Guest Blogger: Choosing a New Hunting Bow

Let's welcome AmericanHunter.org contributor Bob Robb to the One-Track Mind fold. He'll be working with me in the months to come to bring you more complete coverage of the whitetail world.

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When choosing a new hunting bow, there are several factors that should be considered. Here are the top six:

1. You want the most technologically-advanced product you can afford. If you have not upgraded your bow in the last five years, you’ll be amazed at the difference in speed, smoothness and forgiveness the new models have over the very best models sold a few years ago.

2. Make sure the draw length fits you exactly. Shooting a bow that is even ¼-inch too long—most people shoot bows that are somewhere between ¼- and 1-inch too long for them—will impede accuracy, especially when shooting under hunting conditions.

3. Do not try to pull too much draw weight. You will shoot much more accurately if you draw 62 pounds instead of trying to pull 70 pounds. In most cases, that 70-lb. draw weight forces you to “cheat” when you draw the string back and could cause you to wobble when aiming.

4. Make sure the bow accepts the most modern, technologically-advanced accessories, and equip it with such. For example, the most accurate arrow rest design is the drop-away rest. Can the bow accept one? Is it easy to mount the bow sight you prefer? I’ve also found some new bow designs are only compatible with certain styles of quivers. If you like a bow-attached quiver, make sure the bow can accept it.

5. Today all major bow makers offer high-tech hunting bows that cost a good chunk of change. In my experience, these are the Range Rovers of the bow world. The good news is these same manufacturers all offer less pricey bows that will get the job done. If you avoid “el cheapo” compounds and stick with either the top end or moderately priced models, you’ll be getting a product that will work for you day in and day out.

6. The best place to buy a new bow is at an archery pro shop. Here you can shoot several different makes and models to see which you like best. The pro can also measure your draw length and fit you right, as well as set the bow up properly and get it tuned. The value of such service cannot be overemphasized.