If you’re a novice archer in search of the best beginner compound bow, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore five exceptional options that balance affordability with performance, ensuring a smooth transition from novice to pro.
Keep reading to discover our top picks and valuable insights to help you make an informed choice.
In A Hurry? Here Are Our Favorite Picks…
 | Diamond Archery Infinite Compound Bow | ||
 | Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Compound Bow | ||
 | Diamond Edge 320 Compound Bow | ||
 | Bear Archery Royale Youth Compound Bow | ||
 | PSE Uprising Compound Bow |
Diamond Archery Infinite Compound Bow Review
When it comes to beginner compound bows, the Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Bow stands out as the best overall choice.
It’s a state-of-the-art compound bow renowned for its adjustability and affordability, making it an excellent pick for newcomers.
This bow offers an extensive draw weight range, adjustable from 5 to 70 lbs, and a flexible draw length of 13″ to 31″. Its adaptability ensures it can grow with you in both skill and physical strength.
This comprehensive compound bow package serves as an ideal starting point for mastering target shooting and smoothly transitioning to bow hunting.
Once you’re comfortable with at least 45 pounds of draw weight, it’s a fantastic option for beginner deer hunting.
Pros & Benefits:
- Wide adjustability range to fit any archer.
- Suitable for beginners and experts alike.
- Adaptable to your growth in size and strength.
- Lightweight, fast, and smooth shooting.
- Features an 80% let-off for comfortable aiming.
Cons:
- Package excludes arrows and a bow release.
- Moderately priced.
Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Compound Bow Review
During our deliberations with archery instructors, the Bear Cruzer G2 emerged as a strong contender for the best overall beginner compound bow, closely trailing the Diamond Infinity Edge Pro.
With a draw weight range from 5 to 70 lbs and adjustable draw length, this high-tech compound bow adapts to your needs as you gain experience.
While it’s referred to as “hunt ready,” please note that the package doesn’t include arrows or a bow release, which you’ll need to purchase separately to start shooting right away.
The Bear Cruzer G2 differentiates itself with a 70% let-off, lighter build, and faster performance compared to our top pick.
Pros & Benefits:
- Highly adjustable for growth and strength.
- Lightweight design at only 3 lbs.
- Capable of speeds up to 315 fps.
- Provides a smooth draw cycle.
- Suitable for both target shooting and hunting.
Cons:
- “Hunt ready” package lacks arrows and a bow release.
- Offers 70% let-off.
Diamond Edge 320 Compound Bow Review
While the previous two options are suitable for bow hunting, those seeking the best entry-level bow for hunting should consider the Diamond Edge 320.
This compound bow takes a step up from our top picks and offers a “hunt ready” package that includes arrows, a soft case, and a bow release—everything you need to begin except a quality archery target.
Featuring the same extensive adjustability to accommodate any archer, the Edge 320 is slightly heavier and faster than our top picks.
Its standout feature is the 85% let-off, allowing you to hold at full draw comfortably while waiting for the perfect shot.
Pros and Benefits:
- Ideal for beginners and experts.
- Exceptional adjustability eliminates the need for a new bow.
- Impressive speeds of up to 320 fps.
- Smooth drawing with minimal effort.
- Comprehensive package for a hassle-free start.
Cons:
- Comes at a higher price point compared to other recommendations.
Bear Archery Royale Youth Compound Bow Review
The Bear Royale compound bow is tailor-made for smaller hunters, making it an excellent choice for youth archers and women. It offers substantial adjustability while being slightly less powerful than our top picks.
However, at its highest settings, it still generates enough kinetic energy for deer hunting.
This “ready to hunt” package is suitable for compact archers, measuring only 27″ from axle to axle and weighing a mere 2.7 lbs.
While it lacks the let-off percentages of our top picks, it remains an appealing option for smaller stature archers and hunters.
Pros & Benefits:
- Compact size ideal for youth and small women.
- Forgiving and confidence-building.
- Innovative “No Serve Peep Sight” for easy setup.
- Super lightweight at 2.7 lbs.
- Suitable for deer hunting at higher draw weights.
Cons:
- Designed for smaller archers; outgrown as they grow.
- Offers 75% let-off.
- Package excludes arrows and a bow releas
PSE Uprising Compound Bow
The PSE Uprising is a high-quality entry-level hunting bow that’s perfect for women, available at an affordable price.
It offers adjustability with a draw weight range of 12 to 72 lbs and an adjustable draw length of 14″ to 30″.
This high-performance hunting bow is suitable for women and men, ensuring a comfortable fit as you grow.
Notable for its compact size, measuring just 30″ axle to axle, and lightweight design at 3.2 lbs, it delivers smooth, quiet shooting with speeds of up to 310 fps.
While it offers 70% let-off, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable entry-level bow.
Pros and Benefits:
- Smooth drawing and quiet shooting.
- Ideal for maneuvering in tight spaces.
- Lightweight and compact design.
- Made in the USA by PSE Archery.
- Affordable entry-level bow.
Cons:
- Grip preferences may vary.
- Offers 70% let-off.
- The package excludes a bow release and arrows.
Final Thoughts
Archery is an enriching sport for all ages, providing an opportunity for families to bond in the great outdoors. We’ve provided you with an extensive guide to help you choose your first compound bow.
Our top recommendations come in complete packages, making it easy for beginners to get started.
Keep in mind that most packages do not include arrows, broadheads, a bow release, or a target, so be sure to purchase these separately.
The world of archery and bow hunting awaits you—select the bow that suits you best and begin your journey with confidence.
