Best Compound Bows of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Compound bows are a popular choice for archery enthusiasts and hunters alike. These bows utilize a system of pulleys and cables to provide a smoother draw and increased accuracy compared to traditional bows. The design of a compound bow allows for a longer power stroke, resulting in greater arrow velocity and energy. Additionally, the let-off feature of a compound bow reduces the amount of holding weight required at full draw, making it easier to aim and hold steady for longer periods of time. With a wide range of options available, from beginner models to high-end competition bows, there is a compound bow to suit any level of archer.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Bear Archery Legit Compound Bow Cover #TOP 1
Bear Archery Legit Compound Bow
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Bear Archery Royale Compound Bow Cover #TOP 2
Bear Archery Royale Compound Bow
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Bear Legit Maxx Compound Bow Cover #TOP 3
Bear Legit Maxx Compound Bow
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Compound Bows

#TOP 1

Bear Archery Legit Compound Bow

AV13A21017R
One Size
Bear Archery Legit Compound Bow Cover
Bear Archery Legit Ready to Hunt Compound Bow Package for Adults & Youth, Right Hand, Mossy Oak Break Up Country DNA

The Bear Archery Legit Bow is a versatile compound bow designed for archers of all ages and skill levels. With its maximum adjustability, this bow can accommodate a draw length range of 14” to 30” and a peak draw weight of 10 to 70 lbs. The best part is that all adjustments can be made using an Allen wrench, eliminating the need for a bow press. Weighing only 3.6 lbs., this lightweight powerhouse can shoot arrows up to 315 feet per second. The Legit Bow also comes ready to hunt with Trophy Ridge accessories, making it the perfect package for both adults and youth.

What We Like
Easy to set up
Quiet and lightweight
Affordable price
Good for entry-level archers
Fast delivery and packaging
What We Don't Like
Cheap accessories
Needs frequent adjustments
#TOP 2

Bear Archery Royale Compound Bow

AV02A21055R
Wildfire
One Size
Bear Archery Royale Compound Bow Cover
Bear Archery Royale Ready to Hunt Compound Bow Package for Adults and Youth, Right Hand, Wildfire

The Bear Archery Royale Bow is designed for both adults and youth, offering impressive versatility. You can easily adjust the draw length from 12 to 27 inches, making it suitable for various users. The draw weight can be modified from 5 to 50 lbs, allowing you to customize the bow's power to match your skill level. Weighing just 2.7 lbs, this lightweight bow is easy to handle, ensuring comfort during long hunting sessions. With a speed of 290 feet per second, you can expect swift, accurate shots, enhancing your overall hunting experience.

What We Like
Adjustable draw length and weight
Lightweight and easy to manage
Great for beginners
Durable for growing kids
Fun color options
What We Don't Like
No instructions available online
Minor alignment issues reported
#TOP 3

Bear Legit Maxx Compound Bow

AV54A230W7R
Bear Legit Maxx Compound Bow Cover
Bear Legit Maxx Ready to Hunt Compound Archery Bow, 70lb. Draw Weight, Right Hand, Veil Whitetail/Black

The Bear Legit Maxx Bow is designed for a smooth and reliable archery experience. With a 31-inch axle-to-axle length and a 6.25-inch brace height, it offers stability for accurate shooting. The improved dual cam system ensures consistent performance, allowing you to hit your target shot after shot. You’ll appreciate the IMS rest and versatile Picatinny sight mounting locations, which make it easy to customize your setup with accessories. This bow also comes with essential gear, making it convenient for your next hunting adventure.

What We Like
Fast delivery
High quality product
Fully adjustable
Great for growing children
What We Don't Like
Missing user's manual
Not delivered in original box
#TOP 4

Bear Archery Cruzer G3 Bow Package

AV24A21047R
Toxic
Right Hand
Bear Archery Cruzer G3 Bow Package Cover
Bear Archery Cruzer G3 Ready to Hunt Compound Bow Package for Adults and Youth, Right Hand, Toxic

The Bear Cruzer G3 Bow is designed for archers of all ages and skill levels, offering unmatched versatility. It features adjustable draw lengths from 14" to 30" and draw weights ranging from 10lbs to 70lbs, allowing you to customize it perfectly for your needs. You can enjoy the same comfort and performance that previous Cruzer models are known for, ensuring a reliable shooting experience. Plus, it comes ready to hunt with all necessary Trophy Ridge accessories included. Making adjustments is easy, as you only need an Allen wrench—no bow press required.

What We Like
Lighter than most bows
Easy adjustment for draw length
High-quality components included
Great performance for price
Quiet with dampeners added
What We Don't Like
Assembly issues noted
Minor factory malfunctions
#TOP 5

Bear Archery Limitless Dual Cam Compound Bow

AV91A21075R
God's Country
One Size
Bear Archery Limitless Dual Cam Compound Bow Cover
Bear Archery Limitless Dual Cam Compound Bow - includes Quiver, Sight and Rest, God's Country

The Bear Archery Limitless Dual Cam Compound Bow is a powerful and highly adjustable bow that is perfect for transitioning from the backyard to the back 40. It features a dual cam system that packs a powerful punch at 265 feet per second, and is adjustable from 19"-29" in draw length and 25-50 lbs. in draw weight. It also comes equipped with a Trophy Ridge sight, Trophy Ridge Whisker Biscuit, Bear 3 Arrow Quiver, peep sight, and nock loop. This bow is great for beginners and experienced archers alike.

What We Like
Adjustable draw weight and length
Good quality and value
Easy to set up
Great for beginners
Smooth shooting experience
What We Don't Like
Peep sight issues reported
Inconsistent draw weight
#TOP 6

Sanlida Dragon X8 Compound Bow

1116
Black Pro
Sanlida Dragon X8 Compound Bow Cover
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

The Sanlida Dragon X8 Compound Bow is an excellent choice for archers of all ages and skill levels. It features an adjustable draw length of 18-31" and draw weight of 0-70 lbs without needing a bow press. The bow is made of CNC machined cams and modules with the 6061 T6 aluminum, and comes with a 5-pin sight, an arrow rest and a stabilizer, a wrist sling, a peep sight, 12 pcs of arrows, a quiver, a release, an arrow puller, a bow stand and a compound bow case. Customers are impressed by the quality of the bow and accessories, and appreciate the ability to adjust the draw length and weight without needing a bow press.

What We Like
Affordable price
Easy to customize
Good for beginners
Fast shooting speed
Responsive customer service
What We Don't Like
Strings may need replacement
Vibration dampening lacking
#TOP 7

Sanlida Dragon X7 Compound Bow Package

Black
Sanlida Dragon X7 Compound Bow Package Cover
Sanlida 2024 New Dragon X7 Ready to Hunt Compound Bow Package for Adults, Archery Compound Bow and Arrow Set, 0-70 Lbs Draw Weight, No Bow Press Needed, Limited Life-time Warranty (Black)

The Sanlida Dragon X7 Bow is designed for archers of all skill levels. It comes as a complete package, ensuring you have everything needed for an accurate and enjoyable archery experience. The bow features a wide adjustable draw length and weight, allowing you to customize it without needing special tools. With high-quality materials and components, this bow is built for durability and performance. Additionally, Sanlida's direct-to-consumer model means you get premium quality at a lower price. Enjoy peace of mind with their limited lifetime warranty when you register your purchase.

What We Like
Exceptional value for beginners
Easy to set up and adjust
Impressive accuracy and performance
Complete with necessary accessories
Suitable for all ages
What We Don't Like
Some accessories may not be ideal
Initial arrows may need adjustments
#TOP 8

Bear Cruzer G4 Compound Bow

AV54A21037R
Black/Wildfire
Bear Cruzer G4 Compound Bow Cover
Bear Cruzer G4 Ready to Hunt Compound Archery Bow, 70lb. Draw Weight, Right Hand, Black/Wildfire

The Bear Cruzer G4 is designed for both youth and adult archers, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users. Weighing only 3.2 pounds, it offers exceptional maneuverability, allowing you to move easily in the field. With a 6.5-inch brace height and 29-inch axle-to-axle length, it strikes a perfect balance between stability and agility, enhancing your shooting experience. The draw weight can be adjusted from 10 to 70 pounds, and the draw length ranges from 14 to 30 inches, accommodating various preferences and skill levels for an enjoyable archery experience.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to handle
Adjustable draw weight and length
Stable and agile design
Suitable for all skill levels
#TOP 9

PANDARUS Compound Bow - 0-70 LB Draw

PANDARUS Compound Bow - 0-70 LB Draw Cover
PANDARUS Compound Bow Draw Weight 0-70 Lbs for Pull Beginner and Intermediate Archer Fully Adjustable 19.25"-31" with All Accessories, up to IBO 320 fps New 2024(Black Right Handed Bag)

The PANDARUS L1 Compound Bow is a great choice for beginner and intermediate archers. It features a draw weight of 0-70 lbs, adjustable draw length of 19.25" to 31", and a brace height of 7.3". The bow is made of aluminum and carbon, and comes with all the necessary accessories. Customers report that it is easy to set up and use, and is great for target practice and hunting. The arrows included are of good quality, but the bow stand is not very sturdy.

What We Like
Easy setup
Sturdy and strong
Accurate for training
Good value for price
Lightweight design
What We Don't Like
Quality could be better
Misaligned arrows

PANDARUS P1 Compound Bow Package

PANDARUS P1 Compound Bow Package Cover
PANDARUS Compound Bow Package for Adults and Teens, 0-70 Lbs Draw Weight Limbs Made in USA,Lightweight Design,with Archery Hunting Equipment, Limited Life-time Warranty(Black Right Handed Pro)

The PANDARUS P1 Bow is designed for both adults and teens, featuring an adjustable draw length from 23.5" to 31" and a draw weight ranging from 0 to 70 lbs. This flexibility means you can easily customize it to your strength and skill level, ensuring a comfortable shooting experience. It boasts a high IBO rating of up to 320 fps, allowing for fast and accurate shots. Additionally, the lightweight magnesium-aluminum alloy construction makes it easy to handle for users of all ages. The package also includes essential accessories like a 3-pin sight and arrow quiver, providing everything you need to get started.

What We Like
Adjustable draw weight and length
Lightweight and sturdy design
Includes all necessary accessories
Great for practice and hunting
Durable arrows
What We Don't Like
Assembly instructions could be clearer
String may require manual attachment
Buying Guide Image

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Compound Bow

Draw Weight

The draw weight of a compound bow refers to the amount of force required to pull back the bowstring. It is crucial to choose a bow with a draw weight that matches your strength and shooting ability. Beginners generally start with lower draw weights, while experienced archers can handle higher draw weights for better accuracy and power.

Draw Length

The draw length is the distance between the bowstring at rest and when fully drawn back. Selecting a compound bow with an appropriate draw length is crucial for comfortable shooting and optimal performance. Incorrect draw length can negatively impact accuracy and cause discomfort or even injury.

Axle-to-Axle Length

The axle-to-axle length of a compound bow refers to the distance between the cam axles. A shorter axle-to-axle length offers maneuverability and is suitable for hunting or shooting in tight spaces. On the other hand, a longer axle-to-axle length provides stability and accuracy, making it ideal for target shooting or longer-range hunting.

Let-Off

Let-off refers to the percentage of weight reduction that occurs when the bow is at full draw. A higher let-off means less holding weight, which allows for easier aiming and longer hold times. Consider your shooting style and preferences to determine the appropriate let-off percentage for your compound bow.

Accessories and Adjustability

Consider the availability of accessories, such as sights, stabilizers, and rests, that can enhance your shooting experience. Additionally, look for a compound bow that offers adjustability in terms of draw weight, draw length, and other features, allowing you to fine-tune the bow to your specific needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What draw weight do Olympic archers use?

In Olympic archery, male competitors typically use recurve bows with an average draw weight of around 48.5 pounds, while female competitors use bows with an average draw weight of about 33 pounds.

2. What are the disadvantages of a compound bow?

Some disadvantages of compound bows include their higher cost, difficulty in adjusting them without professional help, their heavier and less compact shape, and the potential need for specialized equipment. However, compound bows offer advantages such as ease of shooting, fast arrow velocity, high accuracy, and adjustable draw weight and draw length.

3. What poundage do target archers shoot?

Target archers commonly shoot with a draw weight of 40 pounds. This draw weight is popular for both hunting and target shooting, with a significant percentage of archers using bows in this range.

4. How hard is it to draw a 60 lb bow?

Drawing a 60 lb bow is manageable for many adult male bowhunters, especially if their draw length falls between 27 and 29 inches. The weight can be comfortable and easy to handle, and some individuals may even prefer higher draw weights if they are comfortable with them.

5. Do bows have any advantages over guns?

Bows have several advantages over guns. They are quieter, making them suitable for ambushes. Arrows can be recovered and reused, which is not possible with bullets. Additionally, bows are generally easier and cheaper to produce compared to firearms.

Editor's Notes

During our compound bow research, we found 24 compound bow products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 22,887 customer reviews through our big data system to write the compound bows list. We found that most customers choose compound bows with an average price of $276.73.

The compound bows are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of compound bows, including Bear Archery, sanlida, PANDARUS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.

Compound Bows Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Bear Archery Bear Archery Bear Archery Bear Archery Bear Archery sanlida sanlida Bear Archery PANDARUS PANDARUS
Model Name Legit RTH Royale RTH Legit Maxx RTH Cruzer G3 Limitless Dragon X8 Dragon X7 Cruzer G4 RTH L1 P1
Color Mossy Oak Break Up Country DNA Wildfire Veil Whitetail/Black Toxic God's Country Black Pro Black Black/Wildfire Black Right Handed Pro Bag Black Right Handed Pro
Material Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum carbon, Aluminum Magnesium-Aluminum alloy
Item Weight - 2.7 Pounds 7 Pounds 4.6 Pounds 4.14 Pounds 3.8 Pounds 4.1 Pounds 6.1 Pounds - 3.3 Pounds
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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