Youth Compound Bow Reviews: Top 8 List with Buyer’s Guide

Any bowhunter knows the importance of a solid bow. And if you want to buy your child a compound bow, you should choose the best compound bow one available on the market. In this post, we are going to provide some youth compound bow reviews that will help you choose a good bow for your kid.

But there are numerous brands and models out there, and you may find it hard to choose from so many options.

But making a choice is a lot easier if you know what to look for in a youth compound bow.

Here you will also learn what factors to consider when choosing a youth compound bow. Read on to know everything you need to know about these bows.

Quick Picks:  Youth Compound Bow Reviews: Top 8 List with Buyer’s Guide

Top 8 Youth Compound Bow Reviews

1) Genesis Youth Compound Bow


This Genesis Youth Compound Bow is a good choice for a child who is developing an interest in archery. The bow has an impressive build quality and useful accessories like Arm Guard, Quiver, hex wrench, and aluminum arrows.

The minimum draw weight of the bow is 6 pounds to 12 pounds. It is a light model with a brace height of 6 1/8 inches. National Archery has chosen this bow for school programs. If your child is just learning archery, this bow is a great choice, partly because its draw length is 14-25 inches.

This is not a bow for advanced users, but it is really suitable for children aged between 4 and 7 years. With this bow, target shooting is very easy, partly because it has no left-off feature. With the kit you get 5 aluminum arrows, an adjustable arm guard, and a belt tube quiver.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Great resale value
  • Comes with all necessary features

Cons

  • Not for kids experienced in archery
  • Gradually it will need to be replaced

2) Crosman Elkhorn Jr. Youth Bow


This Crosman Elkhorn Jr. Youth Bow is a well-made and sturdy bow is for kids aged between 7 and 10 years. The bow is extremely sturdy and durable, because composite fiber has been used to manufacture the body. Small kids can easily handle it.

The bow measures 33 inches between the axles. It has a draw weight of 15 pounds. A big disadvantage is that the draw lengths and the draw heights can not be adjusted. The bow has 8 inches of brace height and 65% of let off, which is the reason why shooting arrows is so easy.

The Crosman Elkhorn Jr. Youth Bow has just 70 FPS of velocity, which is okay, because it is intended for kids. With the package you get 1 finger tab, a 2-piece quiver, 2 composite arrows, and a pin sight. The product has a limited warranty of 90 days.

Pros

  • Durable body
  • Very lightweight
  • 90-day warranty
  • Comes with a finger tab and an arm guard

Cons

  • Draw weight and draw length are not adjustable
  • Right hand oriented

3) Bear Archery Brave Bow Set


Bear Archery is a reliable company, and it has been operating for around 80 years. The company is known as a manufacturer of amazing bow sets. If you are looking for a high-quality bow, the Bear Archery Brave Bow Set can be a great choice. It is an ideal introductory bow. Its features are similar to the PSE Mini Burner.

This two-wheeled bow is convenient for getting started with an adult compound bow. Its max draw weight range is 15-25 pounds. It also has 13.5 inches of draw length range. For a very young child, this draw length requirements is perfect. The bow weighs only 2 pounds, which is really light.

With a brace height of 5.5 inches, this bow is popular among young kids who are just developing an interest in archery. With the bow packages you get an arm guard, a whisker biscuit arrow rest, an arrow quiver, 1-pin sight, and finger rollers. This compound bow is right hand oriented, and that is a drawback for some users. The bow is available in 6 colors, and comes with a warranty of 90 days.

Pros

  • Suitable for children
  • Has an appropriate draw weight 15-25 pounds
  • Comes with 2 safety glass arrows

Cons

  • Draw length is too short
  • Not good for kids who are experienced in archery

4) Barnett Youth Compound Archery Tomcat 2


When choosing a bow for kids, you have to pay particular attention to draw lengths and draw weights. And this is part of the reason why finding a good youth bow for kids is not easy. In such a case, the Barnett Tomcat Compound Bow will not disappoint you. It looks and feels like an adult bow, and that will make your child feel good.

The bow has a low draw weight—17-22 pounds. The draw length is 20-22 inches, and it is a adjustable draw length. Young kids find it very easy to manage the bow, because it weighs only 3 pounds. It measures 26-28 inches from axle to axle length. This length is suitable for most kids.

The package comes with two arrows and a detachable quiver. Your child will feel comfortable handling the bow, thanks to its soft touch rollers. The Bow comes in two versions: boy’s and girl’s. However, the color is the only difference between these two versions.

Pros

  • Draw length is adjustable
  • Lightweight
  • Adjustable sight
  • Comes with soft touch rollers

Cons

  • Low-quality arrows
  • Only for right-handed users

5) Barnett Jr. Compound Archery Set


If you are going to introduce your little one to archery, you can rely on this amazing youth compound bow set. A great thing about this bow set is that you do not have to assemble it; it is pre-assembled. Another notable feature is that it can be used by both right-handed and left-handed users.

Its draw weight is 18 pounds. The Draw length is also not much—just 18-22 inches. The model weighs only 1.8 pounds. Small kids do not have any difficulty handling this weight. Overall, the bow is only 33.5 inches long. However, a drawback of this bow is that its draw weight can not be adjusted.

The set comes with a carry-case, a pin sight, finger rollers, and two arrows. Fingers do not slip, thanks to the soft touch grip on the body. The bow is available in black, camouflage tree and blue. It also comes with a limited warranty of 5 years.

Pros

  • Adjustable pin sight
  • Low draw weight
  • Very lightweight
  • Finger rollers

Cons

  • Flimsy arrows
  • Left-handed users can be use it right away

6) PSE Youth Heritage Bow Set


The PSE is known as a manufacturer of high-precision bows. Read some youth compound bow reviews randomly and chances are that you will come across this brand. If you are looking for a bow for your child, this sturdy bow is a really good option. The bow measures 25.25 inches from axle to axle. The draw weight is 12-29 pounds. It has 16-26 inches of draw length.

Both draw weight and draw length are adjustable. The bow weighs 2 pounds. With the package you get an arrow rest, a pin sight, 3 finger rollers, 2 fiberglass arrows, a quiver, and an arm guard.

It has 7 inches of brace height and no left off. Your child does not easily get tired, because the brace relieves much tension. The bow is suitable for only right-handed users. Another great thing about this bow is that it has a lifetime warranty.

Pros

  • Lifetime warranty
  • Durable
  • Less draw weight

Cons

  • Arrow rest could be better
  • Only for right-handed users

7) Diamond Prism Compound Bow Package


Many experienced archers recommend this youth compound bow. The bow is intended for kids who are developing an interest in archery. In terms of versatility and adjustability, this bow really stands out. It deserves your attention.

Extreme adjustability is the hallmark of this bow. The draw weight is adjustable and can be set from 5 pounds to 55 pounds. The range of the draw length ranges from 18 inches to 30 inches, thanks to the advanced system of rotation modules. Older teens as well as younger kids find this versatility very convenient.

With the package, you get a nock loop and a 3-pin sight. However, you do not get any arrow with the package. So, you will have to buy some arrows separately. The procedure of tuning the prism cam is very easy.

A drawback of the bow is that it does not have any feature to reduce the noise and vibration. You can add some dampener to reduce the vibration. Overall, it is a well-made, affordable, and durable youth compound bow.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Durable

Cons

  • No feature to reduce vibration
  • Not a very good option for older teens

8) Bear Archery Cruzer Bow Package


If your child is 8-10 years old, you can give him or her Bear Archery Cruzer Bow Package. This bow is relatively heavy because it weighs 3.9 pounds. So, if your child is smaller, this is probably not the best option. Both right and left hand models are available. With the package, you will get a peep sight, quiver, 4-pin sight, and a Trophy Ridge Accessories Whisker. Also, the Bear Archery Cruzer Lite has the 5-45-pound draw weight with the same bow limbs


The bow has a standard finish of green or sand patterns. You can also dress it in pink, orange, blue or purple. The drawstring can also be matched to the bow color. The finish is durable, and you can expect it to last for a long time.

It is an entry-level, high-quality bow, and it comes with standard accessories. It has more features than your child will probably use. If your kid is just getting started with archery, you can rely on this bow.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Available in different colors
  • Standard accessories

Cons

  • Not lightweight
  • No arrows

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Youth Compound Bow

When you are going to buy a youth compound bow, you should consider at least 5 factors. Many people fail to choose the best bows in spite of reading some youth compound bow reviews. The goal of this section is to help you make an informed decision. Learn about the following factors and consider them when buying a youth compound bow for your kid.

Your kid’s physique

When choosing a youth compound bow, the first thing you have to consider is your kid’s age and physique. Youth compound bows come in many different shapes and sizes, and you have to choose one that is suitable for your kid. It is important to know that not all companies manufacture youth compound bows.

Choose a bow that your child can easily handle. When your child uses the bow, make sure he or she does not develop bad habits. And once your child's draw length is comfortable with a youth compound bow, you can give him a larger bow.

Draw weight

The draw weight should be in conformity with your child’s current age. But the bow you choose should challenge your child in the coming years. Now we are going to provide some recommendations that will help you choose the right draw weight.

If your child is 3-8 years old and weighs up to 70 pounds, you have to choose a 5-10 pound draw weight.

If your child is 4-9 years old, of average size, and weighs up to 100 pounds, the ideal draw weight should be 10-29 pounds.

And if your child is 9-18 years old and weighs up to 130 pounds, 15-52 pounds is probably the ideal draw weight.

It is important to note that the draw length should be balanced with the draw weight. You can read some more youth compound bow reviews to learn more about the adjustable draw weights.

Draw length

In most cases, the draw length of bows that are designed for children is 14-25 inches. If your child is 4-10 years old, this draw length will work. But you will not find a standard, and that is why it is important to balance draw weight and draw length with your child’s physique. But, as a rule of thumb, 14-25 inches of draw length is suitable for a child who is 4-10 years old.

But if your kid is bulkier for his age, a 20-30 inch bow is probably a better choice. Again, it is important to know that there is no bow length that is suitable for all children. If your child is tall, choose a bow accordingly. Remember, you should choose a bow that will challenge your child as he or she grows up.

Total bow weight

For an inexperienced kid, it is not easy to hold a bow. It requires some target practice. If the bow is heavy, soon your child will start experiencing fatigue. That is why it is very important to consider the total weight of the bow.

For a 3-8 year-old child, a 1.3-2 pound bow can be a good choice. If your child is stronger, he or she may be able to handle a 2-3 pound bow.

For a 4-year old child, a 2-pound bow is not a light one. But if a child is over 10 years old, a 2-pound bow may be too light for the child. When choosing a youth compound bow, take your child’s age, height and strength into consideration.

Youth Compound Bow Reviews

One of the things that parents can pass on to their kids is the art of archery and bow hunting. This is a great skill, especially because many companies make youth compound bows. Kids and young archers no longer have to use the leftovers from mom and dad. They can now have their own best youth compound bow from their first shooting bows sessions.

There are many different bows for kids and youths of all ages. To discover the greatest youth compound bow for your child, you simply need to check around. Your child will no longer have to wear a bow that is either too little or too huge. Today's market offers versions that may be adjusted to meet your child's age, ability level, and size. You may now choose the ideal compound bow for your child's needs and skills, whether they want to shoot arrows at targets or learn how to shoot a game. All you'll need is a little patience and some time to peruse our selection.

1. Bear Brave


Bear Archery is a well-known and respected archery brand. They make the best recurve bows, like Grizzly, through a traditional process that has been around for many years. This youth bow is an excellent option for compound bows.

This compound bow is more expensive than others, but it has a good kid feature. A whisker cookie arrow rest is included. That means the arrow will stay in place, even if you move the bow around quickly or if it is lowered. That way, your child can shoot an arrow without having to worry about it falling out.

This bow is just like a regular bow, but it is smaller. It is suitable for kids. The bow has a skeletonized riser, 2 piece quiver, composite limbs with limb pockets. You can choose the color you want for it.

Pros

  • Quality build
  • Armguard included
  • 2 piece quiver
  • Arrow rest
  • Bear Tattoo!

Cons

  • Not truly adjustable
  • Right hand only
  • Poor quality included arrows
  • Single color

2. Gamo Daisy Youth Archery Compound Bow


If you want to buy a youth compound bow for kids just starting out, the Gamo Daisy Youth Archery Compound Bow is a good choice.

The bow's versatility is its main selling point. The bow can be used by both left- and right-handed shooters. The shoot-through riser makes it easy for both shooters to use the bow.

Your child will like the compound bow because it is easy to use and has many features for beginner compound bow archers. The riser makes it easy to shoot safely and keeps the arrow in the middle of the arrow rest. Cable guard and sight can be positioned on the side of the bow. These depend on which hand your child shoots with.

The single pin sight is adjustable, so you can see it from as close as 6 meters (20ft). This is perfect for beginner kids.

The adjustable draw weight on the compound bow makes it a good choice for ten-year-olds or older kids. The draw weight can be set from 13 to 19lbs, and the bow has a 60% let off.

The compound bow comes with two arrows that are 26 inches long. These arrows are fiberglass, but aluminum arrows might be too long. You will also get an armed guard and three-finger rollers.

If you're looking to save money, a compound bow is a good choice for a young archer. For the price you're paying, it's a safe option that will help them improve their skills.

Pros

  • The ambidextrous design makes it more versatile
  • It comes with an adjustable single-pin sight.
  • It includes two non-standard target arrows
  • Setting the draw weight is rather straightforward

Cons

  • The arrows are non-standard.
  • It may not take a long time to use.

3. Barnett Vortex 45-Pounds Youth Archery Bow


Parents who frequently buy youth compound bows know about Barnett. They use the Barnett Vortex bow, making children feel like they're using a smaller adult bow.

Because of its draw weight, the bow can shoot arrows very powerfully. You can even shoot arrows at deer-sized targets if you are determined to do so.

This youth compound bow comes with three arrows, an arrow rest, a 3-pin bow sight, a 2-piece quiver, and a carry case.

When you're not using the bow, you should detach the bow-mounted quiver every time.

Pros

  • If you find any factory defects in Barnett products, their five-year warranty is very generous.
  • Black is the most common color.
  • Due to a lack of official information, the bow's weight is estimated to be around 3 lbs.

Cons

  • This bow is for right-handed archers only.
  • A bow stabilizer would be needed to dampen the vibrations and balance the bow.

4. Lil Banshee Jr. Compound Youth Archery Set by Barnett Outdoors


This compound bow is ideal for kids who want to learn more about archery. It is an excellent way to start out and be affordable.

However, low prices do not mean that they have poor quality.

What comes with this youth compound bow? They are two arrows, a finger tab, and an adjustable pin sight.

Pros

  • This compound bow is ambidextrous, unlike other compound bows.
  • The smooth handgrip aids with stability and comfort.
  • Pink, black, and camo are just a few of the colors available.

Cons

  • The draw weight of 18 lbs. means that it's for children eight (8) years and up.
  • Once the draw length is out of your range, you may need another bow.

5. Barnett Tomcat Junior Archery Set


Children can use Tomcat as their starting compound bow to learn how fun archery is. Your kid's youth compound bow comes with a 3-pin bow sight, finger tab, quiver, and two arrows.

You don't have to worry about spending a lot of money on this bow if your child outgrows it soon. That's because Tomcat bows are not expensive.

Pros

  • The soft reinforced grip makes the bow easy to hold.
  • The compound bow is made of fiberglass.

Cons

  • Right-handed shooters' use only.

6. Velocity Youth Archery Race 4×4 Compound Bow Package


Velocity Archery is a brand you can trust for your child and compound bows. The Archery Race 4x4 isn't just a children's toy - it's a mini version of the real thing that adults use.

The Velocity Youth compound bow is a good choice for kids who want to start hunting. It is the right size for kids as young as seven, and it has a draw weight that is perfect for beginners.

As your child grows, you can adjust the Velocity Archery bow to fit their growing limbs and strength. This bow won't disappoint you because it is adjustable to your child's needs.

It is recommended that you have your bow tuned by an archery shop before shooting it. This will help the bow to be more accurate when you shoot arrows. The downside is that this only works for right-handed children.

When you buy this compound bow, you are getting the whole package. The package includes the bow, plus three accessories. The additional accessories are:

  • A fiber-optic sight.
  • A drop-away arrow rest.
  • A quiver with four aluminum arrows.
  • A D-loop.

Pros

  • No need for a bow press when making adjustments
  • The throat grip design is small to reduce hand torque
  • Machined cams
  • Aluminum riser with composite split limbs that are fiberglass
  • Moderate hand torque
  • The bow includes a drop away arrow rest

Cons

  • The bow is only for right-handed shooters.

7. Genesis Mini Bow


The Genesis Mini is a smaller version of the Genesis Original Bow. This bow is designed for people of all ages, and it could work well for younger people.

When you buy your child this youth compound bow, you buy him a real bow that is not a simple toy. This bow is very efficient and is ideal for introducing your child to the world of archery.

The Genesis Mini is perfect for small kids from three to four years old. Kids aged five and above can use the bow too.

Kids who have used this same compound bow for years still use the Genesis Mini. This one is made of high-quality materials that last a long time. Various users have said that you should never make the kid shoot the compound bow without an armguard for safety purposes.

Another issue with this product is that you only get the bow and not other accessories that come with it for the price you pay.

Even though accessories are bought separately from the compound bow, they won't be useful for children because they can't use them for hunting with 12-lb maximum draw weight.

Pros

  • With zero let-offs, you only need to pull the string from your fingers when you release the bow.
  • Single cam mechanism that is very flexible and easy to draw Aluminum riser that is both lightweight and robust
  • Whether the shooter is left-handed or right-handed affects the bow's orientation.
  • Long-lasting high-strength bow string Limb bolts for easy draw weight adjustment

Cons

  • Shooting it dry can cause bruises.

8. Diamond Atomic Package Youth


Diamond by Bowtech is a well-known company when it comes to compound bows. They have been around for many years and have an excellent reputation. Many people, including children aged 12 and younger, use their products. That's why they have some powerful youth compound bows that you can buy.

The Diamond Atomic Package is a compound bow designed to be used by children aged 4 to 11. It's designed to be light and simple to use, with a weight and length appropriate for younger shooters. This bow is made by Bowtech. Its purpose is to attract children to archery and even hunting. It may only be a pound or two heavier (the Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro is 3.2 pounds), but diamond infinite edge can be very tiring—especially for a child.

A game animal can't be taken down in one shot with a maximum draw weight of 29 lbs. Even though this is an excellent compound bow, it has a major downside. It is only available for right-handed kids.

Diamond Atomic has an infinite set that results in zero let-offs, so you could even share bows with your kid for extra bonding time or share them with friends. Always remind children never to dry-fire a compound bow.

Setting the draw weight on the Diamond Atomic bow requires rotating the limb bolts with a hex wrench. When you buy this bow, you also get accessories:

  • A 3-pin fiber optic sight
  • A capture-style arrow rest
  • A two-piece quiver
  • Three carbon arrows7

Pros

  • Due to the parallel limb arrangement, there is no hand shock.
  • The aluminum-based dual cam system
  • A nice grip is provided by the machined black metal riser.
  • Excellent speed and dead-on accuracy
  • Guaranteed for life

Cons

  • Expensive for youth compound bow

How to Pick the Best Youth Compound Bow?

There are many different bows and arrows that you can choose from. You will need to think about your child's needs when looking for a bow. Things like the brace height, weight, and draw length are essential to consider. When looking for a bow, these are the most important things to consider:

Child's Age

Many reputable manufacturers make adjustable compound bows, so you don't have to upgrade them soon. However, not all bows are a good choice for children. Some bows will work correctly for children, but others might be better for girls or boys of a certain age. There is no one universal youth bow that will work for all ages.

Some prestigious bow manufacturers make bows that grow with your child. This means that a child can use the bow from 4 to 18 years old.

Draw Weight

You want your child to grow up healthy and happy. You should never put too much stress or pressure on their bodies because this might lead to major health problems. When your child pulls too much weight, some muscles may over-develop, whereas others may under-develop. It is essential to be careful about the bows your kid will use throughout childhood.

Draw Length

Best youth compound bows have a draw length of 14-to 25 inches. These bows will be a safe option for archers aged 3 to 10. There is no standard size, so find the perfect balance between draw weight and draw length, considering your kid's size.

Total Mass Weight

When looking for a bow for your child, it is important to consider the weight. A heavier bow will be more difficult for a smaller or younger child to shoot, whereas a lightweight model will be easier. It is also essential to find a bow that your child can quickly shoot.

There is a big difference between bows for children and bows for adults. Boys and girls have different strengths, so a too heavy bow for a small child can be very difficult to use. A lighter model is the best choice for a petite child.

Final Thoughts on Youth Compound Bows

If it is the first time you are going to buy a youth compound bow, do not rush. Take your time and learn as much as possible about these bows by reading some youth compound bow reviews. When it comes to choosing these bows, in most cases price is not an issue. These bows are relatively affordable.

Your preferences, safety and other considerations should be taken seriously. Now you know more about youth compound bows, and hopefully you will be able to make an informed buying decision.

Read more: Compound Bow Arrows

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Youth Compound Bow

What Is a Great Starter Bow for a 10-Year-Old?

Kids around 10 or 11 years old can usually handle a bow that is 15 lbs for a recurve bow or 25 lbs for a compound bow. Recurve bows that are youth size are typically less than 50″ in length, tip to tip, and compound bows that are youth size are usually less than 40″, so they are easy to manage.

Can You Use a Youth Bow for Archery?

This bow is perfect for youths aged 6 to 99+. It's easy to set up and use, and it has an adjustable draw weight so that kids can continue using it as they get stronger. It's also the official bow of the National Archery in Schools Program.

Is 70 Lb Draw Too Much?

If you have a bow with a 70-pound peak draw weight and an 80% let-off, it should hold around 14 pounds. Holding the bow at full draw for 30 seconds is excellent. Still, if you're shaking, struggling, and exhausted at the end of that time, then you're not going to be able to make an ethical shot.

What Is a Good Bow for a 7-Year-Old?

The Scout is a 33-inch longbow that is durable and can handle a draw weight range of 8-13 lbs. It also has a 16- to 24-inch wide draw length range, making it perfect for children aged 4 to 7 years old.

Does Mathews Make a Youth Bow?

The Mathews Stoke bow is the best bow for young people. It is powered by the same technology that Mathews uses in adult bows. This makes the bow very accurate and powerful.

Can I Use a Youth Bow for Bowfishing?

If you are a young person who can't shoot a bow with a draw weight of 40 pounds, don't worry. Most youth bows can be converted to bowfishing bows. The equipment used on them is the same, no matter which type of bowfishing bow you choose.

What Size Arrows for a Youth Bow?

Fiberglass arrows are more durable than other types of arrows. They are less likely to break when shot from a bow. The most common sizes are 5/16″ (bowfishing shafts) or 1/4″ (youth arrows).

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