Part 3: Hunting Bows vs. Competition (Target) Bows
Hunting and competition bows are both typically compounds, but are optimized differently.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two different styles:
| Aspect | Hunting Bows | Competition/Target Bows |
|---|---|---|
| Axle-to-Axle Length | Shorter (28-34″) for easy maneuvering in woods/stands. | Longer (38-40″+) for better stability and accuracy at distance. |
| Brace Height | Shorter (5-7″) for faster arrow speeds (300+ fps). | Longer (7-8″+) for more forgiveness on release errors. |
| Let-Off | Higher (80-90%) to hold longer at full draw quietly. | Lower (65-75%) for precise control in scoring. |
| Weight | Lighter (3-4 lbs) for portability during hunts. | Heavier (4-5+ lbs) to reduce vibration and improve aim. |
| Colors/Design | Camo patterns, compact for stealth. | Bright colors, with stabilizers & pin sights for better target acquisition. |
| Speed vs. Accuracy | Prioritizes speed and power for ethical kills. | Emphasizes consistency and pinpoint accuracy over speed. |
| Price/Use | Versatile for field use; $400-800 entry level. | Specialized for shooting at ranges/tournaments; $600-1200+. |
Hunting bows excel in rugged, quick-shot scenarios, while target bows shine in controlled environments with repeated precision. You can certainly use a hunting bow for casual targets, but a dedicated target bow helps in competitions due to their stability and precise set-up.
No matter what you’re interested in, Ridgedale’s Archery Club Members will help you find the right package to meet your needs and get you hitting targets quickly. Come out and join us on Thursday evenings to practice, ask questions, and learn proper techniques to ensure you and your family have fun.
Contact us anytime if you’d like more information about our Archery programs, questions about equipment, or to learn more about archery competitions or hunting techniques – archery@ridgedale.net
See you at the range!
