Whether you like to hunt in the great outdoors or participate in indoor archery competitions, a subpar bow sight can quickly turn a well-aimed shot into a missed opportunity. A bow sight won’t work miracles if you’re inexperienced, but it can give you a more precise view of your target.
The best bow sight for you will depend on your experience level and the type of archery you do, but the CBE Engage Bow Sight is the top pick for all-around versatility and durable construction.
There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to selecting perfect archery sights. The best thing to consider first is the type of shooting you plan to do to keep things simple. Are you a bowhunter that waits in a treestand for deer to pass? Then you will probably want pendulum sights because they adjust for elevation. Are you a static target shooter that uses a recurve bow? Then simple open ring sights might be best for you. If you’re new to archery and curious about all shooting styles, then focus on finding fixed pin sights with a ton of versatility.
This high-tech feature will shoot a beam of red light onto your target, making it easier to see in a low-light environment. Many traditionalists will avoid laser sights, but they can do wonders for precision if you’re hunting at nighttime.
Just like the level in your toolbox, this feature is often built into bow sights to ensure that the archer is holding their bow completely straight since holding a bow at a crooked angle could harm accuracy.
These horizontal knobs or screws allow the user to adjust their sights for windy conditions. Look for this feature if you plan to use your bow for competitive marksmanship, particularly if you live in a windy area.
The cost of bow sights can vary widely depending on their complexity and any high-tech features. Most archers can expect to spend around $20-$100 on the low end and $100-$500 for quality sights with all the bells and whistles.
A. Not at all. Many traditionalists choose to forego bow sights altogether, an activity known as barebow archery.
A. Bow sights are mostly universal, particularly if you’re using a compound bow. That said, some bow sights are meant for use on recurve bows only.
What you need to know: These high-end bow sights are extremely adjustable, ensuring accuracy in all conditions.
What you’ll love: Constructed from lightweight yet durable aluminum, these sights let you finely adjust for windage, elevation and distance with the simple turn of a knob. Left-handed or right-handed people can also use it.
What you should consider: These sights are quite expensive, putting them out of reach for many archers.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: These affordable bow sights feature three pins and an accent ring for low visibility.
What you’ll love: These starter sights are simple yet reliable, with a triple-fixed pin design for various distances. There’s also an integrated bubble level, so you know if you’re holding the bow straight.
What you should consider: These archery sights are constructed from plastic, making their durability questionable.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: This mid-tier model is a solid choice for intermediate archers ready for something sturdier.
What you’ll love: The triple blade-style pin design makes the pins easier to see in darkness, and it’s reversible for left-handed archers. You can finely adjust elevation and windage settings without the use of tools.
What you should consider: Some users were disappointed that the bow sight didn’t come with a built-in light or a solid aluminum construction as it was advertised.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Patrick Farmer writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
