Bow sights, also referred to as bow scopes, are gadgets usually mounted on the bow riser so that you can aim your shot better. Similar to the sights used in shot guns, bow sights are designed to help hunters gain more control of where they aim their arrow. The technology behind it allows the bow hunter to have a better view of where the projectile is pointing. After all, the whole point to shooting a bow (for most people) is to be as accurate as possible; the hunter is looking for the clean kill, and the target shooter is looking to make an accurate shot from varying distances.
We have reviewed only the best for each type. Click on a button below for more
Fixed Pin Bow sights
Single Pin Bow sights
Pendulum Bow sights
In order to utilize a bow sight it only needs to be mounted on the riser of the bow’s architecture.
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While it is not impossible to shoot without a bow sight, it can become extremely difficult; especially when you shoot from a long distance. A bow sight can greatly enhance you shooting skills and increase your accuracy. That is why it is recommended that both novice and pro archers should get the best bow sight they can afford. Even though some hunters still shoot a bow by instinct, bow sights have become the modern day evolution. We are all looking for advantages, and while these sights will definitely provide them for you, it’s important to take the time figuring out which one will work best.
Whether it’s a basic option for the beginner or an extreme choice for the seasoned veteran, our bow sight reviews are designed to help all levels of experience. We also realize you are trying to find the best bow sight for the money, so we have put together some extensive information to make the decision process simple.
Best Bow Sight Reviews for 2021 (sorted by type)
Fixed Pin Bow Sight Reviews
Check some of the best fixed pin bow sights below.
1. Field Logic IQ 5 – Best bang for your buck
Over the years we have read several iq bow sight reviews. After trying more than 10 different sights in this category, we believe the Field Logic IQ 5 pin sight is one of the best bow sights in its category. You will definitely pay more for the technology it provides, but it might be the only sight investment you will ever have to make.
Initially we thought it would best be suited for beginning hunters, but the more we use it, it is probably best utilized by all hunters. One of the features is instant feedback technology, which helps each hunter control their consistency, form, and muscle memory. Its goal is to help you become a better bow hunter.
Just remember though, this sight is going to bring your flaws to light. If you are gripping the bow wrong, it’s going to let you know. Even though it might be a bit frustrating in the beginning, you will grow as a hunter or target shooter. Just wait until you experience the immediate accuracy the Field Logix IQ 5 provides.
Here are a few added features:
- .019 fiber optic pins
- Adjustable second axis
- Allows you to shoot longer distances in tighter groupings
- Options for left and right-handed shooters
If you do decide to purchase the Field Logic, the sight is not available for left and right handed shooters. You have to either purchase the right-handed version or the left-handed version. We realize this might be the difference between purchasing this product or another one of our best bow sights, which is why it is important to share with you. The good news is; if you are left-handed, it is a less expensive purchase.
Read Our Full Review Of The Field Logic IQ 5 Pin Sight
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2. TruGlo Carbon XS 4 Pin .019 – Best budget multi pin bow sight
One of the first benefits we noticed about the TruGlo Carbon XS is the quality of the sight. It’s one of the most inexpensive choices available, which is why we were surprised. Just like the Trophy Ridge 5, this option comes with good lighting features that can be utilized in the lowest lighted settings when hunting.
We also found the shooter ring glowed in the dark, which was a nice touch. We spoke with several other hunters to get their take on the TruGlo Carbon XS, and most of them enjoy the sight, especially when you see the overall cost.
Some of the other features associated with this four pin sight include:
- Bigger field of view – this sight offers a 1.8 inch inner diameter for the aperture.
- Reversible bracket
- TRUTOUCH soft-feel technical coating – this allows for a lighter composite construction
- TRUFLO fiber design
- Two vertical bar level
- Works for left and right-handed shooters
Once we completed our own research on the TruGlo Carbon XS, we did find a few hunters that didn’t necessarily like everything about it. Some of the issues involved the mounting bolts being an odd size, which means the user had to make adjustments to get it mounted properly. However, we went a step further and found that in each situation where this was an issue, these bows had already been modified. In turn this was part of the problem.
Also, there were a few individuals that cracked the sight, because they tightened the bolts too tight. If you feel this is the best option for you, we highly recommend being careful when mounting any sight to the riser. This is a potential warning that can happen with most bow sights, but if you respect the product, there shouldn’t be any problems. In the end, we would consider this to be the first choice for a beginning archer or if it is the first sight you are about to purchase.
Read Our Full Review Of The Truglo Carbon XS Sight
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3. Trophy Ridge React Pro – Best 5-pin sight for hunting
Equipped with the React technology that Trophy Ridge employs on many of the bow sights the company makes, this model ensures that all the five pins will be adjusted automatically so that you always enjoy mathematical accuracy. There is something, however, that sets apart the Trophy Ridge React Pro from other models in the same line.
While its siblings work with dual-axis adjustment, this one takes things even a little further and comes equipped with third axis adjustment for even longer distances. All the materials used in making it are top notch quality, such as stainless steel and solid aluminum.
Created to offer excellent performance in low-light conditions, it even comes equipped with a rheostat light, which means that you will be able to save up a little money since you don’t have to get one of those separately. The simple operation makes it a hit with the vast majority of bowhunters, although the more seasoned ones will appreciate it more.
To find out more about what features are available with this particular model, here is a short list:
- Available in .010-inch and .019-inch pin configuration
- You can purchase the model for right-handed users or left-handed users
- The glow in the dark ring design adds visibility
- The React technology aligns all the pins for maximum accuracy
You may feel a bit disappointed that this bow sight is not versatile, and you need to purchase the version that suits you as a left-handed or right-handed user. However, seeing how precise this bow sight is, you might not find this drawback that important.
4. Trophy Ridge React V5 – Best vertical fixed bow sight
When you go shopping for bow sights, there are certain aspects you have to remember, but the most important is the ability of the product you choose to ensure superior precision. The Trophy Ridge React V5 works with the React technology whose primary role is to adjust at the pins in such a manner that you can always land a precision shot.
Another thing that you will like about this model is the Vertical In-Line technology used for the pin system that is designed in such a manner that the bow sight will not end up obstructing your view instead of giving you a clear shot. Like other siblings in the same line, it works with the Ballistix CoPolymer system which keeps it lightweight, but vibration-free.
Adjusting the bow sight to fit your needs and preferences is easy, and you will be able to use windage and elevation adjustments with the help of tool-less operation.
To learn more about the features of this particular bow sight, take a look at the following list:
- Dual-axis adjustment available, for shooting with pinpoint accuracy at vast distances
- The ring glows in the dark, for added visibility
- Rheostat light is included
- Lightweight aluminum construction
One thing that we believe you should know about this model is that it only comes in the right-hand style, so left-handed bow hunters are advised to shop around a little more. Seeing that this company makes a wide variety of bow sights, you will certainly find a good quality model.
5. Trophy Ridge React H5 – Best multi pin bow sight for target shooting
This bow sight is designed to work out of the box and help you identify your prey, regardless of light conditions. You can hardly get any better than this, for the simple reason that the model comes with a rheostat light, and you won’t have to purchase one separately, as it is the case with other bow sights on the market.
You will love the fact that this model is lightweight, yet you won’t have to deal with vibrations, due to the Ballistix CoPolymer system employed on the bow sight. When you need to make corrections to windage or elevation, the simple operation of this bow sight will leave a lasting impression.
Another thing that you should know about it is that it comes equipped with a dual-axis adjustment which allows you to increase your accuracy even when you have to shoot your arrows over long distances. Also, you can adjust the rheostat light brightness to suit your hunting conditions, for maximum results.
Here are some features of this model you might want to know about:
- Five .019-inch pin design – the fiber optic pins are bright and allow you to see clearly when shooting arrows in less than ideal light conditions
- Bubble level for precision control
- Three mounting positions
- Locking knob for elevation
While it does come with its own rheostat light, some customers mention that the light is not on par regarding quality with the rest of the construction, so that may be something you would like to bear in mind before making a purchase.
Single Pin Bow Sight Reviews
Check some the best single pin bow sights below.
6. Trophy Ridge Pusuit – Very cheap and light one pin sight
If you are looking for a high-quality product with an inexpensive price tag, the Trophy Ridge Pusuit is the best single pin bow sight in our opinion. The rheostat light offers an added lighting benefit as well, which is a typical feature with today’s bow sights. We used this a few times, and even though it provides excellent accuracy without tape on the rear, we recommend purchasing some anyways.
We shot ten projectiles with no tape and basic yardage estimations. However, adding a tape kit increased the accuracy dramatically. Since the Trophy Ridge Pusuit is already inexpensive for the quality it provides, purchasing some HHA EZ tape (yardages are already marked) will be worth every penny.
Take a look at some of the other features offered:
- Adjustable indicator pin
- Aluminum Construction
- Silent adjustments
- Unlimited pin settings
Installing the Trophy Ridge Pusuit is simple, so you do probably not need any instructions. It’s a good thing too, because you won’t find any instructions available, or at least we didn’t. If this is a common issue and you feel uncomfortable mounting the Pusuit yourself, take it to the local archer establishment and they will do it for you. This is also very inexpensive.
Read Our Full Review Of The Trophy Pursuit Bow Sight
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7. HHA OL-5519 Optimizer Lite – Best compound bow sight for archery shooting
Another single pin adjustable sight, the HHA OL-5519 is a universal option, but best used for target shooting. It comes with easy to understand instructions so you can set up your distances based on your hunting needs. We have found that newer sight hunters enjoy the educational instruction, because it helps them understand the best sticker tape to use on their sight.
The yardage sticker that comes with the HHA OL-5519 is already pre-printed, so there is no need for spending time setting distances yourself. We personally like using handmade settings ourselves, but we know plenty of hunters prefer eliminating this from the setup process. It’s one of the many reasons we believe this is the best bow sight in this category.
A couple of the features hunters will enjoy are:
- .019 single sighting pin
- R.M.O.R. pin technology
- Green sight ring
- Pure aluminum material
If you are not familiar with A.R.M.O.R pin technology, this is considered an indestructible machined aluminum pin. Without getting too technical, it basically means you will enjoy more durability when you find the best bow sight offering this benefit.
One thing we do want to share is that the HHA OL-5519 is more expensive than most of the other bow sight reviews we provided earlier. However, if it is in your price range, you will not be disappointed.
Read Our Full Review Of The HHA Optimizer Lite Sight
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8. HHA Optimizer Lite 3019 – Best single pin bow sight for bow hunting
Another single-pin model that makes it to our list is the HHA Optimizer Lite 3019. It is most probably worth noting that this model has won the Bowhunting World’s Reader’s Choice accolade for ten years in a row, which is something that no other bow sight can brag about. Made in the US, this bow sight abides by the highest quality standards, and the fact that bowhunters pick it, year after year, only goes to prove its value.
Yardage tapes are provided with your purchase, and you will be able to set up targets from 20 to 80 yards, using increments of five yards. The fiber optics is ultra-bright, and you will notice that the entire construction is made with durability in mind.
Made from top-notch materials, this model will behave exemplarily out in the field. Both hunters and 3D shooters will find it a great option, due to its superior mathematical accuracy.
As you may want to know a few more things about this model, here are the most important features it comes along with:
- One .019-inch pin configuration
- A.R.M.O.R. pin technology that ensures extra durability by encasing the fiber optics in a sturdy aluminum housing
- R.D.S. technology for yardage adjustments
- Tool-less windage and elevation adjustments
Be aware that it might not work for just any bow. Some users say that they could not work with the provided hardware, so they had to glue the bow sight in place, which is, evidently, a less than ideal situation.
9. APEX GEAR Covert – One of the most accurate vertical sights
In case you don’t need a particularly fancy bow sight, you will like what the APEX GEAR Covert can offer for the money. For a price that is half of other bow sights available, this model still does a pretty decent job at helping you acquire your target when you need a little bit of extra accuracy to land a successful shot.
One aspect that must be said about this particular model is that its aperture housing comes with tilt adjustments that work both vertically and horizontally. You will make great use of the windage and elevation adjustments that work with a micro-click operation.
Not only the pin available but also the ring glows in the dark, helping you with extra visibility when light conditions are low. A thing that makes this model stand out is the ability to change the color of the pin in seconds, for quick adaptation to field conditions. So you can make it go from red to yellow, and then to green, without a glitch.
In case you are wondering about the various features of this bow sight, here are some things you should know:
- It comes with both .010-inch and .019-inch pin sights
- The machined aluminum construction is sturdy
- Visible yardage tape
- Easy micro adjustments
According to some reviewers, it appears that this bow sight tends to be noisy, which can be quite a significant drawback, seeing how you want to remain deadly silent when you are out in the field.
10. Trophy Ridge React-One – Top rated adjustable one pin sight
If there is one thing we should say right away about this model is that it is a one-pin design, and not a multiple-pin model, like others now available. Now you may be wondering whether the fact that this model comes with only one pin instead of multiple ones is an advantage or a drawback. Here are some things you should know about this particular configuration.
One advantage this model presents is its smooth adjustment system. You won’t have to manipulate a micro-click system to adjust windage, elevation, and yardage. The smooth operation of the knobs gives you that refined accuracy that bow hunters who are no longer novices can surely appreciate.
The pin available is very bright and allows you to see in low-light conditions, while the included rheostat light extends your possibility of hunting at any hour. It appears that more experienced users can achieve incredible results when shooting with the help of this bow sight.
For more information on what this bow sight can offer, here are some extra details:
- One .010-inch pin is available in the configuration
- It is available in both left-handed and right-handed options
- Made from aluminum
- Yardage stickers included with your purchase
It appears that shooting with this bow sight takes some skill to acquire superior precision, so beginners might not find it such an appealing choice. However, seeing its simplicity of design and operation, you might want to give it a shot.
Pendulum Bow Sight Reviews
Check our review of the best treestand bow sight below
11. TRUGLO Pendulum – Best bow sight to use on a tree stand
We believe the best advantages are available for hunters who use tree stands. Elevated shots can be tricky, so it’s important to use a pendulum sight like the TRUGLO, so you can benefit from the compensation. This option provides automatic compensation up to 35 yards, which is a huge advantage for any hunter.
The biggest benefit associated with this sight is the ability to lock the pendulum. This eliminates the need to demount your sight and mount a compatible version if you are hunting on the ground at some point. It is like purchasing two sights for the price of one.
After testing both options out, the TRUGLO Pendulum sight offers superior accuracy for both ground and elevated hunting. In our opinion it is the best pendulum bow sight available today.
Here are some of the other features you will enjoy:
- .019 inch sighting pin
- 8 inch aperture diameter
- Adjustable rheostat violet light
- Yardage tapes with pre-printed distances
Earlier we discussed the TRUGLO Pendulum sight’s ability to automatically adjust. This occurs because the ring is on a pivot. Whenever you raise or lower the bow, it maintains a vertical position, so you can shoot out of a treestand or another elevated position. We’ve received several questions regarding this, so thought it would be important to share with you in our best bow sight reviews.
Read Our Full Review Of The Truglo Pendulum Bow Sight
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Bow Sight Types
1. Fixed Pin Sights
– Considered the most common choice, these sights provide anywhere from three to five pins. If you are shooting a projectile at close range, then the top pin will be used while aiming. The bottom pin is used for longer distances. We recommend setting each individual pin before heading out on your next hunting adventure, unless you know how to set these in a short amount of time.
When setting each pin you must come up with three to five distances that will not be difficult to remember. Most hunters will do this by using specific increments, but it will depend on the type of hunting you are doing each time out. We would recommend sticking with five or ten yard increments.
Even though these are “fixed” by tightening each pin, they can still be readjusted. In fact, there are some instances where hunters will have to readjust their pins in the field. If you are good at judging unknown distances then this will be a simple process. However, if you are still increasing your knowledge around this skill trait, it will take a little trial and error.
2. Moveable or Single Pin Sights
– If you are interested in moveable pin sights, we recommend these for intermediate and advanced hunters. Unlike the fixed pins which offer three to five distance sets, these are designed with one pin. In order to adjust it for your next shot, the entire housing unit will either slide up or down.
Properly adjusting a moveable pin sight can be done in seconds. Just remember to utilize the white tape along the rear of the sight. This will provide you with the opportunity to mark what the distance is, and then use it whenever needed. We love this benefit, because it allows you to just move the pointer based on the current distance situation. Most importantly, you create it (unless you purchase or the sight comes with pre-made distance tape), so use whatever is helpful for your hunting strategy.
If you need a little help getting started, it’s a good idea to make larger marks (similar to what you see on a ruler) for the normal distances of five or ten yard increments. Once these are in place you can make smaller marks for everything else in between (e.g. 8 yards, 17 yards, etc.).
3. Pendulum or Treestand Sights
– Every hunter understands the difference between shooting on level ground, uneven terrain, or elevated areas. The latter requires a different type of sight, which will compensate for those tough downhill shots. Most hunters spend more time on the ground than in tree stands, so accurately judging these yardages can be a little more difficult.
Hunters who use a pendulum sight in these situations will become more accurate almost instantly. It might take several shots to fully understand how these sights work, but only because the sight pin will swing out and up to compensate for the odd angle. It’s very different from fixed and moveable pin sights, so take the time to understand this version before using it.
Most of these sights are not designed to work on the ground or shooting on uneven terrain. They are specifically built to help hunters with short-range shots and downhill angles. If you do not hunt in an elevated position, a tree stand sight is not for you. If you do then it’s a must have while hunting.
Competition Sights
– If you are looking for a competition sight, also known as a target sight, then you know these are not designed for hunting. There are plenty of hunters that use them from time to time, but based on the cost alone, we would never recommend these a “first choice” option.
However, competition sights have a plethora of features that will make a hunter salivate. Individuals interested in a little competition will love the technology and sophistication associated with each one. Some of the features include:
- Click adjustments for wind and elevation needs
- Quick-disconnect systems for mounting and demounting
- Similar to a moveable pin sight
- Threaded receivers for a variety of aiming points
The optimal word here is; precision. Competition sights are built to provide exact precision, and the investment for these can be quite costly. We definitely do not recommend them for hunting purposes, but if you are planning on entering an archery tournament, it’s imperative that you purchase the right one.
Our bow sight reviews summary
During the research process, our goal was to help avid hunters like you, find the best quality bow sight for the best price. Each review you read today is not only based on our personal preferences, but also other hunters using the same products. Take the time to read them over and find the right bow sight for your needs.
We consider each one of these to be the best bow sight available in their category. Each one of the reviews above was designed to eliminate the need for you to do the research yourself. We took into account each hunter’s or target archer’s skill levels. We believe through our extensive research, you have been able to learn more about fixed pin sights, moveable pin sights, adjustable versions, pendulum choices, and even sights that will help you become a better marksman through use of muscle memory technology.
Even though hunting without a sight has always provided a primitive appeal, most hunters prefer using them. They offer additional accuracy; one that a hunter cannot gain with instinct, unless they are considered experts in the field. If you are ready to take the next step and become a better hunter or target shooter in competitions, pick the best compound bow sight based on your needs, and start enjoying all the benefits a sight can offer.
