10 Best Compound Bow Under $500 in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

Bow is one of the few technologies that will never die out. Every year, manufacturers release new design compound bows and upgrade their previous series, which give both bowhunters and target shooters more than they could ever imagine.

If you are looking for the best compound bow under $500, you are in the right place.

Whether you’re a beginner or a PRO hunter, we have created a complete list of the top 10 best compound bows under $500 with details information so that you can find that suitable model. We got in touch with industry experts and consulted them to make this list accessible to anyone.

However, for hunting, we always recommend using shorter and lighter Compound bows. Because carrying a large bow is uncomfortable for a long time. Sometimes it is difficult to maneuver in a blind or tree stand. In this case, compact size will be extremely practical in this situation.

Best Compound Bow under $500 – At a Glance

Our mission is to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring you find a reliable bow that enhances your archery experience without breaking the bank. Each bow included in this list has been carefully selected based on its reputation, practical experience, customer feedback, expert opinions, and value for money.

Before jumping to the details of our guide, let’s see our ranking of the best compound bows under 500 dollars in 2023.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
Best Overall	Our Top Pick	Bear Archery Cruzer G2	IBO Speed: 315 FPS Draw Length: 12″ to 30″ Draw Weight: 5 to 70 lbs.	Check On Amazon
Editor’s Choice	Editor’s Choice	Southland Archery Supply	IBO Speed: 235 FPS Draw Length: 20″ to 29″ Draw Weight: 25 to 55 lbs.	Check On Amazon
		Leader Accessories	IBO Speed: 310 FPS Draw Length: 25″ to 31″ Draw Weight: 50 to 70 lbs.	Check On Amazon
		PSE RTS MINIBURNER	IBO Speed: 310 FPS Draw Length: 16″ to 26.5″ Draw Weight: 29 to 40 lbs.	Check On Amazon
		Diamond Archery	IBO Speed: 295 FPS Draw Length: 18″ to 28″ Draw Weight: 5 to 55 lbs.	Check On Amazon
		Topoint Archery	IBO Speed: 320 FPS Draw Length: 19″ to 30″ Draw Weight: 19 to 70 lbs.	Check On Amazon
Best Value	Best Value	Leader Accessories Right Handed	IBO Speed: 296 FPS Draw Length: 19″ to 29″ Draw Weight: 30 to 50 lbs.	Check On Amazon
		iGlow Black Camo	IBO Speed: 310 FPS Draw Length: 25″ to 31″ Draw Weight: 40 to 70 lbs.	Check On Amazon
		SAS Scorpii	IBO Speed: 260 FPS Draw Length: 19″ to 29″ Draw Weight: 30 to 55 lbs.	Check On Amazon
		CREATIVE XP	IBO Speed: 320 FPS Draw Length: 23.5″ to 30.5″ Draw Weight: 30 to 70 lbs.	Check On Amazon

1. Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult Compound Bow

Among the best compound bows under $500 in 2023, the Bear Archery Cruzer G2 is appreciated for the richness of the included accessories and good construction quality. The high-energy cams are very efficient to allow you to develop and store great energy while shooting.

With the highest arrow speed of 315 fps, it can be adjusted draw length from 12″ to 30″ and draw weight from 5 to 70 lbs. It is very easy to hold the draw, even while set at the full of 70 lbs. It could be a great choice for those who are new to shooting and need to develop muscles and form.

The let-off point reaches 70% with the unloading of the weight in the final draft phase. That is useful to keep the aim and seal fixed before leaving the arrow.

Bear Archery Cruzer G2 bow was designed as a grow with youth bow but can be shot as an adult as well. It comes ready to hunt. The package includes six Trophy Ridge accessories: quiver, rest, sight, Stabilizer, Sling, peep and loop. It’s insanely adjustable and durable as hell.

Everything is assembled in the box, attach the quiver and other additional ones. It takes maybe a minute. With a full sheet of instructions, all adjustments are marked on the cams.

However, the sight pins are not set at the factory. You need to adjust them to your shooting distances. Also, the grip is a little narrow. Other than that you can’t go wrong with the Bear Archery Cruzer G2.

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2. Southland Archery Supply Quad Limb Compound Bow

The Southland Archery Supply SAS-753B brings together several qualities that help to pick up second place in the ranking of best compound bows under $500. It is well-balanced, quiet, and delivers very accurate shots. It is easily maneuverable even inside the single-person ground blind.

The draw length is 20-29″, and the draw weight is 25-55 lbs. You can easily adjust the length and draw weight yourself. To adjust the draw length, move the screws on the cams to a different hole.

The velocity reaches up to 310 feet per second. You can take down small to medium games without extra effort.

The adjustability of this bow is very consistent and gives you much confidence to hit the target. However, this model is not recommended for advanced-level hunters.

The bow itself’s weight is 4 lbs, so you can use it for fishing. It is a little smaller than adult size and slightly larger than a youth compound bow but both can use it. Although the limbs are smaller than a typical men’s bow, they can adjust to accommodate a man.

The included accessories aren’t great but able to complete the application. However, you can upgrade the accessories to spend a little extra. Although the major parts are assembled, the instructions are pretty bad at showing how to assemble the accessories. You need to learn on the Internet how to put them on.

However, the SAS-753B is a right-handed model, which means you hold it on the left and pull the string on the right. The left-hand version is currently not available.

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3. Leader Accessories Right Handed Compound Bow

When it comes to supplying good quality bows at a cheap price, Leader Accessories doesn’t disappoint. They are leaders in attached advanced technologies on the bows.

However, this Black Camo model is an entry-level compound bow, designed for small game hunting. It will be perfect for an adult looking to get into bow hunting or for a teenager looking to do the same.

The draw cycle is smooth and has a solid back wall. It is highly adjustable to meet the demands of nearly any shooter or hunter. However, it will be pretty much suitable if you add other accessories.

It shoots pretty fast, and you will be able to dispatch any animal you plan to hunt. It has an efficient aiming system that you can adjust to adapt to your morphology and shooting style. The strings of this bow are of decent quality, which increases the velocity of the shot.

The extension is variable to extend from 25 to 31 inches. The projection speed of the boom can reach 310 fps. It comes ready to go. We can appreciate the lightness of this right-hand model. It is very quiet. However, it’s a little on the heavy side, especially with all the attachments. 

Leader Accessories hunting bow comes with fiber optic sight, drop away arrow rest, release aid, D string loop, peep sight, wax, and 2pcs of 30″ aluminum arrow. The aluminum alloy of which it is composed effectively releases the vibrations and the release stroke, once the arrow starts.

It is simple to assemble. However, there are several parts you need to be attached and that would be very difficult to do at home if you are a newbie. This is a right handed bow. Left hand model is currently not available.

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4. PSE ARCHERY RTS MINIBURNER Compound Bow

This is a premier grade compound bow under $500 for beginners to experts. It allows you to aim at a more than respectable distance quickly and quietly. From small attachments to limps, the overall design is outstanding. The riser is made of metal and the sight and rest are well made. It is light enough that has no trouble holding it up.

PSE Archery RTS bow is designed for both right and left-handed users. It is equipped with several stabilizers that perfectly absorb the vibrations when you release an arrow.

The draw length and the poundage are easy to adjust without a bow press, even if you have never adjusted a bow before. This makes the adjustments very simple and takes a matter of seconds.

The cams and ropes are high quality. It will be perfectly suitable for hunting or precision shooting. The cams and ends can be adjusted down to a draw at 20 lbs and adjusted the position for up to 40 lbs.

The package comes with 5 arrow quivers, a 3-pin sight, peep sight, stabilizer, wrist strap and 3 Beman arrows for 199. The length of the arrows is 28 inches, however, we always recommend 30-inch arrows.

The max draw length on the Mini Burner is 26.5″. It could be a great starter bow for 8-18 years old. However, an adult could use this bow provided their draw length falls in this window.

• Read Next: Our Picks for the Best New Crossbows Under $500 of the Year

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5. Diamond Archery Prism Compound bow

Diamond Archery bows are always famous for their range of adjustments. It will be hard to find a versatile compound like Diamond Archery Prism at this price range. You get a lot for your money. This bow is designed for a wide range of users and is perfect for a young aspiring archer.

Based on the Diamonds Edge series hunting bow, this model features extreme adaptability. The adjustments are done on the cams; you don’t need a bow press to make an adjustment. This unit can be set for low weight to higher weight as the beginners get stronger.

It is very compact. You can adjust the draw weight from 5  to 55 pounds. The rotating draw length modules are great and allow for 12 inches of draw length adjustment. You can adjust the draw length up to 30 inches. This is supposed to be an “entry-level” compound bow with a full level of performance.

However, the handle is pretty much thin to get in the way of practitioners with large hands. The string is serviceable but is low quality. Also, the grip has a funky kind of palm swell that makes it hard to maintain the bow straight up and down.

After all, the Diamond Archery Prism is a pretty good choice for less than 500.

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6. Topoint Archery Compound Bow Package

Topoint Archery compound bow built with an aluminum handle to ensure lightness and robustness. The total length of the bow is 28 ‘inches, which makes it suitable for both men and women for hunting. It looks decent. And it is a complete bow package under 500 dollars.

The projection speed of the arrows can reach 320 fps. The power and the extension are fully adjustable. The extension can vary from 19 to 30 inches.

There are two settings: Draw and pull, and both are very easy to set up. You can simply change the draw length and draw weight.

The component quality for long time use will satisfy you. All the materials and components that come with it have to be installed yourself. However, it’s super easy. You will absolutely have to take it to a bow Tec to have them change the peep sight to a circle put a kisser button on it and level the rest and sit for you.

Topoint Archery compound bow comes with several different-sized peep sights and 2 unique style arrow rests to choose from. Pin sights are standard variety and easy to install and adjust.

It also comes with a bow stand. However, the package doesn’t include a case. Overall, it could be a perfect and affordable way to decide if you want to get into archery.

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7. Leader Accessories Right Handed Bow Package

This right-handed compound bow from Leader Accessories offers similar features that are generally found on expensive compound bows. It is a great starter bow under 500 for older kids and adults. It works great out of the box with very little setup.

The quality and finishing are worthy of the best pulley arches. The cams are made of durable aluminum for long time shooting. The string length and cable length of this bow are 52.25“ and 32.75″. It can be adjusted to 50 lbs at the low end which will help you increase the accuracy and consistency.

This model is very simple to use. You can easily adjust the draw length and weight. It is very solid, not flashy. It shoots 310 fps with a 70 lbs draw weight. The adjustable extension is from 25 to 31 inches. Besides its excellent performance, we can only appreciate the fact that it sold with so many accessories.

Leader Accessories compound bow built with fiber optic sight, drop away arrow rest, release aid, D string loop, peep sight, wax, and 2pcs of 30″ high-quality aluminum arrow. It comes with a 2-pin sight for the front. There is no peep sight installed, and you must install one yourself. However, the attachment mounting holes are industry standard.

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8. iGlow Black Camo Archery Hunting Compound Bow

Although iGlow is not a popular brand of compound bow on the market, this Black Camo model promises to provide bowhunters and target shooters with new patented technologies experience without breaking the bank. It is a great compound bow under 500 for beginner to advanced hunters.

This model is made by the same company that produces Leader Accessories bow and the SAS rage. The frame quality is comparable with the more expensive model, so you find the best compromise for an inexpensive bow. 

It is easy to shoot. The high accuracy on the target makes it a perfect choice for target shooting. It also has great flexibility. However, this model is now designed only for Right-Handed people.

The minimum draw length is 25 inches and goes up to 31″. The draw length can be adjusted with 2 modules with the key included with the bow. The lowest draw weight is 40 lbs and goes up to 70 lbs. The comfortable encapsulation makes it possible to hold a long extension, for increased precision.

IGlow compound bow doesn’t come with any useful accessories. You need to buy your own peep sight, arrow rest, sights, stabilizer and wrist sling, d loop and mechanical release, and quiver with arrows. However, the package includes a cheap bow sight.

At 4.4 lbs weight, this model is a little bit heavy. The upside to it being heavy with a 31.5” axle to axle. However, it’s very steady and easy to hold on target. From my point of view, absolutely nothing wrong with this compound bow especially if you’re looking for a brand new bow.

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9. Southland Archery Supply Scorpii Compound Bow

If you are looking for an ultralight and extremely resistant compound bow to use in all weather, then the Southland Archery Supply Scorpii will be the best option for you. Its system guarantees a great tension force by deploying a minimum of physical effort.

SAS Scorpii compound bow is ideally designed for right-handers. It is made from aluminum alloy and has a refined structure that provides excellent grip. The strong point lies in its price being quite correct with regard to its services. It adapts to different practices such as hunting or other outdoor sport shooting.

It allows you to aim effortlessly with the option of reduction of effort. All this power is contained in this little wonder, 7 ½ inches high and weighing 3.3 lbs. It comes with a reel and one arrow. However, there is no finger saver on the string.

The highest arrow speed of 360 fps leaves them no chance to flee. Like the weights to be pulled, the draw length is adjustable according to the archer’s template.

For a secure grip, the SAS Scorpii compound bow comes with a stabilizer for the arms. It has a long range to shoot, which means this cutting-edge bow can flush out the game. For less than $500, this Combo Bow package could be a brilliant choice for hunting or fishing.

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10. CREATIVE XP Bow Package for Adults & Teens

CREATIVE XP bow package is listed in the last position of our ranking of the best compound bow under $500. The build quality is amazing and will last for a lifetime. Although the price is half of your budget, this package contains everything that a good quality compound bow should have.

This right-Handed Hunting Bow is 100% adjustable for adults, youth, and teens. It weighs only 3.3 pounds, with a length of 30 inches. All parts are very sturdy. You also like that the limbs are made by the biggest factory in the USA.

CREATIVE XP compound bow has a lot of features that offer excellent properties. The draw weight is relatively large at 30 to 70 lbs so that it can hit very well long-distance targets. The arrow even reaches speeds of up to approx. 320 fps. You can reduce the tension on the suspension from 70 to 75%. It also has modules that are adjustable.

This model is simple to use. You don’t need arch presses, instead, adjustments are made using screws. The instructions are very clear and the adjustments are straightforward and easy to accomplish. Included arrows are suitable for compound bow, recurve bow, longbow and crossbow.

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Buyer’s Guide

If you practice target shooting, hunting, or any other discipline that involves the use of compound bows, you have to know the characteristics and elements related to this type of weapon to choose the best one. Depending on the specific activity you carry out, you will need something with different functions.

Therefore, here are several factors that should be considered before choosing the best compound bow under $500.

Types of discipline

Archery as a discipline to adjust its accuracy, on a fixed target as a hobby is to be dissociated from shooting for hunting; which is done on moving and dense targets.

Compound bows designed for competition are larger than the others intended for hunting. The reason is very simple: the precision presented by the large bow is more refined and makes it possible to regulate certain small faults that can occur in competition.

It is important to get as close as possible to the center of the target. Accuracy is therefore a very important criterion you must consider.

Remember, some people use these pulley bows for fishing. One can imagine the precision and the speed of fire that these archery articles must present. In this case, it is necessary to favor a larger bow.

Size and dimensions

Bow measurements are different from cam to cam, from the end of the first pulley to the other. They constitute the two axes of the compound bow. However, the size of the bow largely impacts the accuracy of the shot. A small bow significantly reduces the accuracy of the shot.

As we are saying, a compound bow with dimensions less than 32 ” is a so-called short bow. Hunters often choose these bows. From 32 to 38 ”, we are dealing with a medium bow. And above 38 ” is called long bows.

We recommend large compound bows for long-distance shots. Because they allow better stability during the period of fire adjustment. Beyond the precision, the dimensions are to be chosen in adequacy with the size of the archer itself for increased comfort of shooting.

Material power

Unlike the extension (expressed in inches), the power is expressed in pounds, which is expressed as follows: The power is slightly adjustable on the bows, sold on the market. The higher the power, the more shooting comfort you have. It is therefore a very important factor in the choice of an archery commentary. It is to be determined according to the size of the archer.

A compound bow for a woman generally has a small size. Therefore, this bow isn’t the same as a bow design for man with a larger frame. For example, a woman from 65 to 75 kilos will take a compound bow from 30 to 40 lbs of draw weight, while a man over 90 kilos will take a bow from 65 to 75.

The extension

Extension on the compound bows is often fixed but can be adjusted in ½ inch increments. It is worth keeping in mind, one inch equals 2.54 cm.

In order to know how to choose your extension, you must spread your arms crosswise and note this figure which will have to be converted into the number of inches. To do this, divide the distance by 2.54. This result must be divided by 2.5. That’s it, you have the extension that your compound bow must have!

The budget

A compound bow represents a certain investment, depending on the more or less sophisticated design of the device, materials of use, and also on the archery brand that offers it.

You can find entry-level compound bow prices between 100-200 dollars. This price can then reach a very large amount, even a thousand dollars. However, if your budget is around 500 or more, you can find compound bows for any relevant activities.

Some high-end compound bows can reach 2000 dollars price tag.

The accessories

As we previously mentioned, the compound bow is a weapon. In order to improve your compound bow or archery experience, we recommend you equip yourself with some accessories. Choosing a good bow sight, allow you to refine the aim according to the distance. It is ideal for nature shooting, hunting or 3D targets.

For hunting, you carry for use trail cameras, rangefinders, or hunting binoculars.

FAQs

How to build a compound bow?

To make a compound bow, you need a series of typical carpenter tools and enough knowledge of the operation of levers and precise measurements. However, very technical drawings and studies are available on the internet.

Besides the presence of pulleys and the study of the materials, making the bow requires great patience and ad hoc tools. If you have a hobby room and want to try your hand at the company, we remind you that the purchase of tools to work with and materials could be much higher than the price of an entry-level model.

How to change the string of a compound bow?

If the rope has worn out excessively to make a change, a professional’s advice or the use of a bow grip is a must. It is a support designed specifically for this type of bow, which keeps the bow firmly and proceeds in total safety to remove the old rope and replace it with a new one. Otherwise, it is definitely not recommended to change the rope without this tool. Because the risk is to ruin the bow and get you hurt, given the tension to which the rope is subjected.

How does a compound bow work?

Compound bow is an instrument, and in some ways, it is very similar to a traditional bow. However, the big differences are cams, pulleys, and rigid limbs that help the archer in the stretching phase. This method helps to keep under control the tension required when tensing the bowstring.

Another difference is in the arrow’s management. In compound bows, the archer has the possibility of exploiting support to hold the dart directly before leaving.

How do you adjust a compound bow?

The elements that can be modified in the compound bow are manifold. It can carry a static and dynamic type of tuning out. At first, we recommend you check the general condition of the object, such as the wear of a rope, limbs and cables. Second, it is necessary to adjust the booklet (when possible) and the extension.

The choice and selection of the arrows, as well as the data provided by the manufacturer, occupy the third part of these checks. It is necessary to check the cams that are used, especially in their starting position.

All this is to say that if you are a beginner, the help of a serious professional hunter or a fellow archer is essential.

How to know the power of a bow?

The power of the bow is expressed in pounds, it is the force that the archer must exert when cocking the draw. The extension is the distance that is measured from the hollow of the notch to the exit of the window of the bow, it is often expressed in inches (1 ” = 2.54cm).

Power is extremely important because it will determine your shooting comfort.

Who is a compound bow suitable for?

Basically, everyone can use a compound bow. However, bloody beginners should practice with easier compound bow models when they start. And for youth, there’s compound bow designed for youth people. Because archery requires good body tension and strong muscles. You can build this up better with other arches.

Furthermore, a compound bow must be assembled correctly, it can be complicated for many beginners. However, if you already have archery experience, you can easily set up it. A lot of fun is guaranteed with a compound bow and the right technique.

To begin with, it is not ideal to choose a high-end model. However, you can try to find a bow starting from 35 “ATA. For your longer, it is the classic view, it will differ depending on your release aid compound.

What does a compound bow cost?

Here the price range is very large. Compound bows start at just under $100 and go up to $1500. As we previously mentioned, the price differences depend on the material of the bow, equipment, traction, etc.

Remember, you often have to buy arrows. However, there are often sets with arrows and bows together.

What are the variations of the compound bow?

Basically, every compound bow is constructed identically. The bow itself, two rolls (also called cams) and the tendon. Now you can vary exactly these 3 basics. There are different cams, tendons with extras, and the material of the bow. There are additional upgrades. For example a target sight, a silencer, stabilizers, etc. The more special your compound bow becomes, the more expensive it becomes.

What type of arrows should I use with my compound bow?

The type of arrows you use with your compound bow depends on factors such as your draw weight, arrow length, and intended use. It’s crucial to select arrows with the appropriate stiffness and weight to match your bow’s specifications. Carbon arrows are good due to their durability, consistency, and wide availability.

In Conclusion

Now you have all the ingredients on which best compound bow under $500 is suitable for you. If you are still unable to choose the model according to our guide, you can check individually to pick up the correct Bow Under 500 based on your research. Hope you find the right answer you ask yourself.

After all, you can spend a decent amount of money on a better model. But you get a correspondingly high value and a long-term benefit guaranteed with the bows from our recommendations.

If you are a beginner at hunting, don’t have to worry much about that. Because we have done complete research on the Best Beginners compound bows & Buyer’s guide. Also, don’t miss to check out our newest guide: best compound bow under $300.