The best compound bow sight is the Trophy Ridge React H4. It is a fixed pin sight that uses four pins. You only need to calibrate the first two pins, and the rest will follow. It is also not too expensive.
In this article, I will give you 6 of the best bow sights for your compound bow. If you are a beginner when it comes to bow hunting or using bow sights, then you do not need to worry.
I will share with you everything you need to know, from why you need a bow sight, the types of bow sights, and also a guide at the end that will show you the ropes.
It does not need to be that hard, as I have helped many people choose the right gear and set up for their bow. I also have a lot of experience in choosing bow hunting gear, which will come in handy. My friends always take me along when they are bow shopping.
Bow Sight Review
(Best Overall) Trophy Ridge React H4
(Best Single Pin) Trophy Ridge Pursuit
(Best Reticle Sight) TRUGLO Range Rover Pro
(Best Digital Bow Sight) Garmin Xero A1
(Best Non-Digital Rangefinder Sight) IQ Define Bowsight
Are you ready to receive some golden nuggets?
Let’s go.
Why You Need a Sight For Your Bow
In the past, our ancestors had to adapt and overcome every obstacle to survive. One of those obstacles was hunting animals with tools that include the hunting bow. Today we use bowhunting more for recreational use instead of survival.
Our ancestors had the time and patience to perfect the art of bowhunting, and they did not have all of the fancy equipment such as bow sights to help with their aiming. They had to rely on their instinct and experience to land the perfect shot.
Can you master bowhunting without the use of a bow sight? Of course, you can, but then you need to ask yourself the following questions. Do you have the time to shoot hundreds of arrows at a target to train your eye and master your bow at several distance points?
Do you have a full-time job? You cannot spend a lifetime learning where the arrow will land. Instead of spending hundreds of hours training your eye, you can spend only 30 minutes to an hour sighting in your bow. You can do this with the help of a bow sight.
I absolutely love bow sights because you can adjust them vertically, horizontally, and set distances just by adjusting a dial. You can do all of this in an afternoon, and you do not need to guestimate where the arrow will drop.
Types Of Bow Sights
This section will familiarize you with all of the bow sights available so that you can know which type is best for you.
Multi-pin and fixed pin sights
These types of sights use multiple pins that are stacked underneath each other horizontally. Most of these types of sights can use from 3 pins up to 6 pins. You can set each pin to a specific distance ranging from 20 up to 100 yards.
It is not necessary to adjust these pins on the spot because each one is already calibrated. You can recalibrate each pin before the hunting trip.
Who will benefit
This sight is for the hunter that does not mind using more than one pin in the sight of their bow. It is also beneficial to bow hunters that do not have the time or preference to adjust a single pin on the spot quickly.
Single and movable pin sights
The movable pin sight only uses a single pin that is situated vertically. You will have access to a dial on the side of the sight. Most of the dials will have a tape that is marked from 20 up to 60 yards.
In mere seconds, you can adjust the dial to the set distance of your target.
Who will benefit
Most hunters want a clear, unobstructed view of their target. They do not wish for their sight to be cluttered with a lot of pins.
Pendulum sight
You will notice that you will shoot at an angle when you are higher than your target. It is especially true for treestand hunters. Most bow sights can be manually adjusted according to the angle you shoot from.
Pendulum sights will automatically adjust themselves to the angle you shoot from. It uses a small weight which will turn the sight so that it is always perpendicular to the ground.
Who will benefit
Most treestand hunters will use standard sights that can be adjusted. Some hunters do not want to waste any time changing the dials on their sight when a deer arrives. If you do not want to waste any valuable time on adjustments, then this product is for you.
Digital sights
Digital sights are new and upcoming tech that has taken the hunting world by storm. This type of sight uses a lens with a red dot projected on it. These sights will automatically adjust the dot to the distance of the target.
Who will benefit
These sights are not cheap, and some of them can be more expensive than your bow. If you have the budget and the need for next-level tech in bow hunting, this type of product is for you.
Best Compound Bow Sight Reviews
In this section, I will give you 6 of the best bow sights for your compound bow. Each one is unique and in different price ranges.
#1 Trophy Ridge React H4 (Top Recommended)
What stood out for me with the React H4 was that you only need to calibrate or adjust the first two pins, and the rest will be automatically adjusted for you. You can also set them at whatever distance you want, but I would recommend starting at 20 yards for the top pin.
This sight uses four pins, giving you more yardage options without cluttering your view too much. The pins are also small (0.19”) so that you can focus more on the target. This product is also very adjustable with the help of the windage and elevation adjusting dials. You can also do this with your fingers without the use of tools.
Do you like to hunt during early mornings or late afternoons? No problem. The React H4 makes use of illuminated fiber optics located at the tip of each pin. The system is also charged with the help of the rheostat light, keeping it bright. You also have the aid of a water bubble, helping you keep the bow stable.
The verdict
It is a suitable 4-pin sight that will not over-clutter your view. It is self-adjusted and is ideal for beginner and experienced hunters alike.
Cons: Not much to say here.
#2 Trophy Ridge Pursuit (Best Single Pin)
If you do not already know, you will notice that I am a big fan of single-pin sights. They are uncluttered and can be adjusted on the spot. The Trophy Ridge Pursuit was also my favorite single-pin sight. I have also written a guide on choosing a single pin sight to give you more information on these types of sights.
This sight uses an ultra-fine .019” pin that is also illuminated with fiber optics to give you a better hunting experience at night. The fiber optics are also charged with a rheostat light making it last longer. The water bubble will also help to keep your bow level.
You can also adjust it for windage and elevation, making it a very versatile bow sight. It comes with a clear yardage tape where you can set your own markers that can benefit hunters that want to customize everything themselves.
The verdict
It is by far the best single pin sight on the market that I think every hunter will love. It is adjustable for every condition and will let you hunt for longer.
Cons: Not much to say here.
#3 TRUGLO Range Rover Pro (Best Reticle Sight)
Most people have never heard of a reticle bow sight before. This product follows the same principle as a single pin sight, but uses a green dot displayed on a thin lens. You can also adjust the brightness of this dot.
The dot also has an auto power-off function if not adjusted within 4 hours. The adjustability options are also good. You can adjust the windage and elevation with the dials’ help without the use of any tools.
When it comes to yardage adjustment, the options are almost endless. You will get over 80 pre-marked yardage tapes that you can use on sight, making it suitable for most compound bows.
The verdict
This sight uses a single dot that gives you zero distractions so that you can focus all of your attention on the target.
Cons: You need to protect and maintain the lens not to get damaged or scratched.
#4 Garmin Xero A1 (Best Digital Bow Sight)
If you want to take your bow hunting experience to the next level, then you might want to consider this digital bow sight from Garmin. The Garmin Xero A1 will use a laser rangefinder to measure the distance and automatically adjust the LED dot on the screen to where the arrow will fall.
All you need to do is aim at the target and then press the button to read its distance. The button is attached to a cord that enables you to place it on any area of your bow for easier access. The device will also automatically adjust the brightness of the screen to best suit your lighting environment.
For game or any non-reflective objects, you can measure the distance for up to 100 yards. It is not a long-range rangefinder. This product is powered by 2 Lithium AAA batteries. The pin adjustability options are also endless. You can use a single dot or even go up to 5 dots if required.
There is also a water bubble that will tell you if the bow is level or not. I must warn you that this product is expensive. You need to make sure that you are allowed to use a digital sight in your area and that no laws will prohibit its use.
The verdict
This product is high-tech and uses state-of-the-art technology to measure your target distance and automatically adjust the pin. It is suitable for hunters of all experience levels.
Cons: This product might be too expensive, and you need to read up on hunting regulations in your area.
#5 IQ Define Bowsight (Best Non-Digital Rangefinder Sight)
If you have trouble gauging the animal’s distance, you will love this unique bow sight. The sight has a rangefinder attached to it to measure the target’s distance up to 99 yards. The rangefinder is an electronic device when activated, will be on for 2 minutes.
Using this rangefinder sight is very simple. Once you spot the deer, you press the button, aim at the deer to measure its distance, choose the appropriate pin and then release the arrow. The rangefinder will stay on for 2 minutes, giving you more than enough time to accurately measure your target’s distance.
You can also install the button anywhere you want because it is attached to an extension cord. This sight uses five pins that are .019″ in size. The laser is also handy for when you want to sight in your bow as it will directly pinpoint where the arrow is supposed to land.
This advanced sight also comes with the other essential features all bow sights need to have. It has a water bubble used to measure how level the bow is. You can adjust the dial to calibrate it for windage and elevation. You can watch this video for more information.
The verdict
This sight comes with a rangefinder, so you do not need to guess how far your target is. You also do not need to waste time taking out the rangefinder before taking the shot. It is a good product that does not lack in performance.
Cons: The setup process might be daunting.
#6 TRUGLO TG700 Pendulum Sight
The TRUGLO TG700 Pendulum Sight is ideal for treestand hunters that want a sight that will automatically itself when you aim down from a tree. Most sights have an elevation adjustment dial, but this one does not need to be adjusted because it will automatically tilt so that it is perpendicular to the ground.
It will also adjust itself up to 35 yards which is ideal for treestand hunting. When you are high up in the tree, then the animals can get closer to you. The pin size is around .029” and uses a water bubble that will help you keep the bow level.
The TG700 is also suited for hunters that want to hunt when daylight becomes limited. It uses an illuminated pin with a rheostat light to improve your aim during early mornings or late afternoon.
The verdict
This product is suitable for hunters who do not want to waste valuable time with adjustments. It will automatically adjust itself to meet your height.
Cons: Does not have yardage adjustment.
How To Choose The Correct Bow Sight (Buying Guide)
There are many things to look for when choosing a bow sight. You have to look at accuracy, illumination, adjustability, quality, and also type.
Accuracy
A sight needs to be accurate; otherwise, your hunting trip will be a waste of time. Many features make these products accurate. Ensure you can adjust the sight to suit your current environments, such as yardage, windage, and elevation.
The sight also needs to have a water bubble that will help you to keep your bow level. Some features such as illumination can also go a long way in helping you to land the shot.
Illumination
Most of the bow sights that come out today are equipped with fiber optic strands and powered by rheostat lights. The fiber optic strands are useful at illuminating the tip of the pin so that you can pinpoint your target.
Even the ring around the pin will be covered in glow-in-the-dark material. These features make it easier to hunt during early mornings and late afternoons, extending your hunting sessions.
Adjustability
Not all bows and arrows are the same, so you must be able to adjust the sight. Even your environment and the distance of the target will vary. Make sure to get a sight where you can adjust for the following:
- Windage
- Elevation
- Yardage
If you cannot adjust your sight for these factors, then you should find a different one.
Quality & Durability
These products are not cheap, so you should get one that will last for years to come. Do not waste your time on low-quality sights made from cheap plastic. These products will not last long, and your new hobby will soon become expensive if you have to buy a new sight after every hunting season.
Type
I have already covered this part at the beginning of this article. Here is a quick recap of the types of sights available. You get the single pin (adjustable pin), multi-pin (fixed pin), pendulum, and digital type.
Some sights also give you the option to choose between different attachments. Some sights are left-handed, while others are right-handed. Make sure that you know which type you want before continuing with the purchase.
Aiming & Shooting Tips
Here are some tips that will improve your accuracy and shooting, resulting in a better hunting experience.
Sighting in your bow
One of the worst things any hunter can experience is hesitation. Your time window from spotting the deer to releasing the arrow is tiny, giving you less time to react. It is essential to sight in your bow and to test your sight before you go out hunting.
Make sure that your vertical alignment is set and that your sight is set for each yardage increment. It might take you several hours or maybe an entire afternoon, but it is well worth the effort. Once done, you will be able to shoot with confidence without hesitation.
Develop good shooting form
There is a lot that goes on from when you nock the arrow to actually releasing it. Your foot placement, posture, and range of motion should be in good form. Make sure you have your archery fundamentals in check.
You can have the best gear in town, but you lack the basics, then it will all go to waste. The video above will explain the basics to you of bow shooting.
Build up your strength
Most of us try to be macho and begin with a bow that has a very high draw weight. You might be able to shot your highly powered bow two times in a row before getting tired, but we all know it is not sustainable.
Even when sighting in your bow, you will shoot at least 50 arrows in one afternoon. Your posture will also suffer if your bow is too strong, and you will learn bad habits down the line. With practice, you will get stronger and will be able to shoot more powerful bows with time.
Stick with one type of arrow
One of the most significant factors that can cause inconsistency in your accuracy is your arrows. You should use the same type of arrows that you used when sighting in your bow for the hunting trip.
If you later decide to add heavier broadheads or longer arrows, you need to recalibrate your bow and sight.
Don’t buy cheap gear
I am not saying that you should buy the most expensive gear, but hunting overall is not a cheap hobby. Find the best equipment suitable for what you want to hunt. The same goes for bow sights. Some very cheap bow sights are just horrible, inaccurate, and will not last long.
FAQ
Q: Can you shoot a compound bow without a sight?
Yes, you can, but it will take many hours (if not longer) of experience to get the right feel for the bow on where the arrow will land. You need to be confident in your arrow placement, so I recommend getting a bow sight for hunting.
Q: What is a rheostat light?
A rheostat light is a small device used to charge the fiber optics of your sight. This device is charged with batteries that will help it to provide light energy to the fiber optics.
Q: At what distances should you sight in a bow?
You should not sight a bow at a single distance but that which your sight supports. Most sights support distanced ranging from 20 yards up to 60 yards.
Q: Do bow sights fit all bows?
The fitting on bow sights is universal, meaning the sights’ bracket will fit most of the compound bows.
Final Word
I can still remember the day when I had to choose the parts and accessories for my new compound bow. It took a while for me to select the sight because I could not make up my mind on whether to choose a single pin or multi-pin version.
It is easy to get confused with so many different products available today, and the list keeps growing because of new technologies that are being developed in the hunting industry. To make this process easier for you, I will recommend the Trophy Ridge React H4.
It is a 4-pin sight that is easy to set up. It is also not that expensive compared to some of the other more advanced options. This product will provide all that you ever need when it comes to using a sight for your compound bow.
Leave a Reply