As technology advances so does the compound bow. Every year manufacturers add new limb materials, sights, stocks designs, strings and arrows. These changes make shooting easier, more accurate and less noisy. However, not all compound bows are the same. Some bows are more popular than others, and the one you choose will ultimately depend on your specific compound bow effective range, preferences and budget. If you are in search of the best compound bow package under $500, take a look at these seven.
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Genesis Original Bow review
The Genesis Original is a compound bow that is unlikely to satisfy the seasoned shooters, but is perfect for beginners who are just starting out. The great thing about this model is that it can be used by everyone. Its draw length is easily adjustable, so if you are sharing your bow with multiple people or you want something that can grow with your child, the Genesis Original is ideal. It should be noted that this bow is for right handed shooters only.
- Adjustable Armguard
The Genesis comes with an armguard that is durable. It is form-fitting so that there is no unwanted sliding. The material is also thick.
- Single Cam
What makes the Genesis Original unique is the single cam design. This model is most widely known as the bow that will fit everyone because it has no set draw length. You can pull back the string as much or as little as you would like and your arrow will always fly strong and straight.
- Well Balanced
The Genesis is well balanced and uncomplicated, which makes it great for beginners. The machined aluminum riser has a nice weight and the competition grip feels comfortable and should fit most hands. The bow’s riser is drilled and tapped which gives you a significant amount of flexibility.
- What Customers Are Saying:
Customers have deemed the Genesis Original to be a family bow because the weight is adjustable and thus can be shared between children. They love having an unlimited draw length which makes it easy to pull back as far as you would like. They also appreciate how easy it is for beginners to use. Several buyers felt that one of this bow’s weaknesses is its string; it tends to slip off of the pulley which means that you may need to take it to a repair shop on occasion. Some customers say that the string only breaks if someone dry shoots for long periods of time. So this could be avoidable.
Cons:
-No sight
-No quiver
2.SAS Rage 70 Lbs 30” Compound Bow review
The SAS Rage 70 Lbs. 30” Compound Bow is most known for its simple construction. The manufacturer’s primary intent was to give its users something basic so that they can develop their own tastes and preferences. This compound bow is primarily recommended for hunters. Below are a few of its most valuable features and add-ons.
- Aluminum Riser, Fiberglass Li
The limbs of the SAS Rage bow are made from durable fiberglass and can withstand endless hours of misfires during your practice sessions. Its riser is made of aluminum alloy which is machine-made and offers a smooth and firm base where the arrows rest. This material gives you the perfect aim for both real-time hunting and target practice.
- Dual Cams
The SAS Rage has dual eccentric cams which enable you to freeze the draw weight in a way that is most comfortable to you. You can move the pin up or down until you have reached your desired draw weight. Adjust it up to 70 lbs. and in increments of 5 lbs. per hole.
- Adjustable Draw Length
You can also adjust the draw length. The draw length can be adjusted from 26 to 30 inches. This ensures that you will not strain your muscles while hunting. The SAS Rage also has an axle to axle length of around 35 inches which is great for both large and small frame shooters.
- What Customers Are Saying:
Customers like the fact that the draw weight is adjustable so you can make the pull back as challenging as you would like. They also appreciate the string stop; however, if it’s tightened too much it has a tendency to fall off after a number of shots. Many customers have noticed that the draw lengths are not consistent with the settings that are available on the cams. Some claim that the silencer doesn’t reach the strings. Also, a lot of customers are unimpressed with the ergonomic design the SAS Rage. They say that the grip is very blocky and somewhat uncomfortable. A few customers stated that after they added their own accessories, the bow became noticeably heavy. So if you are someone who enjoys shooting for long period of time, this may not be your go-to option.
Cons:
-No accessory
3.Leader Accessories Compound Bow Hunting Bow 50-70lbs review
The Leader Accessories Compound Bow Hunting Bow is another great option if you’re a beginner. This bow is mostly known for its speed and durability. This bow also offers several options by way of add-ons and features.
- Aluminum Riser
This compound bow features an aluminum riser that is smoothly machined. The bow’s cut outs give it somewhat of a modern look. These details aesthetically pleasing bring down the weight down and make the bow much easier to handle. The grip standard is a feature that will come down to a matter of personal taste and preferences.
- Dual Eccentric Cam System
The Leader Accessories 50-70 Hunting also comes equipped with a dual eccentric cam system. The dual eccentric cam is also made of aluminum. This material ensures that the bow remains sturdy and durable. In fact, the dual eccentric cam system makes adjusting the draw length very easy.
- Wrist Sling
Most experienced shooters know that if you grip too tightly, you will torque the whole model. Torqueing usually results in bad shots, and a wrist sling helps to ensure that this does not happen. The wrist sling allows you to attach the compound to your wrist and gives you the ability to shoot with a relaxed grip.
- Pre-drilled Holes
Are you worried that standard stabilizers will not work with this model? Well, the pre-drilled holes help to give the bow a finished look. The holes also make the bow come across as well machined.
- What Customers Are Saying:
Customers say that the draw length is easy to adjust and that the bow is extremely accurate, so it is ideal for most beginners. Though people loved the bow, they felt that the construction of the stabilizer, arm rest and sight were a bit lacking. Customers felt that the bow should have come with better instructions.
Cons:
-No Arrows
-No peep sight
-No carry case
4.Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Bow Package review
The Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro is one of the bestselling models on the market today because of its diversity. No matter your age group or skill level, this bow can serve as a useful addition to your collection. It’s versatile, extremely affordable and comes with a long list of valuable features and add-ons.
- 3-Pin Tundra Sight
When you use this bow’s 3-pin tundra sight in conjunction with its tube peep sight, aiming is incredibly easy. Its peep sight features a mounting hole for sight lights if you would like to add one at a later time. This feature is especially useful if you enjoy hunting at dusk. All you have to do to sight the bow sight is ‘follow the arrows’.
- Ultra-lite Stabilizer
It’s ultra-lite octane stabilizer is 5 inches. This is a great add-on because it gets rid of vibrations while you’re shooting. The ultra-lite stabilizer makes the draw cycle more accurate and you experience more balance and comfort.
- Hostage XL Arrow Rest
The quality of your rest is extremely important. This bow set comes equipped with a Hostage XL arrow rest. It’s design is simple and durable and there are no mechanical parts.
- DeadLock Lite Octane quiver
The DeadLock Lite Octane quiver has a 5 arrow capacity. This feature is extremely practical. The best part is that the quiver is easy to use and can be quickly detached.
- BCY String Loop
A BCY String Loop and wrist sling are included with this set as well. The BCY Loop is attached to the nock on the bowstring. You can pull the string through with the help of a release aid. The loop encourages a quicker release and subsequently less torque put on the string from the fingers. As discussed earlier, a wrist sling can be secured to your wrist and ensure that the bow doesn’t drop after you shoot an arrow.
- What Customers Are Saying:
Customers appreciate the fact that this bow fits a large range of draw lengths and that it is easy to adjust the draw weights. They like the fact that this bow can be customized as much as needed. Though this bow can be easily adjusted, many customers feel that adjusting the draw length is somewhat of a challenge and recommend a bow press as some of the bow’s bolts are under the limb and hard to reach with cables. Some customers felt that the string silencers were poorly manufactured; many had to both string silencers break off of the bow after a month of using it.
Cons:
-Slow
-Not quiet
5.Bear Archery Brave Bow Set review
The Bear Brave is ideal for children that are between the ages of 7 and 11. As long as the child can handle the draw length, it’s a great option. The Bear Archery Brave compound is designed for people who are right-handed.
- Whisker Biscuit
What makes the Bear Brave so special is the Whisker Biscuit that is included in the packaging. While most models will require you to spend extra for the Whisker Biscuit after you have become a little more experience, Bear Brave gives the beginner a chance to practice. The Whisker Biscuit is durable and safer than most conventional rests. You can also adjust it.
- 1-pin Sight
Just like the Crosman Elkhorn, the Bear Brave features a single pin sight. As discussed earlier, most shooters prefer multiple sights. However, single sights can help the user to become more skilled with time.
- 2 Safety Glass Arrows
The Bear Brave features 2 safety glass arrows whose tips are pressed onto the shaft of the bow. The fletching and nocks tend to come off quickly when hitting wall or trees. You may have to purchase a few extra arrows.
- 2-Piece Quiver
Would you like a bow that travels easily? A lot of archers enjoy a change of scenery from time to time. If your child would like to carry the arrows around, the Bear Brave is pre-installed with a 2-piece quiver.
- What Customers Are Saying:
Customers agree that no matter how young you are, the draw strength is light enough for even the youngest archer. They feel that the bow is accurate and that the sights are simple to dial in. They also feel that it offers great aim. Though this bow has a lot of strong points, it also has a few things that could be improved. For instance, some customers feel that a scope would have been a welcomed part of this set. Another weak point is that the draw is short and users cannot lengthen it. Also, the pin sight is adjustable, but its construction is somewhat uncomfortable and flimsy.
- Cons:
–non-adjustable draw length
These last 2 are geared more for kid’s or beginner’s to compound bows
6.Barnett Banshee Junior Archery Set review
If you’re interested in introducing your children to the sport of archery, you’ll find that the Barnett Lil Banshee Jr Compound Archery Set is one of the most popular and best-selling models on the market today. This set contains a wide variety of essentials. It comes pre-strung and ready to shoot right out of the box. Let’s examine a few of its strong points.
- Finger Rollers
Finger rollers offer two distinct advantages: they make pulling the string back much easier and your children will always be able to nock the arrow into the same place on its string. Finger rollers help with consistency and accuracy as they ensure that your child has the proper reference point. Even if the rollers are little too flexible, you can simply add duct tape.
- Carrying Case
If your child will be traveling around with the set, they will find the case to be invaluable. A case protects the set from both heat and moisture. If the set is damaged, you can use 5-year warranty against defect in workmanship and materials.
- Cams
Cams ensure a smooth draw which makes the Barnett Lil Banshee easy to shoot. Hit targets from as far away as 15 – 20 yards. Cams help to keep your child’s motivation pretty high.
- What Customers Are Saying:
At first glance, the Barnette Banshee Junior may seem like a kid’s toy, but many customers are impressed by the fact that it can be used by virtually anyone. It holds less power than the average adult bow, but the drawback is pretty flexible. In fact, many customers feel as if the power warrants a large back yard/space instead of a small one. A prominent concern was about how much strength it takes to draw, so if your child is small he or she may find it difficult to use this arrow. Also, many customers feel that the arrow could have been made with better quality. Customers say that the tip of the arrows broke easily and that they tend to chip. So buyers should be prepared to purchase a few extra arrows just in case.
Cons:
-No armguards
-No target
-No quiver
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Crosman Elkhorn Jr. Compound Bow review
The Crosman Elkhorn Jr. Compound Bow is another great compound bow for the younger generation. The Crosman Elkhorn Jr is for children 9 years of age or older. One of the great things about this compound bow is that it’s light, between 17-21lbs, and will not strain the child’s muscles and tendons. It should be noted that this bow was made specifically people are right handed. It comes with a variety of helpful features and add-ons.
- Armguard
If your child is a beginner, they may often encounter string slaps. String slaps can be annoying and quite painful. Armguards help to prevent string slaps to your forearm. They allow the young archer to perfect their form without having to feel the slap of their string each time.
- Finger Tab
Finger tabs protect your fingers when you’re shooting. A lot of archers choose to wear gloves but there are some that find the finger tabs to be more comfortable. In fact, many experienced shooters find that they have more control when wearing finger tabs.
- Single Pin Sight
Many archers prefer multiple sights but what most don’t realize is that single pin sights can be extremely helpful to beginners. Once you get used to the single sight, you will be able to over any scenario that you are presented with. Whether the child is tree stand hunting, stalking, spotting or calling in animals during the rut, they will always feel prepared.
- What Customers Are Saying:
While most youth bows are much smaller than those for adults, customers notice how large it is and how much draw length the Crosman Elkhorn Jr. Compound bow has. They also appreciate how easy it is to adjust the sight and that the arrow holder mounts directly onto the bow. There are customers who feel that this compound bow could have been sturdier in its construction. Also, some customers felt that the set could have come with better instructions. Though the set does come with a diagram, some customers felt that it was a bit fragmented. So be prepared to search for video tutorial if you are unable to follow the directions.
Cons:
-No nocking point on the string.
-No target
-No carry case
Compound Bow Effective Range
No matter which compound bow you choose, it’s extremely important that you search for one that accommodates effective range. Effective range is the maximum shooting distance that is within an individual’s comfort zone. For some people, effective range may be only 10 yards, while others may feel comfortable at 70 yards or so. When purchasing a compound bow, find out its effective range too. You need to know the distance the bow is capable of delivering an arrow.
Effective range is usually determined by two factors: the speed of the arrow and its kinetic energy when it impacts. As an arrow travels downs, its trajectory decays as gravity and aerodynamic drag affect its flight. When you know the effective range, you can make an accurate decision about how effectively you will be able to hit your target.
The Takeaway
When looking for the best compound bow package under $500, it’s important to understand that one size does not fit all. You need to keep your specific need in mind. Just as with the compound bow effective range, everyone will experience something different and needs to plan accordingly.