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10 Best Compound Bows 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Bear THP Adapt 2+ RTH

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,301
Speed (IBO Rating)

Most important from
8 reviews

Speed (IBO Rating)
The bow shoots great and handles well, offering a quiet and fast performance.

The Hunting Public Adapt 2+ Ready to Hunt Compound Bow Package is designed with the hunter in mind, boasting features that cater to real-world hunting conditions. One of its standout strengths is the adjustable draw length, ranging from 24 to 31 inches, making it versatile for different users. The draw weight, adjustable from 55 to 70 pounds, allows for flexibility depending on the user’s strength and preference.

The bow is equipped with a reliable Single Cam system, which facilitates a smooth draw cycle and can achieve speeds up to 320 feet per second. This performance feature is crucial for hunters needing quick, yet powerful shots. A particularly useful addition is the Trophy Ridge package, which includes components such as the SWFT DUO sight and VRSA Light Quiver, enhancing the bow’s readiness right out of the box.

Comfort and noise reduction are addressed with the KillerWave limb dampeners and Bear Paw Grip, which are designed to minimize vibration and improve handling. However, at 5.8 pounds, the bow might feel slightly heavy for some users, especially during long hunting sessions. The aesthetic appeal comes from its Throwback Green color, and the aluminum build promises durability. Despite these strengths, potential users should note that it is tailored for right-handed individuals, limiting its usage for left-handed archers. In terms of value, the bow includes a complimentary On-X 3-month elite membership, adding an extra perk for those looking to enhance their hunting experience. This bow seems best suited for enthusiastic hunters who appreciate a ready-to-use package with customizable options.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,301
Speed (IBO Rating)

Most important from
8 reviews

Speed (IBO Rating)
The bow shoots great and handles well, offering a quiet and fast performance.
#2

Bear Gamekeeper RTH

Rating
8.2
Draw Weight
Draw Length
Let-Off

Most important from
1 reviews

Draw Weight
Adjustable draw weight and length provide great flexibility for different shooters.
Draw Length
Adjustable draw weight and length provide great flexibility for different shooters.
Let-Off
The 80% let-off significantly reduces arm fatigue, allowing steadier aim over time.
Speed (IBO Rating)
High arrow speed supports precise, powerful shots in various hunting conditions.

The Bear Gamekeeper RTH is a solid choice for hunters looking for a reliable and customizable compound bow. It offers an impressive arrow speed of 330 feet per second, which can help deliver precise and powerful shots in the field. The bow’s draw weight adjusts between 45 and 70 pounds, and its draw length can be set from 27 to 32 inches, making it adaptable for different body sizes and shooting preferences. An 80% let-off means you hold less weight at full draw, reducing arm fatigue and making it easier to aim steadily.

The design emphasizes comfort and control, supported by included accessories like a sight, quiver, stabilizer, and wrist sling, making it ready to hunt right out of the box. Weighing just 3.8 pounds and built with durable aluminum, it balances lightness with toughness, suitable for various hunting environments. The bow is right-hand oriented, so left-handed shooters will need to look elsewhere.

For those who value a bow that combines tradition with modern performance and desire a high-speed setup with ease of use, this model fits well. It is especially geared toward hunters wanting a flexible, well-equipped bow to customize to their needs.

Rating
8.2
Draw Weight
Draw Length
Let-Off

Most important from
1 reviews

Draw Weight
Adjustable draw weight and length provide great flexibility for different shooters.
Draw Length
Adjustable draw weight and length provide great flexibility for different shooters.
Let-Off
The 80% let-off significantly reduces arm fatigue, allowing steadier aim over time.
Speed (IBO Rating)
High arrow speed supports precise, powerful shots in various hunting conditions.
#3

Bear Species XT Ready to Hunt Compound Archery Bow, 70lb. Draw Weight, Right Hand, Fred Bear/Black

The Bear Species XT Ready to Hunt compound bow is designed for those serious about hunting, featuring a solid 70lb draw weight and adjustable draw length up to 30.5 inches to accommodate various arm lengths for a comfortable and efficient shot. Its single cam system offers smooth drawing and reliable accuracy, while an impressive IBO speed of up to 320 feet per second provides strong power for hunting purposes.

This bow comes as a complete package, including a rest, multi-pin sight, quiver, stabilizer, peep sight, and wrist sling, making it ready to use right out of the box. The aluminum build keeps it sturdy yet reasonably lightweight at 7.25 pounds, suitable for carrying during extended outdoor use. The adjustable let-off and draw weight range (45-60 to 55-70 lbs) allow for some tailoring to fit different skill levels and preferences.

The 70lb draw weight and right-hand orientation mean this bow is best suited for experienced or physically strong archers and right-handed users only. Beginners or those needing a left-handed option might find this model less ideal. Some may find the package somewhat heavy compared to lighter hunting bows, which could impact endurance during long hunts. The Bear Species XT is a powerful, customizable hunting bow that comes with all essential accessories, offering good value for hunters who want a dependable and ready-to-go setup, while its weight and draw strength make it more fitting for seasoned archers rather than novices or those seeking lighter, more beginner-friendly options.

Buying Guide for the Best Compound Bows

Choosing the right compound bow can significantly enhance your archery experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced archer. The key is to understand the various specifications and how they align with your needs and preferences. By focusing on the right specs, you can find a bow that offers the perfect balance of power, accuracy, and comfort.
Draw WeightDraw weight refers to the amount of force required to pull the bowstring back. This spec is crucial because it affects the power and speed of your shot. Draw weights typically range from 40 to 70 pounds. For beginners or those with less upper body strength, a lower draw weight (40-50 pounds) is ideal. Intermediate archers might prefer a mid-range draw weight (50-60 pounds), while experienced archers or hunters often opt for higher draw weights (60-70 pounds) for more powerful shots. Choose a draw weight that you can comfortably handle to ensure accuracy and prevent injury.
Draw LengthDraw length is the distance from the bowstring at full draw to the grip. This measurement is important because it affects your shooting form and accuracy. Draw lengths typically range from 24 to 30 inches. To find your ideal draw length, measure your wingspan (the distance from fingertip to fingertip with arms outstretched) and divide by 2.5. Ensure the bow you choose can be adjusted to your specific draw length for optimal performance and comfort.
Axle-to-Axle LengthAxle-to-axle length is the distance between the axles of the bow's cams. This spec influences the bow's stability and maneuverability. Shorter bows (28-32 inches) are more maneuverable and suitable for hunting in tight spaces, while longer bows (33-36 inches) offer greater stability and are preferred for target shooting. Consider where you'll be using the bow most often to determine the best axle-to-axle length for your needs.
Brace HeightBrace height is the distance between the bowstring and the deepest part of the grip. This spec affects the bow's speed and forgiveness. Shorter brace heights (5-6 inches) result in faster arrow speeds but require more precise shooting form. Longer brace heights (7-8 inches) are more forgiving and easier to shoot accurately, making them ideal for beginners. Choose a brace height that matches your skill level and shooting style.
Let-OffLet-off is the percentage of the draw weight that is reduced when the bow is at full draw. Higher let-off (70-85%) means you hold less weight at full draw, allowing for steadier aiming and less fatigue. Lower let-off (60-70%) requires more strength to hold but can provide a more consistent release. Beginners and those who plan to shoot for extended periods may prefer higher let-off, while experienced archers might opt for lower let-off for better control.
Speed (IBO Rating)Speed, often measured in feet per second (FPS) using the International Bowhunting Organization (IBO) rating, indicates how fast an arrow travels when shot from the bow. Faster speeds (320+ FPS) are beneficial for hunting as they result in flatter trajectories and more kinetic energy. However, speed isn't everything; accuracy and comfort are also important. For target shooting, a moderate speed (280-320 FPS) is usually sufficient. Consider your primary use for the bow when evaluating speed.

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