It’s clear the impact great gear can have on your success in the field.
For bow hunters — including those who use crossbows — gear that fits your body and hunting style can be more important than your skill level. You seek the perfect shot, so your hunting gear must be as perfect as possible, too.
Here’s a look at some top choices for hunting bows for deer season.
Compiled from the July/August 2019 issue of Game & Fish Magazines. Click here to subscribe
BOWS
HOYT HelixThe Helix has a number of high-end features, including Hoyt’s ZT Pro Cam technology, which reduces torque and nock travel for improved accuracy. Compact and lightweight, the Helix measures 30.5 inches axle-to-axle and weighs 4.3 pounds yet achieves 342 fps. $1,199
MATHEWS VertixThe
Vertix comes with modules allowing shooters to change peak draw weights in 5-pound increments and is available with 60-, 65-, 70- or 75-pound peak draw weights. The Engage grip allows for a very comfortable, consistent hold for improved accuracy, and it produces 20 percent less vibration than the Triax bow. Axle-to-axle measurement is 30 inches, and it has an IBO rating of 343 fps.
$1,099
BOWTECH Realm SR6The newest version of the Realm features a 32-inch axle-to-axle length and generates 352 feet per second. This bow features Bowtech’s OverDrive Binary Cam System for a smooth, even draw. $1,099
CROSSBOWS
RAVIN R29The new R29 measures 29 inches, 5.5 inches shorter than the R20, and weighs 6.75 pounds. It delivers arrows at a blistering 430 fps, yet it has an axle-to-axle measurement of just 6 inches when drawn, making it maneuverable in a stand or blind. The R29 comes fully assembled with an illuminated scope, three-arrow quiver, draw handle, six 400-grain match-grade arrows, field tips and an accessories bracket. $2,550
Assassin 420 TDThe Assassin 420 comes with Excalibur’s detachable crank system, and the front limb can be removed for convenient transport and storage. Length of pull is adjustable from 12 to 15 inches, and the Assassin produces velocities of 420 fps. $1,899
WICKED RIDGE Ranger X2The Ranger X2 is designed specifically for small-statured shooters and weighs just 5.9 pounds. Draw weight is a manageable 150 pounds, and overall length is 33.5 inches, which makes this bow maneuverable in a blind or treestand. $480
TENPOINT Nitro XRTTenPoint’s Nitro XRT features a center-mounted riser for better balance and a reverse-draw design more efficient than traditional crossbows. The result is an astounding 470 fps and a 25 percent flatter trajectory than competing bows. $2,550
Note: This story was updated Jan. 3.