6 Best Single Pin Bow Sights For Increased Accuracy

The top recommended single-pin bow sight is the Trophy Ridge Pursuit. This sight is very simple to use and is also beginner-friendly. It has several customizable options for it to adapt to your terrain. This product also does not cost a fortune.

Today, I will reveal 6 of the best single pin bow sights that you can find for your bow. You can use these sights for hunting and also target shooting. In the end, I will give you some tips for when you want to sight in your bow.

I have been bow hunting for years and have experience in both single and multi-pin sights. I personally prefer the single pin sights for obvious reasons. As a beginner, I also made several mistakes down the line. 

In this review, I will give you some golden nuggets so that you do not make the same mistakes I made in the past.

Are you ready? Let’s go. 

Why You Should Choose a Single Pin Bow Sight

There are many benefits to choosing a single pin bow sight. They are simple to use, give you a clearer view, and are easy to setup. Let me elaborate:

Simple to use

With a single pin sight, you do not have to guess which pin will be the most accurate as you will only make use of one. It is also easier to get confused when using a multi-pin sight, and it also takes longer to decide which pin is the best for your target. Most single pins can be adjusted to the specified yardage eliminating the use of a multi-pin.

Clearer view

You only have to focus on that one pin and nothing else with a single-pin sight. You will see much clearer when all of the other pins are gone, and you only have one pin to focus on. Some of the pins can also block your view of the target.

Easier set up

It is much easier to set up your sight if you have only one pin to setup. Some sights with multiple pins require you to set up each one individually.

Single vs. Multi-pin Sights

You might probably be still confused about whether you should buy a single pin or a multi-pin bow sight. This section will explain all the pros and drawbacks of each one.

Single pin sight

The single pin sight only makes use of one pin. The pin can be situated vertically or horizontally. With some of the sights, you will also have the opportunity to adjust the yardage.

Pros

• Uncluttered view.
• No confusion.
• Easier setup.

Cons

• The pin needs to be adjusted on the spot.

Multi-pin sight

A multi-pin sight makes use of multiple pins. The number of pins can range from 3 up to 6. Each pin has a yardage number allocated to it, making it easier to adjust the dial.

Pros

• Faster target acquisition.
• You do not need to adjust the sight on the spot.
• Less movement.

Cons

• Cluttered view.
• More work to set up.
• More guesswork.

Best Single Pin Bow Sights Reviewed

In this section, I will give you 6 of the best single pin sights to choose from. There are many options and designs available. Each design has its pros and cons.

#1 Trophy Ridge Pursuit (Best Overall)

• Sight: .019”

If you are like me and prefer simplicity, then the Trophy Ridge Pursuit is a good option. It makes use of a fiber optic vertical pin that makes it easier to aim at your target when the sun is setting. The ring around the pin also glows in the dark, giving you better target acquisition.

You will come across a water level tool below the pin to help keep your bow level, ensuring consistency for accuracy. The added rheostat light will also help to keep the fiber optics energized so that it can illuminate your pin for longer.

You also can choose between both right and left-handed options making it available for all hunters. You can also adjust the sight according to the windage and elevation to calibrate it for those external factors.

You can also mark your own yardages on the tape of which you use the dial to set the correct distance accordingly.

The verdict

This was by far my favorite single pin bow sight as it is straightforward to use, not that expensive, and is very customizable where it matters.

Cons: Not much to say here.

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#2 HHA Optimizer Sight (Runner-Up)

• Sight: .019”

The HHA Optimizer sight will be the runner-up or the 2nd best single-pin bow sight that I could find. It has everything that you need to hunt successfully. It makes use of a single pin that is illuminated with the help of fiber optics. The illuminated sight ring also makes it easier to find and aim at your target.

It has a water bubble that ensures your bow is perfectly level. You can also adjust the windage and elevation without the use of any tools. This sight has preset yardage markers that include 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 yards. There are also line markers in between these values in 5-yard increments.

Make sure to test these yardages because each bow is different, and the weight of the arrow can also influence the arrow drop.

The verdict

This is a good bow sight that has earned the second spot on this list. You can adjust it for the windage and elevation. It is easy to mount and makes use of preset yardage markers.

Cons: Not much to say here.

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#3 Trophy Ridge Drive Slider (Budget-Friendly)

• Sight: .029”

This single pin sight comes in a size of 0.29”, which is slightly bigger than the previously mentioned sights. This product is not expensive, making it budget-friendly. Most hunters can afford this sight.

You can also adjust this sight according to the yardage, windage, and elevation. These adjustments help you to compensate for the changes in the environment that might affect your accuracy. This product also uses an unmarked yardage tape that you can mark yourself. You can also buy custom yardage tapes.

The nylon bushings do not make any noise giving you a silent moment when adjusting the sight. The bubble level in the center below the pin makes your shooting more accurate when used correctly.

You can also use this sight at times when it gets darker, extending your hunting session. The product makes use of a fiber optic pin to make sure your aim is solid. This sight also uses a glow-in-the-dark ring situated around the pin helping you with quick target acquisition. You can also charge the fiber optic strands with the rheostat light.

The verdict

This Trophy Ridge Drive Slider is the ideal solution for hunters that do not want to spend a fortune on bow sights. It has all of the features that you need to hunt successfully. This product is very adjustable and can be used when sunlight becomes restricted.

Cons: The pin is bigger than most, making it less desirable for hunters who want an ultra-fine pin.

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#4 TRUGLO Range-Rover Pro (Best Reticle Sight)

• Sight: Reticle

Even though a reticle sight does not use a pin, it will serve the same purpose and can sometimes be even better for some hunters. Let’s discuss the dot and how it is powered. This sight uses a small red dot powered by an LED light. You can also adjust the brightness of the dot by changing the settings of the LED. 

The LED will also automatically power off after a couple of hours, saving you battery life if you forgot to turn it off. You also have the option to choose between two models that include a single and double dot. Your accuracy will also be improved with the water bubble’s help located below the sight, helping you keep your bow level.

The glow ring is also helpful at target acquisition, so you can quickly lock onto your target. You can also adjust the sight according to the windage, elevation, and yardage to compensate for all these environmental factors to land a more accurate shot. You also get yardage tapes measured for several arrow speed options. To protect the lens, you will get a cover for it to avoid any damage or scratches.

The verdict

This reticle bow sight is a good option for hunters that wants to spice things up a bit. It is ideal for hunters that want zero obstructions in their view.

Cons: You need to take special care of the lens as it is exposed.

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Types Of Bow Sights

There are many types of bow sights to choose from. This section will explain each one in more detail.

Fixed pin sight

Most fixed pin sights will also fall under the multi-pin sight category and are the opposite of the single pin sight. Where single pin sights can be adjusted on the spot, fixed pin sights can but should not be adjusted on the spot.

Most fixed pin sights will have from 3 to 5 pins aligned vertically. The pin on top will usually be the 20-yard pin or the short-range pin. The lower pins are more suitable for long-range shooting to compensate for the arrow drop.

You can adjust these pins at home to ensure your shot will be on point, but it is not recommended to do this on the spot.

Adjustable pin sight

Adjustable pin sights can be adjusted on the spot. Single pin sights fall under this category because they only use one pin to be adjusted for different ranges. To calibrate the pin for longer distances, you will need to adjust the dial from 20 up to 60 yards.

Most manufacturers will send you custom tape markers with the yardage numbers set. In some cases, you will get clear tape where you need to set the markers yourself.

Reticle type pin

The reticle type pin serves the same function as a single pin, except that it does not use a pin at all. It uses a small red dot projected on the lens that is powered by an LED light. There will be no pin that will obstruct your view.

Vertical pin

Most single pin sights will use a vertical pin, meaning it will stand upright. Most of the multi-pin sights will be horizontal, where they will be stacked below each other. In the past, I have seen vertical single pin sights, but they are scarce.

Illuminated pin

Illuminated pins use fiber optics which are powered by a rheostat light. In most cases, the pin’s tip will have a small bright dot that makes it easier to shoot when daylight becomes limited.

Pendulum or treestand sight

Most bow sights will have the feature to adjust it if you are shooting from an elevated position. The only problem is that you need to adjust it yourself and also on the spot. 

When spotting a deer, you will have limited time to take the shot. Some pendulum sights will automatically adjust themselves where the pin will always be perpendicular to the ground.

How To Choose The Best Single Pin Sight

Below is a list of 7 factors that you need to consider before buying a new single pin sight for your bow.

Weight

The sight should not be too heavy as it will make the bow unbalanced. Most sights will be attached to the side, where if it is too heavy, it will tilt the bow in that direction. Make sure to get a sight that is not too heavy.

Durability

Bow sights make use of tiny movable parts that will be vulnerable if made from weak materials or poor craftsmanship. These accessories are also not cheap, so you want them to last for years to come.

Adjustment

Your environmental conditions and target location will constantly vary. You need to make sure that your sight can adapt to these conditions. We are talking about elevation (height), windage, and yardage (distance of the target). If your sight cannot adjust according to these changes, then you should probably skip it.

Range

You will be able to adjust most sights to a range ranging from 20 yards up to 60 yards in distance. Your sight will need to have this functionality because the distance of your target will constantly vary. Sometimes the range on some sights can go even further than 60 yards.

Design

Most single pin sights will mimic the same type of design. In most cases, you will have the option to choose between either the left or right-handed design depending on which side you prefer.

Budget

Most bow sights will be expensive, but all of them do not need to be. You will also notice that I have some suitable products for hunters that do not want to spend a fortune on bow sights.

Pin size

The pin size will vary between a .019” or a .029”. The difference is so tiny that most hunters do not even pick up on it. Some hunters prefer the smaller pin size as it offers less obstruction. Other hunters like to go for the bigger pin size because their eyesight is not as good as it used to be. Choose a size with which you are comfortable with.

How To Sight In a Single Pin Sight

Now that you have purchased a new bow sight, it is time to sight it in. For sighting in your new sight, you need to make sure it is vertically and horizontally aligned. You can use tape to “draw” the horizontal and vertical lines. The video below will guide you through the entire process.

Here are some tips on how to do it right:

1. Eliminate all external factors. Make sure that there is zero wind in the area where you will sight in your bow.
2. Number your arrows. When shooting, you want your arrows to form a small cluster. If one particular arrow is inconsistent and away from the cluster, you know that the error lies with that specific arrow and not your bow or sight.
3. Stand close for vertical alignment. It is not necessary to stand 20 yards away from your target. You can go as close as 5-10 yards from the target.
4. Start with one type of alignment. You do not need to do both the vertical and horizontal alignments at the same time. Start with the vertical alignment, and once your arrows land on the tape, you can move onto the horizontal alignment.
5. For horizontal alignment, start at 20 yards. Start with the shortest measurement on your sight. Most sights begin at 20 yards.
6. Do not guestimate the distance. Use a measuring tape or a rangefinder. You do not want to mess up this part.
7. Take frequent breaks. Do not let your aiming get inaccurate because your muscles are getting tired.
8. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer’s manual. Most of the sights will be different in how they are adjusted. Read through the manual to know where each dial is located and for what it is used for.

The Verdict

I have often seen beginners make the mistake of either buying some cheap single-pin sight that cannot be adjusted or an overly expensive product that does more than they actually need.

The Trophy Ridge Pursuit is not overly expensive, and it is also not one of those cheap single pin sights that you would want to throw away after the first use. It is of high quality, very durable, and customizable.

I have given you so many things to think about that include the buying guide, the type of sights you get, and how to sight in your bow.

Happy hunting.