Can I get some opinions on a good “bang for the buck” compound bow for a beginner? I would like to get into bow hunting for whitetail deer and there seems to an abundance of options. I need some experienced hunters to help narrow it down. I certainly don’t need top of the line being new to this, but don’t want junk. What’s something that will last me for a decade or two?

Also, what sights, arrows, accessories do you all recommend to a rookie?

Is this possible for $500 - $750? Or is this a $1,000 purchase?

Bear makes some really good inexpensive bows. You can find really good deals on eBay.

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Diamond Infinite Edge.

Well under your price range and a good bow that can grow with the shooter.

You may want to consider one of these with the free cables and strings for life (if you have a dealer shop nearby that could attend to that for you)?  Prime Logic  If you get new strings and cables as recommended by some every couple of years, it's a substantial cost over 10 yrs imo.  Personally, I picked up a NIB Bear Escape a few years back for around 1/2 msrp and I've been very pleased by that upgrade from my 2005 model bow which will need a new string for certain next season.  So I agree that the fpni.

Go visit some local shops and take a look at any new old stock options. They will probably have something that meets your needs quite well if you're not really picky.

Along the same lines as this thread: I finally upgraded this year and wanted to get something really nice without breaking the bank. Ended up finding a new old stock flagship Hoyt that originally MSRP'd for over 1k. Walked out with it fully set up with a QAD drop away, quiver, a dozen arrows, new release, new sight, tune, more broad heads, and another target for under 1k. A fully set up flagship bow for about $750 lets me care a lot less about whether it is this year's flagship or a few years old.

FWIW, the equivalent new flagship bow would have cost at least $1k more all in with performance that is virtually identical.

Mathews Vertix would be good. Its a great bow even for a couple years old. I have a VXR & the new V3 (Both the 31" models) and they are wonderful but that Vertix is still a fine piece. I dont know if they are on the second hand market for your price range but it would be worth it to try and scout one out. Beyond that, i am not sure.

Hoyt TorrexPSE Drive NXT
Elite Valor
Matthews Mission
All of those are good. I killed a 9 point with a Valor this year.  PSE might have the best budget now but i think it's slightly more than the others.

Diamond Edge SB1, Bow all set up and ready to go, Between $350 -$400

Look for a local bow shop, I had good luck with discontinued models or trade ins


I just sold a Reezen at the local shop for $300, it’s an older bow, not the smoothest but definitely a FAST bow.  Would have been a great deal for someone in your position.  Also check out archerytalk .com big classified section over there

I’m not sure if Hoyt still makes the Powermax but it’s an entry level setup, ran me around $800 a few years back with half a dozen arrows and some broadheads.

I’m still very satisfied with mine. Regardless, please use your local archery shop over the big box store. It’s a much better experience and the staff are always super helpful and patient.