Bowtech Destroyer 340 Review

Editors' review

The Destroyer 340 is the flagship bow of the 2010 Bowtech line. This is a high-performance bow with aggressive styling and great shootability characteristics. While the draw cycle is relatively stiff, it's also smooth for a speed bow. With minimal shock and vibration, the Destroyer 340 is one of the quietest rigs in the speed bows world.

Grip

Archers say the plastic grip on the Destroyer 340 is comfortable but looks cheap for a high quality bow. They agree that side plates or wood grip would make this bow immaculate. While this grip will not appeal to everyone, it performs well. It's not a big deal anyway because if you don't like plastic grips you can always replace it.

Eccentric system

Bowtech's new OverDrive Binary Cam system powers the Destroyer 340 to advertised IBO speeds reaching upwards of 340 feet per second. A set of interchangeable modules is available for draw lengths ranging from 26" to 31" in half-inch increments. While this is a modular-adjustable eccentric system, a bow press is required to change out modules. The Destroyer 340 offers an effective 80% let-off.

Draw cycle / Shootability / Quietness

While the draw cycle is relatively stiff, it's also smooth enough for a speed bow as noted by many shooters. Archers say there is a little hump closer to the end of the draw cycle before it drops into the valley. Also, the back wall is pretty solid. When it comes to shock and vibration, this rig is one of the best speed bows. We were overwhelmed with the amount of feedback indicating that this bow has an amazing lack of shock and vibration. Some experts strongly agree the Destroyer 340 is one of the quietest speed bows out there.

Destroyer 340 vs. Destroyer 350

Bow	Bowtech Destroyer 340	Bowtech Destroyer 350
Version	2011	2011
Picture
Brace Height	7 "	6 "
AtA Length	32.375 "	32.375 "
Draw Length	26 " - 31 "	25 " - 30 "
Draw Weight	40 lbs - 70 lbs	40 lbs - 70 lbs
IBO Speed	340 fps	342 fps - 350 fps
Weight	3.9 lbs	3.9 lbs
Let-Off	80% effective	80% effective
Where to buy Best prices online	$577.99 Compare prices	$799.99 Compare prices
	compare more bows

Shooters like comparing the Destroyer 340 with its faster brother from the series: the Destroyer 350. Specs-wise, the main differences between the two is that the Destroyer 340 has a longer brace height (7"), is 10 FPS slower than its 6" brother, and might be a better choice for shooters with longer draw lengths. Some long draw archers say a more forgiving brace height is worth more to them than a few FPS, especially when shooting from non-ideal positions.Speaking about shootability, short draw archers (up to 28") may not feel any difference between the two rigs. Therefore, such people often say they like the Bowtech Destroyer 350 much better because it's 10 FPS faster. On the other hand, many archers agree that for long draw length shooters (28"+), the Destroyer 340 is a better choice due to its shifted draw length range, forgiving brace height, and a better string angle.Another comparison factor is the draw cycle. While both rigs have a smooth (but relatively stiff) draw cycle, many shooters agree the draw cycle on the Destroyer 340 is a bit smoother.

Summary

To summarize, the Destroyer 340 is an excellent shooting speed bow with minimal shock, vibration, and noise at the shot. This lightweight and well balanced bow has a smooth (but relatively stiff) draw cycle for a speed bow. While the eccentric system is modular-adjustable, a bow press is needed to adjust the draw length. Although this is not the best bow for beginners (unless you are willing to put the time and effort into learning how to shoot this rig well), the Destroyer 340 is a great choice for average and experienced shooters who like quality rigs with great performance and aggressive styling.