Looks like you’ve decided to test your luck in the sport of archery. Whether watching countless hours of Robin Hood movies led you to this craft, or just pure desire, you are at the right place.

This article will provide you with a review of the best beginner compound bow on the market, complete with information about compound bows in general that would be useful to those on the market for such a bow.

Related articles:

• The best single pin bow sight to combine with your bow
• Should you use a bow stabilizer for your new bow?
• Learn how to restring a compound bow on your own
• Try cheap but good target arrows when you start out
• Is it difficult to use a peep sight?

Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 Compound Bow Review

There are several key features that make a compound bow more or less suitable for beginner archers.

What’s important to know, if you are a novice who is about to pick up the bow for the first time, is that speed matters. The speed of the arrow is measured in FPS, or feet per second. It represents one of the main reasons why a certain bow is harder to shoot than others.

To achieve higher FPS, you will have to set the draw weight higher, which makes it harder to draw your bow. Yes, the bow will fire fast and powerful shots, but for a beginner, it might be impossible to draw the bow and fire accurately.

The good news is that all compound bows feature adjustable draw weight. As a novice archer, your focus should be on proper technique and fundamentals.

The Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 can fire arrows up to 318 FPS. The draw weight is very adjustable (it can go from 7 to 70 lbs.), which makes it a good choice not only for men but for also women and young archers.

As hinted, you will only get the top speed if you set the draw weight to the highest, in this case 70 lbs. But you don’t have to; you can set it to as low as 7 lbs. and build up from there.

The Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 uses the binary cam system, which makes tuning easier by slaving the cams together. Your timing will also be more consistent as a result. This means that you will be able to spend more time on the field working on your shots and having fun.

If purchased as a package, the bow comes with a quiver, sight, D-loop, peep, stabilizer (which will be pre-mounted), rest, and sling.

Also, the Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 features adjustable draw length (15” to 30”) which you can adjust in a matter of seconds; all that you need is an Allen wrench.

Another factor that makes the bow beginner-friendly is the very light weight (3.6 pounds). Hence, it won’t hurt your arms or tire you out that quickly. It will be much easier for a beginner to aim with a lighter bow than a heavier bow, and you’ll have better control as well, so use it to master the fundamentals and sharpen your skills.

The axle-to-axle length is 31 inches. Again, not too much for beginners. (Don’t worry, all the specs will be explained in more detail later on.)

The Edge SB-1 comes in almost every color (camo, purple, black, etc.) so you can choose whatever fits your personality or style. The silver-and-black Diamond logo is located on the grip.

The grip is another important consideration, as it’s one of the things that determine how comfortable the bow is.

The Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 is a comfortable compound bow because its grip fits almost perfectly in the hand. That will allow you to aim faster and fire more accurate shots.

While looking for a compound bow, durability should also play a vital role. The truth is that this Diamond Archery model is proven in that department. The answer is in the limbs. The Edge SB-1’s solid carbon composite limbs should guarantee that it lasts for a long time.

The only thing that may be considered a downside is the noise that the bow produces. You see, noise plays a huge role in hunting – the stealthier you and your equipment are, the better your chances.

The Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 might be the best beginner compound bow, but it’s not a rifle that shoots at 3,000 FPS. Many people prefer bow hunting over firearms precisely because it’s more challenging.

Just so you know. The compound bow is the most advanced bow for hunting and target practice, so advanced that you’re not allowed to use one in most major archery competitions. Doesn’t it make you want one even more badly?

Now let’s find out everything you need to know before starting your archery journey.

Everything You Need to Know About Compound Bows

This section includes everything you need to know about compound bows and archery in general.

There are a few important factors that determine just how good a certain compound bow is. Let’s break down and explain them.

Axle-to-Axle Length

Compound bows are equipped with axles, at least one at the end of each limb. The axles are the parts that attach the bow to the rotating system (consisting of cams or idler wheels) which gives power to the bow and does the heavy lifting for the user (a major reason why compound bows are not allowed in Olympic archery events).

The axle-to-axle length is now pretty self-explanatory, as it represents the length between the two axles. This length determines what type of shooting the bow is made for. For instance, if you own a shorter bow (from 30 to 32 inches), it is perfect for hunting. If you need a bow for target shooting or just regular practice, you should aim to get your hands on a longer bow.

The axle-to-axle length also impacts the bow’s stability. Just ask any experienced archer and they will know the difference.

With all else equal, longer bows would provide more stability. What that means is that you will be able to get a better hold of the bow while aiming. The draw weight and length and other things would play a part as well, which is why we stressed “with all else equal.”

Although the axle-to-axle length impacts the stability, that doesn’t necessarily mean that shorter bows aren’t accurate. There are many other elements that can affect accuracy.

At the end of the day, as long as you are comfortable with the bow, you will be able to hit targets with it after enough practice. However, beginners should pick their first bow carefully and always have their goals in mind.

Draw Weight

By virtue of their design, the draw weight of all compound bows is adjustable. High-level archery not only requires skill but also a strong body. To be exact, your back muscles will need to be pretty strong as they will be under the most pressure.

If you are really that into this sport, you must have heard of Brady Ellison, the top American Olympic archer. Ellison can draw up to around 53 pounds without affecting his accuracy. Of course, we’re not comparing apples to apples here as Ellison uses a recurve bow in competitions. But the point is the same.

What’s important here is that you carefully choose your bow’s draw weight so that it matches your strength. This goes especially so for hunters.

Let’s say that you’re a hunter. You are on the field right now waiting patiently for your prey, when suddenly you hear a noise in the nearby bush. This could be the moment you have been waiting for. Naturally, you would fully draw your bow and wait for the perfect shot. The wait here usually lasts no more than a couple of minutes, but those minutes will feel like hours.

If your bow’s draw weight so too much for you to handle, then you either need to hit the gym or choose a different bow for hunting purposes. You wouldn’t want to fire a shot when your arms are tired? In other words, the draw weight is the maximum weight that you pull before let-off.

So, how do you know if the draw weight matches your strength? It’s quite simple. While you are browsing for a perfect bow, pull the string and check if you can hold that position for about 30 seconds. If you are able to do that, then the draw weight is probably suitable for you.

Draw weight doesn’t only have an impact on your strength. It also affects your aim and the bow’s accuracy. It is obvious that having a bow that is easy to draw and hold makes your accuracy better and your overall shot steadier. The cool thing about compound bows is that the cams do most of the work for you, so you don’t have to hold the full draw weight.

Draw Length

Do you know your bow’s draw length? You should!

Basically, draw length determines how much your bow can be drawn back. This distance is completely controlled by your bow’s mechanical system. However, your physical size needs to match your bow’s mechanical settings. This is why you need to determine your proper draw length.

The truth is that there is not an exact formula for any given archer. If you are completely comfortable with a selected draw length, then it is quite simple – that’s your number!

Although comfort is the logical consideration, beginner archers may have problems in determining what their proper draw length is.

There is a solution to that as well and it’s called the “arm span method.” The method is actually quite easy. Simply measure your arm span (in inches) and divide that number by 2.5. The result is the draw length in inches that matches your size.

When measuring your arm span, make sure to stand still and measure from the tip of your left or right middle finger to the tip of the other one.

However, it’s only a rule of thumb so you shouldn’t be carried away with numbers. Remember, comfort matters! Also, most compound bows feature adjustable draw length.

Let-off

The let-off is one of the things that makes the compound bow the most advanced bow in existence.

First, we need to start from the draw weight.

As you already know, the draw weight is the force that you need to exert when drawing the string back. And as mentioned, the design of the compound bow does most of the work for you. And the percentage of that work done for you is called the let-off.

For an example, if a bow is set at a draw weight of 70 pounds and the let-off is specified at 80%, then you actually only have to hold a 14-pound full draw weight when using that bow (80% or 56 pounds of the weight is done for you).

In comparison, recurve bow archers would theoretically need to hold all 70 pounds at full draw. It’s for illustration purposes only because 70-lb. compound bows don’t exist and it would be too heavy for most people anyway. In comparison, there are many compound bows with 70lbs or higher draw weight.

By the way, the Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 is rated at 80% let-off.

The Difference Between Compound and Traditional Bows

Would a modern day Robin Hood choose a compound or a traditional bow? Let’s figure out what we already know.

Traditional Bows

Traditional bows are now considered old equipment. But does that necessarily mean that they don’t perform as well as compound bows? Short answer – nope!

There are two categories of traditional bows: the longbow and the recurve bow.

Right off the bat, what separates the longbow from the recurve bow is its shape. The longbow has the shape of a half-moon. Its grip is completely straight.

Longbows are harder to shoot as they have thicker depths. That means that your form has to be impeccable in order to shoot a straight-flying arrow.

The recurve bow is a more efficient version of the longbow. The riser replaced the traditional grip and the two limbs are curved back in the other direction at the end (i.e. recurve), which would also require more advanced materials.

The result is a bow that can shoot with more power and therefore faster arrows. In this case, the bow’s draw length is very important. Even more important than in the previous case.

You see, longbows can be drawn back as far as your strength allows you to. Recurve bows have a set draw length.

Advantages

Although much longer, traditional bows are also slimmer and easier to carry around. That alone is a serious advantage as it allows you to move faster and even hunt from tighter spots.

Disadvantages

On the other hand, traditional bows are harder to shoot as they require good technique and strength, and not technology-driven like compound bows. So you will need more force to draw them. Without the assist of the cams, traditional bows also don’t shoot nearly as fast or far as compound bows. In order to get a good shot, you will need to be closer to your target.

If you do decide that a traditional bow is the right one for you, you will need to practice more frequently.

Compound Bow

Compound bows are modern bows that are capable of more power and accuracy. Just because the compound bow has the technology that can immensely help you, it doesn’t mean that it won’t require practice.

Advantages

The compound bow doesn’t entirely rely on your strength. Its mechanical systems are designed to make your hunting easier. In the hands of an archer, compound bows offer more power, accuracy, greater distance, and customization.

Disadvantages

Compound bows are wider and heavier than traditional bows, which means moving around with them won’t be as easy as you might have thought. You might have to sacrifice the speed of your movement.

Also, compound bows need more maintenance.

Which Is the Right One for You?

If you are aren’t that interested in technology and want to do things the old-fashioned way, then a traditional bow will be a better choice for you.

In general, if you go for compound bows, you will be able to make faster progress. If you’re looking to hunt larger game, you should choose a good compound bow.

On the other hand, if you plan on becoming a competitive archer, you may have to pick up a traditional bow, unless you’re willing to settle for lower-level competitions. As mentioned, compound bows are not allowed in most major archery competitions.

At the end of the day, there’s nothing to stop you from choosing both. Just figure out what you want from the sport and you will realize what bow you should start with.

What are the Parts of the Compound Bow?

The very next thing you should know about compound bows is the anatomy. Let’s take apart the compound bow and check out every part.

Riser

The riser is the middle of the bow that contains the grip. Risers are usually made of aluminum, but better compound bows may come with carbon fiber risers. You see, carbon fiber decreases the bow’s weight.

There are other components mounted to the riser. They include the arrow rest, sight, stabilizer, and quiver. All of the mounting holes are universal.

Limbs

The limbs are attached to the riser to form the top and bottom parts of the compound bow. They are made of flexible fiberglass planks.

They are parts of the bow that absorb and store the energy that’s generated when you pull the bowstring. You will find that the limbs are equipped with cams.

There are different types of limbs.

Solid limbs

Solid limbs are made of one piece of fiberglass.

Split limbs

Split limbs consist of two limbs that “meet” each other at the riser. This type of limbs makes the bow more durable. It also makes the bow produce less of a hand shock.

Parallel limbs

Parallel limbs are found on most compound bows nowadays. The name basically says it all: The top and bottom limbs are parallel to each other. Parallel limbs reduce the bow’s noise and recoil when shooting.

Cams

The cams are attached to the end of the limbs and look like round disks. These cams are the innovative technology that separates compound bows from traditional bows.

It is the cams that manipulate the draw weight through their mechanic systems. So, when you pull the string back, after a specific point, the string will catch on the cams and it will become easier to continue pulling.

There are also different types of cams as well.

• Round wheels – the arrow speed is lower but the accuracy is better
• Soft cams
• Single cams – also called “solo” cams
• Hard cams – faster arrow speed but hard to keep in tune
• 5 hybrid cams

Cam System

Let’s see how the cams work together.

There are four types of cam systems, which include:

• Binary cams
• Twin cams
• Single cam
• Hybrid cams

The most popular bows on the market today actually use the single cam system. This type is easier to maintain. It makes less noise, which is very important for hunters.

The system basically includes a round idler wheel on the upper limb and a power cam on the bottom limb.

The second most used cam system is the twin cams, otherwise known as the dual cam system. It consists of two identical cams (top and bottom).

Bowstring

The arrow is launched by the bowstring. The key is that bowstrings should be made of materials that don’t stretch or lose tension over time. In order to make sure that your bow performs as well as it performed when you first bought it, you should replace the bowstring every 2 to 3 years.

String Silencer

While we are talking about the bowstring, it is a good time to mention every hunter’s best friend, the string silencer.

Although technically you don’t need them as a beginner, it might be a good idea to get used to them from the start; they might become one of the most important accessories later.

This piece of equipment totally relies on physics. When your bow is at full draw, it is tense with potential energy. The limbs are bent due to the pulling force, and naturally, they want to return to their starting position.

When released, the potential energy in the limbs is converted into kinetic energy which sends the arrow flying.

Since energy conversion is never 100% efficient, a portion of the energy doesn’t get transferred to the arrow but ripples through the bow instead. That’s why your compound bow is vibrating and making noise while shooting. The string silencer is used to reduce the vibrations, therefore reducing the noise.

Cable Guard

There are cables that move the cams or pulley system when pulling back the bowstring. Cable guards are used to keep the cable away from the bow’s center. They are made of fiberglass.

Cable Slide

The cable slide works alongside the cable guard to make sure that the cables don’t get in the arrow’s path. They are small plastic pieces attached to the cable guard.

Sight

If you’ve ever played first-person shooter games, you already know what sights are. They are used to help you with your aim and there are quite a few sights available.

The most popular, the fixed pin sight, usually has three pins in the sight circle. You will use those pins for distances. In order to fully take advantage of the pins, you will need to know how far away your target is. You can use a rangefinder (purchased separately) to figure out the distance.

Arrow Rest

The arrow rest is used for holding the arrow before releasing it. With an arrow rest, you can fully focus on your target and not have to worry about where your arrow is.

Stabilizer

You can shoot with or without a stabilizer, as it’s totally optional. It’s used to, well, stabilize your weapon when you are shooting. Attached to the front of the bow, It reduces vibrations and noise.

How to Keep Your Compound Bow in Good Shape

Let’s say you’ve just got yourself a new compound bow. It is beautiful! You find it very comfortable and easy to shoot with. You don’t want that to change, right?

Here are a few things that you can do to increase your compound bow’s durability.

Always Have Your Bow Tuned

It is of the essence that archers make sure that their bows are being fired in a straight line. That’s exactly what bow tuning is. With that being said, you should always check if your bow is properly tuned. Here are a couple of things to have in mind:

• Pick the proper arrows
• Adjust the draw length
• Time the cams
• Adjust the sight

Inspect Your Weapon Every Now and Then

Inspecting your weapon’s performance is a good thing to do from time to time. Remember how the compound bow performed at its peak (when you first bought it) and compare the results.

Check if Your Components are Correctly Installed

If your components aren’t installed correctly, your bow won’t be as accurate and you might even risk injuring yourself or others. One of the key points to look at is the riser as that’s where most of your components are located. The components need to be tightly attached to the riser.

Take Good Care of Your Bowstring

A good way to take care of the bowstring is to use wax. Simply apply wax by rubbing it directly along the full length of the bowstring. Once you’ve done that, use your fingers to massage it further into the string. Make sure to cover all spots as strings are made out of multiple strands. The goal here is for the wax to melt inside all the gaps.

The recommendations on how frequently you should apply this method vary. As a rule, waxing the string once a week should be all that it takes to keep your bowstring safe.

Why are Some Compound Bows Faster?

So, what makes one compound bow faster than the other?

The first factor that impacts the compound bow’s FPS is the brace height. This controls how much you need to pull in order to get to full draw. In other words, it controls the draw stroke. If a bow has a short brace height, you can expect a longer draw stroke. But what exactly is the brace height? The brace height is the distance between your bow’s grip throat and bowstring.

The second factor is the draw length. The reason for that is quite simple. If your bow has longer draw length. it will be able to shoot the arrow with more power, and as such, faster.

Aside from these two factors, the cam design and limbs must also be considered if your goal is speed.

The cams don’t store any energy but assist you to store energy on the bow’s limbs, and depending on the bow, they can do it for better or worse. When you release the arrow, the energy stored on the limbs converts to kinetic energy that propels the arrow.

When you’re shopping for a fast bow, look at the specs supplied by the manufacturer.

Alternative Starter Bows for Beginners

Since you now know what to look for in a compound bow, let’s check out a couple of alternative best compound bows for beginners.

Bear Archery Authority

The first honorable mention is the Bear Archery Authority compound bow. It is inexpensive and an excellent choice for any beginner archer. This compound bow can fire arrows up to 315 FPS. It is available in three max draw weights: up to 50, 60, or 70 lbs. The draw length can go from 24.5’’ to 31.5’’.

SAS Rage

The second alternative best beginner compound bow is as affordable as they come. The compressed ABS limbs make it a high durable inexpensive compound bow. The draw weight can be adjusted from 55 to 70 pounds at 70% let-off. The draw length can go from 25 to 31 inches.

When it comes to speed, this compound bow can shoot arrows up to 270 FPS.

Final Words

Now that everything is said and done, it is easy to see why the Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 is one of the best compound bows for beginners. The bow is very adjustable, capable of letting arrows fly at a high FPS (for a serious entry-level bow), and incredibly easy to use.

Of course, as mentioned before, the bow is suitable for advanced archers as well, so you can grow with it as you get better and more experienced.

Choosing the right bow sight can make a world of difference for your archery or hunting experience. After all, it is the piece of the equipment that determines how accurate your aim is. But with so many different options, how do you find the perfect one for yourself?

In this article, we will focus on one type of these devices – the single pin bow sight. We will tell you about some of the best single pin bow sights and explain why each of them could be a good choice for you.

And to make your search easier, we have also included a buyer’s guide in which we will give you all the information you need to find the best bow sight for yourself.

So, without further ado, let’s start with our top picks for the best single pin bow sight on the market.

Related articles:

• Should you learn to use a peep sight?
• Try a bow release for better accuracy
• Best 5 Pin Bow Sight for Hunting
• How to aim with a bow if you don’t have a sight

Trophy Ridge Drive Slider Bow Sight

The first item on our list comes from Trophy Ridge, a company well-known for making a wide range of quality archery equipment. This bow sight is no exception since it has all kinds of features that landed it on our list of the best single pin bow sights.

Features

• .029” vertical fiber optic pin
• Rheostat light
• Pre-installed bubble level
• Glow-in-the-dark ring

Pros

• Great value for money
• No tools required for adjustment
• Large, highly visible fiber optic pin
• Easy to set up

Cons

• Inconvenient for left-handed use
• Not suitable for longer distances

Review

For a budget-friendly product, this bow sight is packed with features. It’s well-built, easy to use, and provides great accuracy thanks to the large fiber optic pin.

Build Quality
The mounting bracket of this sight is made of aluminum, making it very solid and lightweight at the same time. Some parts are plastic, which is prone to breaking, but there is no doubt this bow is durable enough to withstand average use.

It also features nylon bushings that ensure quiet movement by eliminating metal-to-metal contact, which is especially useful in hunting.

Accuracy
Thanks to the .029 inch wide fiber optic pin, this sight is a great option for all kinds of bow hunting adventures. This is one of the biggest pin sizes available, and it is very bright so rest assured hunting in low-light conditions won’t be an issue. There is a downside to this, though. A larger pin blocks more of your sight, so it might be a bit inconvenient for smaller and farther targets.

For improved visibility, the ring glows in the dark, and there is also a rheostat light that adds enough light to see the pin clearly.

As if that’s not enough, there is also a bubble level installed on the bottom of the ring, so you can align your bow correctly.

Adjustment
Another reason why this is one of the best single pin bow sights available is the ease of use. Adjustment is quick and easy and requires no separate tools. If you’re a bit experienced in using bow sights, adjusting this one will be easy. If you’re not, you’ll get used to it pretty quickly.

Right-Handed Use
This device is built for right-handed use. It is possible to use it if you shoot with your left hand, but you’re going to have to make some alterations.

The way to do this is to remove the four bolts at the top of the sight and then rotate it 180 degrees. Put the bolts back in and you should be good to go. The only thing to keep in mind is that this way, the level will be at the top of the ring. If that’s something that won’t be a problem for you, you can use it the same way you would if you were right handed.

There are also a couple of other things you should keep in mind. First of all, the sight doesn’t come pre-marked, so you have to mark the yardages yourself. Be sure to do this carefully, in order to avoid confusion.

Also, some of the features and adjustments can be a bit confusing to beginners. Don’t worry about this, because after you’ve used it a couple of times, it will become easier as you go.
Overall, this bow sight is definitely worth considering. You get a ton of useful features at a very low price. In case your hunting adventures don’t require a top-notch sight that does everything, this could be a good choice.

Fuse Helix Slider Single Pin Sight

The next product on our list of the best single pin bow sights is a mid-range device by Fuse Archery. This bow sight has great build quality and it’s versatile and easily adjustable.

Features

• .019 inch steel fiber optic pin
• Stealth Band technology
• Rheostat light
• Right and left hand compatibility

Pros

• Low noise and vibration levels
• High build quality
• Easily adjustable

Cons

• A bit expensive
• The exposed fiber optic could be better protected

Review

If you’re willing to spend a bit more on a bow sight, this could be your choice. Despite a couple of drawbacks, it’s still a great bow sight that can make your shooting a lot more precise and convenient.

The Pin
This bow sight’s pin is .019 inches wide, which may not be the widest out there, but it’s definitely bright enough to provide great visibility. There is also a sight light for improved visibility and precision. Another good thing about the pin is that it’s made from stainless steel, so durability won’t be an issue. You can rest assured it will survive all kinds of adventures.

The only thing that might be a problem in some situations is that the fiber optic is wrapped around the housing. This means it’s exposed to the elements. The designers have chosen to make the sight easy to locate in favor of a bit more protection that would make it more reliable.

Convenience
There are a couple of features that make this device one of the best single pin bow sights on the market right now. The first is the simplicity of installation and use. The sight is ready for mounting out of the box. Just attach it to your bow’s riser with a couple of bolts and you’re good to go.

Setting it up to fit your bow may take some time, but it’s not hard even if you’ve never used one before.
Another thing that makes this bow sight convenient is the Stealth Band technology. This is used to effectively minimize noise and vibration. This is more important for hunters than archers, since you can use it quietly without the fear of your target running away.

The design of this sight allows for both right and left-handed use. If you’re left-handed, you can simply mount it on the other side of your bow, without having to make any adjustments.

Windage and elevation adjustments are also pretty simple, but it requires the use of an Allen wrench, which is not included in the package.

As you can see, this devise is worth thinking about. If you’re able to spend a couple more bucks on a sight bow, this one could be a great option.

Axcel Accutouch HD .019 Sight

The last item on our list of the best single pin bow sights is a premium solution from Axcel. It’s a high-quality product that’s packed with all kinds of features that will make sure your hunting is as simple and accurate as it can be.

Features

• Accu-Click system
• .019” fiber optic pin
• Three-axis leveling capabilities
• 45-degree sight scale
• Windage Dovetail Guide system
• Elevation tension lever

Pros

• High build quality
• High accuracy and precision
• Great adjustment capabilities
• Convenient and simple to use

Cons

• Expensive

Review

Axcel is known in the archery community as an innovative company. This device is a perfect example of that, which makes it one of the best single pin bow sights for everyone that wants nothing but a top-notch sight.

Adjustments
One of the strongest points of this bow sight is its adjustment capabilities. The first feature worth mentioning is the Accu-Click technology that makes this device comparable to some high-end multi-pin bow sights. Basically, it lets you set it at a specific distance, making it a lot easier to lock your target in.

Sliding the sight along the elevation bar can sometimes be tricky. But thanks to the Elevation Tension Lever, you get to choose the amount of force you need to apply for this.

Windage and elevation adjustments require no other tool, and you can dial them in in a matter of minutes. Pair this with the all-axis leveling capabilities and you get one of the most versatile sights available. There is also a windage lock button, which stops the windage knob from turning when you don’t want it to. Thanks to the Windage Dovetail Guide feature, you can let your arrows fly with zero backlash.

The Pin
Here we have a standard .019 inch fiber optic pin that remains brightness in all conditions. The field of view is also wide enough to ensure visibility without distractions. The 45-degree sight scale lets you see where the sight pointer is set clearly, making your aiming a lot easier.

As you might’ve expected, all these features come at a high price. If you’re not willing to settle for anything less than a top-shelf bow sight, and don’t mind paying for it, this might be the best single pin bow sight for you. But in case you’re a beginner, or a casual archer, this one might be a bit of an overkill. You can definitely find a good sight for a lot less than this, so just ask yourself what kind of features you really need.

The Verdict

Now that we’ve shown you some of the best single pin bow sights that the market has to offer, it’s time to announce our winner. Although we believe you can’t go wrong with any of these devices, our favorite one has to be the Trophy Ridge Drive Slider Bow Sight. There are multiple reasons for this.

First of all, the price makes it easily accessible to pretty much everyone. It’s proof that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a bow sight that does a great job of letting you hit the center of the target in all kinds of situations.
It looks and feels sturdy and durable, thanks to the aluminum housing. You can rest assured it will serve you for quite some time.

The feature we probably like the most about this device is the pin itself. It’s the widest one out of all the products we’ve reviewed in this article, and it stays brightness no matter the circumstances.

If this bow sight piqued your interest, click here to find out more about it.

Of course, if you think this one won’t fit your needs, and you have a bigger budget to spend on a bow sight, our other picks might be suitable for you, especially the Axcel Accutouch HD. There’s pretty much nothing this one can’t do, so it might be a perfect addition to your archery equipment.

Bow Sight Buyer’s Guide

When looking for the best single pin bow sight for your bow, you have to take into account multiple factors. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll go over each of them and help you make a good decision. We’ll also give you some useful tips on how to get the best out of your bow sight and be at the top of your hunting game.

Single vs. Multi-Pin
Single pin bow sights have a number of advantages over the multi-pin ones. Of course, there are also some drawbacks, so choosing the right type is mostly a matter of personal preference. Here are the questions you need to ask yourself before making the final decision:

What do you need it for?
If you’re an archer, a single pin bow sight can be suitable for you. Shooting fixed targets at known ranges is very simple with this type of sights.

But in case you’re a bow hunter, it might take quite a bit of practice to get used to using a single pin sight. More often than not, your hunting will be unpredictable. Unless you’re a very experienced hunter, the changes will happen too fast for you to adjust yardages accordingly. So, if you’ve been using multiple pins for a long time, switching to a single pin sight will be a bit tough at first, but it should become easier after some practice.

How good is your focus?
In the debate of whether you should use a single or a multi-pin sight, one of the biggest arguments in favor of single pin is the clutter that multiple pins make. Having three or five pins creates a lot of blind spots that can make aiming significantly harder. It’s also too easy to switch up pins, so the main advantage of the single pin sight is the simplicity. Since there is only one focal point, there is no confusion, and you get a much clearer view of your target.

Why Go for a Single Pin Sight?

As mentioned, the main reason people decide to use a single pin bow sight is the simplicity it offers. Your shot sequence simplifies by a lot with this type of sights. There’s no mistaking the pin or clutter, no thinking too much. Just draw, take a look at the pin, and shoot.

It’s also great for everyone using a bow for the first time and looking to start practicing. The best option would be a sight with a vertical pin and a large aperture. This will allow for a wide viewing range, and it’s especially useful in low-light conditions.

What to Look For?

There is a couple of features you need to consider if you want to find the best single pin bow sight for yourself. Let’s go over the most important ones:

Pin Size
The most common pin sizes are .010 (10 thousandths of an inch), .019, and .029 inch pins. There are also .015, .040, .060 and .125 inch pins, but these are pretty rare.

The fiber optic pins are pretty simple in terms of how they work. The fibers gather ambient light, which makes the end glow. If we assume all fibers are the same length, the bigger the pin, the brighter it is. Larger pins are especially useful for hunters and 3-D archers who might face a lot of low-light situations.

The advantage of smaller pins is that they provide better visibility, but some pins like the .010 inch ones might be a bit too hard to see for most people.

Weight and Durability
The bow itself can be pretty heavy so you wouldn’t want an accessory that adds to the weight too much. You need to find a sight that’s lightweight, but at the same time durable enough to withstand different situations. Aluminum seems to be the most popular choice. It doesn’t add too much to the bow’s weight, and it’s sturdy enough to ensure longevity.

Although some parts of most sights are plastic, it’s probably not a very good idea to buy one with full plastic housing. They may appear cheaper, but they’re prone to breaking so you’ll end up losing money in the long run.

Sight Lights
These lights are a very useful feature if you have problems with seeing your pin. They are battery-powered, and they illuminate the pins enough for you to see them clearly. Although most sights come with these lights included, they are easy to find in most archery equipment stores in case you don’t have one.

Bubble Level
This is another feature that comes in handy if you’re using a compound bow. Tilting your bow just a little bit can make the shot a lot less accurate. A bubble level ensures a straight shot and significantly improves accuracy. It’s usually filed with antifreeze or some type of alcohol, so you can use it in the winter.

Adjustments
The best single pin bow sight should be easily adjustable without the need for a whole bunch of tools. Luckily, there are a lot of affordable devices that make this happen. Try to look for the ones that have simple and tool-less windage and elevation adjustments, so you don’t waste a lot of time and energy.

This is especially important for hunters. No matter how much hunting experience you have, there’s always a situation that might surprise you and that requires a quick reaction. Sometimes you won’t have enough time to deal with all kinds of levers and dials, so finding an easily adjustable sight is very important.

The Price
In our review, we have shown that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a good bow sight. There are a lot of affordable options out there that do a good job of helping you aim more precisely. If you’re a beginner, or a casual archer, try not to spend too much money on an accessory unless it’s necessary. Try out different devices until you find the one that works the best for you.

And in case you’re really passionate about hunting or archery, there’s a wide range of premium bow sights for you to choose from. Take into account all the features you need, the quality and durability, and you should be able to find a bow sight that will be a good investment.

You can find them in your local sporting goods or archery equipment shop, but we believe it would be better to go online and find the right one for you. You’ll probably get a better deal, and you can find more information about it.

How to Use a Single Pin Bow Sight

Having the best single pin bow sight doesn’t mean a lot if you don’t know how to use it correctly. That’s why we decided to include some tips on how to get the most out of this device.

Mounting the Sight
Most manufacturers include all the necessary instructions on how to set up you bow sight correctly. Always make sure to follow them closely to avoid damaging the sight or the bow. In most cases, this process isn’t that complicated. You just attach the sight to the riser of your bow, secure it with the bolts, and you’re good to go.

Always make sure not to overtighten the bolts, as this can cause damage to your bow. After you’re done, lay it down for a while and check if everything is in place after some time. Depending on the material, you might have to tighten the sight further after it’s settled.

Aligning the Pin
You need to set your pin to the mid-point in order to be able to adjust it in any direction you need. If your bow sight doesn’t feature tool-less adjustment, you might need an Allen wrench for this. Make sure to do it carefully, as it can be a bit tricky if you don’t have a lot of experience, so take your time and do it right.

Marking the Ranges
This is an important step that is necessary for sighting in your bow sight properly. First of all, find a suitable target that you can fire a lot of arrows into. After you’ve done this, you can start marking your ranges. Start by walking away from the target and mark every 10 yards. If you need help with this, a rangefinder might come in handy.

Sighting in the Sight
This will probably take some trial and error, and you’re going to have to practice a lot before you can do this easily. But don’t worry, once you’ve done this a couple of times, it will come naturally.

Once you’ve marked your ranges, start by standing at the closest marked distance from your target (10 yards away). Draw, look at the pin, and shoot. Compare the sight to where the arrow hits. Make necessary adjustments and do it again.

When you’re satisfied with the result, move away 10 more yards, adjust the pin, and repeat. Do this for every marked distance up to 30-40 yards.

If all this sounds too complicated, don’t worry. You’ll get the hang of it pretty quickly, and after a couple of days you’ll notice your accuracy improving with every shot.

Conclusion

We hope you found this article helpful, and that we have answered all your questions. You now know everything you should to find the best single pin bow sight for your bow. There’s a wide variety of them on the market, and the sights we showed you are just some of our favorite ones for different reasons. If you take into account all the features we talked about here, arriving at your final decision should be so straightforward that it might even come naturally.

Like most things in life, becoming a good archer or bow hunter is all about absorbing advice and practice a lot.

Finding the perfect bow can be daunting because there are so many factors to consider, and a ton of research to conduct.

However, the best compound bow for women is not out of reach. This article reviews 3 of the best bows on the market. And, important factors such as draw weight, length, and weight are taken into consideration.

Lastly, keep reading to find out the best compound bow for women. Whether it’s for yourself or a gift, you may find the perfect one for you. So, let’s get started.

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Bear Archery Cruzer Lite Compound Bow

Bear Archery is a leader in hunting and archery bows and the Cruzer Lite compound bow is another great entry in the world of archery. This bow is geared towards youths, but women can also take advantage of the smaller compound bow.

Features

Like all compound bows, the Cruzer Lite has adjustable draw lengths and weights, but what’s great about this one is that the adjustable ranges are higher than most adult bows. An adjustable length allows you to change the draw length without having to visit a local shop. You can adjust it with an Allen wrench. But, it’s easy to strip the bolt heads.

The draw length range is from 12 inches to 27 inches. But, for women you may find you are adjusting it towards the maximum length, especially since this bow is advertised for youth use.

Additionally, an adjustable draw weight can grow with you as you get stronger. It has 5- to 45-lbs. draw weight. So, it starts off very easy, but, you can adjust it as your skill and strength improves.

The length and weight may be too small for some women. This bow is suitable for very petite women, or beginners, especially for women who don’t have much strength.

Next, the Cruzer Lite features an advanced grip design. The design helps increase accuracy by decreasing hand torque. The bow is available for left or right-hand grip. And, you can get it in a variety of colors.

It also features an offset string suppressor by Rockstops. This helps limit cable and string vibration. If you want a quieter bow, the included suppressor is a great perk.

This bow comes ready to use with all the accessories you need for a successful hunt. The Cruzer Lite includes sight, stabilizer, quiver, nock loop, and whisker biscuit. And, the overall weight is 3.2 pounds.

Lastly, this bow can shoot up to 290 fps. It is fairly powerful for a light bow. And, your fps can grow with you as your strength increases.

Pros

• Adjustable draw length
• Adjustable draw weight
• 5 accessories included for use right away
• Shoots up to 290 fps
• Lightweight
• Available in 9 different colors
• Left or right hand

Cons

• May be too small or light for some women
• Easy to strip the bolt headst
• The most expensive on this list

Bottom Line

This may be the best compound bow for women if you have a generous budget. It comes equipped with 5 Trophy Ridge accessories so that you are ready to use it out of the box (just need arrows). Another added benefit is being able to adjust the draw length and weight from the comfort of your home.

Since this compound bow is geared towards youths, you may find it too small. However, petite women or beginners may find this bow perfect, especially since it is adjustable; it can grow with your skill and strength.

Lastly, practical options like hand orientation and color options make this more appealing than other bows that offer the similar stats.

SAS Rage 70 Lbs. 30” Compound Bow

If you are looking for an economical compound bow, Southland Archery Supply may have a bow for you. The SAS Rage 70 Lbs. 30” compound bow is a durable option for women. And, it’s a great bow for practice.

Features
This bow features an adjustable draw length of 25 inches to 31 inches. You can take it to your local shop to have it adjusted to your individual needs. Unfortunately, you cannot adjust this one at home.
The draw weight is between 55 and 70 pounds. The compound bow has layered limbs for slight adjustments to the draw weight. If you tighten the bolt it will increase the draw by 5 pounds. Otherwise, loosening it will drop the draw weight by 5 pounds.

For bigger adjustments, you need to visit a pro shop. But, the draw weights for this 70-lb. bow are a little higher than other on this list. And, it may be more appropriate for strong women.
Next, from axle to axle this compound bow is 35 inches. Make sure you know your measurements before buying the bow. If it’s too short for you it will be more difficult to use.

The total weight is 4.4 pounds. And, though you can’t choose from many colors, it does have curb appeal. It has a waffle look because of the cut-outs in the riser.

Lastly, the arrow speed is 270 fps maximum. This is a decent speed, especially for such an affordable compound bow. And, it is more than enough for field target, 3D archery, and some bow hunting.

Please note that this compound bow does not come with bow accessories such as stabilizer, suppressor, D-loops, arrow release, sight, or arrow rest. You can purchase packages that come with this gear, but, you may also want to source out your own pieces individually.

Pros

• Can make slight draw weight adjustments at home
• High fps for a budget bow
• Inexpensive
• Relatively lightweight

Cons

• Does not come with accessories (basic bow)
• Need to take to pro shop for adjustments
• Vibration may loosen screws

Bottom Line

This is a great option for your first compound bow. It is economical and suitable for various purposes. However, you can’t use it out of the box. And, the savings for this bow may be cancelled out because of the additional accessories you need to purchase to use it.

This may be the best compound bow for women on a budget, or just looking for something to practice on. Lastly, remember that for most installations and adjustments you need to have access to a pro shop. If this may be a problem for you, you may want to pass.

Leader Accessories Compound Bow

Looking for a mid-range compound bow for women? Leader Accessories has a great option for you. This right-handed option has everything you need for archery.

Features
The draw weight for this compound bow is 30 to 55 pounds; this is perfect for most women. Your draw weight will depend on your individual needs.

You can easily adjust the draw weight with an Allen key. Simply turn the bolts clockwise to make it heavier. Or, counter-clockwise to decrease the weight. And, as you may already know, you need to adjust both limbs equally.

Additionally, you can also adjust the draw length. The draw length range is 19 to 29 inches. You can also use the Allen key to change the length as needed.

To do this, free the module by loosening the bolt in the cam. Next, replace the bolt in the hole of your desired draw length. Lastly, tighten the bolt again.

Adjusting the draw length and weight yourself can free up your time to do other things as you don’t need to make an extra trip to the pro shop. This is convenient, but you need to know the basics for correct length and weight.

Next, this compound bow is fairly compact. It is 28 inches axle to axle. And, it’s only 3.3 pounds. The let-off is 70%, which is the average for all the bows on this list.

The FPS is decent as well, at 296. It is more than enough speed for target practice. And, it’s suitable for some types of bow hunting.

This compact bow comes with some accessories if you buy the kit. This includes: a drop-away arrow rest, fiber optic sight, release aid, D string loop, and peep sight. It also comes with wax and two 30” aluminum arrows.

However, if you prefer your bow naked. You can also just buy the bow for a slightly reduced price. You will have to spend extra money to buy the needed accessories, though.

Pros

• Adjustable draw length and weight
• Light and compact
• Fast maximum fps

Cons

• Accessories not included with basic bow
• Peep sight may be unstables
• String frays easily

Bottom Line

This is a decent mid-price range bow. It’s good as an introductory bow. But, you may find that you quickly outgrow this bow.

However, it’s small and quick. And, the user adjustable draw length and weight is a bonus if you don’t have time for constant pro adjustments.

Lastly, despite the inexpensive price, the kit accessories are a bit cheap. Not bad for beginners, but you will want to replace them with better pieces as your skill level increases.

Compound Bow Considerations

If you are looking for the best compound bow for women, here are a few points to consider. Buying a bow for women isn’t much different than for men. But, there may be a few differences.

Axle Length
This is the total length of the bow. Many of the compound bows you look at may be youth bows because the shorter length may be easier for a woman to yield, especially if you are petite.

A shorter bow is easy to maneuver. But, they require more practice and are harder to shoot. Whereas a bow with a longer axle is more forgiving.

The axle length will be relative to your own size. Remember that just because it is a “smaller” or “youth” bow doesn’t mean that it is automatically a short bow. It really depends on your own stature.

Draw Length
Next, you may find that many of the compound bows you look at have an adjustable length. Unless you are still growing, though, you may not use this feature very much.

Typically, you can find out your own draw length by measuring your arm length, or “wing span,” and dividing it by 2.5; this is the most reliable way to figure out your draw length. But, you can also go to a pro shop and have them adjust the length for you.

You may also find that you don’t really need an adjustable draw length after the initial adjustment. Especially if you are an adult. This is because you are not growing anymore. So, your arm length may not change.

Lastly, the adjustable feature is most useful for youths. But, you may also find you need this feature as your skill grows and you need to make micro adjustments.

Draw Weight
The draw weight is the amount of strength you need to exert to get a full draw on a compound bow; this is expressed in pounds. The draw weight depends on the individual, and, it is not necessarily indicative of your skill level.

To get the correct draw weight for you, you need to figure out the point that you can pull back slowly and smoothly. Remember, you don’t want to fight your bow. And, if you have too much weight for your draw weight you will not be able to hold a draw for very long.

Additionally, all compound bows come with adjustable draw weight. It’s just a matter of the top draw weight and the range. This feature is very useful because your capacity can change, unlike your draw length. The draw weight correlates to your level of strength.

As you continue to use your bow, you may find that your strength increases. Having an adjustable feature is convenient. And, reduces your need to stop at the pro shop.

Overall Bow Weight
Lastly, your overall bow weight may be more important if you are planning to use it for hunting. However, you may not see as much impact if you will only use the bow for targets. Why?

When you are hunting, you will lug this compound bow through the woods; sometimes for hours. A lighter bow can be easier to carry for long periods of time. But, it may be louder. And, the string vibration may scare game away.

On the other hand, heavier bows are quieter. But, you may find it tiresome to carry for hours on end. Also, bow heaviness is relative. So, what may be heavy or light for some may not be the same for others.

Additional Considerations

A compound bow with all the bells and whistles may be tempting to you. But, if you are a beginner you don’t need all that – yet. What you do need is a basic bow that is matched to your body’s proportions and strength.

The best bow for a woman is one that is as simple as possible as you learn. And, know that you can get all the fancy extras later down the road as your skill increases.

Realistic about your strength
Think you need a compound bow with the fastest fps? Not really. Especially if you are just starting out. You will probably be shooting at field targets more than you will be hunting live game.

So, you need to be able to comfortably pull the bowstring back. And, it needs to happen consistently. To hit 300 fps takes a lot of strength and your strength level may not be there yet.

That’s okay, though. It’s better to work up to that point. You will have more fun working with a weight you can handle, rather than overexerting yourself and fighting your bow.

Lots of options
Compound bows have different features to choose from. Some are standard across the market. And, some are unique. The most important thing is to consider is what you really need for accuracy and performance.

Types of Compound Bows

There are many types of compound bows available on the market. Are you familiar with your choices? Here are a few of the most popular types:

Single Cam
The single cam bow has an idler wheel at the top. On the bottom, you will typically see an elliptical power cam. These types of compound bows are easy to use.

Consequently, many of the compound bows you look at will be this type. It’s also relatively quiet. But, it’s harder to tune.

Hybrid Cam
Like the single cam, the hybrid has a power cam on the bottom. But, it has a control cam on the top. Not an idler wheel.

This type of cam reduces the nock travel. But, it may be appealing because it is easy to tune. And it doesn’t require as much maintenance as the other types.

Twin Cams
Next, the twin cams type is a more sophisticated bow. It uses two round or elliptical cams on each end. This type of bow is known for its precision and accuracy.

But, the twin cams bow requires more maintenance and tuning. And, that translates to frequent trips to a pro shop. You may not need a complex bow like this if you are just starting out.

Binary Cams
Lastly, you may be hard pressed to find this type of bow. But, it works like the twin cams type. The difference is rather than being slaved to the limbs, the cams are slaved to each other.

This type of bow requires a lot of maintenance and tuning. But, the trade-off is straight nock travel. And, it is one of the highest velocity bows available.

Additional Accessories

Some accessories are essential for beginners. But, some are just for convenience. Here are a few essential accessories that attach to your bow’s riser:

Sights
When you are using a compound bow, getting the correct sight is invaluable. But, there are so many to choose from. One type is the multi-pin bow sight.

A multi-pin sight has 3, 5, or 7 pins. These are visible when you look through the sight aperture. You can use these pins to measure distance for different types of archery targets.

Next, you may also see pendulum sights. You would only need this type if you are sighting on uneven ground or from a tree stand. As your bow tilts the sight will remain even with the ground to give you good sight while performing downward shots.

Additionally, you may also see magnifying bow sights. But, this type of sight is rare. And, you may not even need it depending on your own eyesight.

Lastly, the peep sight is the most common type of sight you will see. But, you typically can’t use them in archery competitions. The peep sight helps you align the string to your target and the foresight. This can help with accuracy, but you don’t necessarily need it.

Quivers
Next, quivers are where you keep the bows. They can range in placement; some go directly on the compound bow and attach to your riser. Otherwise, you may have a back or side quiver that you wear on your body.

As you may imagine, quivers are not essential but, they are definitely convenient. The last thing you want to do is grope around for your arrows.

However, there is no “right” way to place your quiver. This is all personal preference. For example, if you are a hunter you may want the quiver attached to your bow for easy access. But, if you are doing field or 3D target archery, body quivers may be more to your liking.

Stabilizers
If you are serious about archery, you may as well get stabilizers as soon as possible. You will rarely see a serious archer without one. Why is it essential?

Stabilizers help steady your shots when you are aiming. They also reduce vibration and noise, and they help with torque.

These are usually an additional accessory that you can purchase for your compound bow. But, it is worth the investment. And, there are many types available on the market to suit your individual needs.

Arrow Rests
Additionally, you will need an arrow rest for your compound bow. But, the right arrow rest depends on what you plan on doing with your bow. There are two main types of arrow rests. They are the fall/drop away and the whisker biscuit.

The fall/drop away arrow rest has no contact with the fletching on the arrow and the rest. It is designed to hold the shaft of the arrow. But, it drops or falls away after you release your shot.

A whisker biscuit, on the other hand, totally encloses the arrow. It supports the arrow in all directions and does not fall away. When you release your shot, the fletching travels through the whiskers of this arrow rest.

Finally, fall/drop away rests are a little faster and more accurate. But, they are not as sturdy as whisker biscuits.
Typically, field and 3D archers may prefer fall- or drop-away rests, while hunters may gravitate towards whisker biscuits.

This is not a hard and fast rule, though. There are many types of arrow rests on the market. And, many of them have unique features that may be appealing for different types of archery.

Wrist Slings
Whether or not you need a wrist sling is strictly a personal preference, but the reason you would need one is so that your compound bow doesn’t hit the floor after a shot.

In the past, you may have needed one to prevent your bow from jumping from your hand. But, modern compound bow designs have reduced this.

If you will be hunting, however, you may want to consider buying one. Especially if you will be shooting angled shots from any height. Consider, for example, shooting from a tree stand.

When you are in a tree stand and your bow jumps out of your hand. It will land on the ground. Sometimes 15 or 20 feet below you. And, not only will you have to go down to get it. It may get damaged in the fall.

However, if you only plan on shooting field targets this may not be a necessity. Even if you lose your grip after a shot, you may be able to catch it before it falls to the ground.

Final Thoughts

The best compound bow for women is the Bear Archery Cruzer Lite Compound Bow. It is perfect for beginners or petite women. And, it comes with high-end accessories.

Being able to choose hand orientation and bow color is also appealing, but, it is expensive for a beginner’s bow.
If you want one that is a bit cheaper, the SAS Rage 70 Lbs. 30” Compound Bow may be appropriate for you. The draw weight range is quite a bit heavier. So, it may be more suitable for women with some strength. Plus, it allows for ample room to grow.

And, if you want a smaller and lighter compound bow option, you may want to look into the Leader Accessories Compound Bow. The basic bow is decent for someone who is just getting into archery. But, you may want to invest in buying your accessories separately for better quality.

Lastly, your archery needs are very individual. Just because you are a beginner doesn’t mean that any old compound bow will do. Invest in the right one for you.

Find one that fits your own body stature and strength. The best compound bow for you will be the one that fits your own specific needs. And, when you get the right one you will find that practice time is much more enjoyable.