Choosing the best compound bow under 500 dollars can be a tough task. There are so many different brands and models to choose from, and it is difficult to find reviews that give you the information you need to make a decision. That’s why I’ve tested 15+ models under the price range and narrowed them down to the top six.
As a hunter and archer, I know how important it is to have the right gear. So if you’re looking for a compound bow that will serve you well under $500, look no further. These 6 bows will ensure you have an excellent shot each time.
A Quick Comparison Of My Top Compound Bow Picks Under $500
Last update on 2024-04-27 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Diamond Archery Edge 320 70lbs is one of the most popular choices on this list because its performance rivals those of higher-priced models at just half the cost! With its blazing 320 FPS speed, this bow delivers consistent, powerful shots that are sure to put a hole in your target.
The Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult Compound Bow is another top choice as it’s easy to use and priced so competitively that beginners can get started without breaking the bank. Despite its affordable price, the Diamond Cruzer G2 still features high-quality materials and construction that ensure consistent performance time after time.
– The BEAR ARCHERY Legit Ready To Hunt Compound Bow is a complete package for those who want to take their archery game to the next level. With its sleek design and high-quality construction, this bow is perfect for any hunter looking for an accurate and sturdy compound bow.
– In the fourth position, I picked The Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Bow Package for its lightweight and compact design. It is the perfect bow for small archers or those who need a compact and lightweight option. Don’t get fooled by its size; this bow is incredibly powerful and accurate. It can propel an arrow at 310 FPS which is more than enough to take down your prey.
– The fifth position goes to the Diamond Archery Infinite 305 Compound Bow, which I picked for its high-quality construction and accuracy. This is a great choice for those who are serious about their archery practice. It comes with a stabilizer, brush rest, and more, which all make it a great choice for those who want to improve their shooting skills.
– Finally, if you’re looking for something truly unique in terms of speed, accuracy, and affordability the Topoint Trigon Compound Bow Full Package is your best choice. This Aluminum CNC Machining Bow can shoot up to 420 FPS.
Scroll down to learn how I picked these top six bows and for my full review of each. As well as learn how to choose the best compound bow for your needs at under $500 price point.
How I Picked Those Top Compound Bows Under $500?
I know you are probably wondering how someone just picks one out of so many great bows. Well, I’m here to tell you that it’s not easy. First, I researched the compound bows under $500 and narrowed down my list to 15. Then, I began looking at each one individually. Tested them out. I inspected them, looking at all the details and thinking about which bow would be best for me if I were to buy one today.
After a lot of research and consideration, I have those top 6 picks for the best compound bow under $500!
Why Do You Trust My Review?
I am a lifelong archery enthusiast, and I enjoy hunting as well. Every year, our family goes bowhunting to harvest deer for our freezer or even just target shooting with friends out in the woods on weekends. It is something that brings me great joy, so I felt obligated to share my knowledge of what you should look into when choosing your next bow.
How To Choose The Right Compound Bow Under $500
Compound bows are a great tool for hunting or target shooting. They provide the shooter with more power and precision than any other bow type. If you’re looking to buy your first compound bow, or have been out of the game for a while, then this easy-to-follow guide will help you find the best compound bow under $500!
Frame:
The frame of a compound bow holds everything together. It can be made out of a variety of materials (such as aluminum or carbon fiber). It should also have space to attach other components used in the shooting process, such as arrow rests. If you want a lighter-weight option for your body, go with carbon fiber, and aluminum is a good standard option.
Length and Weight of the Bow:
The weight of a compound will vary depending on what type it is. Still, they are typically around 6 pounds without additional accessories. It is recommended to choose a shorter compound bow that is easy to handle and shoot if you are a hunter. And if you are into an archery game, choose a longer compound bow that will give you the best accuracy and stability.
Shooting style:
As I said before, you need to choose the type of bow based on your needs. This means that you should put into consideration how you will be using it. For example, consider a longer and heavier bow for the best stability and precision shooting if you are a shooter.
On the other hand, if you are a hunter, choosing a shorter and lighter bow is best.
But being honest, if you’re a beginner, it is best to start with a recurve bow or crossbow. These are easier for people who are less familiar with shooting and offer more stability. Once you feel confident in your skills, then switch over to the compound! It’s also important to keep in mind that different shooting styles will require different types of compound bows.
Feet per Second Speed:
Compound bows are measured by their FPS rate, which is the speed at that an arrow can travel from a bow to its target when fully drawn in one second. The faster you need your arrows to go, then the more expensive and heavier it will be.
Draw weight:
The amount of force you pull back on the bowstring to release an arrow is called the “draw weight.” You should choose a draw weight that is right for your body type. If you select a bow that draws weight too heavy for you, it can make shooting difficult and injure your hands.
Compound bows have a range of default weights, which are appropriate for certain people. For example, women should use bows with lower weights – about 50 lbs or less up to 25 lbs – because they tend to be weaker.
On the other hand, men should choose a bow with 55+ pounds because they are stronger. Bows can also be adjusted so that it fits your body size more closely if necessary.
Archers need to know their weight and how much they can pull back when shooting a bow.
- If your age under 18 years and weigh under 100 pounds, you can pull back 10-15 pounds. But if your weight is from 100 to 130 pounds, your draw weight should be 15-25 pounds.
- If you are a female with a shorter and medium body frame weight from 100 to 160 pounds, choose a compound bow with a draw weight between 25 up to 35lbs.
- But if you have a large body frame female weight above 160 lbs, choose bow draw weight between 30-45 lbs.
- If you are a male with a small body frame weight between 100 to 130 pounds, choose a compound bow with a draw weight between 30 lbs and up to 45 lbs.
- For medium-body frame males whose weight is between 150-180 lbs choose to draw weight from 45 lbs up to 55 lbs
- But if you have a large body frame male weight above 180 lbs, choose bow draw weight between 45-60 lbs.
Draw length:
This is where the shooter pulls back on the string to create tension. The longer your draw length, the more powerful and accurate your shot will be. This usually ranges from 26″ – 30″. You’ll want to choose the correct draw length based on your arm span and how much you can comfortably pull back.
As a rule of thumb, if you are shorter, choose a shorter draw length, and if you are taller, choose a longer draw length.
- To find the right draw length, you need to measure the distance from one hand to the other.
- Then divide it by 2 and a half, so that is your proper draw length.
- If you are not sure, please ask a professional or dealer at a bow shop for help!
Axle to Axle Length:
This is how long a compound bow measures from the end of one limb to the other in total. Compound Bow should be measured when unstrung because they are typically much longer when drawn. On average most hunters prefer smaller bows and axle-to-axle distances between 32″ to 34″. On the other hand, the competition bow that is 36″ or longer is preferred for stability and less vibration. But again, it is important to choose the right one for your specific needs!
Choosing the right let-off setting:
Choosing the right let-off setting for your bow will make it faster. The higher the let-off, the less pressure there is at the end of the stroke. A lower let-off means more pressure at that point in time. Choose a bow with a low let-off so that you can aim it more easily.
Arrow rests:
Arrow rests are a device that is placed on the side of your bow. It provides stability when you shoot so that the arrow will not bounce in any direction and fly off course after losing momentum. Some bows come with arrow rests, but they are not necessary. If you want one for your compound bow to have a more traditional style, don’t worry about it; if you need one because of the type of shooting style, make sure it’s included in the purchase.
String Silencer:
String silencers are designed to reduce the noise that comes from a bowstring when it is shot. They do not affect accuracy or performance but are only for aesthetic purposes and so as not to scare away prey animals with too much noise.
Peep Sight:
A peep sight is a hole in the bowstring. This hole allows you to line up your eye, arrow, and target. The size of the peep sight should be 1/8 inch or 1/16th inch, depending on how experienced an archer that person is.
Case:
The bow case will help protect your compound bow from any knocks and scratches that might occur during storage or transport. This isn’t necessary if you’re only using your bow for a short time, but it’s important if you’re going to be taking your bow with you everywhere.
Easy To Maintain:
Maintaining your bow can cost you a lot of money. You need to bring it into the shop once every year to be tuned up and shot properly. It costs about $50-$150, depending on how often you shoot. The string should be replaced every year for the best performance as well. So get a compound bow that should be easy to maintain. Make sure that the bow you buy includes a warranty or at least has some sort of maintenance kit included in the purchase price.
Review Of The Best Compound Bow Under 500 Dollars
Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult Compound Bow
The Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult Compound Bow is a great bow for the beginner or intermediate archer. It is designed to be easy to use and comes with many accessories that make it an even better purchase.
Build:
When I hold the bow for the first time, I feel like Bear Archery took a real-life hunter’s perspective into consideration. The grip is designed to fit in your hands, and the bow is lightweight to carry around. One of the reasons being it’s durable yet lightweight is the machined aluminum riser and the EnduraFiber limbs.
The riser is well crafted, and the weight management is well thought out.
The EnduraFiber limb is flexible enough, yet its perfect rigidity is adequate to generate a good amount of energy.
Draw length:
When I first took the bow, I was curious to check its draw length. The good thing is bear archery offers an adjustable draw length from 12″ to 30″. Which was pretty good for me. And since the draw length can be adjustable up to 30 inches, this compound bow is suitable for any kind of body frame, whether you are a small or a large person.
Draw Weight:
The Bear Archery Cruzer G.I. also has an adjustable draw weight from five pounds to seventy pounds. Hence, it is pretty easy for me and most hunters to use. I like that it has a 70% let-off because of the heavy draw weight, and it makes shooting this compound bow very comfortable.
Another thing worth mentioning is you longer need any bow press to make adjustments. Bear Archery Cruzer G2 is one of the few bows out there that can be adjusted with an Allen wrench, so no need to bring a bow press with you hunting.
Speed:
The Bear Archery Cruzer G2 can propel arrows at 315 feet per second which I find to be extremely fast for a bow this size. It’s also quite accurate and has a good grip on the arrows.
Noise And Vibration:
At the field test, I mounted the RockStops suppressor to check for noise and vibration. Honestly, this compound bow did a great job. It did not produce any noticeable sound or vibrations during the field test.
Weight:
With just three pounds of weight, Bear Archery Cruzer G2 is a true lightweight bow. As a result, you will feel no fatigue after hours of practice and game hunting.
Additional Features:
Bear Archery Cruzer G 2 has many additional features worth mentioning, including four-pin sight, Whisker Biscuit, five-arrow quiver, and stabilizer sling. These extras on this bow make it better than other bows out there right now! And for beginners, these will save some money.
If you are left-handed like me, Bear Archery also has a left-handed model for you.
The only con I found on Bear Archery Cruzer G is that the quiver included in the package is not that durable. Bear Archery should have included a more durable quiver in the package.
Diamond Archery Edge 320 70lbs Compound Bow Review
Do you want to find the perfect bow? Well, look no further. The Diamond Archery Edge 320 70lbs Compound Bow is a bow that has everything you need and more! This bow will be great for beginners and experienced hunters because it is so easy to use. You can adjust all of the settings to make sure you have a comfortable draw length and weight. With this adjustable compound, it’s hard not to get your target in sight!
Draw Length:
The adjustable draw length is from 15 to 31 inches. This longer length surprised me because most bows on the market only go up to 29 inches. This draw length is great for those who like a long and smooth pull. And Also, this bow is perfect for taller people.
Draw Weight:
Ranging from seven pounds to seventy pounds, you can find a comfortable draw weight for anyone. And for a good reason, this is adjustable. It is really important to find the right draw weight because if it’s too heavy or light, you won’t be able to shoot your target.
Synchronized Binary Cam System:
The most impressive feature of this compound bow is the Synchronized Binary Cam System. This binary cam system provides a smooth draw cycle which is crucial for a good shot. I found this bow to be great for accuracy because of how smooth the draw cycle is. When you release the strings, the synchronized binary cam rotates simultaneously, and the two cams are synchronizing, which helps the arrow and nock travel in a more straight line. This binary cam rotates in unison with the same speed, and as a result, it helps give you a precise, accurate shot.
Axle to Axle Length:
The axle-to-axle length of this bow is 32 inches which is a little longer than most of the bows on the market. For this, a longer right axle to left axle distance helps to provide more stability and accuracy. Though longer axle length creates problem hunting in tight places but to get a clear and lethal single shot with accuracy, this longer length can be a trade-off.
FPS:
The speed of this bow is 320 fps which is pretty fast and can provide unlimited fun. You can hunt with your target very easily. The average speed of a bow should be around 300 fps; it will give you more accuracy and better results.
Brace Height:
The brace height of this bow is 7.25 inches which makes the arrow stay in a vertical position and makes the bow effective for short-distance hunting. In addition, the Brace height helps you to have better accuracy while shooting at close range. This is also responsible for deadly shots that penetrate your target directly. So, I think this length is perfect for this bow because it will make you accurate and lethal at close range.
Bow Sight And Stabilizer
The bow sight is ok. The stabilizer is ok, too. They are both usable, and you can shoot with them very well, but if you want the best gear, then maybe you should find something better from these best bow stabilizer sections.
Bear Archery Threat RTH Compound Bow Review
The Bear Archery Threat RTH Compound Bow is a great option for the hunter who wants to be prepared for any situation. In my field test, it stands out in accuracy and speed. Plus, it is lightweight, perfect for the hunter on the go who doesn’t want to be weighed down in the woods.
Aluminum Riser and EnduraFiber Limb:
Bear Archery has a reputation for creating lightweight archery equipment, and the Threat RTH Compound Bow is no exception. The aluminum riser and EnduraFiber limbs combine to create a lightweight bow that is exceptionally durable at a fraction of the weight.
The aluminum riser is also designed to be durable and dependable, so you can count on it staying solid for years of use. The solid aluminum construction is also a feature that hunters will appreciate. It makes the Threat RTH Compound Bow an excellent choice for those who spend a lot of time in the woods.
The EnduraFiber limbs have a unique shape for reliable load distribution. They provide unmatched flexibility and rigidity and allow for maximum weight adjustment. In addition, the shape of the limbs prevents twisting or torque while drawing your arrow back, making every shot count.
This manageable weight distribution makes this one of the most versatile and customizable bows on the market today.
Speed:
This compound bow is the fastest bow that I tested in this price range. With its 330 fps, the Threat RTH Compound Bow can shoot arrows at an amazing speed. With the limbs maxed out 250 pounds at a 29-inch draw length, I could achieve a velocity of over 280 fps while using a 380-grain arrow. I also recorded a 302 fps loading with a 328-grain 3D arrow which is impressive for a 60-pound bow in this price range.
Draw Weight:
Draw weights are adjustable from 60-70 pounds on this model, making it perfect for beginners or archers looking to achieve different levels of accuracy.
Draw Length:
Draw lengths can be adjusted from 25-30 inches and half-inch increment, which is great because it allows you to find the ideal length without worrying about string stretch. Setting up the proper draw length is as simple as turning the mod in each cam.
Color:
You can choose from two colors, Realtree Edge and Camo, to find the ideal match for your preferences or hunting environment. For the field test, I picked the camo version. The finish quality is outstanding; this looks very much like a flagship bow.
The camo version is perfect, actually, if you’re looking to blend into the background while shooting deer or other game animals in their natural habitat.
Package Content:
This bow also comes with additional accessories included in the package, such as an arrow rest and whisker biscuit, making it easier than ever before to start shooting right away. In addition, the included quiver will make carrying your arrows and additional equipment even easier while on the hunt.
I don’t like the draw cycle of this compound bow. It is jumpy, and it creeps up on you if you are not careful with your form. The let-off is also a bit short; it feels like less than 80%. I had a lot of problems with my group size when I shot this bow as well. When I was shooting well, my groups were very tight at 20-30 yards, but they were large and inconsistent when I was not shooting so well.
About The Author:
Lake Streeter, A Gun enthusiast, and loves to hunt in the middle of the wood. Always check the latest hunting gears out in the market and try to share his honest opinion with the audience in Hunting Nook.