Imagine standing face-to-face with a massive bull elk, your heart pounding, bow drawn. The moment is perfect, but is your equipment? Choosing the right compound bow for elk hunting can be overwhelming. There are so many brands, draw weights, and features to consider. Many hunters struggle with finding a bow that’s powerful enough for elk, yet comfortable to shoot accurately for hours in the field.
Selecting the wrong bow can lead to missed opportunities and frustration. You might end up with a bow that’s too heavy to draw consistently, or one that lacks the necessary power for a clean, ethical kill. This blog post helps you avoid those pitfalls. We’ll break down the key factors to consider when choosing a compound bow for elk hunting. We’ll discuss draw weight, arrow selection, and essential accessories.
By reading on, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to choose a compound bow that fits your needs and skill level. You’ll learn about the features that matter most for elk hunting. You’ll also discover how to set up your bow for maximum accuracy and power. Let’s dive in and find the perfect compound bow to help you fill your elk tag this season!
Our Top 5 Compound For Elk Hunting Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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NEW VIEW Bow Hunting Backpack for Men | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Old Man Archery Compound Bow Deer Elk Big Game Hunting T-Shirt | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
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Wild Cedar Bow Hunting Backpack for Men | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Primos Hunting Elk 3-Pack Call | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Primos Hunting unisex adult Double Elk CALL | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Compound For Elk Hunting Detailed Reviews
1. NEW VIEW Bow Hunting Backpack for Men
Rating: 8.7/10
The NEW VIEW Bow Hunting Backpack is built for serious hunters. It’s a camo compound bag and tree saddle back pack all in one. It has a bow holder and is designed for hunting elk, turkey, bear, and deer. This updated version helps you carry your bow and gear with ease.
What We Like:
- This hunting pack can carry most bows. This includes crossbows, compound bows, and recurve bows. It works with arrows and compound bow accessories too.
- You can carry this treestand backpack in different ways. Use the shoulder straps, wear it crossbody, or use a single strap. It lets you carry your gear how you like.
- It has lots of pockets. This helps you keep your hunting accessories organized. The top handle lets you hang the bag from a tree.
- This saddle hunting backpack is lightweight. It weighs only 2.69 lbs. The back has breathable mesh padding. This makes it comfy to carry even with heavy gear.
- The camo backpack is made of strong 600D nylon. The camouflage pattern helps you stay hidden. It is a great gift for men and women hunters.
What Could Be Improved:
- The camo pattern, while effective, might not match every hunting environment perfectly. More camo options could be helpful.
- While the backpack is lightweight, adding even more lightweight materials could reduce weight further for long treks.
This NEW VIEW backpack is a great choice for hunters. It offers versatility and durability for any hunting adventure.
2. Old Man Archery Compound Bow Deer Elk Big Game Hunting T-Shirt
Rating: 9.4/10
This Old Man Archery Compound Bow Deer Elk Big Game Hunting T-Shirt is a fun way to show off your love for archery and hunting. It features a cool design with the saying, “Never Underestimate an Old Man with a Compound Bow.” This shirt is perfect for wearing while hunting, at the range, or just hanging out. It’s made for comfort and shows off your passion for the sport.
What We Like:
- The shirt is lightweight, so you will stay cool.
- It has a classic fit that is comfortable to wear.
- The double-needle sleeve and bottom hem make it durable.
- The design is eye-catching and shows off your love for archery and big game hunting.
- It makes a great gift for the archery-loving old man in your life.
What Could Be Improved:
- The design might not appeal to everyone.
- More color options could be offered.
- Some people might prefer a heavier weight fabric.
If you’re an archery enthusiast or know someone who is, this t-shirt is a fun and comfortable way to show your passion. It is a great way to express your love for the sport.
3. Wild Cedar Bow Hunting Backpack for Men
Rating: 8.7/10
The Wild Cedar Bow Hunting Backpack is built for serious hunters. This Saddle Camo backpack features a bow holder and is designed for deer, elk, and other big game hunts. It helps you carry your bow and gear comfortably and efficiently, whether you’re in a tree stand or on the move.
What We Like:
- This backpack can hold most types and sizes of bows securely.
- The dedicated bow holder has adjustable straps and padding for safety.
- Made from durable 600D nylon, the backpack can withstand tough conditions.
- It has multiple compartments for organizing your hunting gear.
- Breathable back padding keeps you cool and dry during intense hunts.
- Adjustable shoulder and waist straps ensure a comfortable fit for different body types.
- Lightweight design at only 2.69 lbs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The camouflage pattern may not be ideal for all hunting environments.
- While durable, the 600D nylon may not be as rugged as higher-denier materials.
- Some users might prefer additional specialized pockets for specific hunting tools.
In conclusion, the Wild Cedar Bow Hunting Backpack is a solid choice for bowhunters needing a reliable and comfortable way to carry their gear. It offers great features and durability for successful hunts.
4. Primos Hunting Elk 3-Pack Call
Rating: 8.8/10
The Primos Hunting Elk 3-Pack Call gives you different sounds to attract elk. You get three different calls in one pack. This lets you make a variety of elk sounds. They are made in the U.S.A. and come with a case to keep them safe.
What We Like:
- The calls are crafted from high-quality material. They are built to last.
- You get three different types of calls: Mini Sonic Dome Double, Sonic Dome Single, and Sonic Dome Triple. This gives you a range of elk sounds.
- It’s made in the U.S.A.
- The See-Thru Mouth Call Case keeps your calls clean and organized.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning to use all three calls effectively takes practice. New hunters may need time to master them.
- The sound quality, while generally good, might not be perfect for all hunting situations. Some users may prefer higher-end, more specialized calls.
This 3-pack provides a great value for elk hunters wanting to expand their calling options. The Primos Hunting Elk 3-Pack Call is a solid choice for both beginner and experienced elk hunters.
5. Primos Hunting unisex adult Double Elk CALL
Rating: 9.3/10
The Primos Hunting unisex adult Double Elk CALL, 0 is built to help you bring in the big bulls. It uses quality materials, so you know it’s made to last. Primos designs and tests their products to handle tough conditions. This call is made for pros, casual users, and everyone in between! It’s a tool that can work for any elk hunter.
What We Like:
- It is made with quality materials that should last a long time.
- Primos designs their products to work in the toughest environments.
- The call can reproduce both estrus cow and herd bull sounds.
- It uses two latex reeds to create realistic elk sounds.
- This call is great for all levels of elk hunting experience.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning to use it effectively might take some practice for beginners.
- The sound quality depends on the user’s skill, so it requires practice.
- The “unisex adult” description is a bit unnecessary, as it’s a hunting call.
In conclusion, the Primos Double Elk Call is a solid choice for attracting elk. It is a durable and versatile call for both beginners and experienced hunters alike.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Compound Bow for Elk Hunting
If you’re planning an elk hunt, choosing the right compound bow is super important. Elk are big, strong animals. You need a bow that’s powerful, accurate, and reliable. This guide will help you find the perfect bow for your elk hunting adventure.
Key Features to Look For
When picking a compound bow for elk, think about these important features:
- Draw Weight: This is how much force you need to pull back the bowstring. For elk, you need a draw weight between 60 and 70 pounds. This ensures enough power to ethically harvest an elk.
- Draw Length: This is how far you pull the string back. It needs to match your arm length. Having the correct draw length is important for accuracy and comfort.
- Axle-to-Axle Length: This is the distance between the bow’s axles. A shorter axle-to-axle length (around 30-33 inches) is good for hunting in tight spaces. A longer bow (around 33-35 inches) is usually more stable and accurate.
- Bow Speed (IBO Speed): This measures how fast the arrow travels. Faster bows give you a flatter trajectory. An IBO speed of 300 fps or higher is good for elk.
- Let-Off: This is the percentage of draw weight you hold at full draw. A higher let-off (70-85%) means you don’t have to hold as much weight, which helps with aiming for longer.
- Brace Height: This is the distance from the string to the grip. A longer brace height (7 inches or more) is generally more forgiving. A shorter brace height can increase speed, but makes the bow less forgiving.
Important Materials
The materials used in a bow affect its performance and durability. Here’s what to look for:
- Riser: The riser is the main part of the bow. Look for risers made from aluminum or carbon fiber. Aluminum is strong and affordable. Carbon fiber is lightweight and absorbs vibration well.
- Limbs: The limbs are the flexible parts that store energy. Limbs made from fiberglass or composite materials are common. These materials are durable and can withstand repeated use.
- String and Cables: The string and cables are essential for transferring energy to the arrow. Look for strings made from high-quality materials like BCY-X or 452X. These materials are strong and resist stretching.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors influence the quality of a compound bow.
Improving Quality:
- Precision Machining: Bows made with precise machining are more accurate and reliable.
- High-Quality Components: Using high-quality components, like cams and bearings, improves performance and durability.
- Vibration Dampening: Features that reduce vibration, like limb dampeners and string suppressors, make the bow quieter and more comfortable to shoot.
- Adjustability: Bows that are easily adjustable for draw length and draw weight allow you to fine-tune the bow to your specific needs.
Reducing Quality:
- Cheap Materials: Using cheap materials can lead to premature wear and failure.
- Poor Construction: Poor construction can result in inconsistent performance and accuracy.
- Excessive Vibration: Bows with excessive vibration can be uncomfortable to shoot and less accurate.
- Difficult Adjustability: Bows that are difficult to adjust can be frustrating to use and may not fit you properly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use the bow and what you want from your hunting experience.
- Beginner Elk Hunters: A more forgiving bow with a longer brace height and adjustable draw weight is a good choice.
- Experienced Elk Hunters: An aggressive bow with a shorter brace height and faster IBO speed might be preferred.
- Ground Blind Hunting: A shorter axle-to-axle bow is easier to maneuver in a blind.
- Spot and Stalk Hunting: A lightweight bow is easier to carry over long distances.
Consider trying out different bows at an archery shop before you buy. This will help you find a bow that feels comfortable and fits you well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What draw weight do I need for elk hunting?
A: You should use a draw weight between 60 and 70 pounds for elk hunting. This gives you enough power for a clean and ethical shot.
Q: How do I find the right draw length?
A: The easiest method is to measure your arm span in inches and divide by 2.5. You can also visit an archery shop for a professional fitting.
Q: What is IBO speed, and why does it matter?
A: IBO speed measures how fast an arrow travels from the bow. Faster bows give you a flatter trajectory, which makes it easier to aim at longer distances. It is measured in Feet Per Second (FPS).
Q: What is let-off, and how does it affect shooting?
A: Let-off is the percentage of draw weight you hold at full draw. A higher let-off means you hold less weight, making it easier to aim for longer periods.
Q: What’s the difference between aluminum and carbon fiber risers?
A: Aluminum risers are strong and affordable. Carbon fiber risers are lightweight and absorb vibration better.
Q: Are shorter or longer axle-to-axle bows better for elk hunting?
A: Shorter bows (30-33 inches) are better for hunting in tight spaces. Longer bows (33-35 inches) are generally more stable and accurate.
Q: What accessories do I need for elk hunting with a compound bow?
A: You’ll need arrows, a sight, a rest, a quiver, a release aid, and potentially a stabilizer.
Q: How often should I replace my bowstring?
A: You should replace your bowstring every 1-2 years, depending on how often you shoot and the quality of the string. Inspect it regularly for wear and tear.
Q: How important is vibration dampening?
A: Vibration dampening makes the bow quieter and more comfortable to shoot. It can also improve accuracy by reducing hand shock.
Q: Should I buy a new or used compound bow for elk hunting?
A: New bows come with warranties and the latest technology. Used bows can save you money, but inspect them carefully for damage. It is always best to buy a new bow if you can afford it.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.