Buying a compound bow
Here are a couple of things to keep in mind before you go out and buy a compound bow:
1. Keep it simple –If you’re new to compound bows, focus on finding a bow that matches your body’s proportions and strength and think about all the extras down the road when you’ve gained more experience. It’s easy to think of compound bows as being “high tech” but it’s still a relatively simple device with few moving parts, constructed from readily available materials. In other words, technology won’t help you learn how to master the compound bow any faster than a simple, well designed one will.
2. Know your strength- Don’t be tempted by a compound that advertises it can shoot arrows at 300 fps unless you have the muscle to pull the bowstring far enough to achieve that speed consistently. Even with the mechanical advantage of compound bows, you’re still the one supplying the energy needed to make it work. Choose a compound you can comfortably use and you’ll get more enjoyment out of using it.
3. Know your options- When choosing a new compound bow, it’s good to consider some technical considerations that have an effect on your accuracy and performance.
Technical Considerations for choosing a Compound Bow
Axle length is the total length of the compound bow. Shorter bows are easier to maneuver but harder to shoot and require more practice on your part. Hunters who hunt from tree stands tend to prefer short bows for this reason. On the other hand, longer axle lengths are more forgiving and are your best option if you’re new to bow hunting as a sport.
Draw length is the distance between the grip and the bowstring when you’re at full draw. You can have the draw length adjusted (up to a certain extent) at your local shop; but if you have to choose between “less” or “more” go with less since too much draw length will have a more negative impact on your speed and accuracy.
Brace height is the distance from grip and the bow string at rest. Lower brace height translates to a faster bow, but is less forgiving and more difficult to shoot as well. A higher brace height is slower but more forgiving. On average, you’ll find compound bows that have a 7” brace height. Take the time to try out different brace heights, then choose a bow that matches your needs best.
Draw weight, expressed in pounds, is actually the amount of work or effort you need to get your compound to full draw. Choose a bow that you can comfortably pull back slowly and smoothly. To put things in perspective, a bow with a draw weight of 50 pounds or more is enough to kill a whitetail if you plan to go hunting. Higher draw weight means a faster bow, heavier arrows and arrow points too.
Overall Bow Weight should be considered if you plan to use it for hunting. Lighter bows may be easier to lug around the woods, but they also tend to be louder because they vibrate more. Heavier bows, on the other hand, can be tiresome to carry around all day but absorb more vibration and are subsequently quieter. As always, the choice is always yours.
