Imagine the thrill of a perfectly aimed shot, the quiet hum of the bowstring, and the satisfying thud as your arrow finds its mark. For many, this dream starts with a compound bow. But the price tag of a brand-new one can often feel as high as a mountain! This is where the exciting world of used compound bows comes in, offering incredible value and a gateway to this amazing sport.
However, diving into the used market can feel a little like navigating a maze. How do you know if you’re getting a good deal? What should you look for to avoid a dud? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices and the fear of buying a bow that isn’t quite right. You want a bow that’s reliable and will help you improve, not one that causes frustration.
That’s exactly why we’re here! This guide is your secret weapon to finding a fantastic used compound bow without the guesswork. We’ll walk you through the essential things to check, the questions to ask, and how to spot a real gem. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to make a smart purchase, saving money and getting a bow you’ll love to shoot.
Our Top 5 Used Compound Bows Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Used Compound Bows Detailed Reviews
1. Sanlida Archery Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow Package for Adults and Teens
Rating: 9.2/10
Unleash your inner archer with the Sanlida Archery Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow Package. This ready-to-hunt kit is designed for both adults and teens, offering a wide range of adjustments to fit almost anyone. It comes with everything you need to get started, making it a fantastic option for beginners and experienced archers alike. The bow is built with quality materials, including limbs made in the USA, and it even comes with a limited lifetime warranty on main parts, showing Sanlida’s confidence in their product.
What We Like:
- Comes as a complete RTH (Ready-to-Hunt) package with all essential accessories included.
- Highly adjustable draw length (18″-31″) and draw weight (0-70 lbs) without needing a bow press.
- Suitable for a wide range of users, from young teens to adult beginners and intermediate archers.
- Durable construction with CNC machined cams and 6061 T6 aluminum.
- High-quality BCY-D97 bow string and cables made in the USA.
- Fast IBO speed of up to 310 fps.
- Lightweight design at only 3.8 lbs.
- Responsive customer support for any accessory issues.
- Limited lifetime warranty on main parts adds peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The included arrows might be a starting point, but serious hunters may want to upgrade for specific needs.
- While the warranty is good, registration is required within 30 days of purchase.
The Sanlida Archery Dragon X8 RTH Package is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile and complete compound bow setup. Its adjustability and included accessories make it an incredible value for the price.
2. Lanneret Compound Bow and Archery Sets – Right Hand Archery Compound Bows 0-70 lbs Draw Weight Adjustable for Adults and Beginners，25″-31″ Draw Length，up to IBO 320 fps，Archery Hunting Bow Set，Black
Rating: 8.8/10
Embark on your archery journey with the Lanneret Compound Bow and Archery Sets. This right-handed bow is designed for both seasoned hunters and enthusiastic beginners. Its adjustable draw weight and length make it easy to customize for your comfort and skill level. With a powerful IBO speed of up to 320 fps, this bow is ready for action.
What We Like:
- Perfect for beginners with its easy adjustability.
- The draw weight can be set anywhere from 0 to 70 lbs, and the draw length from 25 to 31 inches, all without a bow press.
- It’s super lightweight at only 2.5 lbs, making it easy to carry.
- The riser is made from strong aluminum alloy for durability.
- It comes with all the accessories you need to start shooting right away, including an arm guard for safety.
- This bow is great for hunting, target practice, and even outdoor competitions.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s important to read the manual carefully to avoid injury or damaging the bow.
- Never “dry fire” the bow (shoot without an arrow), as this can cause serious damage and injury.
The Lanneret Compound Bow offers a fantastic entry point into archery with its user-friendly design and comprehensive set of accessories. It’s a great gift for anyone looking to try out this exciting sport.
3. Sanlida Archery Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow Package for Adults and Teens
Rating: 8.9/10
The Sanlida Archery Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow Package offers a complete archery solution for both adult and teen archers. It’s designed for ease of use, allowing you to start shooting right away. This bow is built to grow with you, thanks to its wide range of adjustments.
What We Like:
- Ready-to-Hunt Package: Comes with everything you need to get started, including a sight, rest, arrows, quiver, release, and more.
- Highly Adjustable: The draw length can be set from 18 to 31 inches, and the draw weight goes from 0 to 70 lbs. This means one bow can fit many different archers.
- No Bow Press Needed: Adjustments are simple and don’t require special tools, making it very convenient.
- Durable Construction: Features CNC machined cams and modules made from 6061 T6 aluminum, and BCY-D97 bowstring and cables.
- USA-Made Limbs: The limbs are made in the USA, suggesting quality and reliability.
- Generous Warranty: A limited lifetime warranty on main parts provides peace of mind.
- Lightweight Design: At only 3.8 lbs, it’s easy to handle and carry.
What Could Be Improved:
- Accessory Support: While they promise quick responses for accessory issues, it’s worth noting that accessories are the most likely place for minor problems to arise in any package deal.
This Dragon X8 package is an excellent choice for archers of all levels looking for a versatile and user-friendly compound bow. Its adjustability and included accessories make it a great value for the price.
4. Lanneret Compound Bow and Archery Sets – Right Hand Archery Compound Bows 15-29 lbs Draw Weight Adjustable for Youth and Beginners，Hunting Bow Kit for Beginner
Rating: 8.9/10
Embark on your archery journey with the Lanneret Compound Bow and Archery Set, designed specifically for youth and beginners. This right-handed bow offers an adjustable draw weight from 15 to 29 lbs, making it perfect for growing archers. Its lightweight design and user-friendly features ensure a comfortable and safe introduction to the sport.
What We Like:
- Adjustable Draw Weight: The 15-29 lbs range is ideal for beginners and youth, allowing them to grow with the bow.
- No Bow Press Needed: Easily adjust the draw weight and length without special tools, making setup a breeze.
- Complete Kit: Comes with everything you need to start, including arrows, a quiver, sight, and arm guard.
- Durable Construction: The PA66 riser and CNC machined cams ensure a strong and long-lasting bow.
- Safety Features: The included arm guard protects you from bowstring snags, and the clear instructions emphasize safe usage.
- Lightweight Design: At only 2.5 lbs, it’s easy for younger archers to handle and maneuver.
What Could Be Improved:
- Right-Hand Only: This set is exclusively for right-handed archers, limiting options for left-handed users.
- “Dry Fire” Warning: While important for safety, the emphasis on not dry firing is a crucial reminder that must be strictly followed.
This Lanneret compound bow set is an excellent choice for introducing young archers to the exciting world of archery. With its user-friendly design and included accessories, it provides a fun and safe way to learn and practice.
5. PANDARUS Compound Bow Set 15-45lbs for Pull Beginner and Teens Right Handed Adjustable 18″-29″ Draw Length
Rating: 9.4/10
Looking for a great starter compound bow? The PANDARUS Compound Bow Set 15-45lbs is designed for beginners and teens. It’s a right-handed bow with an adjustable draw length from 18 to 29 inches, making it fit many different archers. It shoots arrows really fast, up to 320 feet per second! This set comes with almost everything you need to get started in archery, including arrows, a sight, and a quiver.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to adjust the draw weight and length without special tools. This means almost anyone can use it and grow with the bow.
- The bow is made with strong aluminum and durable limbs, so it’s built to last.
- You get a lot of cool accessories in the box, like a sight, stabilizer, and arrows, which is awesome for new archers.
- It’s lightweight at only 3.6 pounds, making it comfortable to hold and shoot for longer periods.
- The 75% let-off makes it easier to hold the bow at full draw.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for beginners, more experienced archers might want a bow with higher draw weights and speeds.
- The warning about not dry firing is very important, and new users need to pay close attention to it to avoid damaging the bow or getting hurt.
This PANDARUS compound bow set is a fantastic way for young archers and beginners to learn and enjoy the sport. It offers great adjustability and a good shooting experience right out of the box.
Your Guide to Buying a Used Compound Bow
Thinking about getting a compound bow? Used ones can be a great way to save money and still get a fantastic piece of gear. But how do you know if you’re getting a good deal? This guide will help you find the perfect used compound bow.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re looking at a used compound bow, pay attention to these important parts:
- Riser: This is the handle part of the bow. It should feel solid and not have any cracks or bends.
- Limbs: These are the arms that bend to store energy. Check them for any splitting, delamination (layers separating), or twists.
- Cams: These are the spinning wheels at the ends of the limbs. They make shooting easier. Make sure they spin freely and don’t have any nicks or dents.
- String and Cables: The string connects the cams and launches the arrow. Cables connect the cams to each other. Look for fraying, nicks, or worn spots. A new string and cables are often needed on older bows.
- Draw Weight and Draw Length: These need to fit you. Draw weight is how hard it is to pull the string back. Draw length is how far you pull it. You can usually adjust these on compound bows.
- Arrow Rest: This holds the arrow in place before you shoot. Make sure it’s working correctly.
- Sight: This helps you aim. Check if it’s sturdy and if the pins are clear.
2. Important Materials
Compound bows are made from different materials. Knowing them helps you understand their quality:
- Riser: Most risers are made of strong aluminum. Some high-end bows use carbon fiber, which is lighter but more expensive.
- Limbs: Limbs are usually made of fiberglass or carbon. These are strong and flexible.
- Cams: Cams are typically made of aluminum.
- String and Cables: These are made of strong synthetic materials like Dyneema.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a used bow better, while others can make it worse:
Things That Improve Quality:
- Good Maintenance: A bow that was well cared for will last longer. Look for bows that have been kept clean and dry.
- Reputable Brands: Well-known brands often make better, more durable bows.
- Recent Models: Newer bows usually have better technology and design.
Things That Reduce Quality:
- Visible Damage: Cracks, dents, or significant wear are big red flags.
- Old Age: Very old bows might have outdated technology or worn-out parts.
- Neglect: A bow that looks dirty or has rusty parts probably wasn’t taken care of.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A used compound bow can be great for many activities:
- Archery Hunting: Many people use compound bows for hunting deer and other game. They offer power and accuracy.
- Target Archery: You can shoot at targets for fun or in competitions.
- 3D Archery: This involves shooting at realistic animal targets at different distances.
When you buy a used bow, think about what you want to do with it. A bow that’s good for hunting might be different from one you’d use for target practice. Always try to hold the bow and feel its weight. If possible, have an experienced archer check it out with you.
Buying used can be smart. Just do your homework, and you’ll find a bow that shoots true!
Frequently Asked Questions About Used Compound Bows
Q: How much should I expect to pay for a used compound bow?
A: Prices vary a lot. You can find older, basic models for under $300. Newer, higher-end used bows can cost $500 to $800 or more.
Q: What are the most important things to check before buying?
A: You should always check the limbs for cracks, the string for fraying, and the cams for damage. Make sure the riser is straight.
Q: Can I try shooting a used bow before I buy it?
A: It’s highly recommended! If the seller won’t let you shoot it, that’s a big warning sign.
Q: What if the string and cables are worn out?
A: That’s common for used bows. You’ll need to replace them. Factor the cost of a new string and cable set into your purchase price.
Q: How do I know if the draw weight and draw length are right for me?
A: You should be able to comfortably pull the string back. Many compound bows have adjustable draw weights and lengths. Ask the seller about adjustments.
Q: Are there any brands I should look out for or avoid?
A: Brands like Hoyt, Mathews, Bowtech, and PSE are generally very good. There aren’t many brands to outright avoid, but older, lesser-known brands might be harder to get parts for.
Q: What’s the difference between a cam and a wheel on a bow?
A: On a compound bow, they are the same thing! They are the spinning parts that help you draw the string back easier.
Q: How old is “too old” for a used compound bow?
A: Bows made before the late 1990s might be considered quite old. Technology has improved a lot since then. A 10-15 year old bow is often still very usable if it’s been well-maintained.
Q: Should I buy a used bow online or in person?
A: Buying in person is much better. You can inspect the bow and try it out. Buying online means you can’t see or feel the bow before you get it.
Q: What accessories do I need to buy with a used compound bow?
A: You’ll likely need an arrow rest, a sight, a release aid (to hold and trigger the string), arrows, and a quiver (to hold arrows).
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gareth Lewis, and I’m the voice behind CampingGuider.com.. I created this space to share my passion for camping and the great outdoors. With years of experience and countless adventures under my belt, I aim to inspire and guide fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a curious beginner, my goal is to provide you with practical tips, honest reviews, and insights to help you make the most out of your outdoor escapades. Join me on this journey, and let’s explore the beauty of nature together!