How to Choose a Compound Bow

Step 1: Decide on Your Budget

One of the first questions archers ask is whether an expensive bow truly performs better than a more affordable model. The answer? Both options can work—it just depends on your experience, goals, and how often you hunt.

Budget Bows vs. Premium Bows

Our Archery Experts share a general comparison chart helping you see the differences between entry-level and premium models.

Step 2: Prioritize Key Features of Your Compound Bow

Once you’ve decided on a budget, consider how these features impact comfort, accuracy, and overall performance—keeping in mind your skill level and hunt.

Draw Length & Adjustability

Draw length is the distance from the bowstring at full draw to the front of the bow grip, typically measured in inches. Getting the correct draw length is essential for accuracy, comfort, and consistency.

How to Estimate Draw Length

Many people think your draw length is based on your height. While your height is a factor, it's better to use your wingspan to determine your draw length, which is roughly 1/2 your wingspan plus one inch.

1. Measure fingertip to fingertip with your arms fully extended.

2. Divide that number by 2.5.

3. Minus ½.  This is approximately the draw length to look for when buying a compound bow.

For example, if your wingspan is 67 inches. You'll look for a compound bow with a draw length of 26.3 inches (67 / 2.5 - 1/2 = 26.3). Many bows offer a draw length range because you're able to adjust the draw length.

• Entry-level bows often allow draw length adjustments in ½–1 in. increments.

• Premium bows feature adjustments in ¼-in. increments, giving you the ability to fine-tune the fit for optimal performance.

Draw Weight & Adjustability

Draw weight is the amount of force—measured in pounds—required to pull a bow to full draw. Most bows, regardless of price point, offer a range of adjustability—typically around 10 to 15 pounds. This allows you to fine-tune your bow to match your comfort level and shooting needs.

With premium bows, you'll be able to precisely adjust your draw weight and let-off percentage more than entry-level models. These adjustments help experienced archers hold at full draw longer, refine consistency, and get a more comfortable shot.

If you’re unsure which draw weight or level of adjustability is right for you, one of our SCHEELS Archery Experts can help you test different setups and make recommendations tailored to your needs.

Cam System

The cam system plays a major role in your bow's speed and control. There are a few different types of cam systems for compound bows influencing the feel.

• Entry-level bows typically offer a smoother feel, making it easier to draw and more comfortable to hold. With this cam system, you do sacrifice some speed.

• Premium bows feature advanced cam systems that offer incredible speed while still providing a smooth, controlled draw.

Riser Material: Aluminum vs. Carbon

The riser is the core of your bow, and can be made from aluminum or carbon. The type material the riser is made from is one of the biggest distinctions between price points:

• Aluminum risers are durable, consistent, cost-effective

• Carbon risers are lightweight, warm to the touch in cold weather, more expensive

Hunters in cold climates or backpack-style Western hunts often prefer carbon because of the weight savings and more comfortable feel in cold temperatures.

Tuning & Micro-Adjust Features

Every hunter has unique preferences, strength, and shooting form, which is why compound bows offer tuning options to optimize performance. While all bows allow some level of adjustment, higher-end models increasingly let shooters make micro-tune changes themselves—without the need for a bow press. Features vary by brand and model, but this innovation makes fine-tuning easier and more precise than ever.

Step 3: Get Expert Help & Bow Fitting

No matter your experience level, working with an Archery Expert at SCHEELS will help you find the right bow as well as all the accessories needed to complete your setup.

• Find the right draw length

• Set an appropriate draw weight

• Match arrows to your bow

• Tune your setup

• Test multiple bow models and brands

• Optimize bow balance and accessory placement

If you’re newer to bowhunting, choosing an entry-level model is a great starting point. When archery becomes a passion—whether you’re target shooting or dedicated to bowhunting—a premium setup that offers more customization, comfort, and performance will be the choice for you. Whether you're upgrading gear, buying your first bow, or fine-tuning your setup for the hunt, visit your local SCHEELS archery shop to get help from one of our Experts.

Frequently Asked Questions about Choosing a Compound Bow

When working with customers, our Archery Experts get a lot of questions about choosing the right compound bow. To help you, we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about what to consider when buying a compound bow.