Compound bows are probably the best advancement in basic weaponry in who knows how long. Best of all, they’re affordable and relatively easy to learn how to use. Finding the best compound bow brand, however, can be a little tricky if you’re new to archery as a sport or new to bowhunting.
We’ve created a detailed guide and reviewed five of the best compound bow brands to help you make a more informed decision.
Best Compound Bow Reviews
1. Bear Archery BR33 Hybrid Cam Compound Bow
Last update on 2024-04-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Bear archery BR33 Hybrid Cam Compound Bow pulls out a variety of features and leaves little room for error. To start this bow is sold as “ready to hunt” because it comes equipped with a ton of accessories. Do you need all of these accessories? Not really, but a beginner could see this pack as a nice investment in equipment that they’ll need. However, advanced archers that have this equipment or something similar probably don’t need the complete kit.
This bow has an adjustable draw length from 27 to 32-inches making it only suitable for adults and at that rate, not ideal for short adults. Anyone under 5’6” shouldn’t be using this bow.
Finally, there’s a lot that can be said for the draw weight. Unlike the other bow options available here, the draw weight range doesn’t have a huge window for beginners to develop muscle strength. Instead, the draw weight on the Bear archery BR33 spans from 55 to 70-pounds and it delivers an aggressive force.
The bow releases arrows at approximately 330 feet per second which is a deadly speed — ideal for survivalists and serious hunters.
2. SWA Raptor Compound Hunting Bow
- PERFECT PLATFORM – Hunting bow, bow fishing, Farm Bow, and target shooting, this incredible unique bow offers versatility and strength for adults, youth, beginner, and Intermediate archers, Right hand and Left hand Compound bows!
- FULLY ADJUSTABLE – With an axle length of 30” and weighing in at only 3.6 lbs, the draw length ranges from 24.5”- 31” and the draw weight can be adjusted from 30 lbs - 70 lbs without needing an archery compound bow press as big bows usually requires!
- HIGH QUALITY MACHINING – Both the cams and modules are fully machined aluminum with zero plastic. Compound design allows for 75% let - off and features a split yoke tuning system providing precise adjustments for proper arrow flight.
- COMPLETE BOW - Compound bow package Includes 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.
- Compact bow Available in 2 colors Black and Camouflage, includes manual with warranty Raptor Predator Archery Family owned business and years of experience adding valuable knowledge to every product as members of The Sport and Archery in general.
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
A brand with a cult following Raptor compound bows are well-known for their use in bowhunting, they bring impressive power and speed in nearly every rendition available, and the SWA Raptor provides everything you could ask for in a compound bow for hunting.
The Raptor is available in two finishes but is only available in a right-hand orientation. The draw length is adjustable between 24 to 31-inches which is larger than most other options. The draw weight is also adjustable but begins at 30-pounds and goes up to 70 pounds.
Although the SWA Raptor claims that you don’t need a bow press to make these adjustments, don’t think that means that the adjustments are easy. Modifications on this bow are not for the inexperienced.
What makes the Raptor have such a strong reputation though is the split yoke tuning system which allows an experienced archer to carefully and meticulously make adjustments to modify the arrow flight. It’s imperative for archers to understand what these adjustments are and how they affect the arrow’s flight before using them in action!
3. Quest Radical Right Hand Compound Bow
- Easily adjustable cam system that requires no bow press
- Draw Length: 17.5-30 Inch
- Suppressor, quiver, rest, stabilizer, sling, peep and a 4 pin sight
Last update on 2024-04-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
One of the best options available with a wide draw length setting and adjustable cam system. A beginner might not need everything in this package, but the stabilizer, rest and 4-pin sight are excellent additions to a bowhunters equipment stores.
Additionally, this bow is not for new archers as the draw weight is preset at 40-pounds and is hard to adjust. Overall, the Quest Radical Right Hand Compound Bow is excellent for bow hunters and those who are preparing a bug bag or survival kit.
The moderate, or for some short, bow length can flex between use in open ground for deer hunting or 3D target practice but is also useful in tight places. Possibly the one downside we see here is that there is not a left-handed option.
4. Bear Archery Cruzer G2
- VERSATILE: Maximum-versatility bow is engineered for all ages and skill levels
- READY TO HUNT: Ready to hunt bow comes equipped with six Trophy Ridge accessories
- ADJUSTABLE: Adjustable from 12" to 30" draw length range and from 5 to 70 lbs. peak draw weight
- EASY ADJUSTMENTS: All adjustments are made using an Allen wrench with no need for a bow press
- LIGHTWEIGHT POWER: Weighs only 3 lbs. and fires arrows at 315 feet per second
Last update on 2024-04-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you want something that is entirely “you”, then this might be your best bet. There are nine different finish options, both left, and right-hand orientations have a widely adjustable draw length and draw eight.
The adjustments on this bow are typically easy to manage which is a huge advantage over other adjustable bows. The bow itself only weighs about 3 pounds making it easy for beginners to start training their bow muscles. The limb is reliable, and the strings can last through many hunting seasons.
The complete bow length is 30-inches. The maximum draw length is 30-inches but can go as short as 12-inches making it an option for children who are learning archery as well. Finally, the bow shoots at up to 315 feet per second making it impressively fast.
5. Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Bow
- Wide draw length range between 13 and 31 inches
- Accelerates arrows to up to 310 ft/sec
- Redesigned cam system for a flawlessly smooth draw
- Integral stabilizer creates a perfect balance and a steadier shot
- Draw weight adjustable from 5 to 70 lbs of force
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
A complete package available in both right and left-handed options. On top of the handedness options, you can choose between a standard mossy oak camouflage finish, matte black, or pink. This bow is a preferred choice for archers with a very long draw, so generally speaking if you’re short this might not be the bow for you.
The complete package includes the Diamond Infinite Edge Pro Bow, as well as a 3-pin sight, an XL arrow rest, a Deadlock Lite quiver, string loop, peep sight, wrist sling, and stabilizer. A package like this doesn’t mean a whole lot for established archers that have the equipment they prefer, but new archers that don’t have this equipment can use this package to get everything they might need in one purchase.
Overall, a good value for an initial purchase, but not the best value for an experienced archer.
Best Compound Bow Buyer’s Guide
Like nearly everything else in life, you want to get the best value. There’s no sense in buying something just because the price tag is high if something more affordable is a better fit for you, and with compound bows, a price tag is not very indicative of the quality.
Before making any purchase, thoroughly research the compound bow you’ve found. We’ve collected 5 of the best compound bows with the highest value available. When deciding which bow is right for you to consider these aspects:
- Purpose of the bow
- Handedness
- Length
- Draw Length
- Draw Weight
What is Your Compound Bow’s Purpose?
Any new archer will likely shoot just for the joy of it, but a compound bow will likely serve a particular purpose over the years. Common uses for compound bows include:
- Sport hunting
- Bowhunting
- Survival preparedness
- Target practice
Yes, of course, you can shoot for fun, but understanding what type of shooting and how you’ll make the most out of your bow will impact what you need from this piece of equipment. Many bows on the market claim to have dual or multi-purpose but that’s not a realistic expectation of any piece of hunting or survival equipment.
Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you prefer an archery release or a finger draw?
- Do you know what draw length you can maintain?
- What type of arrow do you prefer?
- Do you need a bow sight, and if so, do you have a preference?
For hunters, you’ll likely want to use a dual cam or hybrid cam which utilizes two cam systems that work together in time. A dual cam will allow you to fire multiple times with reduced strain, and an aggressive cam will deliver more power as well.
However survivalists who are anticipating the worst may want something with a single cam which requires less maintenance, has more even wear, and are generally quieter.
When it comes to arrows the weight, diameter, length and more are all factors to consider. You can read this complete guide for arrows, or you can experiment with a few to identify what you like handling best.
Common arrow options include wood, aluminum, carbon, and carbon/aluminum mixes.
Left and Right Handed Business
While there’s no debating that there’s a left and right option for everything, archers have a lot of leeway when it comes to finding what they like best. A coach is the best way to find out which works best for you as many lefties use right-handed bows and many right-handed people handle a left-handed bow better than the alternative.
The general rule is that you should opt for the handedness of your dominant eye. You can learn how to determine your dominant eye easily, and most of the time it should match your handedness. In the few cases where it doesn’t match you will want to speak with an expert archer who can help you assess your stance and which bow option you’re more accurate at handling.
Understanding Draw Length and Bow Length
Draw length is a major factor in archery, and it’s imperative that you give it careful consideration when choosing the right bow for you. So what is draw length? Draw length is the extent that anyone can pull back the bowstring.
Most people base their draw length off of their size, and body awareness is vital for archers. A good way to choose a suitable draw length is to use the measurement of their arm span. You can expect this measurement to be very close to your height.
The simple formula used for draw length is arm span divided by 2.5. So for a 5’5” person, the ideal draw length is right around 26 inches. If you buy a draw length that’s too short you’ll never be able to achieve an accurate stance and in that respect, a realistic shot.
If your draw length is too long, you won’t ever be able to pull the bow to its full length, meaning inaccurate shots and a loss of power.
Now, regarding the full bow length, also called axle-to-axle bow length is the complete vertical length of the bow from top to bottom. Full bow length is usually left to preference, but your general size can make very large or very short bows more difficult to handle than something in the moderate range.
A longer bow is usually good for open courses and ground hunting while shorter bows are excellent when shooting from confined spaces such as tree sight positions. Survivalists tend to favor shorter bow lengths, while bowhunters prefer something a little longer.
Finding the Right Draw Weight
You can use a finger draw or a shoulder release, but either way, you’ll need to know approximately how many pounds you can pull back. Because compound bows use a series of pulley systems, archers can handle more weight here than if they were using a traditional bow.
If you’re new to archery, start with very low poundage and then work your way up as you develop your muscles. Over the years you’ll need to invest in bows with more draw weight.
For those who are dedicated to improving their archery skill rapidly, they have the option of using a compound bow with an adjustable draw weight system. That way your bow can grow with you.
Here are the five best compound bow options, there’s something here for beginners, experts and everything in between. Explore each possibility and use your preferences to decide which option is the best fit for you!
Final Thoughts
With all of the above best compound bows considered the Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult Compound Bow comes out on top for us. Although it claims to be an adult bow the dimensions and adjustment options can fit a small teenager or pre-teen.
The ease of adjustment is what won the Bear Cruzer G2 the top spot as archers can easily adjust the draw weight, and height. The only thing that isn’t adjustable is the axle-to-axle height which is 30-inches making it versatile between both open field shooting and firing arrows from smaller spaces.
The Bear Archery Cruzer G2 has made a name for itself as an excellent bow to learn on, but also a favorite among multi talented archers that enjoy target shooting, bowhunting, and more. As a bonus, it’s available in both right and left-handedness, which definitely made a difference between some of the other top bows on this list that are only available for right-handed people.
