6 Best Drop Away Arrow Rest in 2023 (Review)
Want a bow rest that is going to stay attached to your bow, but you don't want a drop away style rest. These are the best drop-away arrow rest.
A modern bow is a complex tool with many elements that can affect your shot. Successful archers should know how their bow works and how they can improve by adding useful tools to their kit. An arrow rest is one important tool that can significantly improve your chances of hitting your target in archery. It is used to rest your arrow as you take a shot.
For top performance, drop-away arrow rests are used as they “drop away” as soon as you release the arrow for maximum accuracy. This ensures that the arrow does not get stuck and goes smoothly toward the target. If you want to improve your archery game with a drop-away arrow rest, we have tried to make this the most informative compilation of reviews you will find.
Here is a quick rundown of the best drop-away rest options after rigorous testing.
Now that we’ve brushed on some of the basics, here are 7 of the best-fixed blade broadheads of 2021 that you need to check out. We tested these blades during our hunting trips for several features and found each excellent on the ground, with some being better than the others on certain fronts.
1. New Archery Apache Drop Away Rest – BEST OVERALL
- Left Handed.
- 360 degree sound dampening pad won't let our arrow touch...
- Preinstalled felt Silencer makes for the quietest drawback...
Features
- Easy setup and adjustment
- Sound dampening design
- Available for both left-hand and right-hand use
Among all the models that we tested and the ones that made it into this list, the NAP Apache is the best all-around product that you can buy right now. One of the best things about this arrow rest is that it is available for both left-hand and right-hand users and is also equipped with sound dampening for hunting enthusiasts to appreciate.
One thing to notice about this arrow rest is that it is heavier than most other choices, which may be an issue for people looking to create a lightweight rig. Given its price, we believe the company could have addressed this.
That drawback is more than covered by the fact that it is easy to set up on your bow, and adjustments can be made for perfect shots in no time. This becomes handy on hunts when you need to adjust on the go. Not replacing worn-down brushes as you do on whisker biscuit-style arrow rests is also a plus if you are looking to switch.
What We Liked:
- Easy setup and adjustment without assistance
- Right-handed and left-handed options are available
- Noticeable improvement in shot accuracy
What We Didn’t Like:
- Heavier than it should be
2. Vapor Trail LimbDriver Pro V Rest, RH – BEST PERFORMANCE
- Limb Driven
- Full Containment
- Easy Set Up
Features
- Incredibly silent design
- Sideloading containment cage
- Lightweight design with free-floating arm
If you want to improve your archery game and get to the next level, then this is a great drop-away arrow rest for you to try. The limb-driven style has gained popularity for its effectiveness and the latest generation Vapor Trail LimbDriver Pro V proves to be worth every penny you spend on it. The free-floating arm helps improve shot accuracy by providing support for the arrow for 70% of your shot cycle. With this support, you consistently improve shot accuracy and can open yourself to longer, trickier shots.
Unlike other options, this arrow rest provides complete containment for arrows in its carbon-core cage. It is also a sideloading cage which makes loading and reloading much faster than other models. Another benefit of the longer support arm is the long time the arrow gets when launching.This allows it to retain maximum shot accuracy as it builds up to its maximum speed. Having this arrow rest with a left-hand option would have been a great added perk.
What We Liked:
- Full containment cage
- Longer support arm for increased accuracy
- Adjustable spring tension
What We Didn’t Like:
- Fletching clearance can sometimes be an issue
3. QAD Ultra Rest – BEST MID-RANGE OPTION
- Package length: 6.985 cm
- Package width: 12.7 cm
- Package height: 19.685 cm
Features
- Strong aluminum build
- Easy adjustment and setup
- Breakaway safety built-in
For some people, spending top dollar on buying the best possible arrow rest is not a priority; all they want is a device that can do its job well without costing them an arm and a leg. The QAD Ultra Fast arrow rest does well without adding too many bells and whistles. The aluminum design may make it a heavier choice than some alternatives, but the small overall build perfectly compensates for that. The setup process is also simple enough; you can have it ready for action in no time.
The overall build quality is surprisingly good for an arrow rest in this price range, and its durability helped it secure its spot as our top mid-range option. It also has several nifty features that make it versatile, especially the full draw indicator that tells you when the launcher is in position. Shooting short arrows is also a huge plus for this arrow rest. The fitting design also allows arrows to remain nocked for longer periods easily.
What We Liked:
- Supports short arrows
- Highly durable and accurate for its price
- Provides breakaway safety
What We Didn’t Like:
- Not available for left-handed users
4. Quality Archery Designs Ultra-Rest HDX – GOOD ALTERNATIVE
- Features. Lock-Down technology® prevents bounceback and...
- Clamp or cord lock enables easy adjusting of timing cord....
- Break-away safety component. Overdraw, horizontal and...
Features
- Added adjustments for horizontal overdraw
- Laser-cut felt with dampeners for noise reduction
- Timing cord lock
If you want horizontal draw in a high-quality arrow rest, then the Quality Archery Designs Ultra-Rest HDX would serve you nicely. This is a great device for increasing accuracy at a professional level and works great for avid hunters. The overall design of this arrow rest is sleek and works well with most modern bows. You can count on its durability and reliability in any shooting scenario.
Some of the highlighted features of this arrow rest include their Velocity Drop Away Technology, Advanced Vibration Technology, and a personal favorite: Lock Down Technology. The rubber molds on this arrow rest are extremely durable, and combined with its laser-cut felt; they provide an extremely silent operation.
The stainless-steel build is also tough. You can use it when you expect it to take a beating. It also prevents corrosion which means it can last you a long time. For the relatively high amount you spend on it, you can get an arrow rest that would last you for quite a long time.
What We Liked:
- Lightweight and rigid design for rugged use
- Easy to install and adjust on the go
- Wide bow compatibility
What We Didn’t Like:
- Timing cord clamps can cause issues for some users.
5. Trophy Taker SmackDown Pro – GOOD ALTERNATIVE
- Durable & lightweight all-metal construction, custom arrow...
- Built-in noise dampening System integrated for quiet draw &...
- Includes limb locater rope attachment System
Features
- Elevation and windage adjustments with settings lock
- Multiple configuration options
- Limb Locater Rope Attachment System
- The high-performance noise-dampening system
This one is particularly popular for hunting with its wide array of features that allow ease of use in the open wilderness. The all-metal design makes it extremely durable and a great option for hunters looking for an arrow rest for long-term use. The limb-driven design makes it less intrusive and lets you focus on your target and surroundings instead of fiddling with the bow.
The noise-dampening system on this drop rest is also one of the best we have seen so far, and you can count on it to work to your advantage when needed. The arrow rest also offers a full containment ring with rubber overmolding. This can help prevent accidental arrow damage while also reducing the overall weight of the drop arrow rest. Multiple configuration options are also great, allowing you to attach it to the bow’s upward cable, lower limb, or upper limb.
The best feature it offers, in our opinion, is the windage and elevation adjustments. The locking system makes it a valuable feature, which means you do not need to worry about your settings once you set them.
What We Liked:
- Micro-adjusting windage and elevation setting
- Multiple attachment options
- Great noise dampening
What We Didn’t Like:
- The set screw for the launcher arm can break sometimes
6. Ripcord Camo Arrow Rest RH – GOOD ALTERNATIVE
- FALL-AWAY ARROW REST - The MAX delivers unmatched accuracy...
- FULL TIME ARROW CONTAINMENT - The soft rubber coating...
- BALL BEARING DRIVE SYSTEM - Fireball design stays up on...
Features
- Durable design with the great build quality
- Instantaneous disengage at full draw
- Highly adjustable with horizontal and vertical calibration
The Ripcord Camo Arrow Rest RH is also a great option for anyone who wants a durable arrow rest for their bow. It is recommended for hunters who want to invest long-term in an arrow rest with many great features. With some use and adjustment to your specific requirements, it can make your hunting trips quite fun.
The biggest selling point that this arrow rest boasts is its instant disengage feature which allows you to shoot arrows with complete clearance on every shot. Many archers look for this feature, and while other drop arrow rests provide it, this one does the job much better. The installation process is also quick and easy, and you do not need a bow press for cord clip attachment either.
Calibration is also great with this drop rest, as you can adjust it horizontally and vertically to improve shot accuracy. It also makes tuning while in the woods much easier and quicker. Since we suggest it to hunters, silent operation is important, and the internal dampeners on this arrow also rest significantly reduce sound.
What We Liked:
- The instant disengage feature is great to use
- Great adjustment options
- Easy to install and setup
What We Didn’t Like:
- Football clips could be a little bigger for easier adjustment to the bow cable
The answer to this question is simple and pertains to your specific needs and personal preferences. Anything you get should meet your needs, and while money may be an issue for some people, it should not be your top deciding factor. Here are some of the elements you should consider when making your choice. (1)
Sound Dampening
Some noise will inevitably be produced every time you shoot an arrow. While this may not be an issue if you shoot down a range, for hunters, noise can mean opportunities. With hunters getting as close as 20 yards to their prey in some cases, having a silent arrow can make all the difference.
Weight and Size
This is mostly about personal preference, as some people find it easier to work with heavier bows than others. If you want more weight, go for something with more bulk. That can also make your drop rest more durable in most cases. However, some archers might be looking for sleekness, and there are options like the Quality Archery Designs Ultra-Rest HDX, which offers a sleek design.
Safety Features
Whether you are a pro or a novice, safety should always be your first concern. While having safety features on drop arrow rests is not everyone’s top preference, having them certainly makes a positive difference. Like the one offered in the QAD Ultra Rest, things like breakaway safety are great for protecting yourself and bystanders.
Setup and Adjustment
No one wants to go for an arrow rest that takes a long time to set up and adjust. This is especially true for hunters who want to adjust their arrow rest mid-hunt. You should opt for an arrow rest that allows easy setup and adjustment; all options in our list provide this.
Which is better, drop away or whicker biscuit?
Each type has its pros and cons, but there is a general advantage that drop-away arrow rests have over whicker biscuit arrow rests. The biggest periodic replacements you need to make with a whicker biscuit design.
Should I add an arrow rest to a compound bow?
While compound bows can be used without arrow rests, installing one improves accuracy and efficiency and reduces operational hazards. (2)
What should be the angle of the arrows on the arrow rest?
You can either have your arrow level on the arrow rest or have it angled slightly downward. While both are a personal preference, there is a general agreement that arrows must not have an upward angle.
With its great overall performance and extreme durability and features, the New Archery Apache Drop Away Rest is the clear winner for most people looking for the best drop-away arrow rest. It covers most of the features other options on the list provide and is available for both left-handed and right-handed operations giving it a huge advantage. It also works great on compound bows and is a great overall product, in our opinion.
Before you go, you may want to check other learning and product guides we’ve written. Be sure to bookmark them!
References
(1) making your choice – https://blog.hubspot.com/sales/the-psychology-of-choice
(2) operational hazards – https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/operational-hazard
Our Recommendation Again
- Left Handed.
- 360 degree sound dampening pad won't let our arrow touch...
- Preinstalled felt Silencer makes for the quietest drawback...
