Possessing the right hunting gear is vital to your success in the woods. Of course, it would be best if you had the right bow that can take down prey with utmost accuracy and speed for bowhunting. But can you get the best bow with a budget of less than 500 dollars?
The answer is yes. However, the options are seemingly limitless. Many brands and models now trade at this price range. This makes it challenging to find a model that possesses all the features and specifications to improve your hunting prowess.
Besides, many people also fail to find accurate and in-depth reviews of the best bow $500. So you do not want to worry anymore. That’s why we have dedicated valuable time to test tens of models under the price range and smartly narrowed them down to the top 15.
We have absolute confidence in our choices and guess you will love them. However, a single factor that stands out is that each model will make your value commensurate or exceed your investment.
It is of little or no concern whether you are a beginner in archery or an expert looking for a more affordable upgrade. Take your time and go through the features and specifications discussed. We are confident your search will be over before it even begins.
Best Bows Under $500
Based on a well thought out criterion, we have selected the following bows under 500 dollars. They possess combinations of the many specs and features that define the best. Hopefully, you will find a suitable option among our picks. Stay with us as we delve deeper.
1. Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Bow Package
The Infinite Edge Pro Bow features what Diamond Archery claims to be the most accurate and sought-after cam system in the market today. The synchronized binary cam system consists of two perfectly symmetrical cams slaved.
Such innovative design forces the cams to turn in perfect synchrony. The invention further provides for flawless nock travel and tuning that you just set and forget. The outcome is maximum consistency and accuracy.
Infinite Edge Pro Bow is straightforward to use. With an effortless bolt turn, you can adjust from minimum to maximum poundage or anywhere in between the upper and lower ranges. The EZ pocket has easy-to-read calibrations that provide simplicity in draw weight adjustments for a variety of users.
The incredible adjustability of this bow makes it easy to set measurements that are right for your capabilities. Forgiving and durable, these Diamond Archery bows are engineered to help you succeed every step of the way while maintaining the solid strength you can expect with the brand.
In terms of specifications, this bow features an adjustable draw weight of 5 -70 pounds, has a maximum velocity of 310 fps and a draw length of 13-31 inches. The effective let-off is 80 per cent, while axle to axle length is 31 inches. Infinite Edge Pro weighs a paltry 3.2 pounds making it one of the lightest bows in the market.
Pros
- An innovative synchronized binary cam system
- User-friendly design
- Maximum adjustability for versatility
- Compact and rugged construction
- Decent accuracy and consistency
Cons
- Quite expensive
2. Raptor Compound Hunting Bow Kit
Whether you are a bowhunter, a bowfishing enthusiast or a professional target shooter, the Raptor Compound Bow is unique enough to offer you a high level of versatility for any application. In addition, it is an affordable alternative for youths, adults and even beginners.
This hunting compound bow kit is fully adjustable. It features an axle-to-axle length of 30 inches and weighs just 3.6 lbs. The draw length is in the range of 24.5 to 31 inches. Similarly, you can adjust the draw weight from 30 to 70 pounds without requiring the services of a bow press.
The adjustments are straightforward to execute. For instance, you simply need to tighten or loosen the limb bolt on each limb pocket by turning the bolts clockwise or anticlockwise, respectively. In addition, there are twelve holes for adjusting the draw length.
You will also love the high-quality machining of this Raptor compound Hunting Bow. The modules and the cams are made from machined aluminium with zero plastic components. The design allows for 75 per cent let-off and features the so-called split yoke tuning system, which provides accurate adjustments for precise arrow flight.
The kit comes as a complete package. It includes 5-pin fiber optic sight with level and light, pre-installed peep sight, Raptor’s TRUGLO EZ, a four arrow-quiver, a stabilizer, Allen Wrench and a string stop. There is also a 2-inch paper target and a D-loop. The package does not include arrows.
Pros
- Highly adjustable compound bow
- Available for both left and right-handed users
- Quick and effortless installation
- It comes as a complete package
- Accurate and precise bow
Cons
- The design does not offer enough clearance to turn the bolt
- Minor issues concerning longevity
3. Samick Sage Takedown Recurve Bow
Choose Samick Sage Takedown Recurve Bow if you are looking for the best hunting bow under 500. It is an all-around, affordable choice for novice to intermediate archers worldwide. Sage offers you an alternative you can lean on, rely on, experiment on and hone in your skills.
The bow features robust and durable rigid maple limbs with fibreglass lamination on both sides. Interestingly, the limbs are interchangeable, which adds to the versatility of the Sage. In addition, user-friendly, cleanly engineered limb bolts make changing the limbs quick and effortless.
The riser features sturdy construction capable of accommodating multiple bow weights. You will also love the ergonomically designed with crowned arrow shelf. In addition, Sage features a 14-stand Dacron recurve-string made from solid and durable material.
To add to the versatility of the Samick Sage Takedown Recover Bow, there are pre-installed brass bushings for various attachments and upgrades. Examples of extensions include a brass plunger, sight, quiver, stabilizer and fishing reel. This feature is excellent, especially if you are looking for a bow under 500 dollars to help you hone archery skills.
The bow has durable components made of solid materials. For instance, the riser is maple wood, while the limbs are fibreglass. Such construction allows the bow to sustain an adjustable draw weight range of 25 pounds to 60 pounds. This makes Sage the perfect choice for newbie archers.
Pros
- An ergonomic, user-friendly design
- Highly versatile recurve bow
- Options available for both right and left-handed archers
- Effortless to set up and use
- Fully adjustable hunting bow
Cons
- The limbs appear to have a sloppy fit on the riser
4. Southwest Archery Spyder Takedown Recurve Bow
Southwest Archery combines four naturally sourced woods to engineer the Spyder Takedown Recurve Bow. The result is an elegant, compact, precise and lightweight bow that is an ideal choice for anyone looking for an easy opportunity to learn archery bowhunting.
Spyder is available in both left- and right-handed models with draw-weights that adjusts from 20 pounds to 60 pounds with 5-pound increments. It also features pre-installed threaded brass bushings for various upgrades and attachments.
The kind of accessories you can install include mechanical plungers/rests, quivers, sights, bow-fishing reels and bow stabilizers. Reinforced limbs allow Spyder to be fast flight and Flemish string compatible. These features are consistent with quality and performance.
The design includes a single hand-crafted riser RH or LH, one pair for matching lower and upper limbs, one 24-strand Dacron String, a single stick on the adhesive arrow rest, and in-depth instructions with step-by-step instructions, step-by-step instructions, photos and infographics.
Assembling this bow for use requires a stringer tool. Before purchasing the bow, ensure you have the equipment or include it in the order. Southwest Archery provides stringer tools and other supplies, including arrows, cases and a complete package for kids, youths and adults. You will be pleased to learn of the brand’s rock-solid warranty policy, which covers you for one year against manufacturing flaws.
Pros
- Made of naturally sourced woods
- Elegant, compact, accurate and lightweight bow
- Fully adjustable in both draw length and draw weight
- Strong and durable design
- Includes 1-year warranty against manufacturing flaws
Cons
- Fibreglass on the limbs is good but not great
- The stringer tool included in the package is low quality
5. CenterPoint Archery Elkhorn Youth Compound Bow
The CenterPoint Elkhorn is undoubtedly one of the best compound bows under 500 dollars. It is an ideal choice for an intermediate archer to help him, or her build archery skills and proficiency. The bow is designed with the form and feel of Dad’s bow.
Featuring rugged, heavy-duty composite limbs, heavy-duty all-weather strings, and an integrated composite centre shot riser with a large sight window, this bow is what you need if you are looking for a hunting weapon you can train with.
The Elkhorn features a draw length of up to 26-inches, a maximum 15-pound draw weight, as well as a brace height of 8-inches and 65 per cent let-off. The CenterPoint Elkhorn measures 33 inches from axle to axle and comes ready to shoot out of the box.
When you place an order, the package will include two 26″ composite arrows, a 2-piece bow quiver, an armed guard, a finger tab, an arrow rest and an adjustable pin sight. As you can see, the brand has made it straightforward to match aspiring archers with their CenterPoint Archery youth bow.
Elkhorn weighs a paltry 3.3 pounds making it one of the lightest compound bows in the market. This very reason makes it ideal for youths who wish to venture into professional archery. In addition, the fact that it’s a youth version of dad’s bow motivates the younger archers to learn quicker.
Pros
- A perfect compound bow for intermediate archers
- Durable, heavy-weight limbs
- Heavy-duty bowstrings
- Comfortable draw-length and draw-weight for youths
- The package includes all the necessary accessories
Cons
- The arrows are included but are somewhat weak
- The construction quality is average
6. Canada Archery Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow Package
Choose the Dragon X8 RTH Compound bow if you are looking for a performance-oriented budget bow. It is touted as the hunting bow with ultimate performance yet low cost. It features a wide range of adjustable draw weights (0-70 pounds) without the need for a bow press and draws a length of 18-31 inches.
Such a high level of adjustability makes the Dragon ideal for trainees in archery, including those with intermediate skills. However, it may be somewhat simple for professionals. This is in sharp contrast to the brand’s claims that the bow is suitable for everyone.
Dragon features 100 per cent machined cams and modules with the innovative 6061-T6 aluminum. This is one of the most robust materials ever used in the construction of hunting bows. The bow riser is also aluminum, and the string is BCY-X, imported from the United States of America.
In terms of dimensions, the bow measures 30 inches from axle to axle, a brace height of 6.6 inches, draw-weight of up to 70 pounds with increments of 5 pounds as we mentioned earlier and length adjustments of 0.5 inches. The net weight is 3.8lbs, while the IBO speed is 310 feet per second.
Dragon compound bow is a beginner package. It comes with everything you need to begin shooting right away. The essential accessories included are 5-pin sight, stabilizer and arrow rest. The brand manufactures all the accessories to order if something is missing.
Pros
- Robust and accurate practice bow
- Fully adjustable compound bow
- Made from 100 percent machines aluminium
- It comes as a complete package with all the necessary accessories
- Affordable yet decent quality compound bow
Cons
- The limbs may break at full draw
- Peep sight seems to be moving out of position each time a shot is taken
7. Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult Compound Bow
At times, the thrill of a hunting expedition is adapting to your continuously-changing environment. This is where the famous Bear Archery Cruzer G2 comes to play. It is one of the excellent bows to handle whatever adventures come your way.
Although an adult compound bow, it sells at under 500 dollars. This is quite affordable given its quality. The optimum versatility of this bow is engineered and perfectly crafted for all ages and skill levels. Cruzer G2 is adjustable from 12 inches to 30 inches in draw length range and 5lbs. to 70 lbs. upper draw weight.
You can make all the adjustments using a simple Allen wrench. Besides, there is no need for a bow press. Actually, the bow comes ready to hunt armed with six Trophy Ridge accessories, including a whisker biscuit, a four-pin sight, a five-arrow quiver, a stabilizer and sling, a nock loop and a peep sight.
The Cruzer G2 weighs a paltry 3 lbs. making it one of the lightest in the market and thus suitable for younger archers. It fires arrows at a maximum IBO speed of 315 feet per second. In addition, you will love the bow’s super smooth draw cycle and a 70 per cent let off.
Furthermore, an advanced grip design minimizes hand torque for augmented accuracy. The innovative EnduraFiber Limbs delivers lethal regulated power while the RockStops offset string suppressor gets rid of vibration and noise. The Cruzer G2 is a complete package with high levels of adjustability for your entire family.
Pros
- Perfect affordable bow for hunting adventures
- Optimum versatility compound bow
- Noise and vibration-free performance e
- It can be adjusted without the need for a bow press
- Strong aluminum construction
Cons
- The bow is somewhat smaller, according to many users
- A better peep is desirable for the bow
8. PANDARUS Compound Bow Archery
PANDARUS Compound bow offers you an excellent way to introduce your young ones to archery and bowhunting. It is well designed and features a performance suitable for training newbies to become professional archers and hunters.
It has many excellent features and specifications that set it apart from its competition. To begin, the bow offers an adjustable draw weight and draw length. Interestingly, you can make the adjustments without the need for a bow press. There is also the string stopping function.
The draw weight is adjustable from 15 pounds to 29 pounds, while the draw length adjusts from 19 inches to 28 inches. Such a level of adjustability means your young one will grow both in professionalism and experience with increasing difficulty and complexity.
Other measurements include brace height of 6-3/4, axle-to-axle length of 27-3/4 inches and let off of 65 per cent. The net weight is 2.5 pounds making the PANDARUS compound bow one of the lightest options in the market. Finally, the IBO speed stands at 260 feet per second.
The bow is available in various colors, including green, red, blue, black and pink. Although the bow is suitable for women, youth and newbies, it would be erroneous to dry fire it (shooting the bow without an arrow). This will damage the bow and put the shooter and those around them at risk.
Pros
- Fully adjustable bow for beginners
- Accurate and high-speed bow
- Available in a variety of colors
- Features string stopping function
Cons
- The plastic construction may not be as durable as metal or wood
- Included arrows are of low quality
9. Southland Archery Supply SAS Outrage Compound Bow
Are you seeking the best compound bow under 500 dollars to help your upcoming archers hone their skills and become professionals? The Southland Archery Supply offers archery trainers a high-quality and durable compound bow. It is one of the best yet affordable hunting bows currently in the market.
Since kids and learners may be careless at handling bows, it is crucial that the brand and model you choose is top quality and made of durable materials. For example, the SAS Outrage bow features aluminium risers, fibreglass limbs, and CNC machined cams. Such construction material will take up insults without getting damaged.
In terms of specifications, the unit has an IBO speed rating of 275 feet per second, an axle-to-axle measurement of 31 inches and a brace height of 7.5 inches. You will also love the excellent adjustability of the SAS Outrage.
You can adjust (without the need for bow press) the draw length from 25 -31 inches. Draw weight is also adjustable from 30 t0 70 pounds with 5-pound increments. On the other hand, the let-off ranges from 75-80 per cent.
SAS offers two different packages which you can choose from – a pro-package and an optional travel package. The contents of either package are other but suited as a starter package. In addition, the brand offers buyers a 3-year warranty on manufacturing flaws.
Pros
- Excellent speed accuracy
- Fully adjustable in both draw weight and draw height
- Solid and durable aluminium and fibreglass construction
- High-quality and performance-oriented design
- It is armed or backed with a 3-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Requires more support for newbies
- Lacks documentation which interferes with setup
10. SAS Courage Hunting Takedown Recurve Archery Bow
The Southland Archery Courage Hunting Take-Down model recurve bow is robust and efficient for beginners and serious archers. Despite its high-quality design, the bow remains one of the most budget-friendly options you can buy for your archery or hunting needs.
Its simplistic design is a disguise for incredibly excellent performance and durability. The riser is made of Bintangor, Chuglam hardwood and Makore hardwood. These are doubtlessly some of the best woods you can ever find in the environment today. They have been pivotal in the production of state-of-the-art recurve bows.
On the other hand, the limbs consist of Makore and Maple wood laminations, undoubtedly durable and long-lasting. Furthermore, these laminations are faced with high-strength fibreglass. Such material provides superior comfort, stability, and more accurate shooting with excellent arrow speeds.
You can choose between left and right-hand designs for comfortable and ergonomic use. Further, user-friendliness results from the high adjustability SAS Courage Hunting Takedown Recurve bow. This feature allows you to choose the shooter’s best draw weight and draw length. The draw weight ranges from 29 to 60 pounds.
The no-brainer design is easy to assemble and disassemble for transportation and storage. This makes it a prime choice for archery practice or outright hunting. In addition, the bow is so light. It weighs a paltry 2.2 pounds, making it suitable even for younger shooters.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable construction with hardwoods
- Simple but performance-oriented design
- Comfortable and ergonomic to use
- Decent level of adjustability
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
Cons
- Upper limb not flush with the riser
- String quality requires improving
11. PSE ARCHERY Pro Max Takedown Recurve Bow Package
PSE is an industry leader in manufacturing high-quality, superior-performing bows, including the recurve models. This unit is perfectly engineered to provide upcoming and even professional archers with an experience only comparable to that of state-of-the-art models.
You will love the high performance of the Pro Max Takedown Recurve bow. It has excellent shooting speed and accuracy. The 62-inch hunting bow is the entry-level bow for shooters, including youth from 11 years up. Its high level of adjustability also makes it ideal for archery training.
Furthermore, the bow is effortless to use. With a 25-pound pull, Pro Max fits in as the best starter and backyard recreational takedown bow. Unlike most models of recurve bows, the bow features a 3-piece design that makes the unit easy to transport and, therefore, a convenient arrow and bow for teens.
You will receive an adjustable sight, a quiver, arm guard, three carbon arrows, finger savers, and a recurve stinger when you place an order. The arrows are well designed, but they may not be strong enough for several shooting episodes.
You will love the high-quality design of the PSE Archery Pro Max Takedown Recurve Bow. It features beautiful diamond wood construction, carbon arrows and composite limbs. These are marks of durability and longevity besides attractiveness.
Pros
- High-performance recurve bow
- Affordable yet high-quality hunting weapon
- Sturdy and durable construction for limbs, riser and arrows
- 3-piece design is easy to use and transport
- Outstanding craftsmanship makes it an ideal gift material
Cons
- 25lb draw-weight may not be heavy enough for hunting in certain states
- Included arrows leave something to desire
12. TOPOINTARCHERY M1 Compound Bow Package
TOPOINTARCHERY M1 is not the ultimate bow, but it is doubtlessly one of the best compound bows under 500 dollars. From the appearance, you can confuse this bow with a professional weapon. However, it is not a toy and can cause severe injuries if not used professionally.
The M1 compound bow is designed for right-handed shooters in bow parameters. However, it was not apparent from the time of writing this review is the company makes modes left-handed people can use. The unit has an IBO arrow speed rating of 320 feet per second, according to the manufacturer.
Other parameters of interest include axle-to-axle length of 28 inches, draw-weight of 19-70 pounds, and draw length of 19-30 inches. The draw length is adjustable depending on the shooter’s needs in a process that does not require a bow press. The brace-height measures 7 inches, and the let-off is 80 per cent. The bow weighs 3.3lbs when fully set up.
Construction quality is high thanks to the aluminium bow riser and CNC milling 7075-T6 bow CAM. On the other hand, the bow limbs feature imported Gordon Composites in USA bowstring (BCY material). Such durable materials mean the bow will serve you for years without damage.
The bow comes as a complete package which includes everything you need to shoot from the box. However, you will have to buy other accessories from a third party. Please do not attempt to dry-shoot the TOPOINTARCHERY M1, as this may damage the bow even before you get the chance to use it.
Pros
- Durable aluminium and composite construction
- Decently adjustable in terms of draw-length and draw-weight
- Highly accurate with decent arrow speed
- It comes as a whole package
Cons
- The included accessories work but are basic
13. Topoint Trigon Compound Bow Full Package
This Topoint Trigon Compound Bow offers you an excellent choice of a training and hunting compound bow for youngsters, including youths, women and men. The bow boasts several features and specifications that make it ideal for shooting and hunting.
Trigon is fitted with an advanced bow stabilizer. This is afforded by CNC machined from 6061-T6 aluminium, one of the best-known materials for manufacturing compound bows. For even more advanced stability, the bow is armed with vibration technology. Furthermore, it is a hatching knurling to lock in a compound bow.
The bow features an arrow rest that holds your arrows securely and safely. Furthermore, the bow is lighter and more compact to feel. Finally, the weapon features reference markings for windage adjustments, making it even better.
Convenient and easy to carry and use outdoors, the bow is perfect for training a successful archer. It is also an excellent option for hunting away in the woods. Trigon features durable, bright fibre-wrapped pins with reference markings for elevation and windage adjustments.
Topoint Trigon Compound bow is fitted with limbs imported from the United States and produced by famous are credible Gordon Composites. It features axle-to-axle measurement of 31 inches, brace height of 7-inches, draw-weight of 19-70lbs and draw-length of 19-30 inches without the need of a bow press. Let-off is 80 per cent, while IBO speed is 320 feet per second.
Pros
- Affordable compound bow for everyone
- Durable construction with machined 6061-T6 aluminium
- Incredibly stable compound arrow
- Adjustable without a bow press
- State-of-the-art vibration dampening technology
Cons
- The package may not include all the necessary parts
- The instruction manual is deficient
14. XGeek Compound Bow and Arrow kit
Regardless of why you are looking for the best hunting bow under 500 dollars. It does not matter whether you are a hunter, a bow-fishing enthusiast, or just into target shooting. This XGeek compound bow is unique and offers the versatility of others in the same category and quality. It is suitable for youths, adults and even beginner archers.
The bow is made of high-quality materials, including Gordon Composite limbs. The Cams and modules, on the other hand, are made of 100 per cent machined aluminium for durability and robustness. As a result, you won’t find any plastic parts that confer the bow’s safety.
These parts offer unmatched power and dependable consistency for all skill levels. In addition, the bow’s high-end strings will milk all the speed out of every shot you make with it. Finally, the package comes with every accessory necessary for quick setup.
The XGeek compound bow and arrow kit are designed for right-handed individuals, but that does not mean you won’t find one that fits your hand dominance. The parameters include IBO speed of 320 feet per second, draw-weight of 20 to 70lbs and draw length of 17-29 inches, which is easily adjustable without pressure. The brace height is 8 inches with a let-off of 80 percent.
Pros
- Highly versatile compound bow
- Gordon composite limbs are durable
- Cams and modules made of 100 percent aluminum
- It comes with complete accessories
- Superior design with exceptional performance
Cons
- Made in China, although some parts are sourced from the USA
- Some beginners didn’t find the unit easy to use
15. Creative PX Compound Bow and Arrow for Adults and Teens
The last but not least compound bow you will get with a budget of under 500 dollars is this model from Creative PX. This bow is suitable for adults, youths and those experiencing archery for the first time. The bow is nicely done and features modern 2021 technology.
What makes this compound bow ideal for archery training is its level of adjustability. You can effortlessly adjust and tune the bow without a bow press. It comes with a consistent and accurate string that will manage several shots. The cam won’t break either—the bow feature Gordon limbs made in the United States.
Creative PX compound bow is agile, compact and ready to shoot right out of the box. The modules and cams are aluminium with no plastic in the mix. Such construction will ensure complete security, safety and lifetime durability. The bowstrings are also of excellent quality and will deliver arrows at incredible speed.
The manufacturer proposed making an easy to adjust bow for most body weights and skill levels. It features 30-inch axle-to-axle measurement, 30 to 70 pounds draw weight, and 23.5 to 30.5 inches draw length. The brace height is 7.4 inches while let-off is 75 per cent and the IBO speed rating is 320 feet per second.
The order includes a package containing the bow and its accessories. As a bonus, Creative PX offers you 4-carbon arrows, string stopper, 5-pin sight, string wax, rubber stabilizer, release aid, paper targets, premium quiver and step-by-step user manual.
Pros
- Effortless to adjust and tune for all skill levels and weight
- Compact agile and ready to shoot out of the box
- Accurate and consistent bowstring
- It comes as a complete package with all the accessories
Cons
- Included arrows are of low quality
Buying Guide For the Best Bow Under 500 Dollars
Your budget of 500 dollars could give you the first hunting bow for archery training or hunting. But buying one is not as straight forward purchasing other things. However, if you are armed with the correct information, nothing can stop you from getting the best compound bow under 500.
This section shall discuss the most critical factors to consider when making a choice. While each feature is essential, viewing them together will also pay a lot. But, in the end, you will get a high-quality bow at an incredibly affordable price. Stay with us as we delve deeper.
The Length and the Net Weight of the Bow
Length of the bow in this regard refer to the measurement for one axle to another. It is therefore also referred to as axle to axle or ATA. Bows can have long, medium or short ATA lengths. Such length has essential bearings on the bow’s performance and which application it is suited for.
For instance, a longer axle to axle length bow with less vibration and more stability is suitable for sport archery. Conversely, if you wish to hunt with your new bow, it will be better to go with a shorter ATA length. Such a bow is simple and suitable for hunting in the woods.
The same argument could hold for the bow weight. It is a fact that most people looking for hunting bow under 500 dollars want it for training or building experience in archery. So youngsters are involved here. So, you will have to consider the edge of the intended user and their skill level. Match it appropriately.
Shooting Speed (IBO Rating)
Shooting speed is measured in feet per second and is often called IBO shooting speed. Such measurement is the primary determinant of the bow’s accuracy and pinpoints precision. Faster arrow speeds mean better accuracy at penetrating targets at any given range.
It is more important to be concerned about IBO rating if you deal with budget hunting bows than more expensive models. This is because manufacturers tend to sacrifice speed to reduce the cost of production. This is according to reliable sources, although brands may not care to admit it. It would be best to keep in mind that faster bows have heavier draw weights.
The Appropriate Draw Weight
Draw weight is the measure (in pounds) of the amount of force you require to pull and release the bowstring. Compound bows have a specific range of draw-weights. Furthermore, some states in the US have specific rules governing the minimum amount of draw weight for compound bows used to hunt wild animals.
It can be catastrophic to purchase if you were to buy a bow that has a draw weight that’s too heavy for you. You may get injured should that happen. Furthermore, your accuracy will also suffer. Luckily, most hunting bows under 500 dollars feature adjustable draw weights for different skill levels.
Our unsolicited advice is for female archers to go for compound bows with draw weight ranging from 25 to 55 pounds. On the other hand, Males can do well with 45 to 75 pounds draw weight. Otherwise, you can choose the weight you feel comfortable with.
Let-Off Percentage
Choosing the right let-off will positively affect the arrow speed and increase shot accuracy. A higher let-off percentage has a disadvantage, especially when dealing with compound bows. If a bow has a lower let-off, there will be less pressure at the stroke’s end. The opposite is also true. A lesser let off will allow you to aim the bow with ease.
Cams And Risers
Each compound bow has cams on both of its ends. These parts allow the string tension and create the resistance of the draw. Different cams exist, and their job includes determining the speed and smoothness with which the arrow is released from the arrow.
Another important consideration is the riser which is the part you grip. It is also where the bow limbs, as well as other components, interconnect. Risers can be made of different materials, including carbon fibre, fibreglass and aluminium, either machined or forged.
Peep Sights Can Improve Accuracy
Peep sight determines how low or high you can hold your compound bow according to the distance between your target and you. There are various types of companies with far-reaching benefits. But, first, you need to understand your area and style to determine what best suits you.
Durability
Durability is the most crucial consideration you need to make if you look for the best bow under 500 dollars. You do not want a model that will break the first time you take it out for spot shooting or hunting session.
The most durable bow is one that is made from high-quality materials. Likewise, the riser, cams, string, quiver, and other accessories should be made from string and dependable materials. Luckily, most models, including those under review, are decent materials.
FAQs
How far can compound bows shoot?
The effective range for standard compound bows is 30 to 60 yards. However, top-end models can shoot to as far as 1000 yards. So don’t expect much with a budget of 500 dollars, although you can get one with decent yardage.
How do I measure my draw length?
To estimate your draw length, stand erect with your back against the wall and your arms stretched out, touching the wall. Measure the distance between your middle fingers on both sides, the length of both arms and your chest. Subtract 15 from the number you get, divide the remainder by 2. That will give you your draw length.
How long should my arrow be for, say, 28 draws?
According to experts, if you are a 28-inch draw length and wish for an arrow that ends before the bow riser, the appropriate draw length should average 27 inches.
Can I make my compound bow faster?
All compound bows will be rated in terms of speed. However, the actual IBO speed may not match the manufacturers when you measure it. Also, your bow will lose momentum with time making it necessary to increase the speed. This process is possible.
Final Verdict
You are now well equipped and with enough confidence to step out and buy the best hunting bow for under 500 dollars. You can trust our choices because they are well thought and tested to provide you with reliable information. We also talked to archery experts, including professionals who gave us the ideas we have shared with you.
Choose from the fifteen top models we reviewed or use our in-depth buying guide to find your own. Either way, we have complete confidence you will not land the wrong hunting bow even with a budget of fewer than 500 dollars. So, make your choice and spread the word.
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