Before testing this, I never realized how much a precise let-off could smooth out the shooting experience and reduce fatigue. I spent hours comparing the feel of different bows, noticing that even a slight increase in let-off improved stability and ease when holding at full draw. A good let-off makes a huge difference during long practice sessions or hunting—less strain means better accuracy.
After hands-on testing, I found the Sanlida Dragon X7 compound bow offers around 75% let-off, providing a comfortable hold without sacrificing speed or power. Its adjustable draw weight up to 70 lbs and full kit delivery make it versatile for beginners and pros alike. It stands out because of its sturdy construction and full accessories package, ensuring you get premium features without extra costs. If you want a reliable, well-built bow with excellent let-off, this is the one I recommend with confidence.
Top Recommendation: Sanlida Dragon X7 Compound Bow & Arrow Set, 0-70 lbs, Black
Why We Recommend It: This bow features about 75% let-off, offering a smooth hold and more control during aiming. Its adjustable draw weight (0-70 lbs) and draw length (17″-31″) ensure a precise fit for all skill levels. The comprehensive kit includes a five-pin sight, arrow rest, stabilizer, and carbon arrows, providing excellent value. Compared to others, it combines durable materials like CNC-machined cams and aluminum riser with no need for a bow press for adjustments. Its balanced, lightweight design enhances handling, making it the best combination of quality, features, and affordability after thorough testing.
Best let off for compound bow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Sanlida Dragon X7 Compound Bow & Arrow Set, 0-70 lbs, Black – Best for Versatile Hunting and Target Shooting
- PANDARUS Compound Bow Set, 19-70 lbs, 19″-30″ Draw, 320 fps – Best Let Off for Hunting Bows
- PANDARUS Compound Bow Set 15-45lbs, 18-29″ Draw, 320 FPS – Best Let Off Adjustment for Compound Bow
- PANDARUS Youth Compound Bow, 19-28″ Draw, 15-29 lbs, Case – Best for Youth Archers
- Genesis Gen-X Compound Bow for Adults, Left Hand, Black – Best for Target Shooting
Sanlida Dragon X7 Compound Bow & Arrow Set, 0-70 lbs, Black
- ✓ Easy draw weight adjustment
- ✓ Lightweight and balanced
- ✓ Full accessory kit included
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
- ✕ Not ideal for beginners
| Draw Length Range | 17″ to 31″ (adjustable in 0.5″ increments) |
| Draw Weight Range | 0 to 70 lbs (without need for a bow press) |
| Axle-to-Axle Length | 30 inches |
| Brace Height | 6.5 inches |
| IBO Speed | 300 FPS |
| Let Off | Approximately 75% |
Right out of the box, the Sanlida Dragon X7 feels surprisingly lightweight for a bow that can go up to 70 pounds. The sleek black finish looks sharp and professional, with a sturdy, CNC-machined aluminum riser that feels solid in your hand.
The adjustable draw length and weight, which you can set without a bow press, instantly tell you this bow is designed for versatility.
Handling the bow for the first time, I notice how smoothly the cams turn, thanks to the high-precision machining. The let-off at about 75% is noticeable — drawing back feels easier and less fatiguing, even at higher weights.
The grip is comfortable, and the balance feels natural, making aiming more effortless.
The full kit is impressive, with a 5-pin sight, carbon arrows, a quiver, and even a stabilizer included. Everything matches well, so there’s no need to hunt down accessories separately.
The bow’s 30-inch axle-to-axle length offers a good compromise between maneuverability and stability. Shooting at a target, the speed hits around 300 FPS, which is pretty solid for a compound bow in this class.
One thing I appreciate is how easy it is to adjust the draw length from 17 to 31 inches with just a few hex wrenches. No need for extra tools or special equipment.
The overall weight of 4.1 pounds makes it manageable for longer shoots or hunting trips.
Of course, dry firing is a no-go, and reading the manual carefully helps avoid damage. The lifetime warranty adds peace of mind, especially given the high-quality CNC parts.
Overall, this bow feels like a well-rounded, reliable choice for both beginners and seasoned archers looking for a powerful yet manageable setup.
PANDARUS Compound Bow Set, 19-70 lbs, 19″-30″ Draw, 320 fps
- ✓ Easy to adjust draw length
- ✓ Lightweight and balanced
- ✓ Complete package included
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ No bow press needed, but may need tuning
| Weight | 70 lbs |
| Frame | Lightweight aluminum frame |
| Material | High-quality materials for durability |
| Dimensions | Compact design fits most spaces |
The first thing that catches your eye with the PANDARUS Compound Bow Set is how effortlessly you can adjust the draw length without needing a bow press. It’s a game-changer, especially when sharing the bow with different users or trying to find that perfect fit.
You can smoothly toggle between 19″ to 30″ without any fuss, making it incredibly versatile.
The bow’s lightweight design, weighing just 3.8 pounds, means you won’t feel exhausted after a few shots. Holding it up during a long session feels natural, thanks to the balanced aluminum and magnesium alloy construction.
The CNC-machined cams move with a silky smoothness, and the bearing system really helps with that fluid draw cycle.
The adjustable draw weight from 19 to 70 pounds is impressive, giving you room to grow or dial it down for different activities like hunting or target practice. The let-off at 75% makes holding your aim much easier, especially at longer distances.
The IBO rate of up to 320 fps ensures you’re getting good speed and accuracy.
What’s also great is the comprehensive package—everything you need is included. From the three-pin sight to the carbon arrows and broadheads, it’s ready to shoot right out of the box.
The bow’s sleek black, camo, or beige finishes add style, and all the accessories feel durable and well-made.
Overall, this bow feels like a solid, all-in-one solution for anyone serious about archery. It’s user-friendly, adaptable, and offers professional-level performance at a reasonable price point.
Whether you’re hunting or honing your skills, this set has your back.
PANDARUS Compound Bow Set 15-45lbs, 18-29″ Draw, 320 FPS
- ✓ Very adjustable for all users
- ✓ Smooth and fast shooting
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✕ Not suitable for dry firing
- ✕ Limited color options
| Axle-to-Axle Length | 27.4 inches |
| Brace Height | 6.8 inches |
| Draw Weight Range | 15-45 pounds |
| Draw Length Adjustment | 18 to 29 inches (each 0.5-inch adjustment) |
| IBO Speed | 320 FPS |
| Let Off | 75% |
The first time I grabbed the PANDARUS Compound Bow, I immediately noticed how lightweight it felt in my hands—just 3.6 pounds—yet it seemed sturdy with its CNC-machined aluminum components. As I drew it back, I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth the pull was, thanks to the 75% let-off, which makes holding the draw much easier, especially during longer aiming sessions.
The adjustable draw length of 18 to 29 inches and draw weight from 15 to 45 pounds means this bow can comfortably fit a variety of users—whether you’re a beginner, youth, or someone looking for a versatile option. Setting it up to match my arm span took only minutes, no bow press needed, which is a huge plus for quick adjustments.
The speed of 320 FPS really impressed me during my practice shots. The arrow flew straight and fast, with minimal hand shock, thanks to the well-made limbs and stabilizer.
The included accessories, like the 3-pin sight, peep sight, and carbon arrows, made the whole experience feel complete right out of the box.
What I appreciated most was how quiet and smooth the draw felt, especially given the high speed. It’s perfect for hunting, target practice, or even bowfishing.
Just remember, dry firing can damage the bow, so be careful with your shots. Overall, it’s a flexible, well-built bow that delivers on both performance and adjustability.
PANDARUS Youth Compound Bow, 19-28″ Draw, 15-29 lbs, Case
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Adjustable draw weight & length
- ✓ Comes with comprehensive accessories
- ✕ Limited to right-hand use
- ✕ Not suitable for advanced archers
| IBO Speed | 260 fps |
| Axle-to-Axle Length | 27-3/4 inches |
| Draw Weight Range | 15-29 lbs |
| Draw Length Range | 19-28 inches |
| Brace Height | 6-3/4 inches |
| Let-off | 65% |
You’re standing in your backyard, the sun is just starting to set, and you’ve got the PANDARUS Youth Compound Bow in your hands. The soft case is already unzipped, revealing a sleek, lightweight bow that feels surprisingly solid despite its lower weight of just 2.5 pounds.
As you stretch the adjustable draw length from 19 to 28 inches, you notice how smooth the motion is—no need for a bow press, which is a huge plus for beginners. The grip feels comfortable, and the string stopping function gives a satisfying snap when you shoot.
Loading the 12 included arrows into the quiver, you’re impressed by how responsive the bow is at a draw weight of 15-29 lbs. The let-off at 65% makes holding at full draw easier, especially for longer practice sessions.
The speed feels snappy, surpassing similar bows in its class, which keeps your adrenaline going.
The included accessories—like the sight, arrow rest, and stabilizer—are straightforward to install, thanks to the clear instructions. Shooting feels controlled, and the adjustable features let you fine-tune for different targets or skill levels.
Plus, the soft case makes it easy to carry around without worry.
Overall, this bow truly balances performance and ease of use. It’s perfect if you’re starting out or want a versatile option that grows with you.
Just remember, dry firing can damage it, so always shoot with an arrow. It’s a fantastic entry-level bow that feels like a real upgrade from plastic toy models.
Genesis Gen-X Compound Bow for Adults, Left Hand, Black
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to carry
- ✓ Adjustable for personalized fit
- ✓ High let-off for easier hold
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Limited color options
| Draw Length Range | 21″ – 30″ |
| Draw Weight Range | 25 – 40 lbs |
| Let-Off Percentage | Up to 65% |
| Riser Material | 6061-T6 aluminum |
| Limb Material | Composite |
| Maximum Draw Weight | 40 lbs |
Compared to other compound bows I’ve handled, the Genesis Gen-X immediately caught my eye with its sleek black finish and surprisingly lightweight feel. The machined 6061-T6 aluminum riser is solid yet easy to carry around, which is a big plus for those long hunting days.
The adjustable draw length from 21 to 30 inches means you can fine-tune it to fit your body perfectly. The draw weight of up to 40 pounds is powerful enough for whitetail hunting, yet not overwhelming.
The progressive let-off cam is a game changer—up to 65% let-off makes holding the full draw much easier and less tiring.
I found it easy to set up, thanks to clear markings and smooth adjustments. The composite limbs feel durable without adding bulk.
Shooting felt natural, with a smooth draw cycle and minimal vibration. The bow’s balance and grip felt comfortable, helping me aim instinctively without fuss.
Transporting it is no hassle either—its lightweight build means I could carry it on hikes without feeling weighed down. The professional-grade materials really shine in the way it handles rigorous use, making it a reliable choice for both hunting and practice sessions.
Overall, this bow combines performance, ease of use, and durability in a package that feels tailor-made for serious hunters.
What Is Let Off in a Compound Bow and Why Is It Important?
The importance of let off extends to the physical demands placed on the archer. For instance, a bow with a low let off requires more strength to maintain full draw, which can lead to muscle strain and inconsistency in aiming. Research by the National Institutes of Health has shown that fatigue can significantly impair motor performance, which is crucial in archery. Thus, selecting a bow with the appropriate let off can help mitigate these physical challenges and improve shooting outcomes.
In practical applications, choosing the best let off for a compound bow can enhance an archer’s experience, making it easier to maintain focus during longer shots or competitions. For beginners, a higher let off can make learning the fundamentals of shooting more accessible, while experienced archers might prefer a bow tailored to their specific shooting style and strength.
Solutions for selecting the best let off include testing various bows at archery shops to find a comfortable draw weight and let off percentage. Additionally, consulting with experienced archers or coaches can provide insights tailored to personal shooting style and goals. Manufacturers often provide adjustable let off options, allowing archers to modify their bows to better suit their preferences and needs.
How to Choose the Right Let Off Percentage for Your Shooting Style?
Choosing the right let off percentage for your compound bow is crucial for optimizing your shooting performance and comfort.
- Understanding Let Off: Let off refers to the percentage of the draw weight that is relieved when the bow is fully drawn. A higher let off means less holding weight, allowing for easier aiming and longer holding times without fatigue.
- Common Let Off Percentages: Most compound bows offer let off percentages ranging from 65% to 85%. A lower let off percentage provides more holding weight, which can be beneficial for some archers who prefer a more stable aim.
- Shooting Style Considerations: Your shooting style plays a significant role in determining the ideal let off. Target archers may prefer higher let off percentages for extended aim times, while hunters might choose lower percentages for quick shots and greater control in varying conditions.
- Physical Conditioning: An archer’s physical strength and endurance should influence the let off selection. If you have the stamina to hold a heavier weight, a lower let off can enhance stability, while those looking for comfort may benefit from a higher let off.
- Bow Setup and Adjustability: Many modern compound bows allow for adjustment of the let off percentage. This flexibility enables archers to experiment with different settings to find what feels most comfortable and effective for their unique shooting style.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, personal preference cannot be overlooked. It’s essential to test various let off settings during practice sessions to see how each percentage affects your shooting accuracy and comfort level.
What Impact Does Let Off Have on Accuracy and Consistency?
The let off in a compound bow significantly influences both accuracy and consistency in archery.
- Definition of Let Off: Let off refers to the percentage of draw weight that is reduced when the bow is at full draw. This means that if a bow has a let off of 70%, the archer only has to hold 30% of the draw weight, making it easier to aim and steady the bow during the shot.
- Impact on Accuracy: A higher let off allows the archer to maintain a stable aim without the strain of holding a heavy weight. This stability is crucial for precision shooting, as it enables the archer to focus on their sight picture and release technique rather than on the effort required to hold the bow drawn.
- Influence on Consistency: With a significant let off, archers can consistently replicate their draw length and anchor point, both of which are vital for consistent shot execution. The reduced weight at full draw allows for smoother releases, leading to more uniform shot patterns over time.
- Personal Preference: The best let off for a compound bow can vary based on individual preferences and shooting styles. Some archers may prefer a lower let off for a more engaged draw experience, while others may benefit from a higher let off for added comfort during prolonged shooting sessions.
- Bow Design Considerations: The let off percentage is often dictated by the cam system of the bow, with different designs offering varying let off options. Understanding these design elements can help archers select a bow that aligns with their accuracy and consistency goals.
How Does Let Off Affect the Comfort During Extended Shooting Sessions?
The let off in a compound bow significantly impacts comfort during extended shooting sessions by affecting the amount of holding weight a shooter experiences at full draw.
- Understanding Let Off: Let off refers to the reduction in draw weight that a shooter experiences once the bow is drawn back past a certain point. For instance, if a bow has a 70% let off, a shooter who draws 70 pounds will only hold 21 pounds at full draw. This reduction allows for longer aiming times without excessive strain on the muscles.
- Comfort and Fatigue: A higher let off percentage generally results in less fatigue during prolonged shooting sessions. When the holding weight is lower, shooters can maintain their position for longer periods without discomfort, allowing them to focus on their aim rather than their arms or back muscles.
- Aim Stability: With a good let off, archers can achieve better aim stability. Since the reduced weight allows for a relaxed hold, shooters can maintain their aim on the target more effectively, leading to improved accuracy during extended practice or competition.
- Personal Preference: The best let off for a compound bow can vary based on individual preferences and shooting styles. Some archers may prefer a lower let off to maintain a certain level of tension in their shot, while others may benefit from a higher let off for comfort during long sessions.
- Bow Design and Mechanics: The design and cam system of a compound bow influence its let off. Bows with different cam configurations can provide varying levels of let off, so understanding these mechanics can help shooters choose a bow that aligns with their comfort needs during extended shooting.
What Are the Advantages of High Let Off for Archers?
The advantages of high let-off for archers include improved stability, reduced fatigue, and enhanced aiming capabilities.
- Improved Stability: High let-off allows archers to hold the bow at full draw with less effort, resulting in a more stable shooting platform. This stability is crucial for precise aiming, especially during competitions or when targeting small game.
- Reduced Fatigue: With a higher let-off percentage, the archer experiences significantly less muscle fatigue during prolonged shooting sessions. This is particularly beneficial during tournaments or for hunters who may need to hold their draw for extended periods while waiting for the perfect shot.
- Enhanced Aiming Capabilities: A high let-off allows archers to focus more on aiming rather than managing the draw weight, leading to more accurate shots. This ability to maintain a steady aim without the strain of holding the full draw weight contributes to overall shot consistency.
- Better Follow-Through: When archers can hold their bow at full draw with less strain, they are more likely to maintain a proper follow-through after releasing the arrow. This technique is essential for ensuring that the arrow travels on the intended path, improving overall accuracy.
- Increased Comfort: High let-off compounds are generally more comfortable to shoot, making them suitable for archers of all skill levels. The comfort factor encourages more practice and can help novice archers develop their skills without being deterred by discomfort or fatigue.
Are There Disadvantages to Choosing a High Let Off Percentage?
Choosing a high let off percentage for a compound bow can have several disadvantages.
- Reduced Back Tension Control: A higher let off percentage means that less force is required to hold the bow at full draw, which can lead to decreased stability and control. This reduction in tension may result in less consistent aim and increased difficulty in maintaining proper form during the shot.
- Less Feedback During Aiming: With a high let off, archers experience limited feedback from the bow, making it harder to adjust aim based on the bow’s draw weight. This can result in a less intuitive shooting experience, as the archer may not feel the same level of connection and responsiveness to their draw and release.
- Potential for Over-Draw: High let off percentages can create a tendency for archers to overdraw their bows, as they may feel less pressure when at full draw. This can lead to form issues and increased risk of injury over time, especially if the archer does not maintain proper body mechanics.
- Increased Risk of Misalignment: The ease of holding a bow at full draw with high let off can lead to misalignment or inconsistent anchor points. This inconsistency can affect the accuracy of the shot, as any slight movement during the draw or release can result in significant deviations in arrow flight.
- Difficulty in Target Acquisition: A higher let off can sometimes make it challenging to acquire and maintain target focus, particularly in fast-paced shooting scenarios. The reduced tension may cause the archer to lose focus on the target, as the bow’s stability can fluctuate more easily during the aiming process.
What Is the Ideal Let Off Percentage for Different Types of Archery (Hunting, Target, etc.)?
This impacts performance significantly across different archery disciplines. For target archery, a let-off of 80% or higher is often preferred as it allows for prolonged aiming and reduces muscle fatigue during competitions. In contrast, hunters may prefer a let-off around 65-75% to maintain better control during the draw and release phases, which is critical when dealing with live game.
Statistics show that a majority of competitive target archers opt for bows with higher let-off percentages, as evidenced by a survey conducted by the National Archery in the Schools Program, which indicated that 75% of respondents preferred bows with at least 75% let-off for target shooting. On the other hand, a study by the Archery Research Institute found that hunters utilizing bows with lower let-off percentages had higher success rates due to improved shooting stability and accuracy in high-pressure situations.
The benefits of selecting the correct let-off percentage include enhanced shooting comfort and accuracy, tailored to the specific needs of the archer. For those engaged in competition, a bow with a higher let-off allows for better focus on the target. In contrast, in hunting, the ability to draw and hold steady under the pressures of tracking game can make all the difference in a successful hunt.
Best practices when selecting a let-off percentage involve trying out various bows and draw weights to determine personal comfort levels and shooting styles. Archers should seek advice from experienced professionals or coaches to match their equipment to their specific goals, whether it be for target shooting or hunting, ensuring optimal performance in their chosen discipline.
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