The 10 Best Compound Bow for Target Shooting

You have vowed to be one of the best archers in the next competitions. But there is a problem. You can’t seem to find the best compound bow for target shooting. Does this describe your situation? Well, your dilemma is understandable, especially if you are new to target shooting.

The market is full of compound bows but not all are the same. They differ in design, adjustability, and accuracy. The kind of bow you buy will determine the outcome of your archery targeting sessions.

Here, we will provide you with a descriptive review of a range of compound bows that are great options for target archery. We will delve into features that set each of them apart. You will also learn why we consider them good for particular styles.

Later, you will know what to look for in the best beginner compound bow for target shooting. In the end, you will have all the information you need to make a bold choice.

10 Best Compound Bows For Target Shooting

1. Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Compound Bow

Cruzer G2 by Bear Archery offers one of the best compound bows in the market for target shooting. It’s a maximum versatility gadget crafted for all ages and skill levels. Unlike many hunting bows that have fixed draw weight and draw length, Cruzer G2 offers adjustable controls for both.

What does this mean? When hunting, you can easily change the draw weight depending on the game you are targeting. Larger draw weight corresponds to a larger game and vice versa. The option of adjusting the draw length enables a younger person to use the bow as they grow. It means you won’t have to buy another bow as your beginner archer goes through a growth spurt.

It has an incredible weight range of 5 to 70 pounds and a length range of 12 inches to 30 inches. Few compound bows in the market are capable of this level of adaptability. Even more awesome is that these adjustments are afforded with an Allen wrench without the need for a bow press.

Besides the versatile design and functionality, the bow has impressive targeting specs. First, a 315 feet per second firing speed increases accuracy. The let-off of 70 percent may not be so impressive, but it is still much better compared to other models. Second, Bear Archery Cruzer G2 only weighs 3 pounds which is extremely light.

The bow comes equipped with six trophy accessories including 4-pin sight, a whisker biscuit, a stabilizer, and a quiver capable of holding five arrows. It also comes with a peep sight and a nock loop. It also boasts of an advanced grip design that eliminates hand torque for enhanced precision.

Pros

• Highly adjustable, flexibility, and versatile
• Available in different colors and patterns
• Very light and shoots well
• Easy to adjust with readily available tools

Cons

Some sellers have complained about accessories

70% let-off is good but not impressive

2. Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro

A compound bow that rivals the Bear Archery Cruzer G2 is the Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro. It is as flexible as the former and offers a setting that practically includes all kinds of target shooters. It offers three different adjustability settings as well as draw weights ranging from 5 to 70 pounds.

This makes it ideal for female, young, and small framed archers. Beginners too can use it without a struggle. Even more interesting is that you won’t need a tool for adjusting the settings. It’s fitted with an EZ Adjust Pocket, which is a simple limb bolt with easy-to-read marks.

While it may not be as fast as Cruzer G2 and other high-end models, a shooting speed of 310 feet per second is just good enough for target archery. However, it wins when it comes to vibration-free performance and precision. Thus it provides a balance of features that result in satisfactory performance.

Weighing just 3.2 pounds, Infinite Edge Pro is one of the lightest compound bows available. It has a remarkable let-off of 80 percent which means you will feel like you are polling just 14 pounds. A 3-pin bow sight is good for shooting targets, but may not be so impressive if you are looking for a compound bow you can also use for hunting games.

Edge features a redesigned cam system (the binary cam system) that allows for an effortless smooth draw. Its integral stabilizer creates an excellent balance and a much steadier shot. Only by using this compound bow will you appreciate its great specs. It is a high-end product but still very affordable.

Pros

• Highly versatile and adaptable
• Easy tool-less adjustability
• An impressive 80 percent let-off
• Lightweight,
• just 3.2 pound
• Beginner-friendly with stealth capability

Cons

The square grip is somewhat uncomfortable, but replaceable

The 3-pin bow sight is limiting

3. Siege SAS 55 lb 29″ Compound Bow

Siege offers beginners the opportunity to perfect their archery skills with their SAA 55lb Compound bow. The bow features an axle to axle measurement of 41.5 inches, a 29-inch draw length, 55lb draw weight, and 206 feet per second draw speed. Let’s dissect these features to see how they contribute to the overall performance of the bow.

Axle to axle (ATA) length has a lot of effect on how fast the bow shoots. A shorter ATA length makes the bow shoot faster than a longer ATA. However, the draw cycle may not be that smooth. Longer ATA means a bit slower shot but the draw cycle is smooth.

At 41.5 inches, the axle to axle measurement of Siege SAS is longer, which means smooth draw and slower shot. This explains why the compound draw has a draw speed of just 206 feet per second. It has a draw length of 29 inches, which is the maximum. Unlike most top-end models, the length is not adjustable.

The draw weight is only minimally adjustable. It has a strong piece, a layered limb you can use to draw weights up to 55 pounds. There is a bolt that you can loosen to reduce the draw weight by 5 pounds. Alternatively, you can tighten the bold to increase the weight by pounds.

The compound limb made of strong ABS confers balance, strength, and weight to improve the bow’s life. The limbs are contained within by back pivoting limb pockets offering a strong connection with rigid tolerance for increased accuracy levels. The design features several cut-outs in the riser. This gives the bow a waffle look.

Pros

• Designed with durable materials
• Light-weight, weighs 3.5lbs
• Requires no technical know-how to set and use
• Offers adequate draw weight
• Adjustable bow sight

Cons

Vibrates and a bit noisy

Lack nock, peep sight, D loop or is added

4. Southland Archery Supply SAS Outrage

Another best compound bow that can be appropriate for training archers is the Southland Archery Supply SAS Outrage. This bow is equipped with what is necessary for high quality and durability. It has incredible range, speed, and adjustability.

The bow is engineered with a 35-inch axle-to-axle length, a 270 feet per second speed, and a 30-inch draw length. This offers smooth, no-vibration performance, great for stealth hunting. In target shooting, the ATA is perfect for precision and accuracy. It affords a draw weight of a maximum of 70 pounds.

One of the greatest innovations that set this compound bow apart is the compressed ABS limb technology. It gives heft and balance to the bow as well as adds sturdiness. You can let your young shooter grow with the bow because of enhanced longevity.

The strong layered limb makes it possible for the bow to support an outrageous draw weight of up to 70lbs. However, you can easily adjust the weight by increasing and reducing it by 5 pounds. You will do this by tightening or loosening the bolt. Furthermore, if you find the maximum weight too heavy, you can reduce it to 50lbs.

It’s good to shoot in style. The SAS Outrage features cut-outs in the riser giving it a cool waffle look. To enhance accuracy, the bow features its strong layered limb fixed to the back pivoting limb pockets. This creates rigid tolerance that improves accuracy. Precision is further enhanced by the ease of use and limb balance.

Pros

• An affordable compound bow
• A good choice for beginners
• Good performance
• Sturdy and durable construction
• Well-designed with a waffle look

Cons

The bowstring must regularly be waxed to prevent fraying

Screws need frequent tightening

5. Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult

Bear Archery realized the need to cater to a large category of users. So, they are among the first companies to come up with a completely adjustable compound bow. This is actually their selling point. It is easy to adjust, versatile, and adaptable. Many users consider it a one-size-fits-all compound bow.

The materials used to construct the weapon testify to its strength and sturdiness. The limbs are made from Endura Fiber, which is the company’s innovation. The material is super strong. It can take the weight and the torque of the bow without giving in.

The limbs are flexible but provide enough rigidity to send the arrows at high velocity. Its riser is made of machined aluminum both for strength and reduced bow weight. You can buy this shooter for your kid and be sure that he will grow with it to adulthood thanks to its durability.

Another marvel of Cruzer G2 Adult is the unique design. There are versions both for left- and right-handed users. While shopping, you need to be careful to buy the version that matches your dominant hand. Furthermore, it offers a high level of versatility and therefore can be customized for almost anyone.

You can adjust the draw weight from 5 to 70 pounds. The draw length on the other hand adjusts from 12 inches to 30 inches. With the help of an Allen wrench, you can customize the bow to fit your height and weight. It weighs a paltry 3 pounds, which is light indeed, yet it can send arrows flying at an outrageous velocity of 315 feet per second.

The model comes with several impressive accessories. Examples include a 4-pin sight, a stabilizer, a whisker biscuit arrow, a loop, a peep site as well as a quiver capable of holding five arrows. Thus a beginner can start right away without being bogged down by missing accessories.

Pros

• Durable design with limbs constructed of EnduraFiber
• Comes with a wide range of accessories
• Quiet, efficient performance
• Lightweight and firm
• Advanced grip reduces hand torque

Cons

Let-off of 70 percent is not impressive

Difficulty turning the bow, especially for newbies

6. AW Pro Compound Right Hand Bow Kit

If you want a good experience entering the target shooting career. If you buy this bow, you will find the package will come with a 20-70lbs right-hand compound bow, target paper, release aid, and a dozen carbon arrows. With this, it is suitable for both masters and beginners. The design is compact to help you quickly with outdoor target shooting, target archery, bow-fishing, and more.

AW Pro features premier materials to boost durability and sturdy performance. The rise is made of aluminum alloy with high tensile steel. This construction can withstand high-stress flexing and loading for long-term arrow shooting. The bowstrings are made of strong fiber and capable of supporting a draw length of 29 inches. The limbs, on the other hand, are made of fiberglass.

To enhance the accuracy of aiming, the bow features a four-pin sight and peep that helps with targeting moving objects. Besides, there is a rheostat light that maintains visibility in changing and low-light conditions. Also great for accuracy is the brush capture arrow rest designed to offer you a clear view of the whole arrow and its tip and reduce friction.

To avoid accidents, the compound bow comes with a release aid that works with a D-loop to protect your fingers and reduce pain resulting from long hunting practice sessions. Safety is further guaranteed by a strap fastening securely to your wrist.

The bow is highly adjustable in terms of length and weight. You can adjust the draw weight from 20 to 70 pounds and draw length from 17 inches to 29 inches according to the arm span. Thus young, adults, small frames, large frames, and all kinds of shooters can use this bow without a problem.

Pro

• Made of premium materials for durability and resilience
• Adjustable draw length, and weight improve versatility
• Designed with safety features
• High aiming accuracy

Cons

There are a few questions about consistency

Beginners, be careful with the release

7. Predator Archery Raptor Compound Hunting Bow

Few compound hunting bows can match the quality of the Raptor from Predator Archery. It’s versatile for use for bow fishing, hunting, and target shooting. Even more is the fact that youths, adults, and even beginner archers can conveniently use it. Many features and specifications are a response not only to the versatility but also to the bow’s high performance.

First, the bow is incredibly adjustable. It features an axle-to-axle length of 30 inches and weighs just 3.6 pounds. The draw length ranges from 24.5 inches to 31 inches. When it comes to drawing weight, you can adjust it from 30 pounds to 70 pounds. You do not need a bow press for this. These adjustments give the archery tool a high level of adaptability.

Second, the machining is high quality. Both the bow’s modules and cams feature fully machined aluminum for strength and durability while still maintaining a low weight. No parts of the bow are made of plastic. The compound design is meant to leave a 75 percent let-off. It also features a split yoke tuning system that offers precise adjustments for accurate arrow flight.

Last but not least, it comes as a full package. You will find 5-pin fiber optic sight with level and light, 4-arrow quiver, stabilize, and TRUGLO EZ brush rest. Other accessories include Allen wrench, string stop, pre-installed peep sight, 2-feet paper target, and a D-loop.

Although the Raptor comes with a 4-arrow quiver, actual arrows are not provided. Predator Archery offers a limited lifetime warranty on this product which covers only manufacturing flaws that compromise the bow’s integrity and quality. This is good enough, but the bow must be registered to enjoy this policy.

Pros

• A versatile platform for almost anyone, including beginners
• Features high-quality machining materials
• Fully and easily adjustable
• Very light for easy use
• Includes limited lifetime warranty

Cons

The package does not come with arrows

A tidbit for new users would be ideal

8. SereneLife Complete Compound Bow

Accuracy is one of the driving reasons why you would choose one compound bow over another. SereneLife complete compound bow capitalizes on accuracy. With this, you can go deer hunting, target shooting objects around the forest or yard, or target practice and aim correctly almost all the time. It is designed to offer excellent shooting performance for any type of target.

The bow is designed for utmost durability afforded by machined aluminum construction. Unlike the old bows that featured plastic in their cams, this one is zero plastic. This means high levels of durability. Additional sturdiness is the function of hard-wearing fiberglass limbs and innovative craftsmanship.

Those new to archery may want to spend hours upon hours on practice. This can be fatiguing if the compound bow they are using does not have ergonomic features. The SereneLife is designed specifically for the hunter with a focus on comfort. These features include an ergonomic riser design, heavyweight/sturdy composite limbs, and heavy-duty all-weather strings.

When you buy the SereneLife Complete compound bow, you will receive all the necessary equipment you need to enjoy your shooting or hunting trips. These include a five-pin sight, brush arrow rest, a peep sight, four-string silencers, a D-loop, one wrist rope (for protection), two rubber dampers, a stabilizer, an arrow quiver, a single paper target, a string wax, a user manual, and more.

This compound bow weighs just 3.9 pounds, which means you can carry it on you all day long without feeling weighed down. Although lightweight, it can handle a maximum of 70 pounds of draw weight (adjustable from 30-70lbs) and a velocity of 320 feet per second. The axle-to-axle length is 30 inches and leaves a let-off of 70 to 75 percent.

Pros

• Genuine and authentic USA product
• Highly versatile compound bow
• High velocity and accurate
• Resourceful accessory package

Cons

Quiver has limited durability, and needs frequent replacement

The provided arrows are of low-quality

9. Genesis Pro Bow

The Genesis Pro compound bow is what you need if you are a novice target shooter. This does not mean advanced target shooters for recreation and competition cannot find it useful. However, it is not designed for bowhunters. It is equipped with many features that improve its versatility, adjustability, and adaptability. In fact, it is marketed as a competition-quality compound bow.

To begin our highlight of the main features and specifications. It is important to note that Genesis Pro is among the few compound bows that offer zero let-offs. This is excellent when it comes to accuracy, but does limit archery equipment to target shooting.

With a 15 to 20 pounds adjustable draw weight, it is ideal for youths who are just entering the world of archery. This is because such weight forces the beginner to create the perfect shooting form and stance (or foot position). Thus the young shooter will be forced to focus on his or her form instead of the strength he or she requires to pull the bow back.

The adjustable draw length of 15 inches to 30 inches allows youthful archers to enjoy the bow. As the beginner is training, they can adjust the length upwards as they continue to master the art of control and accuracy of targeting.

Note that Genesis Pro does not come with a site. There is a good reason for this. Because the draw weights are much lower, the sight will not offer much since most shots will be less than 40 yards. Therefore, the user will have to revert to the classic point-and-shoot technique.

Pros

• Made in the USA with quality materials
• Incredibly flexible due to zero let-off
• Designed especially for beginners
• Looks great and feels great
• Affordable

Cons

Come with no arrow guide

No sight but for a good reason

10. CenterPoint Archery ABY1721 Elkhorn

Last but not least, the best beginner compound bow for target shooting is the Elkhorn by CenterPoint Archery. It is an awesome intermediate archer bow specifically designed to support skill development in young archers. With it, the beginner archer will develop proficiency in record time. The engineering itself looks and feels like a professional-level compound bow.

It features heavy-duty, durable limbs made of composite material that’s resistant to trauma. There is an integrated composite center shot riser with a big site window as well as heavy-duty, all-weather strings. All these are marks of quality. You will not have to replace parts as frequently as you would with low-quality compound bows.

The CenterPoint Archery Elkhorn features a draw length of as much as 26 inches. The draw weight is up to 15 pounds and let-off of 65 percent while the brace height is 8 inches. This is perfect for younger children who are about 8 years and above.

The archery equipment measures 33 inches from tip to tip. It is delivered ready to shoot with two composite arrows measuring 26 inches. Other inclusions are a finger tab, a quiver, an arm guard, an adjustable pin sight as well as an arrow rest.

It weighs a paltry 3.0 pounds and affords just 70 feet per second arrow velocity. The bow’s integrated craftsmanship allows for perfect hand placement for right-handed shooters. It is not clear if there are versions for the left-handed target shooting aficionados.

As you can see, these features are not those of top-range compound bows. But, this bow is a perfect choice for those training to be archers. It allows for progressive skill development and mastery of shooting art. It forms a wonderful gift material for a child you wish to introduce to archery.

Pros

• Perfect compound bow for beginners
• Made of strong, heavy-duty materials for longevity
• Comes with all accessories for ready-to-shoot
• Dirty affordable

Cons

No adjustment available

Not for hunting or competition

Best Compound Bow for Target Shooting: Complete Guide

Not all compound bows have the set of features that define them as the best. But choosing a particular model or brand to buy is a personal decision. Without the right knowledge, however, it can be a daunting task to make a choice.

Below is a well-researched and information-laden guide to making the decision a little easier. We will describe the features that you must look for in a bow and the reason why we think they are major determinants.

Left Vs Right Eye Dominance?

Compound bows are available in left- and right-handed versions. While it is easy to know your handedness, at times your dominant eye might be the opposite. Simply put, you may be right-handed but your dominant eye is left.

It is important to buy a bow that matches your dominant hand. However, it may make more sense if you buy a bow that matches the dominant eye instead of the hand. This will save you lots of frustrations when training. In the end, you will find it easier to adapt a non-dominant hand than a non-dominant eye.

But how do you know the dominant eye? Here is a simple criterion. With both eyes wide open, point directly at an object a few feet away (about 10 feet) with your index finger. Close your right eye. If your finger still points to that object, then it’s your left eye that’s dominant. If you open both your eyes again and then close the left eye, your finger will point to the left of the object. The reverse of this criterion is true.

Consider Draw Length

The next thing you need to consider and determine is your draw length. The archery store where you make your purchase will determine the right length depending on your physical features. Ultimately, you will need that draw length to know the draw length of the bow.

You can determine your length before you go to the archery. This will save you time. So, how do you go about it? You will need a tape measure and a helping hand. Being determined by determining your wingspan. Stand straight with both your arms and hands extending to your sides (forming a T). Using the measuring tape, have your helper measure the distance between your middle fingers.

Divide what you get by 2.5. The quotient will be the approximation of your draw length. This is just a rough idea to help you with shopping. At the archery shop, the dealer will have to measure it again to find an accurate measurement. You will use the information so that you do not mess up and buy a compound bow with a draw length that is too short or too long.

What about Draw Weight?

Draw weight is as important as draw length and is a major determinant of how you will find the bow you are buying. Draw weight is the maximum number of pounds you have to pull to bring the bow to optimum draw. This is where the let-off comes in.

Most compound bows for targeting have left-offs of between 60 and 80 percent. This means after the bow is fully drawn, you will remain with only 20% or more of that weight to hold. Weight can be anything from as low as 15 pounds to as much as 75 pounds.

A larger weight means greater arrow velocity, more kinetic energy, flatter trajectory, and deeper penetration. However, all these come with diminished accuracy. Therefore, larger draw weight bows are ideal for hunting because the target is large and it is not necessary to achieve pinpoint levels of accuracy. The lesser weight corresponds to better accuracy and therefore is great for target shooting.

The good thing today is that you can find bows with adjustable draw weights. This is awesome because you can simply set what works for you. Such versatility is great, especially for beginners. They can train with increasing draw weight until they achieve their optimal level.

Axle to Axle (ATA) Length

ATA is the length between the two cams. On the other hand, the cams are those wheel-like parts that help power the compound bow and are attached to the tips of the limbs. Axle-to-axle length is important because it will determine the stealth and compactness of the bow.

A very long ATA may make it difficult for you to shoot from confined areas like a single-seated tree stand or tight blind. If you will be roaming in free and open space, then the ATA may not really matter much. However, it is also important to realize that the longer the measurement, the more the bow will be forgiving when taking longer shots.

Brace Height

Brace height defines the perpendicular that exists between the grip of the riser handle and the bowstring when the bow is in a resting state. Shorter brace heights are not that forgiving when shooting. However, longer heights are more forgiving but can exacerbate minor breakdowns on shooting form, particularly torque. Furthermore, a shorter brace high improves shooting speed.

FAQs

Qn1: Is a compound bow for target shooting also useful in hunting?

Yes, this is possible with certain brands. All you need to know is the draw weight, arrow speed, and let-off among others. Generally, most high-end compound bows are also ideal for hunting.

Qn2: What is the right let-off for a compound bow for target shooting?

The let-off percentage should vary from 60 to 90. For target shooting, the let-off should be lower to improve accuracy and precision. But the higher the percentage, the better when it comes to hunting bows.

Qn3: Which is the best brand when it comes to compound bows?

Your choice should be guided by the type of features you are looking for. However, some brands have made a name for themselves because of the quality of their products. Such brands are trustworthy.

Qn4: Is it against the law to shoot arrows in my backyard?

Yes, it is legal but you will still need to discuss it with your local authority. You may be expected to install a few security features before you can train in your backyard.

Final Verdict

You are now sufficiently equipped to venture out and find the best compound bow for target shooting. Your level of proficiency does not matter because there are those suitable for beginners and even experienced archers. The good thing about the bows we have reviewed is that they are all great for target practice. Some are good enough for competition and even leisure targeting. The choice is yours.