In a Hurry? Our Top 3 Picks to Buy!
If you are just getting into the bow hunting or archery world, it is important to choose the best bow for yourself at a budget price. With so many different options to choose from and price ranges from a hundred to a few thousand is difficult to know where to start.
Compound bows under $500 are good enough and offer high-quality construction and high performance.
There are various brands and models available on the market that makes it challenging to select the one. A top-class compound bow delivers the outstanding performance at the great price.
Here is the list of 10 Best Compound Bow Under 500 in 2023, including the buyer’s guide and reviews. So in this article, we’ll take a deep dive into compound bows.
Comparison Chart for Top 10 Compound Bows Under $500
| Bow | Speed (FPS) | Draw Weight (lbs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bear Archery Paradox | 330 | 55-70 | View on Amazon |
| ToPoint Archery M1 | 320 | 19-70 | View on Amazon |
| Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 | 318 | 7-70 | View on Amazon |
| Bear Archery Cruzer G2 | 315 | 5 – 70 | View on Amazon |
| PSE Stinger | 312 | 55 – 70 | View on Amazon |
| Bear Archery Cruzer G2 | 315 | 5-70 | View on Amazon |
| Diamond Infinite Edge Pro | 310 | 5-70 | View on Amazon |
| Dragon X8 | 310 | 0-70 | View on Amazon |
| Bear Archery Limitless Dual Cam Compound Bow | 265 | 25-70 | View on Amazon |
| Southland Archery Supply SAS Scorpii | 260 | 25-50 lbs | View on Amazon |
Which are the 10 Best Compound Bows Under $500 In 2023?
1. Bear Archery Paradox RTH Realtree Edge RH70
| Bear Archery Paradox Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brace Height | 6.25″ |
| Axle Length | 32″ |
| Draw Length | 23.5″ – 30.5″ |
| Draw Weight | 45 lbs – 70 lbs |
| IBO Speed | 330 fps |
| Weight | 4.3 lbs |
| Let-Off | 80% |
This Paradox compound bow features a single cam system and comes as a ready to hunt package. It shoots bolts at 330 fps that is enough to please seasoned hunters. Its innovative riser and ShockWaves limb dampening device improves accuracy and reduces vibration with each shot. Its innovative design riser eliminates riser flex and reduces weight while maintaining its strength.
It is a 32 inches axle to axle bow with plenty of maneuverability for tight shots in the tree stand or ground blind. Apart from this, it features Bear Archery Contraband string and cables that ensure excellent performance for many seasons. The bow’s weight is 5.8 lbs, which is a bit heavy and means that the Paradox bow isn’t ideal for smaller frame hunters.
Reasons To Buy
- RTH package comes as ready to hunt.
- Solid build and design.
- Ultra-smooth draw cycle.
- Available at an affordable price.
- A compact platform for maneuverability.
Reasons To Avoid
- One of the heaviest bows.
What’s the bottom line?
The Bear Archery Paradox is a best compound bow at a budget-friendly price. It is a perfect option for anyone who feels strong enough to take it hunting.
2. ToPoint Archery M1 Compound Bow Package
| Topoint M1 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 320 FPS |
| Weight | 3.3 lbs |
| Bow Length | 28″ |
| Brace Height | 7″ |
| Axle to Axle | 28″ |
| Draw Weight | 19-70 lbs |
| Draw Length | 19″-30″ |
| Let Off | 80% |
It is one of the best entry-level compound bows. This ToPoint M1 bow is a well-designed, easy-to-shoot and setup. It is a lightweight and compact bow made from quality materials like other more expensive bows. Features aluminum bow riser, handmade strings and cables, high-performance Gordon Composite limb, and adjustable twin cam.
With a 19-70 lbs draw weight adjustment range, it can be configured to fit smaller frame archers as well as young adults or womens. Another best thing is its 320 fps IBO speed and 80% let-off, making it easy to shoot and providing a smooth draw cycle. In the package, it includes a handful of accessories than any other bow package. The 5-pin optical bow sight is easy to zero, but you need assistance if you’re new to archery. Setting up sight pins may require a trial and error method before finding the right setup.
Reasons To Buy
- Fast and accurate
- Laser-cut riser and high performing limbs
- Versatile bow – suitable for young archers and women
- Lightweight compound bow
- Perfect for hunting
Reasons To Avoid
- No left-hand option.
What’s the bottom line?
This Compound bow M1 is an excellent choice for beginner hunter or archer as it comes almost ready to use with minimal adjustment. However, its accessories aren’t of such great quality, and you may need to replace them after some time.
3. Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 Compound Bow
| Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 318 FPS |
| Weight | 3.6 lbs |
| Brace Height | 7″ |
| Axle to Axle | 31″ |
| Draw Weight | 7 – 70 lbs |
| Draw Length | 15″ – 30″ |
| Let Off | 80% |
The Diamond Edge SB-1 is built for hunters and archers that offers best versatility and adjustability. It features synchronized binary cams that is the most accurate cam system. This binary cam system consists of two symmetrical cams for perfect synchronization. This delivers flawless nock travel and tuning for maximum accuracy and consistency. The 80% let-off system produces consistent accuracy that other designs can’t match.
Another interesting feature is its EZ Adjust pocket that adjusts easily from maximum to minimum poundage with a simple turn of a bolt. There are easy-to-read marks providing simplicity in draw weight adjustments for users. With 7 to 70 lbs draw weight, the Edge SB-1 shoots arrows up to 318 fps. This bow package includes a quiver, stabilizer, sight, and arrow rest. Though the system is easy to use, you may need a 1/4 wrench to adjust the bow.
Reasons To Buy
- Suitable for beginners and experienced archers
- 3.6 lbs weight makes it lightweight, compact, and easy to use
- Amazing versatility with adjustable length
- Rotating modules
- Enjoy more target shooting time and shorter tuning time
Reasons To Avoid
- Not an ultra adjustable bow.
What’s the bottom line?
The Edge SB-1 is ready to shoot and easy to handle bow at a budget price. All in all, it offers best performance, a wide range of adjustments, and ease of use.
4. Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult Compound Bow
| Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 315 FPS |
| Weight | 3 lbs |
| Bow Length | 32″ |
| Brace Height | 6.5” |
| Axle to Axle | 32″ |
| Draw Weight | 5-70 lbs |
| Draw Length | 12″-30″ |
| Let Off | 70% |
The Cruzer G2 is one of the best adjustable compound bows that easily fit any archer and bowhunter. Its Cam System features draw dial rotating modules that deliver amazing performance. With 5-70 lbs adjustable draw weight, it shoots at 315 fps IBO speed with good accuracy. Besides, the 70% let-off makes holding easier to draw fully.
Best of all, it is a smooth and quiet bow as it is equipped with a RockStops suppressor that is responsible for reducing vibration and noise. It has a machined aluminum riser that features a slim, target-style, and comfortable grip. This grip is designed to remove torque for enhanced accuracy. Not only this, its limbs provide maximum adjustability.
It is available in both left-hand and right-hand orientation. Further, with the help of Allen Wrench, you can easily change weight and bow length. For user convenience, it comes as fully assembled. It consists of a whisker biscuit, arrow rest, 4-pin sight, quiver, and Trophy Ridge stabilizer.
Reasons To Buy
- Excellent performance with versatility and adjustability.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Durable, sturdy construction.
- Advanced grip design.
Reasons To Avoid
- Novices may find it difficult to tune the bow.
What’s the bottom line?
This Cruzer G2 is a best compound bow that offers adventure ways. It provides extreme customizations that allow growing with the age and skill of the archer.
5. PSE Bow Stinger MAX (30) RTS
| PSE Stinger Max Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 312 FPS |
| Weight | 3.8 lbs |
| Bow Length | – |
| Brace Height | 7″ |
| Axle to Axle | 30″ |
| Draw Weight | 55-70 lbs |
| Draw Length | 21 ½”- 30” |
| Let Off | 80% |
This PSE Stinger Max bow features an eye-catching look and is suitable for archers of all experience levels. It has a seven-inch brace height and offers best forgiveness and the ability to shoot. Further, the bow is fast and sturdy enough to hunt anything in North America. It comes with a new SS Cam that delivers a smooth draw with an 80% let-off.
When it comes to comfort, its advanced rubber grip gives a soft, comfortable feel and helps suppress vibration. It has 30 inches axle to axle measurement that is suitable for hunting in confined places such as ground blind or hanging treestand. Also, it delivers 312 to 304 fps IBO speed that is enough for use in hunting or target archery. Not only this, its compact design makes it a perfect fit for anyone starting their archery journey.
The bow comes with several accessories, including Sierra Micro 5 Pin Sight, Phantom Drop Away arrow rest, Mongoose Peep, nocking loop, and Recon 6″ Stabilizer.
Reasons To Buy
- Smooth draw cycle.
- Made in USA.
- Compact and easy to carry.
- Best for hunting from blind or tree stand.
- Advanced SS cam system.
Reasons To Avoid
- Not an ultra adjustable bow.
What’s the bottom line?
Overall, the bow draws smoothly, holds effortlessly at full draw, and provides crisp releases. The only downside is the versatility when compared to other ultra-adjustable compound bows.
6. Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Bow Package
| Diamond Infinite Edge Crossbow Specifications | |
|---|---|
| IBO Speed | 310 FPS |
| Draw Weight | 5-70 lbs |
| Width Axle to Axle (cocked) | 31″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 74.7 ft-lbs |
| Weight | 3.2″ LBS |
| Length | 13-31″ |
This Diamond archery infinite edge pro is one of the compact and versatile bows that fit any archer’s size and power. It comes with a draw length from 13 inches to 31 inches and rotating modules that provide three ranges of settings. Each letter’s A, B, and C allows for its own set of draw length and draw weights. This bow is suitable for both left and right-hand shooters.
With a unique Bowfishing setting, it allows the bow to operate with zero let-offs. It features a dual cam that is elliptical and synchronized. Further, you can change its draw length easily by adjusting the modules on the cams. With an arrow speed of 310 fps, it shoots the arrow quickly and efficiently. Also, you can modify the draw weight and tune it to meet the less than 25 feet pounds of kinetic energy to hunt small games. All in all, it is a light and comfortable bow to shoot for longer periods.
Reasons To Buy
- Best design with solid limbs and lightweight design.
- Versatile bow for any situation.
- Best gear for beginners and seasoned hunters.
- Adjustable draw weight.
Reasons To Avoid
- Its peep sight isn’t pre-installed.
What’s the bottom line?
This Infinite Edge Pro is a best option for beginner or intermediate hunters. It is packed with features and has a smooth draw cycle. Overall, with a reasonable price, it is best for all kinds of activities, including bowhunting, bow fishing, and shooting.
7. Dragon X8 Hunting Compound Bow
| Dragon X8 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Axle to Axle | 30″ |
| Brace Height | 6.6″ |
| Draw Weight | 0-70 lbs |
| Draw Length | 18″-31″ |
| IBO Speed | 310 FPS |
| Weight | 3.8 lbs |
| Let-off | 70-80% |
| String Length | 58.13″ |
This compound bow comes with a large range of adjustable draw lengths and draws weights. It features 100% CNC machined cams and modules with 6061 T6 aluminum. This cam system allows for draw length adjustments without the need for a bow press. The riser is made of aluminum and bowstring imported from BCY USA.
The short and compact design at 30 inches axle to axle makes it easy to carry and maneuver. Its draw length adjustment ranges from 18 to 31 inches via an easy-to-use rotating module. Best of all, it is suitable for any level of shooting and almost any age because of wide draw weight adjustments. This bow is available in black or Vista camo finishes like other Sanlida bows.
The Dragon X8 comes with a peep and d loop pre-installed. Also, it includes 5-pin sight, hunting sight, hunting damper, wrist sling, and whisker biscuit rest.
Reasons To Buy
- Limited lifetime warranty.
- Budget compound bow.
- Includes all required accessories.
- Delivers impressive power.
- Compact bow.
What’s the bottom line?
The Dragon X8 bow is smooth and easy to draw. All in all, this high-quality bow is perfect for adults and young kids who want to try competitive compound shooting.
8. SAS Outrage 70 Lbs 30″ Compound Bow
| SAS Outrage Bow Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Draw Length | 25″ – 31″ |
| Draw Weight | 55 – 70 lbs |
| Weight | 4.4 lbs |
| Let-off | 75% |
| Speed | 270 FPS |
| Brace Height | 7″ |
| Axle to Axle | 35″ |
If you are on a tight budget and searching for a compound bow, look at this SAS Outrage bow. It features a lightweight riser with cut-outs and a comfortable grip. Further, the bow has split limbs and a twin cam system. This compound bow is perfect for those who are looking for a powerful bow to shift from lower-weight models.
It has split limbs and a solo cam system. This bow is best for hunting small and medium-size games while not ideal for hunting grizzly bears. In addition, the bow has plenty of mounting holes to get the right fit for accessories and sight. Its compressed ABS limb is an excellent innovation that provides balance to the bow. In addition, the layered limb can support draw weights up to 70 lbs. This layered limb is fixed to back pivoting limb pockets that enhance the accuracy of the bow.
Reasons To Buy
- Best balance and accuracy.
- Easy to maneuver.
- Produce enough power to take down small to medium game.
- Easy to draw and aim.
Reasons To Avoid
- It creates a bit of noise.
What’s the bottom line?
If you are new to archery and want to experience the performance of high-grade bows, it is a best pick. With top-notch technology, it drives arrows up to 270 fps and is designed well. Its great balance gives accuracy as well as shooting comfort.
9. Bear Archery Limitless Dual Cam Compound Bow
| Bear Archery Limitless Dual Cam Compound Bow Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 265 FPS |
| Weight | 4.14 lbs |
| Bow Length | 30″ |
| Brace Height | 7” |
| Axle to Axle | 28″ |
| Draw Weight | 25-50 lbs |
| Draw Length | 19″-29″ |
Bear Archery Dual Cam Compound Bow is highly adjustable with amazing draw length of 19″to 29″ and a draw weight of 25 to 50 lbs that helps the user to perform the hunting or shooting activities with ease and comfortability.
Technologies that are involved increases the working efficiency of this product. Such as it has Dual Cam System that makes it ready to hunt bow. Moreover it has bear 3 arrow quiver as its accessory that is helpful for the user while performing wild activities.
Reasons To Buy
- Equipped With Trophy Ridge Sight.
- Nock Loop Technology.
- Dual Cam System.
- Camouflage Finish.
- Durable Product.
Reasons To Avoid
- Hand Orientation Right Handed Only.
What’s the bottom line?
Among Compound Bows this Bear Archery Compound Bow is one of the best product that is used mostly for the archery purposes. It possesses all the amazing features that includes all latest technologies such as Trophy Ridge Sight Mechanism, Trophy Ridge Whisker Technology.
10. Southland Archery Supply SAS Scorpii 55 Lb 29″ Compound Bow
| SAS Outrage Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 260 FPS |
| Weight | 3.3 lbs |
| Draw Weight | 30 – 55 lbs |
| Draw Length | 19″ – 29″ |
| Axle to Axle | 28″ |
| Let-off | 68% |
The Scorpii is a compact compound that is best for both adults and young archers. It comes in a right-hand version only, so left-hand archers will have to look for another option. Its dual cam system assures amazing speed that makes it an amazing weapon. At 55-pound draw weight, it is one of the best bows for deer hunting because of its ease to take out into the fields.
This SAS Scorpii bow is provided with a seven years limited warranty. Also, it includes all the required accessories – two sights (5-pin fiber and peep sight), stabilizer, arrow rest, and Allen Wrenches. It is a compact bow, and that will lead many people to feel more comfortable carrying it in the woods.
Reasons To Buy
- It comes with seven years warranty.
- Compact design easy to maneuver.
- Adjustable and versatile.
- Affordable price.
Reasons To Avoid
- Not suitable for left-hand archers.
What’s the bottom line?
This compact compound bow is perfect for people with small stature. However, the included accessories aren’t of high quality.
How To Choose The Best Compound Bow Under $500?
Picking out a bow shouldn’t be about its specifications and what will shoot faster or provide the most energy. It is about what feels comfortable and delivers good performance. Some things can give you a clearer idea as to what type of bow you want. Decide whether you want to shoot targets or for game hunting season. This decision will eliminate a large chunk of bows and make your choice easier.
For further understanding, consider the following features that will help you choose the right one.
Draw Weight
It is a measure of the force and pressure required to operate a compound bow. The draw weight is measured in pounds and indicates the amount of strength required to use a compound bow.
Some hunting compound bows come with an adjustable pull weight so you can modify it when your draw weight increases. The interesting fact is that the bow with more draw weight is hard to draw but more powerful.
Draw Length
It is the length where the shooter pulls back on the string to create tension. Longer draw length raises the chances of accurate and powerful shots. The draw length also depends on the user’s size that helps to deliver an optimal draw. If you choose a bow with a long draw length, then you may miss some of the power. Apart from this, if you select a bow with a low draw length, you can feel uncomfortable while shooting.
The best way to measure the draw length is to stand with your arms stretched out on either side of your body at shoulder height. Use a measuring tape and find the distance between the tip of your middle finger on the right hand and the middle finger on the left. And that distance in inches is the individual draw length.
Axle Length
It is the length of a compound bow that measures from the end of one limb to the other. The axle length is measured when unstrung as it is typically longer when drawn. On average most hunters prefer a small bow and axle to axle distance between 32 – 34 inches. Besides, for archery competition bow, 36″ or longer axle length is preferred as they offer stability and less vibration.
Speed
The speed of the compound bow is another important factor that helps to decide on what kind of bow you want. It indicates how fast an arrow travels after being shot by a compound bow. If you need a bow for hunting, go for faster hunting bows as they penetrate the prey effectively—most modern crossbows 215 feet per second to 300 feet per second.
Build Quality
The frame of the compound bow is made out of a variety of materials like aluminum or carbon fiber. It also has space to attach other components used in the shooting process, such as arrow rests. If you are searching for a lightweight bow, go with carbon fiber, and aluminum is a great standard option.
Furthermore, the weight of the compound bow varies depending on its type. Usually, they are around 5 to 6 pounds without accessories. Choose a shorter compound bow that is easy to handle and shoot if you are a hunter. However, if you are interested in the archery game, go for a longer compound bow that gives the best accuracy and stability.
Let-off
Selecting the right let-off for your bow will make it faster. It is the point throughout the draw when the weight on the string drops at the given percentage of the total draw. Best of all, the higher percentage let-off allows more time at full draw and provides more hunting opportunities. Generally, the let-off of the compound bow lies between 60% to 75%.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of arrows should you use with a compound bow?
You should use carbon or aluminum arrows with your compound bow.
2. Is bow string silencers vital to make a compound bow quiet?
A good quality bowstring silencer is important to make a bow quiet. The string silencer can absorb extra energy generated from a shot and effectively reduce noise.
3. How far can a compound bow shoot?
A compound bow can shoot the arrow over 1000ft. Most of the archers at the safe side call it an effective range measured between 30 to 60 yards. Because when you are shooting at more distance, your accuracy begins to diminish.
4. What is the purpose of peep sight in a compound bow?
A peep sight is a hole in the bowstring that allows you to line up your eye, arrow, and target. The peep size should be 1/8 inch or 1/16th inch.
