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10 Best Compound Bow Sights

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Compound Bow Sights

Choosing the right compound bow sight can make a huge difference in your accuracy, confidence, and enjoyment while shooting. Whether you are hunting, practicing target archery, or just starting out, understanding what matters most in a sight and how various features impact performance will help you make an informed decision. Think about your shooting style, where and when you’ll use the bow, and your personal preferences. With a little knowledge about what each feature does, you’ll be able to select a bow sight that best fits your needs.
Number of PinsThe number of pins on a bow sight refers to the individual reference points you can aim with, each representing a specific distance. More pins allow you to set aiming points for multiple distances, which is helpful if you shoot at various ranges, like in hunting scenarios. Sights typically come with anywhere from one to seven pins. A single or fixed pin is straightforward and uncluttered, good for beginners or those who shoot at a consistent range. Three to five pins are a balanced choice for most hunters and archers who need flexibility without too much complexity. Pick the number of pins based on how many distances you want to cover and how much visual simplicity you prefer.
Pin Visibility and Fiber OpticsPin visibility is all about how clearly you can see your aiming points, especially in different lighting. Many bow sights use fiber optics, which are brightly colored light-gathering materials that make pins easy to see without being bulky. Longer or thicker fibers generally mean brighter pins. In low light or tricky conditions, bright pins can make aiming much easier. If you shoot in varied lighting, such as early mornings, evenings, or dense woods, opt for sights with high-visibility (and possibly adjustable brightness) fiber optics.
Adjustability (Micro-Adjustment and Tool-less Adjustment)Adjustability refers to how easily you can move your sight or pins to dial in accuracy. Micro-adjustment means you can make fine, precise changes, often using small knobs or dials, which helps with shooting consistency. Tool-less adjustment means you don’t need extra tools to make changes—great for quick fixes in the field. If you anticipate needing to make regular tweaks, or prefer not dealing with tools and screws, seek out sights with good adjustability features to save time and frustration.
Gang Adjustment (Vertical and Horizontal)Gang adjustment describes moving the entire group of pins as one unit, either up and down (vertical) or left and right (horizontal), to change your overall point of impact. This is particularly important for setting up your sight or making broad changes. Simpler sights may have only individual pin adjustment; more advanced models offer easier gang adjustment. If you want to be able to make large or quick changes due to differences in arrows or distances, prioritize sights with gang adjustability.
Sight Housing SizeThe sight housing is the round component that holds your pins and helps you line up your shots. Larger housings give you a bigger view of your target, which can help with quick target acquisition and is helpful for beginners. Smaller housings provide a more precise sight picture and are favored by those comfortable with fine aiming. Choose a housing size that matches your comfort, experience, and the type of archery you’ll do most (big game hunting usually prefers larger, target archery might prefer smaller).
Level (Bubble Level)A bubble level helps you keep your bow perfectly upright while shooting, which is key for consistent, accurate shots and avoiding left/right misses. Most modern sights have a built-in bubble level. If you’re new to bow shooting or are serious about accuracy, look for this feature, and check how easily you can see and use the level as you aim.
Material and DurabilityThe materials used in a sight affect its durability, weight, and resistance to weather. Aluminum is popular for offering a strong yet lightweight build, while plastic/polymer components are usually cheaper but might not last as long. If you expect rugged use, travel, or exposure to the elements, choose a sight made from tough, corrosion-resistant materials to ensure it stands up to regular wear and tear.
Light Attachment CompatibilitySome bow sights allow for the addition of a small light to illuminate the fiber optic pins, which can be helpful for shooting in low-light conditions such as dawn, dusk, or dense woods. If you regularly shoot in these environments, check if the sight you’re considering can accept a pin light attachment. This ensures you’ll always have a clear aiming point no matter the natural lighting.
Sight Tape or Distance MarkingsSight tape, or distance markings, are for more advanced, adjustable sights. They let you set an exact distance (like a dial), so your single pin can be used for any yardage. This is extremely useful for long-distance shooters or those wanting a clean, unobstructed view. If you like precision and often shoot at various unmarked distances, consider a sight with this feature.