The new year is here, and so is the latest crop of compound hunting bows. Some are flagship models, and others are budget bows. But all are incredibly impressive. Each hunter is sure to find the stick slinger for them in this compilation of offerings. I took to the ATA show and shot the newest bows for 2024 – here are my 12 favorite.
- Best Compound Bow of 2024 & Fastest Compound Bow of 2024: Mathews Lift Series
- Best Beginner Bow for 2024: Elite Ethos
- Best Draw: Bowtech Core SS & Bowtech Carbon One X
- Most Accurate: Prime RVX Series
- Lightest: PSE Mach 30 DS
- Best Budget Bow for 2024: Bear Whitetail Maxx
Best Compound Bow of 2024 & Fastest Compound Bow of 2024: Mathews Lift Series
The Mathews Lift 29.5 is one of the hot new market offerings for this year. It hits all the right spots by being lightweight, fast, and very quiet. Of all the bows tested at ATA, this was the fastest. Weighing less than 4 pounds, this bow is very easy to carry in the field, even for long distances. It gets its 348-fps speed from the SwitchWeight-X Cam, and does it while maintaining quiet speeds. It boasts minimal post-shot vibration, and the new top-axle system improves stability while keeping bow weight down. Additionally, the bow includes MATCH bowstrings, which helps eliminate string stretch, serving separation, and peep rotation. Analyzing specs, it’s 29.5 inches axle-to-axle, and has a 6-inch brace height. Peak draw weights are 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, or 80 pounds. Draw length ranges from 24.5 to 30 inches. The bow weighs 3.99 pounds. MSRP is $1,329. The Lift is also available in a 33-inch axle-to-axle version. It has a 6.5-inch brace height and 26 to 31.5-inch draw length range. Peak draw weight is 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, or 80 pounds. It shoots up to 348 fps. The bow weighs 4.26 pounds. MSRP is $1,429. These bows come in 12 different colors (including five camo patterns). Let-off is 80 or 85%. Learn more at mathewsinc.com.
Best Beginner Bow for 2024: Elite Ethos
The Ethos by Elite is another buzzworthy bow that’s hot off the line. It reaches up to 340 fps IBO. It’s also known for customization, offering forgiving adjustability. It features a comfortable grip, S.E.T. technology (to adjust the limb pivot angle and lateral position to optimize arrow flight), and V3 performance mods on the SP cam system. Because of this, the Ethos offers shooters the ability to create the exact draw length, holding weight, and back wall preference they like. Micro-tune draw length with ¼-inch adjustments. Thank the Delta VRT and VibeX technologies for reduced vibration. It even has a dual caged riser and wider limbs for a better build. Drilling down on specs, this 33-inch axle-to-axle bow has a 6.75-inch brace height, 25.5- to 31-inch draw length, and up to 90% let-off. It offers 40-, 50-, 60-, 65-, 70- or 75-pound peak draw weights. The bow weighs 4.5 pounds. It comes in right- or left-handed options. It’s available in 19 colors, six of which are camo patterns. MSRP is $1,299.99. Find additional details at elitearchery.com.
Best Draw: Bowtech Core SS
The Bowtech Core SS offers a load of great technologies. It especially boasts a smooth draw and great center mass. Bowtech’s CenterMass technology aligns the sight to optimize stability and accuracy. It’s equipped with DeadLock technology, which also makes the bow more tunable. Additionally, TimeLock technology allows for quicker cam position adjustments, and with only a simple Allen wrench at that (no bow press needed). Also, GripLock technology allows for custom positioning of the grip angle, which helps fine-tune hold and increase overall accuracy. Furthermore, the brace height is 6.25 inches, axle-to-axle measurement is 31.5 inches, and draw length ranges from 26 to 31 inches. It reaches speeds of up to 337 fps. Peak draw weights are 50, 60, or 70 pounds. The bow weighs 4.5 pounds. MSRP is $1,399. Find more info at bowtecharchery.com.
Bowtech Carbon One X
Bowtech’s Carbon One X is a machine. It’s built on the Carbon One platform but with an extended axle-to-axle length. It features a very smooth draw and quiet shot process. The latter is largely derived from a strategically engineered carbon riser and Orbit Dampeners that virtually eliminate felt vibration during the shot. This bow also features the DeadLock cam system, which improves accuracy and arrow flight, and TimeLock technology, which makes it easier to adjust cam position with an Allen wrench (no press needed). It measures 33 inches axle-to-axle, draw length ranges from 25.5 to 30.5 inches, and brace height is 6.125 inches. The bow weighs 4.5 pounds. Peak draw weights are 50, 60, or 70 pounds. It shoots 339 fps. MSRP is $1,799. Learn more at bowtecharchery.com.
Most Accurate Compound Bow: Prime RVX Series
The Prime RVX is turning heads, too. It’s Core Cam system is a very tunable and accurate package and boasts great nock travel and a smooth draw. It offers draw-length-specific mods for maximum efficiency at every draw length. It also includes the exclusive center-grip riser, which is designed to put mass bow weight lower in the riser to improve aiming and stability throughout the shot cycle. This can make it easier to get on target and hold on target for longer durations. The RVX 32 has a 6.25-inch brace height, 26- to 30-inch draw length range, 40 to 80-pound draw weight range (with specific incremental peak draw options), and is 32 inches axle-to-axle. It has up to 85% let-off. It’s IBO speed is 340 fps. The bow weighs 4.4 pounds. The RVX 34 has a 6.25-inch brace height, 26.5 to 30.5-inch draw length range, 40 to 80-pound draw weight range (with specific incremental peak draw options), and is 34 inches axle to axle. It has up to 85% let-off. It’s IBO speed is 342 fps. The bow weighs 4.5 pounds. The RVX 36 has a 6.75-inch brace height, 27.5 to 31.5-inch draw length range, 40 to 80-pound draw weight range (with specific incremental peak draw options), and is 36 inches axle-to-axle. It has up to 85% let-off. It’s IBO speed is 332 fps. The bow weighs 4.6 pounds. MSRP is $1,199. Learn more about each of these at g5prime.com.
Lightest Compound Bow 2024: PSE Mach 30 DS
The Mach 30 DS by PSE is a great 30-inch axle-to-axle bow. It features very low to zero hand shock. The Full-Draw Stability technology makes it easier to stay on target and improves overall accuracy. Additionally, it includes the EC2 cam. It also has a 6-inch brace height, 24.5 to 30-inch draw length range, and 50-, 60-, 70-, or 80-pound peak draw weights. Let-off is 80% to 90%. It has a 338-fps speed rating. Made from lightweight carbon fiber, it’s only 3.6 pounds. It’s available in six colors and camo patterns. Made in the USA. MSRP is $1,799. Learn more at psearchery.com.
Bear Persist
The Persist is Bear’s 2024 flagship model. It’s a very stealthy bow, thanks in part to strategically placed in-riser dampeners, innovative string stop with built-in dampening, and technology to reduce noise from arrow-to-riser contact. This bow also includes a picatinny mount for a sight and Integrate Mounting System for a rest. Axle-to-axle is 31 inches. It has a 6.5-inch brace height. Draw weight ranges from 45-60 or 55-70 pounds. The draw length range is 26 to 30 inches. It has up to 75%, 80%, 85%, or 90% let-off. It shoots up to 340 fps. There’s even an integrated loop on the limb pocket for quick attachment of a pull-up rope. It comes in five colors and camo patterns. MSRP is $1,249.99. Find more details at beararchery.com.
Best Budget Bow for 2024: Bear Whitetail Maxx
A phenomenal budget bow, the Bear Whitetail Maxx provides accuracy and reliability without a steep price tag. A new roller cable guard system paired with the EKO camo system helps provide a smoother draw cycle. KillerWave limb dampeners greatly reduce noise and vibration. Furthermore, it has a 6.5-inch brace height, measures 31 inches axle-to-axle, and has an adjustable draw length from 26-30 inches. Draw weight ranges 45 to 60 pounds or 55 to 70 pounds. It shoots up to 339 fps. Let-off is 75%, 80%, 85%, or 90%. It’s available in five different colors and camo patterns. MSRP for the Whitetail Maxx is $599.99. It’s also offered in a Ready-to-Hunt (RTH) package, which includes a Trophy Ridge Fatal four-pin sight, Whisker Biscuit-V, 5-Spot quiver, snub-nose stabilizer, peep sight, and D-loop, with an MSRP of $699.99. Learn more at beararchery.com.
Athens Axxis Series
The Athens Axxis 31 and 33 are both great bows. This series features the brand-new, patent-pending Accu-Tune Cam Technology, which allows for lateral cam adjustments without needing a bow press. Adjust the Accu-Tune Cam dial with an Allen key to laterally adjust the cam right or left. Additionally, this series also includes the Limb-Lok 2.0 pocket system, which is lighter and has additional alignment features. It also sports a low-profile molded grip, picatinny rail mounting system, Integrate Mounting System, RT-X Rotating Cam Gen 3, TCS Tunable Cable System Roller Guard, and 1-inch split limbs for maximum stability and performance. Drilling down on specs, the Axxis 31 has a 31-inch axle-to-axle length, 7-inch brace height, and 25- to 31-inch draw length range (in ½-inch increments). The bow shoots 335 fps and weighs 4.4 pounds. The Axxis 33 has a 33-inch axle-to-axle length, 7-inch brace height, and 25.5 to 31.5-inch draw length range (in ½-inch increments). The bow shoots up to 330 fps and weighs 4.4 pounds. Both models have 70% to 90% let-off. Draw weights range from 40 to 80 pounds (including 65-pound peak draw weights). MSRP is $1,399. Learn more at athensarchery.com.
Xpedition XLite Series
The XLite series has a lot to offer. Crafted from the proprietary alloy Magnite, it’s strong and more consistently manufactured than carbon. Additionally, it’s 30% lighter than 6061 aluminum. It’s stronger than carbon. Vibration is minimal, too, with 20 times more vibration dampening than commercial-grade carbon and three times more vibration dampening than 6061 aluminum. Interestingly, the double-bridged Magnite riser design and adjustable 17- and 19-degree grip options provide a custom fit. Dual cable stops are positioned strategically for a solid back wall. Overall, it delivers a well-balanced and lightweight design. It comes in four offerings, including the 29, 31, 33, and 35. The XLite 29 incorporates the XB29 cams, which produce higher speeds without decreasing draw cycle comfort. It weighs 3.65 pounds, has a 29-inch axle-to-axle measurement, 6-inch brace height, and 24.5 to 30-inch draw length range. Peak draw weights include 50, 60, 65, and 70 pounds. It shoots 340 fps. MSRP is $1,949.99. Shifting to the XLite 31, it weighs 3.75 pounds, has a 31-inch axle-to-axle measurement, 6.5-inch brace height, and 25.5 to 30.5-inch draw length range. Peak draw weights include 50, 60, 65, or 70 pounds. It shoots 336 fps. MSRP is $1,949.99. Moving to the XLite 33, it hits the scales at less than 4 pounds, and has a 33-inch axle-to-axle measurement. MSRP is $1,999.99. Finally, the XLite 35 weighs 3.9 pounds, includes a 35-inch axle-to-axle measurement, 6-inch brace height, and 26 to 32-inch draw length range. Peak draw weights include 50, 60, 65, or 70 pounds. It shoots 340 fps. MSRP is $1,999.99. Bows feature adjustable 80% let-off and come with a Cerakote finish. The riser comes in five color options, ancillary parts come in two color selections, and strings are available in six color offerings. Choose from different rest, sight, and quiver add-ons. Learn more at xpeditionarchery.com.
Hoyt Alpha X 30
The Alpha X 30 by Hoyt is another excellent selection. This is a compact, forgiving bow that does well in the blind, tree stand, or when walking or stalking long distances in the field. This bow is packed with noise- and vibration-decreasing elements. It sports a short frame, yet without feeling too short. It has 30-inch axle-to-axle bow, but a string angle of a 32-inch rig. This boosts stability and forgiveness. The bow even includes an integrated drop cord slot to keep the rest cable safely tucked away, very comfortable grip, WireWRX bow silencers for decreased sound, and more. As for specs, it measures 30 inches axle-to-axle, has a 6 3/16-inch brace height, and shoots 344 fps (ATA). Draw lengths are 25 to 26-, 26.25 to 28-, or 28.25 to 30-inch draw lengths. Peak draw weights are 50, 60, 65, 70, or 80 pounds. The bow weighs 4.55 pounds. MSRP is $1,349. Of course, it also comes in the Alpha X 33 model. It measures 33 inches axle-to-axle, has a 6 3/8-inch brace height, and shoots 334 fps (ATA). Draw lengths are available as 26 to 27-, 27.25 to 29-, and 29.25 to 31-inch ranges. Peak draw weights include 50, 60, 65, 70, and 80 pounds. This bow weighs 4.75 pounds. MSRP is $1,449. These are available in 14 different colors and camo patterns. See more details at hoyt.com.
Read also our Review of the Alpha X 33 (33 vs 30-inch axle to axle)
Hoyt Carbon RX-8
Lastly, the Hoyt Carbon RX-8 builds on a long-proven platform. This bow offers everything from being lightweight to impressive quietness to warmth when gripped. It even boasts a great strength-to-weight ratio. This beast measures 30 inches axle-to-axle, has a 6 1/8-inch brace height, shoots 342 fps, and weighs 4 pounds. Draw length options include 25 to 26, 26.25 to 28, and 28.25 to 30 inches. Peak draw weights include 50, 60, 65, 70, or 80 pounds. It’s available in 14 colors and camo patterns. MSRP is $1,949. It’s also available in the RX-8 Ultra package. Learn more at hoyt.com.
Read also our Review of the Hoyt Carbon RX8
FAQ’s
1. What are the top compound bow brands?
Several brands consistently stand out in the archery community for their quality and performance. Notable mentions include:
- Mathews: Known for innovative designs and top-tier performance, Mathews bows are often favored by both hunters and competitive shooters.
- Hoyt: With a reputation for durability and reliability, Hoyt offers a wide range of bows for both hunting and target shooting.
- Bowtech: Recognized for their cutting-edge technology and precision, Bowtech bows are popular among hunters and competitive archers.
- PSE (Precision Shooting Equipment): As one of the largest manufacturers, PSE offers a broad spectrum of compound bows catering to various budgets and skill levels.
- Elite Archery: Known for their smooth draw cycles and shootability, Elite Archery focuses on creating a comfortable shooting experience.
- Bear Archery: A historic brand that has been around for decades, Bear Archery offers a wide range of bows that are great for beginners and seasoned hunters alike.
2. How do I choose the right brand for me?
Choosing the right brand depends on several factors:
- Personal Preference: Some archers prefer the feel of one brand over another. It’s important to test different bows to see which feels best in your hands.
- Budget: Prices can vary significantly between brands. Determine your budget first and see which brands offer models within your range.
- Purpose: Are you bowhunting, target shooting, or doing both? Some brands might specialize or offer models specifically designed for your intended use.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Online reviews, forums, and recommendations from experienced archers can provide valuable insights into how different brands and models perform in real-world conditions.
3. Are there emerging brands worth considering?
Yes, the archery market is dynamic, with emerging brands bringing innovation and competitive products to the market. Brands like Obsession Bows and Prime Archery by G5 are gaining reputation for their quality and performance. Always keep an eye on industry reviews and archery forums for the latest promising brands by subscribing to our newsletter.
4. How do brand warranties and customer service compare?
Warranties and customer service can vary significantly between brands:
- Mathews, Hoyt, Bowtech, PSE, and Elite Archery generally offer limited lifetime warranties on their bows to the original owner, covering manufacturing defects.
- Bear Archery offers a limited warranty, but the terms can differ based on the model.
- Customer service experiences can vary, so it’s wise to read current user feedback. A brand’s responsiveness and support can greatly influence your overall satisfaction.
5. Can I switch brands easily?
Yes, archers often switch brands based on changing preferences, needs, or the allure of new technology. However, switching brands might require getting used to different technologies, grip styles, and draw cycles. Compatibility of accessories, like arrows and releases, is generally universal, but certain proprietary technologies might require brand-specific gear.
6. What about accessories and compatibility?
Most compound bow brands design their bows to be compatible with a wide range of accessories, including sights, rests, and stabilizers. However, some may have proprietary mounting systems or recommend specific accessories for optimal performance. Checking compatibility before purchasing accessories is always a good idea.
When choosing a compound bow brand, it’s essential to consider what feels right for you personally, in addition to the technical specifications and performance reviews. Visiting an archery shop where you can handle and shoot different brands’ models will be invaluable in making your decision.
In conclusion, the compound bows of 2024 represent the pinnacle of archery technology and design. With advancements in materials, engineering, and user-focused features, these bows offer a remarkable blend of power, accuracy, and ease of use, catering to both seasoned archers and beginners. The models discussed in this article stand out for their innovative design, exceptional performance, and customer satisfaction. As the sport of archery continues to evolve, these compound bows not only keep pace with the latest trends but also set new standards in the industry. Whether for competitive shooting, hunting, or recreational use, each bow we’ve highlighted offers a unique set of features to suit various needs and preferences. Ultimately, the best compound bow for any individual depends on their specific requirements and goals in archery, but with the options available in 2024, finding the perfect match has never been easier.
