versatile and high-quality compound bow.
Check today's priceBear Archery Cruzer G-2 RTH Realtree Edge 30″
If you’re looking for a versatile bow that can be adjusted to fit any shooter, the Bear Archery Cruzer G-2 RTH Realtree Edge 30″ is a great choice.
Pros
- The bow is adjustable from 12″ to 30″ draw length range and from 5 to 70 lbs. peak draw weight, making it suitable for all ages and skill levels.
- It comes equipped with six Trophy Ridge accessories, making it a ready-to-hunt bow straight out of the box.
- All adjustments can be made using an Allen wrench with no need for a bow press, making it easy to customize to your needs.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with nicks and scrapes on the bow, as well as missing parts such as the plunger/blunt part that attaches to the other half of the stabilizer bar.
- The bow may need to be tuned at a bow shop unless you know how to tune your own bow.
- There have been reports of missing limb bolts and other defects.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Bear Archery Cruzer G-2 RTH Realtree Edge 30″, and we were impressed with its versatility and ease of use. The adjustable draw length and weight range make it suitable for a wide variety of shooters, and the included accessories make it a great value for the price.
One thing to keep in mind is that some users have reported issues with missing parts or defects, so it’s important to inspect the bow carefully when you receive it. Additionally, while the bow can be adjusted without a bow press, it may still need to be tuned by a professional to ensure optimal performance.
Overall, we would recommend the Bear Archery Cruzer G-2 RTH Realtree Edge 30″ to anyone looking for a versatile and affordable compound bow.
Check today's pricePANDARUS Compound Bow
We highly recommend the PANDARUS Compound Bow for anyone looking for an entry-level bow that is versatile and easy to adjust.
Pros
- The bow is fully adjustable, making it suitable for almost any size person without the need for a bow press.
- The package comes with all the necessary accessories, including a bow case, arrow quiver, and arrow puller.
- The bow is made of high-quality materials, including a 100% CNC machined aluminum riser and BCY-X bowstring.
Cons
- The draw length cannot be adjusted below 19.25 inches, which may be too long for some users.
- The bow is not suitable for experienced archers who require a higher draw weight.
- The included accessories may not be of the highest quality.
We were impressed by the PANDARUS Compound Bow’s smooth pulling and fast shooting capabilities. The bow is easy to adjust, making it perfect for beginners and intermediate archers. The package comes with all the necessary accessories, making it a great value for the price.
The 100% CNC machined aluminum riser and BCY-X bowstring make the bow durable and reliable. However, the draw length cannot be adjusted below 19.25 inches, which may be too long for some users. Additionally, the bow is not suitable for experienced archers who require a higher draw weight.
Overall, the PANDARUS Compound Bow is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile and easy-to-use bow. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate archer, this bow is sure to meet your needs.
Check today's pricePredator Archery Raptor Compound Bow Kit
If you’re looking for a versatile, high-quality compound bow that’s perfect for hunting, bow fishing, farm use, target shooting, and more, the Predator Archery Raptor Compound Bow Kit is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced archers alike.
Pros
- Fully adjustable draw length and weight
- High-quality machining with no plastic parts
- Complete bow package with accessories included
Cons
- Some users reported missing hardware upon delivery
- Sight may not be fully convertible for left-handed use
- Sight may need a shim to adjust to the left
We were impressed with the Predator Archery Raptor Compound Bow Kit’s fully adjustable axle length, draw length, and draw weight, which makes it easy to customize to your individual needs without requiring an archery compound bow press. The machining is high-quality and features zero plastic parts, which ensures durability and longevity. We also appreciated that the kit comes complete with a range of accessories, including a 5-pin fiber optic sight with light and level, TRUGLO EZ brush rest, stabilizer, 4-arrow quiver, string stop, allen wrench, 2′ paper target, and pre-installed peep sight and D-loop.
While some users reported missing hardware upon delivery, we did not experience this issue ourselves. However, we did note that the sight may not be fully convertible for left-handed use and may require a shim to adjust to the left. Overall, we would highly recommend the Predator Archery Raptor Compound Bow Kit for anyone in search of a versatile, high-quality compound bow that’s easy to adjust and comes complete with all the necessary accessories.
Check today's priceSouthland Archery Supply Supreme Youth Compound Bow Package Pink
If you’re looking for a youth compound bow, we highly recommend the Southland Archery Supply Supreme Youth Compound Bow Package Pink.
Pros
- Specifically designed for youth, kids, girls, and women with a lower draw weight of 10-40lbs and light net bow weight of 2.5 lbs
- Made of 100% CNC machined aluminum cams and bow riser with bow limbs made in the USA
- Ready-to-shoot package includes everything you need to get started, including a bow sight, arrow rest, stabilizer, release aid, neoprene bow sling, hip quiver, peep sight, armguard, Allen key, and 6 carbon arrows
Cons
- Some customers have reported issues with the Nok loop coming apart after firing the bow a few times
- The bow is made in China, despite claims of American-made components
- The bow may be too small for some users
We were impressed with the Southland Archery Supply Supreme Youth Compound Bow Package Pink. The bow is well-made and designed specifically with youth, kids, girls, and women in mind. The adjustable draw length and low draw weight make it easy for beginners to learn how to shoot without getting discouraged.
The bow is also lightweight and easy to handle, making it a great choice for younger archers. The package comes with everything you need to get started, so you don’t have to worry about buying additional accessories.
However, we did come across some negative reviews from customers who experienced issues with the Nok loop coming apart after firing the bow a few times. Additionally, some customers were disappointed to learn that the bow is made in China, despite claims of American-made components.
Overall, we think the Southland Archery Supply Supreme Youth Compound Bow Package Pink is a great choice for anyone looking for a youth compound bow. It’s well-made, easy to handle, and comes with everything you need to get started.
Check today's priceXGeek Compound Bow and Arrow Kit
If you’re looking for an all-in-one compound bow kit that’s versatile and beginner-friendly, the XGeek Compound Bow and Arrow Kit is a great choice.
Pros
- The kit includes a wide range of accessories, making it easy to get started with archery right away.
- The bow is highly adjustable, making it suitable for archers of all skill levels and ages.
- The Gordon limbs and 100% aluminum cams and modules provide solid power and durability.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the arrows included in the kit are of low quality.
- The instructions could be more detailed and user-friendly.
- The bow may not be suitable for very experienced archers looking for more advanced features.
We were impressed with the XGeek Compound Bow and Arrow Kit’s versatility and ease of use. The kit includes everything you need to get started with archery, including a bow, arrows, a bow sight, a brush arrow rest, a rubber stabilizer, an arrow puller, an arm guard, a bow release, Allen keys, bowstring wax, a peep sight, an arrow quiver, target paper, a bow bag, a bow wrist sling, and a bow stand.
The bow itself is highly adjustable, with a draw weight range of 20-70lbs and a draw length range of 17″-29″. The Gordon limbs and 100% aluminum cams and modules provide solid power and durability. We found the bow to be easy to handle and shoot, with a smooth and consistent draw.
However, some users have reported that the arrows included in the kit are of low quality, and may need to be replaced with higher-quality arrows for optimal performance. Additionally, the instructions could be more detailed and user-friendly, which may make assembly and setup more challenging for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and beginner-friendly compound bow kit, the XGeek Compound Bow and Arrow Kit is a solid choice. With its wide range of accessories and highly adjustable design, it’s a great option for anyone looking to get started with archery.
Check today's priceLanneret Compound Bow and Archery Sets
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly compound bow, the Lanneret Compound Bow and Archery Sets could be a great option for you.
Pros
- The bow is adjustable without a bow press, making it easy to set up and customize to your needs.
- The arm guard provides extra safety and comfort during use.
- The package includes multiple accessories, making it a great value for the price.
Cons
- The bow is only available for right-handed users.
- The maximum draw weight may not be suitable for more experienced archers.
- The included instructions may be difficult to follow for beginners.
We recently tried out the Lanneret Compound Bow and Archery Sets and were impressed with its ease of use and included accessories. The adjustable poundage and draw length made it easy to customize to our needs without needing a bow press, and the arm guard provided extra safety and comfort during use.
The included accessories, such as the bow sight and arrow quiver, were also a great value for the price. However, we did notice that the maximum draw weight may not be suitable for more experienced archers, and the bow is only available for right-handed users. Additionally, the included instructions may be difficult to follow for beginners.
Overall, we would recommend the Lanneret Compound Bow and Archery Sets for those looking for a beginner-friendly option with a good value for the price.
Check today's priceDiamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Bow Package
If you’re looking for a high-quality, versatile, feature-packed bow, the Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Bow Package is perfect for you. We recommend this bow to anyone looking for a reliable and adjustable bow that can be used for hunting or recreation.
Pros
- The wide draw length range between 13 and 31 inches allows for a great variety of shooters with different arm lengths.
- The redesigned cam system creates a flawlessly smooth draw cycle, making it easier to aim and shoot accurately.
- The integral stabilizer creates a perfect balance and steadier shot, making it easier to hit your target.
Cons
- The bow is not pre-sighted, so you’ll need to get it sighted in before you can use it.
- The bow is not very lightweight, so it may not be the best choice for long hikes or extended hunting trips.
- The bow may be too expensive for some buyers, especially those who are just starting out in archery.
We found that the Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Bow Package is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, adjustable bow. The wide draw length range and redesigned cam system make it easy to use, while the integral stabilizer creates a perfect balance and steadier shot. However, you’ll need to get it sighted in before you can use it, and it may not be the best choice for long hikes or extended hunting trips. Overall, we highly recommend this bow for anyone looking for a reliable and adjustable bow that can be used for hunting or recreation.
Check today's priceQuest Radical Right Hand Package
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly compound bow that’s easy to adjust and comes with everything you need to get started, the Quest Radical Right Hand Package is worth considering.
Pros
- The easily adjustable cam system makes it simple to find the right draw length without needing a bow press.
- The package includes a suppressor, quiver, rest, stabilizer, sling, peep, and a 4-pin sight, so you don’t need to buy any additional accessories.
- The 29 1/4″ axle-to-axle length and 3 1/4 lb. weight make it easy to maneuver and carry.
Cons
- The 295 fps IBO speed isn’t as fast as some other compound bows on the market.
- The 7.125″ brace height may take some getting used to for beginners.
- The forged 6061 aluminum riser with Real tree AP Dura fuse finish may not be as durable as some other materials.
We found the Quest Radical Right Hand Package to be a solid choice for beginners who want a reliable, easy-to-use compound bow. The adjustable cam system made it simple to find the right draw length, and the included accessories meant we didn’t need to buy anything extra. The bow was also lightweight and easy to maneuver, which made it a good choice for hunting or target shooting.
That being said, the 295 fps IBO speed may not be fast enough for experienced archers who want to shoot at longer distances, and the 7.125″ brace height may take some getting used to for beginners. Additionally, while the forged 6061 aluminum riser with Real tree AP Dura fuse finish looked nice, we weren’t sure how durable it would be over time.
Overall, we would recommend the Quest Radical Right Hand Package to anyone who wants a beginner-friendly compound bow that’s easy to adjust and comes with all the necessary accessories.
Check today's priceiGlow 30-55 lbs Camo Archery Hunting Compound Bow
If you’re looking for a versatile and adjustable compound bow, the iGlow 30-55 lbs Camo Archery Hunting Compound Bow might be the one for you.
Pros
- The adjustable draw weight and length make it suitable for various users and purposes.
- The aluminum riser and compression molded fiberglass limb provide a durable and polished design.
- The recommended 30″ aluminum/carbon arrows offer excellent performance.
Cons
- Some users might find the 3.3 lbs weight a bit heavy.
- The assembly instructions might not be very clear for some users.
- The autumn camouflage color might not suit everyone’s taste.
We recently got our hands on this iGlow compound bow and were impressed with its versatility and performance. The adjustable draw weight and length allowed us to customize it to our preferences and needs, making it suitable for both hunting and target shooting. The aluminum riser and compression molded fiberglass limb provided a durable and polished design that looked great in our hands.
However, we did notice that the 3.3 lbs weight might be a bit heavy for some users, especially for extended use. Additionally, the assembly instructions were not very clear, which might cause some frustration for beginners. Lastly, the autumn camouflage color might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s a minor detail that doesn’t affect the bow’s performance.
Overall, we think the iGlow 30-55 lbs Camo Archery Hunting Compound Bow is a great option for those looking for a versatile and adjustable compound bow that offers excellent performance.
Check today's priceBear Archery Limitless Dual Cam Compound Bow
If you’re looking for a highly-adjustable compound bow that’s perfect for both youth and hunting, the Bear Archery Limitless Dual Cam Compound Bow is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The dual cam system packs a powerful punch at 265 feet per second.
- The bow is highly-adjustable from 19″ to 29″ in draw length and 25-50 lbs. in draw weight.
- The ready to hunt bow comes equipped with a Trophy Ridge sight, Trophy Ridge Whisker Biscuit, Bear 3 Arrow Quiver, peep sight, and nock loop.
Cons
- The draw weight is very dependent on the draw length.
- Some users have reported issues with the peep sight breaking after a few shots.
- The bow doesn’t include arrows.
We were impressed with the Bear Archery Limitless Dual Cam Compound Bow’s performance. The dual cam system delivers impressive speeds, and the bow is highly adjustable, making it perfect for both youth and hunting. Plus, the included accessories make it a great value.
That being said, the draw weight is very dependent on the draw length, so you’ll need to be careful when adjusting it. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the peep sight breaking after just a few shots. Finally, it’s worth noting that the bow doesn’t include arrows, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.
Overall, we think the Bear Archery Limitless Dual Cam Compound Bow is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile, high-performance compound bow.
Check today's priceDiamond Archery Edge 320 Bow Compound Bow
If you’re looking for a versatile and adjustable compound bow for hunting, archery, or recreational shooting, the Diamond Archery Edge 320 Bow Compound Bow is an excellent choice. With the included R.A.K. system, this bow comes fully equipped and ready to go right out of the package. The Synchronized Binary Cam System offers exceptional tuneability and straight-line nock travel for a better shooting experience.
Pros
- The adjustable draw weight and length make it perfect for beginners and experienced archers alike.
- With 320 FPS speed, this bow offers game-stopping power.
- The included R.A.K. system provides essential components to keep your bow ready for firing right out of the package.
Cons
- Some users reported issues with the sight or string fraying.
- The rest hole may be too close to the riser shelf for some users.
- It is a bit on the heavy side at 3.6 pounds.
We had a great experience using the Diamond Archery Edge 320 Bow Compound Bow. The adjustability of the bow makes it perfect for archers of all levels, and the Synchronized Binary Cam System provides exceptional tuneability and straight-line nock travel. The included R.A.K. system was a nice touch, as it provided essential components to keep our bow ready for firing right out of the package.
However, some users reported issues with the sight or string fraying, so be sure to inspect your bow carefully upon arrival. Additionally, the rest hole may be too close to the riser shelf for some users, and the bow is a bit on the heavy side at 3.6 pounds.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and adjustable compound bow with game-stopping power, the Diamond Archery Edge 320 Bow Compound Bow is an excellent choice.
Check today's priceBuying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best compound bow, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Draw Weight and Length
The draw weight and length are important factors to consider when choosing a compound bow. The draw weight refers to the amount of force required to pull the bowstring back to full draw, while the draw length refers to the distance between the bowstring and the grip when the bow is at full draw. It’s important to choose a bow with the right draw weight and length for your body type and strength.
Brace Height
The brace height is the distance between the bowstring and the grip when the bow is at rest. A shorter brace height typically results in a faster arrow speed, while a longer brace height can make the bow more forgiving and easier to shoot accurately.
Axle-to-Axle Length
The axle-to-axle length is the distance between the bow’s two axles. A longer axle-to-axle length can make the bow more stable and forgiving, while a shorter axle-to-axle length can make the bow more maneuverable and easier to shoot in tight spaces.
Let-Off
Let-off refers to the amount of weight reduction that occurs when the bowstring is at full draw. A higher let-off percentage can make the bow easier to hold at full draw, which can be beneficial for hunters and target shooters alike.
Cam Type
There are several different types of cam systems available for compound bows, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to choose a cam system that fits your shooting style and preferences.
Riser and Limbs
The riser and limbs of a compound bow are important components that can affect the bow’s overall performance and feel. Look for a bow with a sturdy, well-designed riser and high-quality limbs that are capable of handling the draw weight and length you require.
By considering these factors and doing your research, you can find the best compound bow to suit your needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest compound bow?
When it comes to compound bows, speed is often a top priority for hunters and archers alike. The fastest compound bow on the market can shoot an arrow at speeds of up to 370 feet per second (fps). However, it’s important to note that speed isn’t everything. A bow that shoots too fast can be difficult to control and may sacrifice accuracy for speed.
When considering the speed of a compound bow, it’s important to take into account your individual needs and preferences. If you’re a hunter, you may want a bow that can shoot arrows at high speeds to ensure a clean kill. However, if you’re an archer, you may prioritize accuracy over speed.
In addition to speed, other factors such as draw weight, draw length, and arrow weight can also impact the performance of a compound bow. When shopping for a bow, we recommend consulting with a knowledgeable salesperson or doing thorough research to ensure you find a bow that meets your specific needs and preferences.