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10 Best Entry Level Hunting Bow 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Genesis Original Compound Bow & Arrow Kit- Adjustable Riser, 15"-30" Draw Length, 10-20 lb Draw Weight, All Skill Levels, Draw Hand - Right, Carbon

The Genesis Original Lightweight Archery Compound Bow and Arrow Set is designed with entry-level hunters in mind, specifically right-handed users. One of its standout features is the adjustable draw length range from 15 to 30 inches, making it highly versatile for various arm spans. Additionally, the draw weight can be adjusted between 10 to 20 pounds, which is ideal for beginners who are building their strength and skill in archery.

The single cam design simplifies use by reducing tuning issues, recoil, and noise, enhancing the shooting experience with greater accuracy and less hassle. This bow set is pre-assembled and includes a machined aluminum riser, composite limbs, and high-strength bowstrings, ensuring durability and longevity. The universal design caters to individuals of all ages and sizes, making it a suitable choice for family use or archery clubs. However, the set is specifically for right-handed users, which might limit its accessibility for left-handed individuals.

The 1.6-kilogram weight strikes a good balance, being light enough for young archers but still robust. The included accessories, like the belt tube quiver, adjustable arm guard, and arrows, add value and convenience for beginners. One potential downside is that it might not suffice for more advanced archers looking for higher draw weights or more specialized features. Nevertheless, for those starting their archery journey, this bow set offers a comprehensive and user-friendly package.

#2

Genesis Original Compound Bow & Arrow Kit- Adjustable Riser, 15"-30" Draw Length, 10-20 lb Draw Weight, All Skill Levels, Draw Hand - Right, Green

Rating
9.1
Draw Weight
Draw Length
Bow Weight

Most important from
2434 reviews

Draw Weight
The adjustable draw length and weight make it customizable and comfortable for growing archers.
Draw Length
The adjustable draw length and weight make it customizable and comfortable for growing archers.
Bow Weight
Lightweight design and durable materials provide a solid feel without being cumbersome.

The Genesis Original Compound Bow & Arrow Kit is a solid choice for anyone starting out in archery, especially younger or smaller shooters. Its adjustable draw length of 15 to 30 inches and draw weight between 10 and 20 pounds means it can grow with you or be customized for comfort — important for entry-level users still learning their ideal setup. The bow's lightweight design (just over 7 ounces) and durable materials like the aluminum riser and composite limbs make it easy to handle and reliable in use. One standout feature is the single cam system, which reduces the need for tuning and helps keep your shots consistent, a big plus if you're new and not familiar with bow maintenance.

The kit comes ready to use with arrows, a quiver, and an arm guard, so you have everything to get started right away. However, the relatively low maximum draw weight of 20 pounds may limit its effectiveness for hunting larger game, making it better suited for target practice and small game hunting. Also, the bow is designed for right-handed shooters, so left-handed users will need a different model.

This beginner-friendly package balances ease of use, durability, and adjustability, making it a practical first bow for learning archery safely and confidently.

Rating
9.1
Draw Weight
Draw Length
Bow Weight

Most important from
2434 reviews

Draw Weight
The adjustable draw length and weight make it customizable and comfortable for growing archers.
Draw Length
The adjustable draw length and weight make it customizable and comfortable for growing archers.
Bow Weight
Lightweight design and durable materials provide a solid feel without being cumbersome.
#3

Sanlida Archery Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow Package for Adults and Teens,18”-31” Draw Length,0-70 Lbs Draw Weight,up to IBO 310 fps,No Bow Press Needed,Limbs Made in USA,Limited Life-time Warranty

Rating
8.8
Draw Weight
Draw Length

Most important from
2817 reviews

Draw Weight
Its wide adjustable draw length and weight range make it adaptable for growing users and various skill levels, enhancing its long-term usability.
Draw Length
Its wide adjustable draw length and weight range make it adaptable for growing users and various skill levels, enhancing its long-term usability.

The Sanlida Dragon X8 is a versatile compound bow well-suited for beginners and teens interested in hunting or target shooting. One of its biggest perks is the very wide range of adjustable draw lengths (18 to 31 inches) and draw weights (0 to 70 lbs), making it adaptable for users of different sizes and strength levels. This makes it a great choice if you are just starting out and expect to grow into your bow or share it with family members. The 30-inch axle-to-axle length and 6.6-inch brace height provide a good balance of stability and speed, with a solid top speed of around 310 feet per second, which is competitive for an entry-level hunting bow. Weighing just 3.8 lbs, it's light enough for comfortable handling during long hunting trips or practice sessions.

The package comes ready to use, including essential accessories like a 5-pin sight, arrow rest, stabilizer, quiver, and arrows, which offers good value and convenience for new archers who may not want to buy these separately. The aluminum construction with quality USA-made limbs adds durability. Some beginners might find tuning such a powerful bow a bit challenging, and although the draw weight adjusts without a bow press, fine-tuning still requires some basic knowledge or professional help. The included accessories are functional but fairly standard, so more advanced users may want to upgrade parts over time.

A limited lifetime warranty on main parts adds peace of mind, especially for newcomers investing in their first compound bow. The Sanlida Dragon X8 provides a flexible, well-equipped start for entry-level hunters, balancing power, adjustability, and ease of use without overwhelming complexity.

Rating
8.8
Draw Weight
Draw Length

Most important from
2817 reviews

Draw Weight
Its wide adjustable draw length and weight range make it adaptable for growing users and various skill levels, enhancing its long-term usability.
Draw Length
Its wide adjustable draw length and weight range make it adaptable for growing users and various skill levels, enhancing its long-term usability.

Buying Guide for the Best Entry Level Hunting Bow

Choosing the right entry-level hunting bow can be a rewarding experience, especially if you are new to the sport. The key is to find a bow that matches your physical capabilities and hunting needs. Understanding the various specifications and how they impact your performance will help you make an informed decision. Here are some important specs to consider when selecting an entry-level hunting bow.
Draw WeightDraw weight refers to the amount of force required to pull the bowstring back to its full draw length. This spec is important because it affects the power and speed of your shot. Draw weights typically range from 30 to 70 pounds. For beginners, a draw weight between 40 to 50 pounds is usually sufficient, as it provides a good balance between ease of use and power. If you are stronger or plan to hunt larger game, you might opt for a higher draw weight. Always 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 front of the bow grip. This measurement is crucial for ensuring that the bow fits your body size and shooting style. 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 your arms extended) and divide by 2.5. A properly fitted draw length will help you shoot more accurately and comfortably.
Axle-to-Axle LengthAxle-to-axle length is the distance between the axles of the bow's cams or wheels. This spec affects the bow's stability and maneuverability. Shorter bows (under 30 inches) are more maneuverable and easier to handle in tight spaces, making them ideal for hunting in dense woods. Longer bows (over 34 inches) offer greater stability and accuracy, which can be beneficial for open-field hunting. For beginners, a mid-range axle-to-axle length (30 to 34 inches) is often a good compromise between stability and maneuverability.
Brace HeightBrace height is the distance between the bowstring and the deepest part of the bow grip. This spec influences the bow's speed and forgiveness. Shorter brace heights (under 7 inches) generally result in faster arrow speeds but require more precise shooting form. Longer brace heights (over 7 inches) are more forgiving of minor shooting errors, making them easier for beginners to use. A brace height of around 7 inches is a good starting point for new hunters, offering a balance between speed and ease of use.
Bow WeightBow weight refers to the physical weight of the bow itself. This spec is important because it affects how easy the bow is to carry and hold steady while aiming. Lighter bows (under 3.5 pounds) are easier to carry on long hunts and can reduce fatigue, but they may be less stable when shooting. Heavier bows (over 4 pounds) offer more stability but can be tiring to carry. For beginners, a bow weight between 3.5 to 4 pounds is often a good balance, providing enough stability without being too cumbersome.
Let-OffLet-off is the reduction in draw weight when the bow is at full draw, expressed as a percentage. This spec is important because it allows you to hold the bow at full draw with less effort, giving you more time to aim accurately. Let-off typically ranges from 65% to 85%. Higher let-off (over 80%) makes it easier to hold the bow at full draw, which can be beneficial for beginners who need more time to aim. However, some hunters prefer lower let-off (around 70%) for a more consistent shooting experience. Choose a let-off that feels comfortable and suits your shooting style.

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