If you are new to archery, choosing a bow might seem like an impossible task. Any veteran shooter knows that not every bow is suitable for novice archers. It is easy for a beginner to be overwhelmed by all the bow options available on the market today.
However, once you know what to look for, finding the best beginner bow isn’t as difficult as you might think.
This practical, easy-to-use guide is designed to help you cut through the confusion and make an informed decision so you can get out on the range and enjoy this fabulous sport.
Top 10 Beginner Bows Ultimate Table
| Picture | Name | Draw Length | Price | Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Genesis Original Bow | Adjustable 15” to 30” | $$$ | 4.7 |
 | 2. Barnett Outdoors Lil Banshee Jr. Compound Youth Archery Set | Adjustable 18” to 22” | $ | 4.5 |
 | 3. Leader Accessories Compound Bow 30-55lbs 19" - 29" Archery Hunting Equipment | Adjustable 19” to 29” | $$$ | 4.3 |
 | 4. Diamond Atomic Package Youth Model RH Blue | Adjustable 21” to 24” | $$$$ | 4.3 |
 | 5. Barnett Vortex 45-Pounds Youth Archery Bow (Camo) | Adjustable 22” to 27” | $$$ | 4.2 |
 | 6. Bear Archery Brave Bow Set | Adjustable 13.5” to 19” | $$ | 4.0 |
 | 7. Compound Bow FBA service Compound Bow Package | Adjustable 19” to 30” | $$$$ | 4.0 |
 | 8. Barnett Tomcat Junior Archery Set, 20-22-Inch, Right Hand Draw | Adjustable 20” to 22” | $$ | 3.9 |
 | 9. Crosman Youth Wild Horn Compound Bow | Adjustable 17” to 26” | $$ | 3.5 |
 | 10. PSE Youth Heritage Compound Bow Set, Black, 12-29-Pound | Adjustable 16.5” to 26” | $$ | 3.5 |
Things to Consider When Choosing a Beginner Bow
There are many options to consider when choosing the best beginner bow to suit your personal shooting needs. Here are some important things to look at before you make your final choice.
Draw Length
Beginners can become easily frustrated when their bows do not fit their body type. Archery, when done properly, utilizes the whole body. Therefore, choosing a bow with an appropriate draw length is very important.
The ideal draw length depends on the size of the individual shooter. The easiest way to measure draw length is by using a person’s wingspan. Stand up straight and spread your arms out to each side of the body forming a T. Using a tape measure, measure the distance between the tip of each middle finger. Divide that number by 2.5 to determine your draw length.
If purchasing a beginner bow for a child who is still growing, consider a bow with an adjustable draw length. That way the bow can grow with the child.
Draw Weight
With beginners, a lighter draw weight is a sensible choice. If the draw weight is too heavy, the archer will tire more quickly and not get as much enjoyment out of shooting. Also, if the archer must struggle to draw, it can reinforce improper biomechanical form. For this reason, it is usually best to start light and let the archer build up strength, increasing draw weight as it becomes practical.
Bow Length
Bow length is different from draw length. While draw length refers to the length of the archers reach at full draw, bow length refers to the size of the bow from top to bottom. It is best to choose the length of the bow based on the height of the shooter. Shooting a bow that is too long could feel awkward and unstable. Most modern compound bows measure 30 to 32 inches from axle to axle.
Shorter archers – especially children and smaller women – may want to get a feel for the appropriate bow length by handling several different models. If this isn’t possible or practical, consider a bow designed specifically for youth or women shooters.
Top 3 Best Beginner Bow Reviews
1. Genesis Original Bow
Genesis has the best bow for beginners no matter their size, age, or athletic ability. Their bows are designed to eliminate let-off that requires specific draw length requirements. You’ll never have to worry about reinforcing bad habits due to an ill-fitting bow because the Genesis Original allows the bow to adapt to the shooter.
The draw weight comes standard at 20 pounds but can be turned down as low as 10 pounds for the youngest archers. This lightweight bow comes set up and ready-to-shoot straight out of the box, no fine tuning necessary. If you want to have fun and build shooting confidence, this is the best beginner bow for the job.
2. Barnett Lil Banshee Jr. Archery Set
An ideal compound bow for introducing archery basics to children, the Barnett Outdoors Lil Banshee Jr. comes in Realtree pattern cam, sleek black, or stylish pink. It is affordable, yet rugged enough to stand up to the hard use children can sometimes dish out.
The set comes ready to shoot and includes two arrows, finger rollers, an adjustable single pin sight, and packaging that doubles as a carrying case. And with a soft touch, non-slip ambidextrous grip, this bow will fit even the smallest hands.
While this bow is too small for teens, women, and older children, it is a smart choice for young shooters just starting out. Use this one to teach good form and build confidence in archers younger than 10.
3. Leader Accessories Compound Bow 30-55lbs
With a draw weight that can be adjusted from 30 to 55 pounds and a draw length that adjusts from 19 inches to 29 inches, this is a smart choice for the archer who hasn’t finished growing. This one bow can be customized again and again to fit the archer’s changing body. All adjustments can be easily made with the included Allen wrench. No bow press required.
The solid construction and set-up versatility make this Leader bow perfect for young bow hunter or smaller framed shooter. It also comes with everything you need to start shooting immediately: fiber optic sight, drop away arrow rest, release aid, D string loop, peep sight, wax, and two 30″ aluminum arrows. You won’t find a better-quality bow with this many accessories at this price point. It just isn’t possible.
