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Unless you’ve recently struck it rich in the lottery ― you’re broke like the rest of us. Hey, nobody has to tell you times are tough and getting tougher. As archers tighten their bowhunting belts, manufacturers have designed and produced some great bows that won’t tap into your kids’ college fund.
Here’s 20 of the best on the market today. At the end of the gallery I explain the difference between a $1,000 bow and a $500 bow.
See our test of the Best Broadheads.
1. Parker Buckshot (Youth)
The Buckshot, $249.95, is designed with youths and small framed archers in mind. While weighing a mere 2.75-pounds, the Buckshot is big (for a youth bow), at 28-inches axle-to-axle. Draw weights range from 15- to 45-pounds with 17- to 26-inches of draw length adjustment in ½-inch increments.
The Midnight Troubadour
Tough and timeless, this polo is built for the long ride. Featuring a crisp, non-collapsing collar and a rugged, stretchy fabric, it's the perfect shirt for any cowboy's wardrobe.
A great grip fits small hands neatly and a braided sling is standard issue. An 80% let-off assures archers can remain at full-draw comfortably as they settle on their intended target. The “Grow Up With Parker” program helps users adjust the bow as they grow, for years of enjoyment. Available in right or left handed models in RealTree MAX-4.
2. Mission Craze
The Craze, $299, is uber-adjustable, with the draw length stretching from 19- to 30-inches. The draw weight can be changed from 35- to 70-pounds without swapping limbs or cams. At 28-inches axle-to-axle, this bow is maneuverable while retaining a generous 7.5-inch brace height.
At a mere 3.75-pounds, the Craze zips arrows up to 306 fps (depending on configuration). The Craze is available in a number of crazy color combos too (including Pink Lost Camo AT). This truly is a bow that can be adjusted to fit just about any archer and his or her specific shooting needs.
3. Parker Sidekick (Youth)
https://www.outdoorlife.com/photos/gallery/hunting/2011/08/20-best-bows-under-500/