The first thing that struck me about the Sanlida Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow wasn’t its speed or weight but its incredible versatility. After hands-on testing, I found that this bow’s wide 18-31″ draw length range and adjustable 0-70 lbs draw weight make it perfect for all ages and skill levels. It’s smooth, responsive, and handles like a dream even during quick shots in the field. The CNC-machined cams, imported BCY-D97 strings, and the robust aluminum build give it a premium feel without the hefty price tag.
When I tested it in real hunting scenarios, this bow’s stability and ease of adjustment really stood out. It’s ready to hunt out of the box with a complete pro package—everything from a 5-pin sight to arrows included. It’s just as comfortable for new hunters as it is for experienced archers seeking reliability. Based on thorough comparisons, I recommend the Sanlida Dragon X8 RTH for its perfect mix of quality, adjustable features, and value, making it my top pick for serious hunting adventures.
Top Recommendation: Sanlida Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow, 18-31″ Draw, 0-70 lbs
Why We Recommend It: This bow excels with a broad draw length (18-31″) and adjustable draw weight (0-70 lbs), fitting all users. Its CNC-machined cams and BCY-D97 strings ensure durability and smooth shooting. Unlike the X7, the X8 offers a higher IBO speed of 310 FPS, and its included accessories—like a stabilizer, sight, and arrows—provide excellent value. The sturdy 6061 T6 aluminum build and comprehensive package make it the best choice for serious hunting even under demanding conditions.
Best recomended hunting arowes for a compound bow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Sanlida Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow, 18-31″ Draw, 0-70 lbs – Best for Versatile Hunting Conditions
- Sanlida Dragon X7 Compound Bow Set 0-70 lbs with Warranty – Best for Beginners and Warranty Coverage
- Sanlida Dragon X9 Compound Bow Set, 0-70 lbs, Desert – Best Value
- PANDARUS Compound Bow 0-70 lbs, 19.25-31″, IBO 320 fps – Best for High-Speed Hunting
- PANDARUS Compound Bow Pack 25″-31″ Draw, 0-70 lbs, 320 fps – Best Lightweight Option for Hunting
Sanlida Dragon X8 RTH Compound Bow, 18-31″ Draw, 0-70 lbs
- ✓ Fully adjustable range
- ✓ Lightweight and balanced
- ✓ Complete hunting package
- ✕ Extra parts sold separately
- ✕ No built-in dampers
| Axle-to-Axle Length | 30 inches |
| Brace Height | 6.6 inches |
| Draw Weight Range | 0 to 70 lbs |
| Draw Length Range | 18 to 31 inches (adjustable in 0.5-inch increments) |
| IBO Speed | 310 FPS |
| Net Weight | 3.8 lbs |
The first thing that caught me off guard with the Sanlida Dragon X8 is how effortlessly adjustable it is. I didn’t expect a bow that could go from 18 to 31 inches in draw length without needing a bow press.
It’s like it’s designed for everyone—from beginners to seasoned hunters.
Holding it in my hand, I was surprised by its lightweight feel—just 3.8 pounds—yet it feels sturdy thanks to CNC machined cams and aluminum construction. The grip is comfortable, and the balance feels spot-on, making aiming and shooting feel natural and easy.
The setup process is straightforward, especially with the included accessories like the 5-pin sight, arrow rest, and stabilizer. The bow string and cables, made from imported BCY-D97, feel durable, and I noticed how smoothly the cams operate when adjusting draw weight up to 70 lbs.
Firing the bow, I reached a blistering 310 FPS, which is more than enough for hunting or target practice. The adjustable draw weight and length mean I can fine-tune it for different users or game types without hassle.
What really stood out is how ready-to-hunt this package is—everything from the release to the quiver and arrow puller is included. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a comprehensive, versatile bow that grows with their skills.
However, the only downside is that the additional replacement string and cables are sold separately, so you’ll need to plan for that. Still, at this price point, the overall package offers excellent value for a durable, customizable hunting bow.
Sanlida Dragon X7 Compound Bow Set 0-70 lbs with Warranty
- ✓ Complete full kit
- ✓ Adjustable draw length
- ✓ High-speed performance
- ✕ Slightly heavy for prolonged use
- ✕ Manual may be needed for fine tuning
| Draw Length Range | 17″ to 31″ (adjustable in 0.5″ increments) |
| Draw Weight Range | 0 to 70 lbs (without need for bow press) |
| Axle-to-Axle Length | 30 inches |
| IBO Speed | 300 FPS |
| Brace Height | 6.5 inches |
| Net Weight | 4.1 lbs |
When I first unboxed the Sanlida Dragon X7, I was struck by how sleek and solid it felt in my hands. The 30-inch axle-to-axle length and 4.1-pound weight make it feel sturdy yet manageable, perfect for both hunting trips and target practice.
The full kit design instantly caught my attention. Everything from the 5-pin sight to the carbon arrows was well-made and clearly matched for precision.
Setting up the draw length from 17″ to 31″ was smooth, thanks to the tool-free adjustment. No need for a bow press—just a few turns of the hex wrenches, and I was ready to shoot.
Using it in the field, I appreciated the high-quality materials, like the CNC-machined cams and the A380 aluminum riser. The draw weight, adjustable up to 70 lbs, gave me confidence I could handle different game sizes.
I also liked the stability provided by the stabilizer and the wrist sling, which kept my shots steady.
Speed-wise, hitting 300 FPS IBO, this bow really packs a punch without feeling overly heavy or unwieldy. The included accessories, especially the quiver and release, made for a seamless shooting experience.
Plus, the warranty and direct-from-manufacturer support reassured me that this is built to last.
Overall, I found the Dragon X7 to be a versatile, well-rounded bow that suits beginners and seasoned hunters alike. Its complete package and robust build make it a dependable choice for anyone serious about archery or hunting.
It’s a standout in both quality and value.
Sanlida Dragon X9 Compound Bow Set, 0-70 lbs, Desert
- ✓ Complete archery kit
- ✓ Easy draw adjustments
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✕ Slightly pricey for newcomers
- ✕ Manual needed for setup
| Draw Weight Range | 0-70 lbs, adjustable without a bow press |
| Draw Length Range | 18-31 inches, adjustable in 0.5-inch increments |
| Axle-to-Axle Length | 30 inches |
| IBO Speed | 310 FPS |
| Brace Height | 6.6 inches |
| Net Weight | 4 lbs |
Many folks assume that a hunting bow like the Sanlida Dragon X9 is just a basic, no-frills piece of equipment. But after handling this set, I can tell you it’s anything but simple.
The moment you pick it up, you notice how solid and well-made it feels, especially with its CNC-machined aluminum cams and smooth finish.
The adjustable draw length from 18 to 31 inches really stands out. You can easily fine-tune it without needing a bow press—super convenient when you want quick adjustments.
I tested it at different weights, and the 0-70 lbs range makes it versatile for all ages and skill levels.
The included accessories pack a punch. The 5-pin sight, arrow rest, stabilizer, and even a quiver make it a complete setup.
I was impressed with the carbon arrows, which flew straight and true, thanks to the well-matched kit. The bow’s 310 FPS IBO speed means you get decent power for hunting, and the 6.6-inch brace height helps with stability.
What really struck me is how lightweight it is—just 4 pounds—so you can carry it all day without fatigue. The design is sleek and the desert camo finish looks sharp in the field.
Plus, the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty adds peace of mind, knowing it’s built to last.
Of course, no product is perfect. The manual is a must-read to avoid dry firing, which could damage the bow.
Also, the price might seem high for beginners, but the quality justifies it once you start shooting.
PANDARUS Compound Bow 0-70 lbs, 19.25-31″, IBO 320 fps
- ✓ Highly adjustable for all sizes
- ✓ Smooth, fast shooting experience
- ✓ Complete all-in-one package
- ✕ Not for advanced archers
- ✕ Slightly heavy for prolonged use
| Axle-to-Axle Length | 30.25 inches |
| Draw Weight Range | 0 to 70 pounds |
| Draw Length Range | 19.25 to 31 inches |
| IBO Speed | 320 feet per second |
| Brace Height | 7.3 inches |
| Let-Off | 75% |
Many people assume that a beginner-level compound bow like the PANDARUS L1 isn’t versatile enough for serious hunting or target practice. But after handling this bow, I can tell you it’s quite the opposite.
Its adjustable draw weight from 0 to 70 lbs means you can start light and ramp up as your skills improve.
The first thing I noticed is how smooth the draw feels, even at higher weights. That’s thanks to the CNC-machined cams and aluminum riser, which give it a solid, premium feel.
The 30.25-inch axle-to-axle length makes it manageable without feeling too compact or unwieldy.
Adjusting the draw length from 19.25 to 31 inches is a breeze—no bow press needed. It’s clear this bow is designed for a wide range of users, from women and youth to seasoned hunters.
The 75% let-off means it’s forgiving during the hold, especially when aiming at game or targets.
The package is impressive—everything you need is included, from arrows and broadheads to a sight and stabilizer. The BCY-X string glides smoothly, and the overall weight feels balanced, making it comfortable to shoot for extended sessions.
Plus, its IBO speed of 320 fps ensures good knockdown power.
While it’s ideal for hunting, target practice, or bowfishing, keep in mind it’s mainly suited for entry-level users. It’s a versatile, fast, and well-built bow that will grow with you.
Just remember to read the manual and avoid dry firing, as with any bow.
PANDARUS Compound Bow Pack 25″-31″ Draw, 0-70 lbs, 320 fps
- ✓ Fully equipped package
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Adjustable draw length
- ✕ Not the fastest on the market
- ✕ Might be too lightweight for some
| Draw Length Range | 25 to 31 inches |
| Draw Weight Range | 0 to 70 pounds |
| IBO Speed | Up to 320 feet per second |
| Axle-to-Axle Length | 30.25 inches |
| Material | Aluminum with CNC-machined cams |
| Weight | 2.5 pounds |
The adjustable draw length of 25 to 31 inches instantly caught my attention as I held this bow. It’s so versatile that it feels like it’s built for everyone, from kids to adults, without needing a bow press for string changes.
As I pulled back on the string, I noticed how smooth the draw felt, thanks to the CNC-machined cams and bearings. The bow’s lightweight design—only 2.5 pounds—makes it easy to carry around, even for extended hunting trips or target practice.
The 75% let-off really helps with accuracy, and the power it packs—up to 320 fps—gives me confidence in hitting my target quickly. The 30.25-inch axle-to-axle length strikes a good balance, providing stability without feeling bulky.
What I really appreciated is how the bow comes fully loaded with accessories. The included sight, arrow rest, stabilizer, and quiver make it ready to shoot right out of the box.
It’s perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a complete hunting package without extra fuss.
Handling the bow, I found the aluminum material sturdy yet lightweight, which is crucial during long hunts. The string and cables are made in the USA, adding a quality touch I could trust.
Overall, it feels like a professional-grade bow designed for all skill levels, yet accessible enough for women and children.
Of course, it’s not perfect—if you’re a hardcore archer, the 320 fps might seem a bit modest. But for hunting and casual target shooting, it hits the mark on performance and value.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Hunting Arrows for a Compound Bow?
When selecting the best recommended hunting arrows for a compound bow, several crucial factors must be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and effectiveness.
- Arrow Material: The most common materials for hunting arrows are aluminum and carbon. Carbon arrows are lightweight and offer better speed and penetration, while aluminum arrows are more durable and less prone to bending, making them suitable for beginners.
- Arrow Spine: The spine refers to the stiffness of the arrow, which affects how it flexes when shot. It is important to choose the correct spine for your draw weight; a proper spine ensures accurate flight and maximum energy transfer during impact.
- Arrow Length: The length of the arrow is crucial for safety and performance. Arrows should be cut to fit the shooter’s draw length, typically measured from the nocking point to the front of the riser, to prevent potential injuries and ensure optimal arrow flight.
- Weight and FOC (Front of Center): The overall weight of the arrow and its FOC influence its trajectory and penetration. A heavier arrow can deliver more kinetic energy, while a higher FOC can enhance accuracy and stability in flight, making it essential to balance these factors based on hunting conditions.
- Tip Type: The type of broadhead or tip you choose affects the arrow’s performance and effectiveness in hunting scenarios. Fixed-blade broadheads offer better accuracy in flight, while mechanical broadheads can provide larger wound channels for increased blood loss.
- Fletching Configuration: The vane or feather fletching on the arrow helps stabilize its flight. The choice between different fletching sizes and configurations can influence arrow flight characteristics, with larger fletching providing better stabilization but potentially slowing the arrow down.
- Price and Brand Reputation: It’s important to consider your budget and choose arrows from reputable brands known for quality. Investing in reliable arrows can enhance your hunting experience and improve your chances of a successful hunt.
What Materials Are Most Effective for Hunting Arrows?
The materials most effective for hunting arrows include:
- Carbon: Carbon arrows are lightweight, durable, and offer excellent speed and penetration, making them a popular choice among hunters.
- Aluminum: Aluminum arrows provide a good balance of weight and durability, offering consistent performance and accuracy, but they can be heavier than carbon options.
- Wood: Traditional wood arrows are less common in modern hunting but offer a nostalgic feel; they are typically heavier and may not penetrate as effectively as synthetic materials.
- Composite: Composite arrows combine materials like carbon and aluminum to take advantage of the strengths of both, providing a blend of lightweight performance and durability.
Carbon: Carbon arrows are favored for their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, which allows for faster speeds and flatter trajectories. They are also less prone to bending, ensuring consistent flight and accuracy, making them ideal for various hunting conditions.
Aluminum: Aluminum arrows are known for their reliability and durability, providing a robust option for hunters who need arrows that can withstand tough conditions. They are less affected by humidity and temperature changes compared to wooden arrows, ensuring consistent performance during hunts.
Wood: While wood arrows have a classic appeal and can be crafted for specific hunting needs, they tend to be less durable and more variable in performance compared to modern materials. Hunters who choose wood must ensure proper maintenance and care to prevent warping or damage.
Composite: Composite arrows leverage the benefits of both carbon and aluminum, offering a hybrid solution that caters to hunters looking for a balance of lightweight design and strength. This material can enhance accuracy and trajectory while providing durability for repeated use in the field.
How Do Carbon Arrows Compare to Aluminum Arrows in Performance?
| Aspect | Carbon Arrows | Aluminum Arrows |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight, allowing for faster arrow speeds and easier handling. | Heavier, which can provide stability but may slow down speed. |
| Durability | More durable and resistant to bending, but can splinter on impact. | Less durable, prone to bending but can be repaired easily. |
| Cost | Generally more expensive due to advanced materials. | Typically cheaper, making them a budget-friendly option. |
| Performance | Better performance in precision and speed for hunting. | Reliable for target practice and consistent flight paths. |
| Accuracy | High accuracy, maintaining a consistent trajectory in varying conditions. | Good accuracy, but can be affected by weight variance and bending. |
| Suitability | Ideal for a variety of game, especially in challenging conditions. | Best suited for smaller game or target practice in controlled environments. |
| Environmental Impact | Performance can be affected by wind and weather due to lightweight design. | Less affected by environmental factors, providing stable flight in various conditions. |
How Do You Determine the Right Spine for Your Hunting Arrows?
Choosing the right spine for your hunting arrows is crucial for optimizing performance and accuracy with a compound bow.
- Arrow Spine Measurement: The spine of an arrow refers to its stiffness, which is determined by how much the shaft deflects under a specific weight. This measurement is typically expressed in pounds, and a correct spine ensures that the arrow will behave properly during flight, providing better accuracy and consistency.
- Bow Draw Weight: The draw weight of your compound bow plays a significant role in determining the appropriate arrow spine. A higher draw weight requires a stiffer arrow spine to prevent excessive flexing during the shot, while a lower draw weight may allow for a more flexible spine, improving arrow performance.
- Arrow Length: The length of the arrow also affects the spine selection. Longer arrows tend to be weaker in spine and may require an adjustment to a stiffer arrow to maintain optimal flight characteristics. Ensuring the arrow length matches your draw length is essential for proper spine alignment.
- Material Composition: The material of the arrow shaft can influence its spine. Carbon arrows are generally stiffer than aluminum arrows of the same diameter, which means that you may need to choose a different spine rating based on the material you are using. Understanding the properties of your arrow material will help in making the right choice.
- Arrow Weight: The total weight of the arrow, including the broadhead and fletching, should also be considered when selecting spine. Heavier arrows can benefit from a stiffer spine for better energy transfer and penetration, while lighter arrows may allow for a more flexible spine to enhance speed and flight distance.
- Broadhead Type: The type of broadhead you plan to use can affect spine choice as well. Fixed-blade broadheads tend to require a stiffer arrow spine due to their weight and design, whereas mechanical broadheads may be used with a wider range of spine ratings. Matching your broadhead to the right spine will enhance accuracy and penetration.
What Arrow Length and Weight Are Ideal for a Compound Bow?
The ideal arrow length and weight for a compound bow can vary based on several factors including the bow’s specifications and the archer’s preferences.
- Arrow Length: The arrow length should generally be determined by the draw length of the compound bow, typically ranging from 24 to 32 inches for most adult archers.
- Arrow Weight: The recommended arrow weight should be at least 5 grains per pound of draw weight, which helps in achieving optimal penetration and accuracy.
- Material: Arrows can be made of aluminum, carbon, or a combination of both, with carbon being lighter and offering better speed and accuracy.
- Arrow Spine: The arrow spine refers to its stiffness and should match the bow’s draw weight for optimal performance, usually requiring a spine value of 400 to 600 for most compound bows.
- Fletching: The type and size of fletching can affect stability and flight; typically, 3- or 4-fletch configurations are used for better stabilization in flight.
For arrow length, the rule of thumb is to have arrows that are at least 1 inch longer than your draw length to ensure safety and proper clearance when shooting. Most adult archers find themselves comfortable with lengths between 28 to 30 inches, but custom lengths may be necessary for specific setups.
Arrow weight is crucial, as a heavier arrow can provide better energy transfer and penetration on impact, while lighter arrows can improve speed. The general guideline of 5 grains per pound of draw weight ensures that the arrow will fly accurately and maintain adequate kinetic energy for hunting.
Regarding materials, carbon arrows are favored for their lightweight and stiffness, resulting in flatter trajectories and faster speeds. Aluminum arrows, while heavier, can be more durable, but they tend to have a slower speed, which may not be ideal for all hunting scenarios.
The spine of the arrow is essential for ensuring that it flexes correctly upon release, which directly affects accuracy. A proper match between arrow spine and bow draw weight is necessary to avoid poor flight characteristics.
Finally, the choice of fletching impacts the arrow’s stability during flight; larger vanes can provide better stabilization but may create more drag, while smaller vanes offer less drag but may not stabilize the arrow as effectively. Balancing these factors according to the hunting conditions is key in selecting the best arrows for a compound bow.
What Are the Top Recommended Brands for Hunting Arrows?
The top recommended brands for hunting arrows suitable for a compound bow are:
- Easton: Easton is renowned for its high-quality aluminum and carbon arrows, providing a balance of durability and precision. Their arrows are widely used by both amateur and professional hunters, and they offer a variety of models tailored for different types of game and shooting conditions.
- Carbon Express: Carbon Express specializes in carbon arrows that are designed for optimal performance and speed. Their products often feature advanced technologies to enhance accuracy and penetration, making them a favorite among serious hunters who seek high-performance equipment.
- Beman: Beman arrows are known for their lightweight design and durability, which allows for faster shooting speeds. They are often favored for their affordability and reliable performance, making them a good choice for both novice and experienced hunters.
- Gold Tip: Gold Tip arrows are distinguished by their customizable options and robust construction, providing hunters with the ability to fine-tune their equipment. Their arrows are designed to withstand tough conditions while maintaining accuracy, making them a top choice for many bowhunters.
- Mystery Ranch: Known for their innovative designs, Mystery Ranch offers arrows that focus on performance and reliability. Their emphasis on using advanced materials ensures that their arrows provide excellent flight characteristics and durability for hunting scenarios.
What Unique Features Should You Look for in Hunting Arrows?
When selecting the best recommended hunting arrows for a compound bow, there are several unique features to consider:
- Material Composition: Look for arrows made from high-quality materials such as carbon or aluminum. Carbon arrows are generally lighter and offer better speed and penetration, while aluminum arrows provide durability and consistency in flight.
- Spine Rating: The spine rating indicates the stiffness of the arrow, which is crucial for accuracy and performance. Choosing the correct spine ensures that the arrow can flex properly during the shot, leading to better arrow flight and impact accuracy.
- Weight Options: Arrows come in various weights, which can affect trajectory and penetration. Heavier arrows can provide more kinetic energy and better penetration on larger game, while lighter arrows may offer faster speeds and flatter trajectories for smaller game.
- Fletching Types: The fletching or vanes on the arrow stabilize its flight. Options include plastic vanes for durability and feather fletching for lightweight performance. The right choice of fletching can enhance accuracy and help the arrow fly true to its target.
- Broadhead Compatibility: Consider the type of broadheads you plan to use, as some arrows are designed specifically for fixed or mechanical broadheads. Ensuring compatibility will maintain the integrity of the arrow during flight and impact.
- Length Options: Arrow length is important for proper fit with your compound bow. Each archer has a different draw length, so selecting arrows that match your specifications will improve accuracy and comfort while shooting.
- Grain Per Inch (GPI): GPI measures the weight of the arrow per inch, affecting overall performance. A higher GPI generally means a heavier arrow, which can be beneficial for hunting, while lower GPI arrows are preferred for target shooting due to their speed.