Choosing the best compound bow for archery hunting can be a difficult task, particularly for beginner bowhunters. Using this guide will help you buy the best hunting bow for your needs.
Budget
Buying the best hunting bow starts with choosing a budget to frame your search. This will allow you to narrow your choices so you can avoid wasting time with bows above your price range.
Compound bows for hunting can vary in price from entry level bows at $300 to flagship bows costing upwards of $1,200! Select a budget range that suits you and keep that in mind when you visit your local archery pro shop.
Visit a Pro Shop
After you decide on your budget, make a visit to your local archery pro shop. A quick Google search will turn up the top-rated results in your area (or, even better, ask another bowhunter for a recommendation!). Select a pro shop that carries bows from multiple manufacturers so you can try a variety of bows before making a purchase.
Don’t be afraid to let the pro shop employees know you are a beginner. They will be happy to answer questions and guide you through the process. Take your time reviewing options or even visit multiple pro shops.
Try Several Bows
At your local pro shop, be sure to demo several different bows – ideally from multiple manufacturers (Mathews, Hoyt, Bowtech, Bear & PSE to list a few).
Test drive each bow by safely drawing the bow back. Pay attention to the grip, draw length, draw cycle (how the bow feels when you draw it back ), and the look/finish of each bow.
Everyone has their favorite bow manufacturer, and you will find 1 or 2 makes & models that feel the best to you. Narrow down your choices and draw each bow before making your final decision. The right bow will often choose you!
Don’t Forget Accessories
Congratulations! You’ve picked out your first hunting bow. Now you need to deck it out with some accessories to make it fully functional before you hit the practice range.
Your pro shop can advise you on the options for accessories and will help install them on your bow. The technicians will also show you arrow options and build those to suit your bow’s specs.
Be sure to check out the rest of the Bowhunting 101 series to help you navigate outfitting your archery set up.