The archery world is witnessing a surge in prices for flagship compound bows, with many top-tier models exceeding the $1,000 mark. This price inflation has sparked concerns among bowhunters, particularly those mindful of their budgets, about the increasing cost of entry into the sport. While high-end bows like the award-winning PSE Mach 30 DS ($1,800) offer exceptional performance, they simply aren’t accessible to every hunter.
Fortunately, the market still offers a wealth of high-quality compound bows that deliver outstanding performance without the premium price tag. It’s entirely possible to acquire a precise and reliable bow for significantly less than a flagship model. To prove this point, we rigorously tested six compound bows considered “budget-friendly” to identify the Best Compound Bow For The Money. Our hands-on evaluation revealed that each bow in this category is more than capable of helping you succeed in the field, exceeding expectations in both build quality and overall performance.
However, one bow stood out as the clear winner in our test. This exceptional bow combines forgiveness, a smooth draw cycle, rock-solid stability, and remarkable accuracy – all at a price point of just $650. Importantly, it’s constructed entirely from premium materials, dispelling any notion of compromise associated with “budget” gear. This bow is a true all-rounder, offering everything a serious bowhunter needs without breaking the bank.
Best Compound Bows for the Money: Quick Comparison
| Bow | Accuracy (50 Yards) | Speed (FPS) | Draw Weight (lbs) | Draw Length Range (inches) | Axle-to-Axle (inches) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Darton Consequence | 1.63 inches | 297 | 61.8 | 26-31.5 | 29.5 | $650 |
| Bear Alaskan XT | 1.81 inches | 301 | 58.6 | 25-30 | 33 | $530 |
| Hoyt Torrex | 2.06 inches | 302 | 61.6 | 26-30 | 30 | $699 |
| Elite Terrain | 1.96 inches | 300 | 61.2 | 25.5-31.5 | 32.5 | $750 |
| Prime Ronan | 2.38 inches | 304 | 61.6 | 26.5-30.5* | 34 | $849 |
| PSE Vengeance | 1.38 inches | 301 | 61.2 | 24.5-30 | 30 | $999 |
Speed tested at 30-inch draw with a 350-grain arrow, and listed draw weight. *Ronan draw length changes require a new module.
How We Tested the Best Budget Compound Bows
To ensure a fair and comprehensive evaluation, our testing process focused on replicating real-world hunting scenarios and objectively measuring bow performance.
Bowhunter drawing a Bear Alaskan XT compound bow during testing
Bow Setup and Tuning
The bows arrived with varying peak draw weights (70, 60, and 65 pounds). To standardize testing, each bow was adjusted to approximately 60 pounds with a 30-inch draw length. We meticulously timed the cams, set the center shot to the industry-standard 13/16 inch, and established a level nocking point. Paper tuning was then performed on each bow until a perfect bullet hole was achieved, indicating optimal arrow flight and tuning. This process was successfully completed for all six bows with relative ease, demonstrating their inherent tunability.
Speed Measurement
To assess speed, we utilized Easton Sonic 6.0 arrows (300 spine, 28.5 inches, 50-grain field points). These arrows weighed a consistent 350 grains, representing the minimum weight typically used for ATA speed ratings at 70 pounds draw weight. The precise draw weight achieved for each bow during testing is listed alongside its speed results in the bow review section.
Arrow speed was measured using a Garmin Xero C1 Chronograph. Three shots were recorded for each bow, and the average of these readings determined the final speed specification. It’s important to note that arrow speed can be influenced by several factors, including bow tune, peep sight weight, and string nocks. Therefore, the listed speeds serve as valuable reference points rather than absolute maximums. Interestingly, all tested bows exhibited remarkably similar speeds, hovering around the 300 fps mark with draw weights near 60 pounds.
Accuracy Assessment
Accuracy testing was conducted at a distance of 50 yards using Black Eagle Spartan arrows (435 grains). The heavier Spartan arrows were chosen as they more closely represent a typical hunting arrow setup. Our rationale was that these bows are primarily designed for bowhunters, and testing with hunting-weight arrows provides a more realistic performance evaluation.
Targets consisted of NFAA 50cm field target faces with a 10cm (3.9 inch) central bullseye – the standard target used in NFAA field archery rounds at 50 yards. For each bow, we shot two three-arrow groups to quantify accuracy. The group sizes are reported in the individual bow reviews. Beyond measured groups, we spent considerable time shooting each bow at the same target and distance to develop a comprehensive understanding of their feel and overall shooting performance.
Gear Used for Testing
- Chronograph: Garmin Xero C1
- Bow Sights: UV Slider, HHA Tetra Ryz, Trophy Ridge React Pro, Trophy Ridge Drive
- Arrows: Easton Sonic 6.0 and Black Eagle Spartan
- Arrow Rests: QAD Ultrarest, CBE Defy, Trophy Ridge Propel, Trophy Ridge Sync, Redline Guru
- Stabilizer: Bee Stinger Premiere Plus
Additional Tools
- LCA Scale
- LCA Draw Board and Bow Press
Best Compound Bows for the Money: Detailed Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall: Darton Consequence
Close-up of the Darton Consequence compound bow during testing
The Darton Consequence, our top pick for the best compound bow for the money.
Key Specs
- Axle-to-Axle: 29.5 inches
- Weight: 4.3 pounds
- Brace Height: 7.5 inches
- Draw Length: 26-31.5 inches
- Let Off: 80-87 percent
- Price: $650
Performance Insights
- Test Draw Weight: 61.8 pounds
- Holding Weight: 9.4 pounds
- Arrow Speed: 297 fps
- Average 50-yard group: 1.63 inches
Approaching the final day of testing, the Darton Consequence had already emerged as a strong contender for the top spot. Its appealing price, robust build quality, and impressive initial accuracy all pointed towards a potential victory. To truly challenge the Consequence, we deliberately saved it for the end of our testing rotation, anticipating fatigue and diminished focus.
However, the Consequence defied expectations. Even when tested under less-than-ideal conditions, it remained remarkably easy to draw, aim, and consistently hit the bullseye. Maintaining a steady aim on the 50-yard NFAA target felt effortless, allowing for tight arrow groupings.
While not a professional archer, our testing experience allows us to discern between shots requiring significant effort for accuracy and those that come naturally. The Consequence fell firmly into the latter category. Consistent accuracy was readily achievable, and even minor shooting errors were often forgiven, with arrows still finding their way to the center. This inherent forgiveness is a hallmark of exceptional bow design, often attributed to a generous brace height. The Consequence boasts a 7.5-inch brace height, the largest among the tested bows, contributing significantly to its forgiving nature. A larger brace height generally translates to greater forgiveness, and the Consequence strikes an excellent balance for a hunting bow.
Detailed view of the aluminum limb pockets on the Darton Consequence compound bow
Beyond its shootability, the Consequence’s value proposition is undeniable. Priced at $650, it boasts premium features typically found on much more expensive bows. The riser and limb pockets are constructed entirely from aluminum, eliminating any composite components. It utilizes the same high-performance cam system found on Darton’s flagship Sequel 33 model. Furthermore, it eschews a plastic cable slide in favor of metal rollers on the cable arm. These are all characteristics of high-end bows, yet the Consequence is available at nearly half the cost.
One minor drawback noted was a slight string twang upon release, making it audibly louder than some other compound bows. While not excessive, it’s noticeable. This can be easily mitigated with the addition of string silencers like cat whiskers.
The Consequence registered the slowest arrow speed in the test at 297 fps. However, this is directly related to its generous 7.5-inch brace height. Increased brace height often comes with a trade-off in speed for enhanced forgiveness. In our view, the added forgiveness is a worthwhile exchange for a slight reduction in velocity.
Adding to its appeal, the Consequence is one of only two bows in our test group to accommodate draw lengths up to 31.5 inches. Bowhunters with longer draws (over 30 inches) often face challenges finding suitable bows, particularly in the budget category. The Consequence effectively addresses this limitation.
Runner Up: Bear Alaskan XT
The Bear Alaskan XT compound bow, a top value performer.
The Bear Alaskan XT, a strong contender for the best value compound bow.
Key Specs
- Axle-to-Axle: 33 inches
- Brace Height: 6.25 inches
- Draw Length: 25-30 inches
- Let Off: 80 percent
- Price: $530
Performance Insights
- Test Draw Weight: 58.6 pounds
- Holding Weight: 10.4 pounds
- Arrow Speed: 301 fps
- Average 50-yard group: 1.81 inches
Priced at an impressive $530, the Bear Alaskan XT stands out as the most affordable bow in our test. It incorporates composite limb pockets and a hybrid cam system utilizing a split yoke connected to the top limbs – a design reflecting established technology.
Close-up of the Picatinny sight mount on the Bear Alaskan XT compound bow
Remarkably, the Alaskan XT includes features commonly found on flagship bows: a Picatinny sight mount and a dovetail arrow rest mount. The PSE Vengeance ($999) is the only other bow in this test to offer even one of these modern features.
The Alaskan XT demonstrated surprising speed. Our 60-pound test model achieved 301 fps with a 350-grain arrow at a 30-inch draw length, despite only drawing 58.6 pounds at its maximum limb bolt setting. This speed is particularly impressive considering the fastest bow in the test only achieved 304 fps with a nearly 4-pound heavier draw weight.
The primary indication of the Alaskan XT’s budget-oriented design lies in its composite limb pockets and its back wall feel. The back wall was the softest among the tested bows, meaning it’s easier to inadvertently creep forward from the full-draw position while still maintaining contact with the draw stops. This can lead to inconsistencies in shot execution.
However, by consciously maintaining firm contact with the back wall throughout the aiming process, the Alaskan XT delivered commendable accuracy. Measured groups at 50 yards were 1.25 and 2.5 inches. Consistent accuracy was readily achievable as long as focused attention was paid to maintaining a solid back wall. Accuracy tended to suffer when switching between bows due to the acclimation to the firmer back walls of other models.
Considering its exceptionally competitive price, inclusion of premium features, and overall performance, the Bear Alaskan XT represents an outstanding value proposition for a compound bow.
Hoyt Torrex
The Hoyt Torrex compound bow, known for its reliable performance.
The Hoyt Torrex, a dependable and recognizable option in the budget-friendly category.
Key Specs
- Axle-to-Axle: 30 inches
- Weight: 3.8 pounds
- Brace Height: 7 inches
- Draw Length: 26-30 inches
- Let Off: 80 percent
- Price: $699
Performance Insights
- Test Draw Weight: 61.6 pounds
- Holding Weight: 11.8 pounds
- Arrow Speed: 302 fps
- Average 50-yard group: 2.06 inches
The Hoyt Torrex embodies simplicity and functionality. Its distinctive Tec riser, featuring a bridge behind the grip, instantly identifies it as a Hoyt bow. This riser design enhances rigidity, contributing to aiming stability and reduced flex during the shot.
Split yokes on the Hoyt Torrex compound bow, a feature for easy tuning.
The Torrex is clearly positioned as Hoyt’s budget-conscious offering, evident in features like smaller composite limb pockets, a basic plastic cable slide, and split yokes on both cams – a departure from Hoyt’s flagship designs. These features, while representing older technology and non-metal components, are typical of budget-class bows. However, they do not compromise the bow’s fundamental performance.
The split yokes on the Torrex simplify the tuning process. Cam lean adjustments are easily made by adding or removing twists from the yokes. This straightforward system has always been user-friendly and effective, despite flagship bows adopting alternative cam designs.
While lacking frills, the Torrex performs effectively. It requires slightly more shooter input to maintain consistent accuracy. The back wall is softer compared to other test bows. However, by consciously maintaining full draw, consistent 50-yard groups within the 10cm target circle were achievable. A front stabilizer significantly improved aiming stability. For those drawn to the Hoyt brand and feel, the Torrex represents a compelling budget-friendly option.
Elite Terrain
The Elite Terrain compound bow, blending flagship aesthetics with budget value.
The Elite Terrain, offering a recognizable Elite design at a more accessible price point.
Key Specs
- Axle-to-Axle: 32.5 inches
- Weight: 3.9 pounds
- Brace Height: 7 inches
- Draw Length: 25.5-31.5 inches
- Let Off: 85 percent
- Price: $750
Performance Insights
- Test Draw Weight: 61.2 pounds
- Holding Weight: 11.8 pounds
- Arrow Speed: 300 fps
- 50-yard Group Average: 1.96 inches
The Elite Terrain mirrors the aesthetic of its higher-end counterparts, featuring Elite’s signature riser design with a bridge above the handle and distinctive cutout shapes. The riser and limb pockets are both constructed from aluminum, a testament to Elite’s commitment to quality components even in their budget line.
Close-up on the grip of the Elite Terrain compound bow.
In place of the Linear Tunable Roller found on Elite flagships, the Terrain utilizes a simpler plastic cable slide. It also forgoes S.E.T. cam lean adjustment technology, opting for traditional split yokes. While the cam incorporates a rotating module for draw length adjustment, it adjusts in 0.5-inch increments, compared to the finer 0.25-inch adjustments on flagship cams.
The Terrain offers a generous draw length range of 25.5 to 31.5 inches. Bows accommodating draw lengths both under 26 inches and over 30 inches are relatively uncommon. The Terrain’s broad draw length range makes it a versatile option for a wide range of archers, a significant advantage in the budget bow category.
The Terrain’s shooting experience is distinctly Elite. It exhibits exceptional stability at full draw. While the draw cycle is slightly less refined and shot vibration is marginally more pronounced compared to Elite flagships, neither aspect is overly negative. Consistent 2-inch groups at 50 yards were achievable without excessive effort, confirming its capable performance. Priced at $750, the Terrain offers a solid balance of performance and value, albeit at the higher end of the budget bow spectrum.
Prime Ronan
The Prime Ronan compound bow, incorporating high-end features at a mid-range price.
The Prime Ronan, offering flagship features in a more affordable package.
Key Specs
- Axle-to-Axle: 34 inches
- Weight: 4.4 pounds
- Brace Height: 6.25 inches
- Draw Length: 26.5-30.5 inches
- Let Off: 80 percent
- Price: $849
Performance Insights
- Test Draw Weight: 61.6 pounds
- Holding Weight: 10.4 pounds
- Arrow Speed: 304 fps
- 50-yard Group Average: 2.38 inches
While often budget bows are characterized by feature reduction compared to flagship models, the Prime Ronan defies this trend. It incorporates two key features from Prime’s top-tier bows.
Firstly, it utilizes the Core Cam, developed as a replacement for Prime’s previous dual-cam system. This same Core Cam has powered Prime’s flagship bows for the past two years. It aligns the string and cables at full draw, maintaining consistent downward pressure for cam verticality, effectively eliminating cam lean and simplifying tuning.
A distinguishing characteristic of the Core Cam is its draw length-specific modules. Unlike rotating modules, each draw length requires a dedicated module. The Ronan was the only bow in our test featuring this type of cam.
The advantage of fixed modules is that engineers believe they optimize cam efficiency for each specific draw length. Rotating modules, in contrast, may offer peak efficiency at certain draw lengths but potentially less-than-peak performance at others. However, module-specific cams necessitate purchasing a new module for any draw length change.
The centered grip design on the Prime Ronan compound bow.
The Ronan also retains Prime’s signature Center Grip Technology, positioning the grip in the riser’s center for optimal balance. Like flagship Prime bows, the Ronan exhibits remarkable stability even without stabilizers due to its grip position. Stabilizers further enhance aiming precision.
Aiming was a standout feature of the Ronan. It allowed for a steady sight pin hold on the 10cm bullseye at 50 yards. During initial familiarization shooting, six-arrow groups were fired, with conscious effort to aim at different points on the bullseye to avoid arrow damage. While the Ronan produced the largest measured groups in our test, sub-3-inch groups at 50 yards are still highly respectable.
In terms of pure performance within the budget category, the Ronan was a strong contender for the top pick. Its higher price point ($849), the second most expensive in the test, is the primary factor that placed it lower in the rankings. While representing a significant saving compared to Prime’s flagship models, $850 may still be considered a substantial investment for budget-conscious bowhunters.
PSE Vengeance
The PSE Vengeance compound bow, a feature-rich option nearing the top of the budget range.
The PSE Vengeance, a high-performing and feature-rich bow, albeit at the upper limit of the budget category.
Key Specs
- Axle-to-Axle: 30 inches
- Weight: 4.4 pounds
- Brace Height: 6.75 inches
- Draw Length: 24.5-30 inches
- Let Off: 80-90 percent
- Price: $999
Performance Insights
- Test Draw Weight: 61.2 pounds
- Holding Weight: 6.8 pounds
- Arrow Speed: 301 fps
- Arrow Groups in Inches: 1 and 1 ¾
At a price point nearing $1,000, the PSE Vengeance was the most expensive bow in our test group. This price tag inherently hindered its chances of being crowned the best budget bow, regardless of its performance.
Nevertheless, the Vengeance is an exceptionally smooth-shooting bow, as expected given its Evolve cam system – a long-standing and highly regarded PSE cam known for its smooth draw cycle. The Evolve cam incorporates a rotating module for draw length adjustment and an adjustable draw stop allowing for let-off customization (80, 85, or 90 percent).
Detailed view of the Evolve cam on the PSE Vengeance compound bow.
Unsurprisingly, the Vengeance achieved the best accuracy in our test, producing measured groups of 1 inch and 1.75 inches. Its hold and shot characteristics closely mirrored PSE’s flagship bows utilizing the Evolve cam.
Like the Bear Alaskan XT, the Vengeance includes a Picatinny rail for sight mounting and a machined dovetail for integrate-style arrow rests. Additional features include a comfortable rubber grip and a stabilizer dampener mounted on a low front stabilizer bushing.
The Vengeance is undeniably a high-quality bow, approaching flagship-level performance. It would be a welcome addition to any archer’s arsenal. However, its $1,000 price point makes it a challenging contender for the title of “best budget bow.”
Final Thoughts on the Best Compound Bows for the Money
Our testing of these “budget” compound bows yielded overwhelmingly positive results. Collectively, these six bows significantly exceeded initial expectations. We anticipated potential struggles with consistent accuracy and a less-than-ideal shooting experience. However, every bow in the test proved to be enjoyable to shoot and capable of delivering consistent performance. If faced with the prospect of hunting an entire season with any of these bows, we would do so without hesitation. The advancements in compound bow technology have truly trickled down, making exceptional performance accessible at more affordable price points, and proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a best compound bow for the money.
