Best Compounds Bows of 2022

How do you decide a compound bow when each high producer makes a wonderful flagship? Simple. You spherical up the sector of latest bows, ship them to Lancaster Archery Supply, the nation’s premier archery store, after which tune, chronograph, and shoot the hell out of them till just one bow is left standing. And that’s precisely what we did for the 2022 Outdoor Life Bow Test.

It wasn’t simple choosing a winner. You may need heard individuals say, “There are no bad bows these days,” and it’s a largely true assertion. But every bow has design traits that may make it best for various bowhunting eventualities and capturing kinds. 

So don’t purchase a bow based mostly on what your favourite movie star bowhunter shoots or what your buddy says is the very best. Buying a bow in 2023 is all about discovering the bow that’s greatest for you. 

In this evaluation you’ll discover much more data than producer’s specs and primary YouTube video critiques can present. You’ll discover correct speeds shot with an precise hunting-weight arrow, tuning data, accuracy information, and particulars on the bow’s capturing traits. That data will enable you slender down the sector to a handful you possibly can take a look at at an archery store.

2023 Compound Bows

The 2023 bow take a look at will publish in early March 2023, however till then, we’ve got critiques on a number of the greatest new bows for 2023.

Mathews Phase 4

The Mathews Phase 4 appears to be like lots just like the 2022 V3X, which we thought had the very best capturing expertise of any of the bows we examined. But, it makes use of a model new limb design that cuts vibration and quiets the bow much more. Read our full Phase 4 evaluation to study extra.

Prime Revex

Prime’s 2023 flagship makes use of a model new cam design that emphasizes capturing expertise over adjustability. It has a hard and fast draw-length module as an alternative of the frequent rotating module, which makes the bow optimized for your entire draw size vary. It additionally is available in three axle-to-axle lengths to suit nearly any archer’s desire. You can learn our full Prime Revex evaluation to study extra.

Elite Omnia

Elite is understood for easy drawing and delicate capturing bows. But, their newest flagship looking bow has Elite’s famend “shootability,” however with extra pace than earlier than. The bow we examined shot a 475 grain arrow at 302 fps (70 kilos, 29-inch draw size). Read our full Elite Omnia evaluation for more information.

Elite Era

For the primary time ever Elite has a carbon riser, and their first try is improbable. Check out our full evaluation of the 2023 Elite Era for more information.

How We Tested the Bows

Specs

To get a baseline, we weighed the bows with simply the QAD arrow relaxation mounted in addition to measured their actual draw weight and draw size. The actual draw weight is to offer context for the bow’s pace. All bows had been set two seems from their 70 pound max for 65 kilos +/- 2 kilos. We additionally measured the holding weight, so you understand how a lot weight you’re holding at full draw with every bow. 

Measuring a bow’s actual draw size on a draw board gives context for pace and checks if the bow is hitting its specified draw size. We set bows at 29 inches of draw size and measured the draw size utilizing the ATA commonplace of the string apex to the pivot level plus 1.75 inches. 

Tuning

Next we timed the cams, set the middle shot to the usual 13/16 inch, and set the nocking level peak stage. Then we did a primary paper tune, throughout which we judged the bows on how simple it was to get a bullet gap. With tuning full, we recorded the ultimate middle shot and nocking level peak to present you a place to begin in your personal tuning. 

The 5-Foot Test

When you check out a bow at an archery store you’ll possible take a look at it near the goal and decide the bow on its really feel. While capturing a bow for accuracy is a vital element of this take a look at, we additionally examined a bow’s grip, again wall, perceived vibration, and draw cycle at shut vary so we might concentrate on these attributes with out worrying about capturing tiny teams. Testers rated every characteristic and supplied notes on them.  

Accuracy Testing

Accuracy testing began at 20 yards. Each tester shot 5, three-shot teams at a 40 cm goal face and measured their teams with calipers. The accuracy testing then moved to 50 yards with 5, three-shot teams. At 50 yards, bows had been additionally geared up with a Mantis gadget to seize information on holding patterns.

Mantis X8 

The Mantis X8 is a small sensor that attaches to a bow’s riser and sends information to the Mantis app. In addition to exhibiting pin motion, it reveals how a lot the bow strikes from the time of launch to the arrow leaving the bow. It’s a helpful instrument for archers who need to enhance their kind or dial of their setup. It additionally helped us gather goal information on how regular every of the bows shot with out stabilizers. While the testers might inform for themselves if a bow held regular or wobbled like a hen on tightrope, the Mantis X8 permits us to truly present you what a bow’s float sample appears to be like like.

We included Mantis information within the critiques for bows that held exceptionally regular and for bows that had been tougher to shoot. The orange line reveals a bow’s motion whereas at full draw, and the purple line reveals a bow’s motion after launch. There are two Xs: one for the bow’s place when the arrow was launched and one for the bow’s place when the arrow left the bow. The Mantis additionally gives a stability rating on a 100 level scale. A poor shot might be within the 70s, a mean shot might be within the mid-80s, and our greatest pictures had been within the mid-90s. 

Speed

We shot Easton Axis 5mm shafts in a 300 backbone lower to twenty-eight.75 inches with a 100-grain subject level, which total weighed 450 grains. Bows had been shot on the actual specs listed for every bow—roughly 65 kilos and a 29-inch draw size. We used a Labradar doppler chronograph to measure 5 pictures from every bow. We then averaged these 5 recorded speeds for the ultimate spec. Because every part from a bow’s tune to the load of the peep can have an effect on a bow’s pace, the speeds listed under are supposed to present reference factors, not the ultimate phrase on a bow’s pace. 

Stress Engineering

For goal testing, we partnered with Stress Engineering Services to check a number of of the very best bows of their lab in Mason, Ohio. Testing at their lab contains exact noise, vibration, and effectivity measurements. The engineers of their Outdoor Division are capable of take a look at for acceleration impulse(vibration), effectivity, and sound utilizing superior sensors and meters. You’ll see this information within the bow critiques when related, however we didn’t use it to find out our award as a result of not all bows had been examined at Stress Engineering.

Forgiveness 

Good bows hit proper behind the pin. Really good bows hit the center even once you’re not capturing nice; a bow that may do this is named forgiving. At the top of testing there have been two bows on the high of the heap. To take a look at them additional, we performed a forgiveness take a look at that simulates three frequent errors archers make when underneath stress: creeping, torquing the grip, and pulling exhausting into the stops. The tester deliberately made every of these errors to see if the purpose of affect modified. 

Gear We Used 

Chronograph: Labradar 

The Labradar makes use of doppler radar to trace a projectile and measure its pace. We selected it over a standard chronograph as a result of it gives constant studying irrespective of the lighting situations. 

Bow Sight: Garmin Xero A1i Pro

I reviewed the Garmin Xero A1i Pro this fall, and preferred the exact aiming dot it gives in addition to the quick sight-in course of. 

Arrows: Easton Axis 5mm

The Easton Axis 5mm is considered one of my favourite looking shafts. I selected it for the take a look at as a result of it’s a constant shaft that will give us an arrow weight within the mid 400s. 

Arrow Rest: QAD Ultrarest

I wished an arrow relaxation that will be simple to arrange with out hindering our accuracy. The QAD was an ideal match.

Other Tools Used

The Test Team

P.J. Reilly: Longtime bow reviewer and video host for Lancaster Archery Supply. Reilly can also be an achieved archer who has bowhunted every part from whitetails to musk ox.

Alex Robinson: Outdoor Life’s Editor-in-Chief, bow take a look at veteran, and workaday bowhunter. 

Scott Einsmann: Outdoor Life Executive Gear Editor, former archery coach, and lifelong archery nerd.

Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 32.5 inches 
• Weight: 3.80 kilos
• Speed: 282.2 fps
• Draw size: 29 inches
• Draw weight: 64.3 kilos
• Holding weight: 8.8 kilos
• Center shot: 13/16 inch
• Nocking level: Level
• MSRP: $1,899

PSE Carbon Levitate Review

The PSE Carbon Levitate annihilates preconceived notions about carbon bows. We couldn’t imagine how a bow that’s so loopy mild might shoot such tight teams, have little vibration, and simply be an throughout pleasure to shoot. 

The secret sauce that went into the Levitate was concocted by John Dudley and PSE engineers, who got down to remedy most of the points with carbon bows, beginning with the riser. Each Levitate carbon riser is hand laid in the united statesA. utilizing proprietary Dead Frequency carbon. The carbon materials is designed for rigidity and to cut back suggestions. The levitate additionally sports activities PSE’s new E2 cam, an evolution of the favored Evolve cam. But, we preferred the delicate upgrades like the broader cams, ¼-inch axle, and the beefier bearings used on the Levitate. Those upgrades give the bow longevity and accuracy. The limbs are additionally break up wider aside, which makes the bow extra torsionally secure. Another sensible characteristic on the Levitate is the cable guard, which is screwed and pinned into the riser. That means you’ll by no means have to fret a couple of cable guard coming free throughout a hunt and throwing off your tune. 

Testing the Carbon Levitate

We began every take a look at with a paper tune and tuning the Levitate was drama free. The first shot was a bullet gap and it didn’t want further changes. One tip for tuning the Levitate is that when you’re getting a depraved lateral tear by way of paper, strive a stiffer backbone earlier than you pop off the e-clips and begin shimming.

There was one resounding theme within the accuracy testing: The PSE Levitate shoots higher than it ought to. Lightweight bows are imagined to be tough to shoot, however the testers discovered this bow to be extraordinarily correct. Reilly’s 50-yard teams averaged 2.8 inches and Robinson averaged 2.75 inches. Robinson even shot a Robinhood at 50 yards with the Levitate, and mentioned capturing tight teams felt easy.

Above, you’ll see Robinson’s Mantis studying. His pin float was extraordinarily tight and predictable (that’s indicated by the orange line wiggling forwards and backwards as much as the goal). On the discharge there was virtually no bow motion—the 2 Xs are stacked proper on high of one another. He achieved a stability rating of 94 with a bow that weighs 4 kilos. That stability rating is nipping on the heels of what professional archers obtain with totally rigged goal setups.

You can inform the Levitate has high-performance cams whereas drawing the bow, however the draw cycle isn’t as aggressive as a real pace bow. You have early draw weight, an excellent center, and a closing hump earlier than the cams easily roll over into the 90 p.c let-off. The again wall is stable with no noticeable sponginess. The valley is forgiving and even and not using a stabilizer we achieved a sluggish and predictable pin float. At the discharge, the bow jumps to the goal. It’s not a teeth-shattering vibration, or something I’d even describe as vibration. Instead, it’s merely an equal and reverse response to the discharge of an arrow that’s noticeable solely as a result of this bow weighs so little. 

We examined bows on chilly January days in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, however gripping this carbon bow was a pleasure throughout these temps. The Levitate’s grip is sq., ¾ inches huge, and flat with beveled corners. It’s a snug grip that’s simple to shoot properly. 

The Levitate didn’t run away with the Editor’s Choice: It was in a good race with the Mathews V3X. To push the 2 bows to their limits, Reilly performed a forgiveness take a look at to see if the light-weight Levitate might deal with dangerous pictures. He pulled exhausting into the stops and fired; the arrow hit the dot. He creeped ahead and fired a shot; the arrow hit the dot. He gave the bow a demise grip to induce torque and sure, the arrow nonetheless hit the dot. It was actually spectacular to see a sub-4-pound bow able to sustaining accuracy underneath these situations. The V3X did equally properly within the forgiveness take a look at, however the Levitate’s progressive design in the end separated it from the V3X. 

Read Next: Extended PSE Nock On Carbon Levitate Review

The PSE Levitate’s greatest draw back is its worth. This is an costly bow at $1,899, or $700 greater than the Mathews V3X. Yet, it’s comparable in worth to different flagship carbon bows. Given its price ticket, this gained’t be the very best bow for everybody. But when you’re dead-set on the very best light-weight, tack-driving bow on the market, then this can be a bow for you.

The Best Shooting Experience: Mathews V3X 

Mathews V3X Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 29 inches
• Weight: 4.83 kilos
• Speed: 275.5 fps
• Draw weight: 64.7 kilos
• Draw size: 29 inches
• Holding weight: 12.6 kilos
• Center shot: 13/16 inch
• Nocking level: Level
• Price: $1,099

Mathews V3X Review

If the Levitate left our testers in awe, then the V3X left testers saying, “Damn that’s a nice bow.” The V3X was the nicest-shooting bow we examined, and it was a detailed second for Editor’s Choice. 

The V3 was one of the vital widespread bows of 2021, and the V3X takes all that you simply liked in regards to the V3 and provides further options. You’ll get the identical cams, Integrate arrow relaxation mount, and cable guard on the V3. But the V3X is available in longer axle-to-axle lengths, with the brand new Bridgelock sight mount and the Stay Afield System.

We examined the V3X with an Axcel Bridgelock sight and QAD Integrate arrow relaxation, each equipment had been so streamlined it appeared like they had been constructed into the bow. The V3X is suitable with a transportable bow press, the Stay within the Field System, that’s fairly genius. For years we’ve needed to do sketchy issues to make in-the-field repairs, like sticking Allen wrenches in cams. But now you may get an OEM moveable bow press and alter a peep or string proper within the subject.

Testing the V3X

You’ll discover a theme within the flagship bows: All of them had been simple to tune. We didn’t must shim cams or use a bow press on a single bow. The Mathews V3X wasn’t an exception, it was a primary shot bullet gap tuning job. 

The draw cycle is what we preferred most in regards to the Mathews, which requires constant effort from the beginning of the draw to the top. There aren’t any humps to tug previous, no dump into the valley. To me, the graceful draw feels 5 kilos lighter than the precise draw weight. I can see this characteristic coming in useful when that you must slowly draw on a cagey outdated buck. Both Reilly and Robinson mentioned the V3X was the nicest capturing bow they’ve ever shot. The V3X was examined by Stress Engineering, whose engineers discovered it to be the quietest bow they examined at 76.7 db. (For perspective the loudest bow they examined, Bear Refine, was 83.5 db.)

While we liked the V3X’s draw cycle, we didn’t just like the grip. The V3X grip is plastic and rubber with a rounded form that makes it comfy, however simple to torque and exhausting to persistently place your hand. There is a silver lining. We determined to take away the grip and shoot the bow on the naked riser. Groups tightened by as a lot as 50 p.c with out the grip. Aftermarket grips are additionally obtainable for the Mathews bows from producers like Ultraview.

At 20 yards Reilly’s worst group with the inventory grip was 2 inches, however with out the grip his worst group was 1.2 inches. We shot 50-yard teams with out the grip, throughout which Robinson averaged 3.5-inch teams and Reilly averaged 2-inch teams with a formidable .75-inch group within the combine. Reilly additionally performed the forgiveness take a look at with the V3X (no grip) and it dealt with every section with out difficulty. Each arrow hit the dot no matter torque, creep, or pulling exhausting into the wall. 

Read Next: Extended Mathews V3X Review: “The Nicest Shooting Compound Bow I’ve Ever Tested”

If you want easy drawing and easy-to-shoot bows, the V3X is price a take a look at drive. This bow is an absolute pleasure to shoot within the yard all summer season and from a stand all fall. 

Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 32 inches
• Weight: 5.31 kilos
• Speed: 267.6 fps
• Draw weight: 65.4 kilos
• Draw size: 29 inches
• Holding weight: 11.1 kilos
• Center shot: 13/16 inch
• Nocking level: Level
• Price: $1,050

Spectra E Review

If you like underdogs, you then’ll need to know why Reilly calls the Darton Spectra E the very best bow nobody is speaking about. Darton has been flying underneath the radar for a number of years, and now they’ve made among the finest bows we examined. 

Any archery fan ought to study the identify Rex Darlington, Darton’s former proprietor and present engineer. Because likelihood is that the bow you presently personal (and certainly, each bow we examined this 12 months) accommodates not less than one half that Darlington patented. He is aware of a factor or two about constructing bows. 

When designing the Spectra E, Darlington had stability in thoughts. He began with the 7075 T-6511 aluminum riser, which has a excessive strength-to-weight ratio. The huge limb stance additional will increase stability and Darton made the limbs parallel to assist cut back vibration. The cams have a cable cease and draw cease for a rock-solid wall. The cams even have Darton’s E system which is a brand new tackle yolks. With three factors of contact as an alternative of two, the E system evens out stress on the axles and contributes to accuracy.

Testing the Spectra E

When the primary shot from the Spectra E went by way of paper it was apparent we had a difficulty. There was an enormous vertical tear. It turned out we had been simply getting contact off the remaining. We adjusted the arrow relaxation timing and acquired a bullet gap. 

The very first thing you’ll discover once you shoot a Spectra E is its mass weight. This is a hefty compound. But at full draw, the load wasn’t noticeable. Robinson recorded his greatest 50-yard teams with the Spectra-E, with an total 2.5-inch common. Reilly’s 50-yard common was even tighter at 2.1 inches. At 20 yards, Reilly shot a ridiculous .3-inch group whereas Robinson averaged a .6-inch group. Those group sizes make it essentially the most correct bow we examined. Robinson famous the bow appeared to carry itself on course, and Reilly mentioned the bow felt secure at full draw. 

Those teams had been candy, and so was our capturing expertise with the Spectra E. As you begin the draw and overcome the early draw weight, you’ll transition to a pleasant, even pull after which a slight dip into the valley. Thanks to that very beneficiant valley, you possibly can maintain this bow at full draw for days. The double-draw stops make for a stable, outlined again wall that you simply’ll have a tough time creeping from. The beefy riser helps tamp down any vibration so the bow sits nonetheless on the shot.

Read Next: Extended Darton Spectra E Review: The Most Underrated Flagship Bow

If you don’t care in regards to the hottest model names or Darton’s retro graphics (just like the flame designs on the grip) and also you simply desire a bow that’s able to excellent accuracy, give the Darton Spectra E a strive.

Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 35 inches
• Weight: 6.2 kilos
• Speed: 262 fps (500-grain arrow)
• Draw weight: 63 kilos
• Draw size: 32.5 inches
• Holding weight: 7.5 kilos
• Center shot: 13/16 inch
• Nocking level: ⅛ inch excessive
• Price: $1,399

Hoyt Highline Review

Everyone thinks being tall is nice, however there are downsides: You can’t discover garments that match, you hit your head on a regular basis, and all of the cool bows don’t are available in your draw size (mine’s 32.5 inches). Sure, I can shoot a 500-grain arrow at good speeds with out pulling 70 kilos, however I’m telling you: It’s not simple being 6 ft 6 inches tall. I’ve shot some actually dangerous long-draw bows with tough draw cycles and a imply thump on the shot. Those had been bows that went to my draw size, sure, however they weren’t engineered to be nice to shoot at my draw size.

I’m carried out griping although, as a result of Hoyt got here by way of for us tall archers with the Highline. It adjusts from 29 to 34 inches of draw size with a rotating mod.

Testing the Hoyt Highline

This bow additionally proved simple to tune, and I settled on a ⅛-inch excessive nocking level and 13/16-inch middle shot. (I can’t emphasize sufficient how relieved I’m that the Highline and the opposite bows on this take a look at had been simple to tune. There’s nothing worse than getting a tough left tear that takes an hour to tune out.)

The Highline is every part you’d need in a looking bow: easy, correct, and well-behaved. I additionally assume that the 35-inch axle-to-axle is an efficient compromise between an agile looking bow and a snug string angle. It’s simple to get the cams transferring and the pull could be very even after the primary few inches of draw. It has a forgiving valley and stable wall. I’m used to lengthy draw bows with a kick on launch, however this bow simply sits after the shot. 

I felt comfy and secure at full draw. My arrows hit behind the pin, and I averaged 2.6-inch teams at 50 yards. The pin float was sluggish and predictable, so I stay up for spending time getting a stabilizer setup dialed for the Highline. This bow has two cons: I anticipated it to be quicker, and it’s expensive.

Bear Refine EKO Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 33 inches
• Weight: 4.94 kilos
• Speed: 278 fps
• Draw weight: 65.2 kilos
• Draw size: 29 inches
• Holding weight: 9 kilos
• Center shot: 13/16 inch
• Nocking level: ⅛ inch excessive. 
• Price: $1,000

Refine EKO Review

Bear Archery is understood for constructing a bow for everybody. From youth to flagship bows, Bear has a bow that may match any archer, and any funds. The Refine EKO is Bear’s flagship providing for 2022, and it has some cool options. There’s a stage constructed into the bow that’s meant to assist archers stage their sights. The bow additionally has a 15-pound draw-weight adjustment vary in comparison with the everyday 10-pound vary. The let-off can also be adjustable from 75 to 90 p.c. But as helpful as these options are, the Refine EKO isn’t fairly on par with different high flagships in our take a look at. 

Testing the Bear Refine EKO

The Refine EKO shot a bullet gap on the primary shot. It’s price noting that the Refine preferred an ⅛ -inch excessive nocking level.

When you have a look at the Refine EKO’s spherical cams, you possibly can in all probability guess it’s going to be easy, and it’s. It’s a linear draw with no humps to beat. The valley isn’t deep, but it surely doesn’t really feel just like the string desires to leap ahead, both. On the shot there’s some noticeable vibration. Stress Engineering examined the Refine EKO and it had essentially the most vibration of the bows examined, at 28.2 m/s². For comparability, the Elite EnVisio had the least vibration at 11.8 m/s², and even the second-to-last bow within the vibration rating was nonetheless simply 17.6 m/s².

Reilly and Robinson had a tough time holding regular with the Refine EKO. Above you’ll see Mantis information from Robinson’s 50-yard take a look at. The float ranges from 1 to 1.5 levels and it’s not a constant holding sample. This issue in getting regular translated to Robinson’s teams, which averaged 5.7 inches. Despite not having the ability to maintain regular, Reilly shot a stable 2.4-inch common. It’s additionally price noting that Robinson shot a decent 1.2-inch-group common at 20 yards with the Refine EKO. I think a number of the accuracy inconsistency has to do with the rounded plastic grip, which makes it tough to use constant grip stress. 

Bear has some work to do for the Refine EKO to compete with equally priced choices just like the V3X and Spectra E. I’d counsel altering the grip to a flat, sq. configuration and widening the limb stance. 

Bowtech SR350 Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 33 inches
• Weight: 5.03 kilos
• Speed: 288 fps
• Draw weight: 67 kilos
• Draw size: 29 inches
• Holding weight: 17 kilos
• Center shot: 13/16 inch
• Nocking level: Level
• Price: $1,299

Bowtech SR350 Review

In my expertise, chasing pace isn’t a good suggestion, however the good factor in regards to the SR350 is that you’ve got the choice of swapping between Performance and Comfort settings. If you need your arrows to hit the goal earlier than everybody else’s, use the Performance setting. If you prioritize smoothness and capturing expertise, use the Comfort setting. 

The SR350 appears to be like just like the 2021 Solution, however its cams are fairly completely different. The SR350 sports activities a teardrop formed cam, which helps generate quicker speeds than the Solution’s rounder cams. Bowtech has among the finest tuning options constructed into their bows: the Deadlock. That tuning system lets you simply transfer cams left and proper and not using a bow press, e-clips that fly into outer area, or misplaced shims. Moving the cams is simply as simple as it’s to regulate the draw weight. 

Testing the SR350

Tuning the SR350 was comparatively simple: The first shot produced a excessive tear, however transferring the arrow relaxation down resulted in a clear bullet gap on the second shot.

I’d describe capturing the SR350 like capturing a light-weight .300 Win Mag—it’s not one thing you’d need to shoot all day. It takes quite a lot of effort to roll the cams, the center is easy, and there’s a closing hump to tug by way of earlier than you enter the slender valley. Once you attain full draw, the work isn’t over: that you must be in your recreation to maintain the bow there. This discomfort affected accuracy for each shooters. Reilly’s accuracy was feast or famine at 50 yards, along with his smallest group at 1.5 inches and his largest at 6.25 inches. Robinson averaged 5.1 inches at 50 yards. 

Above you’ll see Robinson’s Mantis information from the SR350. You’ll discover huge left to proper motion, which was possible brought on by muscle rigidity. You may see the bow was very secure after the shot. So, if an archer devoted the time to mastering this bow, there’s little doubt that it’s able to tight teams. 

“If I were to hunt with this bow, I’d have to drop to the 60-pound model or shoot it on the Comfort setting, or both,” Robinson says. “For reference, I hunted comfortably with a 70-pound Bowtech Experience this fall.”

Some of the very best archers on the earth choose aggressive cams as a result of they really feel they’re extra correct. So, when you determine to shoot the SR350 on the Performance setting, I’d suggest working with a coach to dial in your draw size and get your self in excellent alignment. Using regular again rigidity by pulling your elbow again and round your head may also maintain the bow on its stops. 

Read Next: Extended Bowtech SR350 Review: A Versatile and Customizable Hunting Bow

For those that don’t need to use the Performance setting, the excellent news is in keeping with Reilly’s evaluation on the SR350 you’ll solely lose 10 fps by going to the Comfort setting. And you’ll acquire quite a lot of consolation. If you’re take a look at driving the SR350, I’d suggest beginning on Comfort and, when you’re on the lookout for extra pace, then strive Performance. 

Elite EnVision Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 31 inches
• Weight: 4.92 kilos
• Speed: 263 fps 
• Draw weight: 64.6 kilos
• Draw size: 29 inches
• Holding weight: 13 kilos
• Center shot: 13/16 inch
• Nocking level: Level
• Price: $1,200

Elite EnVision Review

Designing a bow is commonly a compromise between pace and luxury. If you desire a quick bow, it’s not going to be enjoyable to attract or maintain. Meanwhile, bows which might be simple to attract are normally sluggish. Elite has made its status on constructing easy and shootable bows—not pace bows. And that’s precisely what you’ll get within the EnVision. 

Testing the EnVision

A number of of the bows most popular a barely excessive nocking level, however the EnVision shot an ideal bullet gap when set to useless stage and a 13/16-inch middle shot. If extra tuning is critical, Elite’s S.E.T. know-how makes bare-shaft tuning simple, and also you don’t want a bow press to make changes. Another profit for dwelling bow mechanics is that you simply don’t must mess with strings and cables to dial in your draw size at ¼ inch increments. If your draw size is 28.25 inches you don’t must compromise at 28 or 28.5 inches. You can set it to your actual draw with the rotating modules. 

The EnVision’s draw begins off easy, transitions into an excellent smoother pull, after which finishes easy. There aren’t any humps or variations in effort all through the draw cycle. Testers commented that the bow felt lighter than the measured draw weight, and Robinson mentioned it was by far the best bow to attract. Like most Elites, there’s a beneficiant valley and it’s important to virtually push the bow ahead to let it down. On launch there’s no handshock. At 11.8 m/s², it had the least vibration of all of the bows Stress examined.

I actually just like the grip on the EnVision, and the opposite testers gave it high marks. It’s simple to persistently place your hand in the very same place for every shot. The grip and the bow’s stability helped us obtain glorious accuracy. Robinson shot this bow on the finish of the day after operating the gauntlet of bows, however nonetheless managed to common 3.5 inches at 50 yards. Reilly averaged 2.3 inches at 50 yards with the EnVision. 

Read Next: Full Elite EnVision Review: Customizable and Accurate

The Elite EnVision is a sweet-shooting bow which you can maintain at full draw all day whereas ready for the right shot alternative. If you’re not a pace freak, this one is unquestionably price a take a look at drive.

Hoyt RX-7 Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 30 inches
• Weight: 4.72 kilos (with brief cease stabilizer)
• Speed: 274.5
• Draw weight: 65.7 kilos
• Draw size: 29 inches
• Holding weight: 11 kilos
• Center shot: 13/16 inch 
• Nocking level: ⅛-inch excessive
• Price: $1,749

Hoyt RX-7 Review

Hoyt carbon bows haven’t all the time been a lot lighter than their aluminum counterparts. But for 2022 Hoyt redesigned its carbon riser, and the outcomes are phenomenal.

The headline characteristic is Hoyt’s first one hundred pc carbon riser (earlier fashions had aluminum caps). The riser can also be stiffer and lighter than earlier generations. For perspective, the Carbon RX-7 is about .5 kilos lighter than the Ventum 33, and .3 kilos lighter than the 2021 Carbon RX-5. If you missed the information final 12 months, Hoyt jumped on the binary cam practice and hasn’t regarded again. The new HBX cam is lighter and addresses sight alignment points some archers skilled with the 2021 fashions. The RX-7 additionally has a Picatinny sight mount on the entrance of the riser and a dovetail arrow relaxation, and it’s suitable with low-profile quivers for a slim looking setup. 

Testing the RX-7

The RX-7 was one other one-shot bullet gap when it got here to tuning. It preferred the usual 13/16-inch middle shot, even cam timing, and stage nocking level. 

There was a departure between the 2 main testers on the RX-7. Reilly discovered the cams to be easy and simple to carry at full draw with a deep valley. Robinson felt the draw was stout, however smoothed out on the finish. To me, the cams take effort to start out transferring. But as soon as they begin, they’re butter. There’s a pleasant transition to the valley with no dump into the let-off. At full draw, there’s no jumpiness and I discovered the valley beneficiant. Once the arrow is gone you’ll expertise no handshock or soar. Stress Engineering confirmed this with its information. The RX-7 had the second shortest vibration (13 m/s²) of the seven flagship bows they examined. To my ears it was additionally very quiet. 

Reilly presently hunts with a Mathews, however I feel he ought to shoot a Hoyt based mostly on his accuracy and Mantis outcomes. Above, you’ll see Reilly’s Mantis studying on the RX-7. Pay shut consideration to the orange line and the gap between the 2 Xs. You’ll see a really tight maintain sample and little or no motion on launch. His teams mirrored that regular goal along with his greatest 50-yard group common of 1.6 inches. Robinson wasn’t as comfy with the bow and shot a 3-inch common at 50 yards. He famous that it took extra effort to shoot properly in comparison with different bows he examined.

Read Next: Extended Hoyt RX-7 Review: A New Riser and Cam Design for Hoyt’s 2022 Carbon Flagship

This is a superb instance of why it’s so vital to seek out the proper bow for you: a bow that one individual shoots lights-out, one other individual won’t choose.

Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 33 inches
• Weight: 5.23 kilos (with brief cease stabilizer)
• Speed: 282 fps
• Draw weight: 66.3 kilos
• Draw size: 29 inches
• Holding weight: 14.4 kilos
• Center shot: 3/4 inch
• Nocking level: 1/16 inch excessive 
• Price: $1,349

Hoyt Ventum Pro 33 Review

This 12 months’s hype is all about Hoyt’s Carbon RX-7, however Hoyt is aware of tips on how to make a killer aluminum bow, too. The Ventum was an important bow and the corporate has taken that platform and made a number of welcome upgrades. 

The Ventum Pro 33 has the lighter HBX Pro cams, which have been shifted for a greater sight image and vane clearance. There’s a Picatinny rail machined into the riser for attaching Pic-mounted sights. There’s additionally the Integrate arrow relaxation mount and the bow is suitable with low-profile quivers (low-profile setups are a pattern with most of the flagship bows this 12 months). Hoyt diminished the grip angle by 4 levels for a decrease wrist and, for my part, a extra comfy grip. 

Testing the Ventum Pro 33

The first shot by way of the Ventum Pro 33 produced a 1-inch left tear. We adjusted the remaining barely and acquired a bullet gap on the second shot. You’ll discover that the ultimate middle shot ended up being ¾-inch, which is measured from the within of the riser to the middle of the arrow shaft. 

The draw cycle is lots just like the RX-7: There’s preliminary effort to get the cams transferring after which it’s a easy pull straight to the wall. The bow is properly behaved after the shot, too. 

At 50 yards, Reilly averaged 2.4-inch teams whereas Robinson had a 3.2-inch common. Both reported that the Ventum Pro 33 held properly, the pictures broke clear, and it had a agency again wall. All the testers agreed that the RX-7 was the better-shooting Hoyt within the take a look at, however that the Ventum Pro is a stable choice for Hoyt followers who like aluminum bows. At 282 fps the Ventum Pro was additionally one of many quicker bows we examined, though it didn’t really feel like a pace bow. If you need an excellent quicker Hoyt, the RX-7 Twin Turbo is price a glance.

Prime Inline 3 Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 33 inches
• Weight: 4.92 kilos
• Speed: 268 fps
• Draw weight: 65.6 kilos
• Draw size: 29 inches
• Holding Weight: 10.6 kilos
• Center shot: 13/16 inch
• Nocking level: ⅛ inch excessive 
• Price: $1,099

Prime Inline 3 Review

The Inline sequence of bows is a departure from Prime’s signature parallel cams. With the Inline, Prime simplified and improved their design whereas retaining the advantages of a parallel cam. The result’s a lighter, quieter bow that’s simple to tune. 

Testing the Prime Inline

If you’ve made it this far within the evaluation it shouldn’t shock you that this was one other easy-to-tune bow. I hoped we might take a look at Prime’s new shim tuning system, but it surely wasn’t crucial to attain a bullet gap. For dwelling bow mechanics, you gained’t be capable to shim your cams as a result of the instrument required is barely obtainable to sellers. That might be a deal breaker when you prefer to work by yourself bows and you reside removed from a store.

The Prime has a draw cycle that’s largely easy however with two factors that require further effort: the start and simply earlier than the valley. The humps are delicate however nonetheless noticeable. At full draw you’re locked into an excellent valley with a stable again wall because of the limb cease. Stress measured the Inline’s vibration at 17.6 m/s² , which was towards the underside of the pack. For perspective, the EnVision had a vibration measurement of 11.8 m/s².

At 20 yards Reilly and Robinson shot good teams with a cumulative common of 1.25 inches. But each archers’ teams opened up at 50 yards. Reilly averaged 4.5 inches and Robinson averaged 3.6 inches, which had been a few of their largest teams within the checks. Both archers mentioned it felt like they had been breaking good pictures, however the arrows weren’t hitting behind the pin. 

Read Next: Extended Prime Inline Review: A New Look for Prime Archery

It’s thrilling to see bow producers like Prime prepared to make drastic design adjustments to enhance their bows. Even with the less-than-stellar accuracy outcomes, the Prime Inline is best than earlier generations and an thrilling new course for the corporate.

PSE EVO XF Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 33 inches 
• Weight: 4.85 kilos
• Speed: 282 fps
• Draw weight: 65.6 kilos
• Draw size: 29 inches
• Holding weight: 13.6 kilos
• Center shot: ¾ inch
• Nocking level: 3/16 inch excessive

PSE EVO XF Review

PSE Launched its new flagship aluminum bows on the 2022 ATA Show by rolling out the Evo XF and the Evo XF 33. The cool factor about these bows is that between the 2 of them, they’ll match archers with draw lengths from 25 to 32.5 inches. It’s nice to see PSE didn’t neglect short-draw and long-draw archers in these flagship choices. 

Testing the EVO XF

While we began every bow with a stage nocking level, we had a number of bows that most popular a barely excessive nock. The EVO XF was considered one of these. Our first shot by way of paper resulted in a low tear. We moved the remaining down a little bit and acquired a bullet gap. The middle shot ended up being proper between ¾ and 13/16 inch. If you began with both, you’d be in an excellent place to start tuning. 

When you draw the EVO XF, you possibly can inform it’s going to provide quick speeds. There’s appreciable early draw weight, an excellent center of the draw, and a closing hump earlier than the valley. The valley is forgiving and there’s a stable again wall. The launch is nice and the vibration minimal.

Both testers famous the cumbersome grip, though Reilly says it didn’t appear to matter as a result of his arrows hit behind the pin and the bow held stable. He shot a 1.1-inch common at 20 yards. Robinson additionally felt the bow held regular, however thought his 3.42-inch common at 50 yards was missing. 

The EVO XF is a quick and correct looking bow, with a grip and draw cycle not all archers will like.

Xpedition Smoke Specs

• Axle-to-axle: 32 inches
• Weight: 5.18 kilos
• Speed: 282 fps
• Draw weight: 62.6 kilos
• Draw size: 29 inches
• Holding weight: 15.8 kilos
• Center shot: 3/4 inch
• Nocking level: 3/16
• Price: $1,099

Xpedition Smoke Review

Xpedition has made some superior capturing bows previously and the corporate continues to crank out nice designs. The Smoke is its quickest bow ever, and it’s the very best capturing pace bow we examined. It makes use of Xpedition’s hybrid cam design to generate that pace whereas sustaining a comparatively easy draw. Other options that we preferred are the machined grip, sturdy end, and a rear stabilizer bushing that sits very low, which is able to assist your bow settle quicker. 

Testing the Smoke

Our first shot produced a slight lateral tear. After a small arrow relaxation adjustment, we shot a bullet gap on the second. 

It doesn’t take a lot to start out the draw and also you’ll use even effort as you pull straight to the valley. During the five-foot take a look at, I checked the valley to see what would occur if I relaxed just a bit at full draw and rapidly collapsed. The again wall is rock stable because of the limb stops, however the slender valley is simply one of many tradeoffs for the Smoke’s pace. It had the third-least vibration (16 m/s²) of the bows examined at Stress Engineering.Just just like the SR350 on efficiency, you’ll need to make sure that your draw size and alignment are dialed so you possibly can shoot this bow properly. Keep in thoughts that regular rigidity and course will maintain the stops in opposition to the limbs.

We achieved common accuracy with the Smoke. Reilly shot 2.75-inch common teams at 50 yards, and Robinson had a 3.33-inch common. Both archers averaged 1-inch teams at 20 yards. Reilly famous that the comfy and stable again wall appeared to assist him maintain regular. We did have an unexplained difficulty when a cable got here out of the curler guard throughout accuracy testing. Luckily we had been at Lancaster Archery Supply, and their execs had been capable of rapidly reserve the cable and get the bow again capturing. 

If you want pace bows, the Xpedition Smoke must be in your shortlist to check out, particularly when you’d choose to help a smaller producer. 

Final Thoughts

We realized lots from capturing all these bows back-to-back and observed tendencies in compound bow design. Bows aren’t getting any quicker, however they’re extra nice to shoot and simpler to tune. We’re seeing extra bows geared up with tuning options just like the Elite’s S.E.T., Bowtech’s DeadLock, and Mathews’ Stay within the Field system. Long risers and brief parallel limbs are the go-to design for looking bows. The three-track binary cam can also be one thing we’re seeing in most of the high bows. More producers are adopting low-profile rests, sights, and quivers. I wouldn’t be shocked if a dovetail arrow relaxation mount turns into the usual in a number of years. Another fascinating pattern is that many producers are placing extra thought into rear bar stabilizer bushings on looking bows. 

There actually aren’t any dangerous bows on this listing—particularly when you take into account that our largest teams at 50 yards had been round 6 inches, and not one of the bows had been tough to tune. If you’re shopping for a brand new compound bow in 2023, you’re in a position to decide on the bow that most closely fits your capturing fashion with out making main compromises. Use our evaluation to slender your decisions after which have enjoyable testing the bows your self at your closest vendor.