Best Bows for Under $400

Shopping for a bow? Whether you’re new to the sport or an arrow-flinging vet, some pros would have you think a good rig will run you a grand or more. Don’t believe ’em. These bows and the accessories that follow (page BB8) will have you completely set up for much less.

1. Alpine Impact X-treme Cost: $339
Weight: 3.3 lb.
Axle-to-axle: 34 in.
Draw wt.: 50-70 lb.
Draw length: 26-30 in.
Brace height: 6½ in.
Color: Realtree Hardwoods Green HD
Let-off: 65-80%
IBO Speed Rating: 290 fps
Comments: Attention to detail and design innovation make this short bow a true mid-range performer. (208-746-4717; alpinearchery.com)

2. Diamond Rapture
Cost: $399
Weight: 3.6 lb.
Axle-to-axle: 33 in.
Draw wt.: 50-70 lb.
Draw length: 26-31 in.
Brace height: 7½ in.
Color: Mossy Oak New Break-Up
Let-off: 65-80%
IBO Speed Rating: 300 fps
Comments: Impresses with speed, adjustability and quality of construction at a reasonable price. (877-269-2776; diamondarchery.com)

3. Fred Bear Realtree Vapor
Cost: $299
Weight: 4.4 lb.
Axle-to-axle: 34¼ in.
Draw wt.: 40-70 lb.
Draw length: 28-30 in.
Brace height: 7¼ in.
Color: Realtree Hardwoods HD
Let-off: 65-75%
IBO Speed Rating: 302 fps
Comments: A truly sweet shooter. The perimeter-weighted cam and finish add to this bow’s unique appeal. (866-556-2754; fulldraw.net)

4. Martin Jaguar Mag Dyna Cam
Cost: $279
Weight: 3.9 lb.
Axle-to-axle: 32½ in.
Draw wt.: 40-70 lb.
Draw length: 25-30 in.
Brace height: 7 in.
Color: Mossy Oak Break-Up
Let-off: 65-75%
IBO Speed Rating: 300 fps
Comments: An aggressive cam system and 7-inch brace height make this bow both swift and accurate. (509-529-2554; martinarchery.com)

5. Parker Buckhunter
Cost: $269
Weight: 3.6 lb.
Axle-to-axle: 35½ in.
Draw wt.: 40-70 lb.
Draw length: 27-31 in.
Brace height: 7 in.
Color: TreBark Big Woods
Let-off: 65-80%
IBO Speed Rating: 286 fps
Comments: Distances itself from the field with quality construction and features found on high-end models. _(540-337-5426; parkerbows.com) _