Compound Bow or Crossbow: Which Is Right for Your First Season?

Every fall, a lot of new archers stand in the bow aisle asking the same question: should I start with a compound bow or a crossbow? Both will put a well-placed arrow through a deer at sensible ranges. The right pick depends on how much time you can practice, how you plan to hunt and what your state allows.

How each one works

A compound bow uses cams and cables to store energy as you draw. At full draw the cams "let off," so you hold only a fraction of the peak draw weight while you aim. You draw, anchor, aim and release each shot with your own muscles.

A crossbow is cocked once, by hand, with a rope cocking aid or with a built-in crank, and then holds the string mechanically. You shoulder it like a rifle and fire with a trigger. Nothing has to be held at full draw while you wait for an animal to step clear.

Learning curve and practice time

Crossbows are quicker to learn. Most shooters can group well at 20 to 30 yards after a short session with a good scope. A compound rewards steady practice: consistent anchor, grip and release take weeks to build, and form slips if you stop shooting. If you can only get to the range a few times before the opener, a crossbow is the more forgiving tool.

Weight, size and hunting style

Compounds are lighter and slimmer, which matters on long walks, in saddles and in tight tree stands. Crossbows are heavier and wider at the front, though narrow reverse-draw and compact designs have closed the gap. A crossbow shines from a ground blind or a stand where you can rest it on a shooting rail.

Range and ethics

Modern crossbows are fast, but speed doesn't change how far you should shoot. Arrows and bolts lose energy and drop quickly past 40 yards, and animals can move before the arrow arrives. With either tool, most experienced bowhunters keep shots inside 30 to 40 yards and pass on anything they haven't practiced.

Cost

A ready-to-hunt compound package with sight, rest and quiver can cost a few hundred dollars, and adjustable draw-weight packages can grow with a young or new shooter. Crossbow packages usually include a scope and bolts and run from about $250 to well over $2,000 for premium models. Budget for broadheads, practice points, a target and a quality release (compound) or extra bolts (crossbow).

Check your seasons

This is the deciding factor for many hunters. Some states allow crossbows throughout archery season, others limit them to certain dates, ages or hunters with a disability permit. Check your state wildlife agency's current regulations before you buy.

The bottom line

• Pick a compound if you enjoy practice, want the lightest setup and plan to hunt from trees or on foot.
• Pick a crossbow if your practice time is limited, you hunt from blinds, or a shoulder or strength issue makes drawing a bow hard.

Whichever you choose, the best upgrade is practice from the same positions you'll hunt from. See today's bow and crossbow prices on our Daily Deals page.