Getting your hands on the best compound bow under 400 could be daunting if you don’t know what to look for. There are a lot of factors, such as let-off, adjustable draw lengths & weight, the height of the brace, etc., that decide whether you should pick a bow or not.
And in this very guide, we have put together a listicle of 6 compound bows that checks all the boxes.
Whether you are a beginner or expert looking for hunting or target shooting compound bows, this list has a suitable bow for everyone.
Without further ado, let’s take a look.
Table of Contents
- 6 Best Compound Bows under $400: Quick Summaries
- In-Depth Reviews of Best Compound Bows under $400
- 1. Best Overall: Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Compound Bow
- 2. Top Rated: Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult Compound Bow
- 3. Best for Beginners: PSE ARCHERY Uprising Compound Bow
- 4. Best for Fishing: Cajun Bowfishing Sucker Punch Bow
- 5. Best Versatile: Fred Bear Legit RTH Toxic Compound Bow
- 6. Best for Performance: Diamond Archery Edge 320 Compound Bow
- Significant FAQs
- The Final Verdict
6 Best Compound Bows under $400: Quick Summaries
You might not have the time to go through all the reviews, and we understand that! This is exactly why we have summarized every compound bow on the list so that you can have a quick look and pick that fits your needs.
1. Best Overall: Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Compound Bow
"Searching for the best compound bow under $400? Then this Diamond Archery Infinity edge pro is your best bet. Target shooting, hunting, archery competition, whatever it is, this very bow isn’t going to disappoint you."
2. Top Rated: Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult Compound Bow
"This cruiser G2 adult is one of the top-rated compound bows you’ll find in today's time. From beginner to pro, this is a bow suitable for everyone, and all credit goes to the adjustable length and weight."
3. Best for Beginners: PSE ARCHERY Uprising Compound Bow
"If you’ve never used a compound bow before, get started with this PSE Archery Uprising compound bow. From affordable price to easy adjustability, it offers everything a beginner archer needs."
4. Best for Fishing: Cajun Bowfishing Sucker Punch Bow
"With a 305 FPS IBO speed, this Cajun Bowfishing sucker punch places itself on a top bunch of best fishing bows. Not only speed, but this very bow is extremely stable and easy to shoot. Exactly what you need to hit the target with ease."
5. Best Versatile: Fred Bear Legit RTH Toxic Compound Bow
"This compound bow comes with a 10 - 70 lbs. adjustable draw weight and 14” to 30” draw length, allowing archers of all ages to find their sweet spot. Plus, 75% let-off gives you a smooth draw cycle, and 315 FPS IBO speed ensures you enjoy the hunt."
6. Best for Performance: Diamond Archery Edge 320 Compound Bow
"Those who were searching for a powerful compound bow, check out this Diamond archery edge 320. It comes with 85% effective let-off and offers 320 feet per second IBO speed, which is perfect for all kinds of shooting."
In-Depth Reviews of Best Compound Bows under $400
1. Best Overall: Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Compound Bow
- Draw Weight: 5 - 70 lbs.
- Draw Length: 13 – 31”
- Bow Weight: 3.3 lbs.
- Bow Length: 32”
- Max Speed: 310 FPS.
- Brace Height: 7”
- Let-off: 80%
- Axle - Axle: 31”
- Hand Orientation: Left or Right Hand
The Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro is a feature-packed compound bow that packs everything an archer needs. It is an all-rounder as you can use it for a variety of purposes.
Whether it is hunting or archery competition, this bow isn’t going to disappoint you at all if you have the right skill. However, let’s start with exactly what this bow has to offer.
Like any other high-end compound bows, this one also comes with adjustable draw weight and length.
The draw weight can be adjustable from 5-70 lbs. enabling archers of different ages to use it comfortably.
And 13-31 inches adjustable draw length range allows you to find a comfortable and suitable length that will help you to shoot better regardless of your body size. Doing the needed draw weights and draw length adjustments is also very easy in this bow.
All it requires is a simple turn of the limb bolt. There’s no need for an Allen key or bow press.
The max speed it can hit is 310 ft per second which is enough for both hunting and target shooting.
This bow has an axle-to-axle length of 31 inches, which makes it pretty stable. That being said, if you are a beginner, then hunting with it can be a little irritating due to the length. But that’s a trade you have to make between stability and maneuverability.
It has a brace height of 7 inches, making the bow forgiving. And you are going to love that if you are a beginner. Moreover, 80% let-off will allow you to use this bow effortlessly.
This bow is heavily constructed with a synchronized binary cam system. In case you don’t know, it is one of the most accurate cams that will deliver flawless nock travel. With the right skill, you won’t be missing a target with this very bow.
Apart from all the goods, this compound bow also has a few minor flaws. The first one is the arrow rest. Its quality isn’t up to mark. Hence, you might need to replace that.
And another thing that could have been improved is the bow grip. A little more comfortable grip would have been appreciated.
What Makes It Stand Out?
- Due to the 7-inch brace height, archers can hit the target faster
- 31-inch axle-to-axle length makes the bow pretty stable
- 310 fps shooting speed for hunting with great accuracy
- Highly adjustable for versatile shooting purposes
- 80% let-off makes using this bow easy for beginners
- Comes with top-notch cams
- Heavily constructed to withstand heavy abuse
What Could Be Better?
- The arrow rest quality is average
- The hand grip could have been better
2. Top Rated: Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult Compound Bow
- Draw Weight: 5-70 lbs.
- Draw Length: 12–30”
- Bow Weight: 3 lbs.
- Bow Length: 31”
- Max Speed: 315 FPS.
- Brace Height: 6.5”
- Let-off: 70%
- Axle - Axle: 30”
- Colors: 7 Indifferent colors
- Hand Orientation: Left/Right Hand
Bear Archery has a separate fan base for its unique and all-rounder compound bows. And this Cruzer G2 Compound Bow is no exception. Doesn’t matter what adventure comes your way. With this very bow, you are well equipped to deal with that.
The way this bow is designed, it is suitable for archers of all ages. The draw weight can be adjustable from 5 to 70 lbs. allowing you to set it according to your ability.
And draw length is also adjustable from 12-30 inches, enabling you to shoot at your comfort and body size. Talking about comfort, this bow has a 70% let-off. If you are someone who is not used to heavy pull weight, this one should do fine for you.
The axle-to-axle length is 30 inches, which makes the bow very stable. It is a feature that every beginner archer looks for as it allows them to shoot with good accuracy. Moreover, the 6.5 inches brace height makes the bow decently forgiving.
What makes it the best option for hunting is the 315 FPS speed. Plus, you are getting 70% let-off and adjustable draw weight. On top of that, this bow weighs only 3 lbs. which is a big plus, as you’ll be able to maneuver it easily.
Moreover, it has an advanced grip design, which improves accuracy by eliminating hand torque. Plus, RockStops offset string suppressor reduces vibrations and noise, making it easier for you to hit the bull's eye.
This bow is ready to be fired right out of the box. The package includes a whisker biscuit, four-pin sight, 5 arrow quiver, sling, and a stabilizer.
Making all the needed adjustments is a breeze. An Allen wrench should be enough to make all the adjustments, no need for a bow press.
Good Sides We Found
- Makes hunting easy with a 315 fps shooting speed
- Comes with adjustable draw weight and length
- 30-inches axle to axle length makes the bow stable
- Advanced grip technology eliminates hand torque
- Offset string suppressor eliminates noise and vibration
- Low bow weight makes it easy to deal with for beginners
- 70% let-off makes firing easy
Drawbacks We Found
- Low-quality blinds
- Sometimes the Peep sights slip off at maximum length
3. Best for Beginners: PSE ARCHERY Uprising Compound Bow
- Draw Weight: 15-70 lbs.
- Draw Length: 14–30”
- Bow Weight: 3.2 lbs.
- Bow Length: 31”
- Max Speed: 310 FPS
- Brace Height: 6 ⅝”
- Let-off: 70%
- Axle - Axle: 30”
- Hand Orientation: Left/Right
This one on the list is a suitable compound bow for beginners, the PSE Archery uprising bow. That being said, it is also packed with features that allow professionals to find good use of it as well. Target shooting and serious hunting, this bow is made to tackle both.
With a 15-70 lbs. adjustable draw weight and 14-30 inches draw length, this bow enables beginners to fire the arrow according to their comfort. Low draw weight and length will surely be easy for beginners. And as they grow, this bow allows them to set the bar high.
Then it offers 70% let-off, which is the feature that all beginner archers need. Even though higher let-off interferes with accuracy, it is still a great feature that will help beginners stay motivated.
This bow weighs around 3.2 lbs., not a heavy bow at all, another reason why it is suitable for beginners. Plus, the bow length is 31 inches, which shouldn’t be a problem for target shooting. But in hunting, it can be a little irritating as the maneuverability will be compromised.
A good grip allows the archer to hold the bow better, and it eliminates hand torque as well as improves accuracy. The string can be a little noisy, but that shouldn’t be a problem for beginners. Adjusting the bow is pretty simple; an Allen key would do the work.
Unfortunately, the package doesn’t include an Allen key, and it needs to be purchased separately. But there are a few essential items that the package includes, which are an arrow quiver, arrow rest, stabilizer, and 3-pin peep sight.
The manufacturer has used high-grade material in the construction, which makes the bow withstand abuses without any issue. With proper maintenance, it can last for years.
Moreover, it is available in 3 different colors: black, muddy girl, and Oak country. Hence, pick the one you like.
What We Liked
- 310 fps speed makes it suitable for hunting
- Very stable and decently forgiving bow
- Adjustable draw length and weight
- A comfortable hand grip enhances accuracy
- It can be used for both target shooting and hunting
- Lightweight and easy to carry
What We Didn't Like
- Comes with Poor quality arrow rest
- Peak draw weight could be higher
4. Best for Fishing: Cajun Bowfishing Sucker Punch Bow
- Draw Weight: 50 lbs.
- Draw Length: 17–31”
- Bow Weight: 3.3 lbs.
- Bow Length: 33”
- Max Speed: 305 FPS.
- Brace Height: 7.25”
- Let-off: 60%
- Axle - Axle: 32.25”
- Hand Orientation: Right Hand
If you are looking for Bowfishing, then you don’t want to miss out on this Cajun Bowfishing sucker punch. Since this is a bit heavier and has a fixed draw weight, we recommend this bow for advanced shooters.
Unlike most of today’s bows, this one comes with a fixed peak draw weight which is 50 lbs. However, the draw length is adjustable from 17 to 31 inches. The draw weight is the only thing in this bow that makes it less suitable for beginners.
This bow weighs around 3.3 lbs. which is a decent weight; not heavy nor light. And the axle-to-axle length is 32.25 inches, which is also a perfect length for bow fishing. Moreover, this length makes this bow extremely stable.
It has a brace height of 7.25 inches, which makes the bow forgiving and helps you hit the target faster with precision.
When it comes down to hunting, one thing that plays a major role is the IBO speed. And this bow here delivers 305 fps shooting speed, making it a perfect pick for bow fishing. That’s not all; the package includes a Cajun winch pro reel, 2 red fiberglass piranha arrows, and a fishing biscuit arrow rest.
Positive Sides We Found
- Adjustable draw length
- 60% let-off makes it moderately easy to use
- The IBO speed makes it perfect for fishing
- Brace height allows you to shoot with accuracy
- 32.25 axle length makes the draw cycle stable and smooth
Negative Sides We Found
- Fixed 50 lbs. draw weight
- Not appropriate for left handed bow-fisher
5. Best Versatile: Fred Bear Legit RTH Toxic Compound Bow
- Draw Weight: 10-70 lbs.
- Draw Length: 14–30”
- Bow Weight: 3.6 lbs.
- Bow Length: 31”
- Max Speed: 315 FPS.
- Brace Height: 6”
- Let-off: 75%
- Axle - Axle:30”
- Hand Orientation: Left/Right
This is another versatile compound bow from mighty Bear archery. This Legit RTH toxic is perfect for archers of all skill levels and ages. Young or adult, beginner or professional, this very compound bow is useful for everyone.
The draw length can be adjustable from 14 to 30 inches allowing archers of different skills and ages to find their sweet spot. The same goes with the draw weight as well; it comes with a draw weight that can be adjusted from 10 - 70 lbs.
Adjusting the draw weight and length doesn’t require a bow press; an Allen key will be enough to get it done.
If you’ve any knowledge of compound bows, you know that 70 lbs. draw weight isn’t a joke. It is a thing for professionals. But thanks to the adjustability, beginner and young archers can set their draw weight to as low as 10 lbs.
This bow has a length of 31inches which makes it a very stable model. And 6 inches brace height slightly increases the accuracy. Moreover, this compound bow also offers a 75% let-off, enabling young and beginner archers to shoot effortlessly.
That being said, this bow is slightly heavier for young archers as it weighs around 3.6 lbs. Plus, the bow length can also be an issue for youngers. However, with a few days of constant practice, they should get used to it.
Upsides
- Adjustable draw weight makes it perfect for everyone
- 75% let-off allows young archers to shoot with ease
- The 30” axle-to-axle length makes the bow stable
- Brace height helps improve accuracy
- Shooting speed is ideal for hunting
- Heavily constructed to withstand heavy abuse
- Multiple Color Options Ensures Versatility
Downsides
- Slightly heavy for young archers
- Firing makes noise
6. Best for Performance: Diamond Archery Edge 320 Compound Bow
- Draw Weight: 7 - 70 lbs.
- Draw Length: 15-31”
- Bow Weight: 3.6 lbs.
- Bow Length: 32”
- Max Speed: 320 FPS.
- Brace Height: 7.25”
- Let-off: 85%
- Axle - Axle:32”
- Hand Orientation: Left and Right
Need a bow that can offer incredible speed? Well, we got the Diamon Archery Edge 320 compound bow for you. It delivers a whopping 320 FPS speed along with an 85% effective let-off.
If you are a hunting guy, you are going to like this bad boy. But having that said, it can also be useful for archery target practice. Another impressive thing about this bow is that it is suitable for both beginner and professional archers.
This compound bow features a well-synchronized binary cam system that promises incredible nock travel to maximize accuracy.
It comes with 7-70 lbs. draw weight, and 15-31 inches draw length. With this bow, you get an EZ to adjust the pocket system, which makes tuning the bow easy.
However, even though the adjustability makes it a suitable bow for archers of all ages but 3.6 lbs. weight might be hard for young ones to handle.
Moving on!
With this bow, you also get an 85% effective let-off that makes shooting a breeze. Additionally, 7.25 inches brace height makes sure you hit the target faster.
With a 32” axle-to-axle length, this bow is also pretty stable. However, the weight and length might be a little problem when you are out there in the woods. But you'll have to sacrifice that for the speed and ease of use.
Additionally, the bow is available in three different colors, black, purple blaze, and mossy oak.
Good Sides
- A compound bow that suitable for both beginners and pros'
- It offers a 320 FPS shooting speed
- A comfortable hand grip makes shooting easy
- 7.25 inches brace height improves accuracy
- The long length of the bow adds stability
- Shooting is fun since it offers 85% effective let-off
Drawbacks
- Bow length might be a problem while hunting
- The weight isn’t suitable for young archers
Significant FAQs
1. Is 300 fps good for a compound bow?
Sure it is! 300 fps IBO speed is good enough for hunting. However, there are compound bows that offer higher speeds than that.
2. How much does a good compound bow cost?
3. What length compound bow do I need?
Well, that depends on you. To find your ideal length, spread your hand up and form a T shape.
You’ll need someone to measure the arm span from the tip of the middle finger to the shoulder joint. Then divide that number by 2. The result is the ideal length for you.
4. What is the fastest arrow speed?
Compound bows can deliver arrows at a 300-350 FPS speed, which is the fastest compared to other types of bows.
The Final Verdict
As long as you make sure that the bow you pick has everything you’ll need, you shouldn't stress about anything else.
Whatever it is, if you have gone through the list, then you definitely got your hands on the best compound bow under 400. And if you didn’t, don’t forget to let us know why!
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