Mathews DXT Review

Mathews DXT

Average user rating

out of 16 user reviews
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Pros

  • very compact and maneuverable
  • fast single cam bow with efficient eccentric system
  • lightweight yet stable
  • very quiet

Cons

  • non-adjustable cam system
  • not the smoothest single cam bow

Video

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Editors' review

Equipped with proven technologies, the DXT is the lightest, shortest, and fastest bow in the 2008 Mathews line. At just 3.75 pounds and measuring 29.75 inches from axle to axle, the DXT is a high-performance bow capable of generating blazing IBO speeds. In addition, this rig is outfitted with ultra-thin limbs, highly efficient cam system, and effective silencing package.

Riser

The lightweight DXT's riser is machined out of aluminum and has numerous cutouts and chamfers throughout its body. By removing unnecessary material from the riser the Mathews design team reduced the overall weight to 3.75 lbs without jeopardizing the integrity and rigidity of the bow. The riser is connected to the limbs through the SphereLock Limb Cup System and limb turrets that cradle the limbs and spread the load. While this limbs-to-riser connection system is sleek and lightweight, it tightly secures limbs to the riser.

Grip

Another design change includes the new InLine laminated walnut grip that is slimmer and has a narrower throat compared to previous Mathews grips. Also, this grip has a distinctive laminated line that clearly indicates bow's centerline and can be used for tuning. According to our observations many archers appreciate this design by saying the grip reduces the likelihood of torque and is more comfortable to hold.

Limbs

Made of proprietary composite material, the new SE4 composite SlimLimbs are much thinner and stronger than traditional limbs. According to Mathews cycling tests they are twice as strong despite being light and thin. This is also confirmed by multiple DXT tests conducted by experts and shooters who say the new slim limbs are very durable and strong. The limbs are connected to the riser through the Limb Turret system and SphereLock Limb Lock system. This sleek and lightweight limbs-to-riser interface complements the overall slim appearance of the DXT bow and helps to further reduce its overall weight. The limbs and riser deliver a very solid, consistent, and high-performance platform for launching arrows at blazing speeds and with minimal vibration.

Eccentric system

Mathews's new Straightline DXT Solo Cam system is the driving force behind reported IBO speeds reaching 322 fps (2008 Mathews DXT only, later modifications are faster, see full Mathews DXT specs). This non-modular eccentric system is not adjustable and requires a different cam for each draw length. There is a reason for the lack of flexibility though. With this design the overall shootability of the DXT is better because each cam is specifically tuned to deliver optimal performance (faster speeds and smoother draw cycle) for a particular draw length. Cams are available from 24" to 30" in half-inch increments.To deliver faster speeds, smoother draw cycle, and lower recoil, the StraightLine Perimeter-Weighted DXT Cam is oversized and has a weight on its perimeter. The weight is an essential component of the whole system and is designed to deliver smooth release and reduce vibration.

Draw cycle

While many experts agree the draw cycle on the DXT is smooth, this is not the smoothest bow out there. To illustrate, many tests indicate the DXT's draw cycle is neither aggressive nor very smooth - it just sits in between. While many archers say the DXT pulls a little bit harder, overall they are very happy with the draw cycle for the speed this rig produces. The let-off is 80%. Also, with a solid back wall this rig is easy to hold at full draw.

Silencing system / Quietness and vibration

The Mathews DXT is equipped with a very effective silencing system. The riser, cable guard, and string suppressors are integrated with harmonic dampers and work together to eliminate unwanted noise and vibration. The harmonic dampers are so effective that Mathews licensed this technology to be used in other industries. The string suppressors are mounted on the limb tips and serve to eliminate string vibration between the cam and the idler wheel. This design results in a quieter and smoother shot upon release.
BowMathews DXTMathews Drenalin
Version 20102009
PictureMathews DXTMathews Drenalin
Brace Height7 "7 "
AtA Length29.75 "33 "
Draw Length24 " - 30 "25 " - 30 "
Draw Weight40 lbs - 70 lbs40 lbs - 70 lbs
IBO Speed326 fps320 fps
Weight3.75 lbs3.85 lbs
Let-Off80% 65% or 80%
Where to buy
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According to multiple tests and reviews, the DXT is a very quiet bow equipped with effective silencing system. Admittedly, the Mathews design team managed to reduce shock and vibration to minimal levels, making this bow a great shooting machine in the woods.Some experts even say the DXT is quieter than Mathews Drenalin that is known for its incredible quietness.

Summary

To summarize, the DXT is a very compact and lightweight bow capable of generating fast IBO speeds. While it's not the smoothest Mathews bow ever, the DXT is nice to draw and is fast at the same time. Equipped with the new ultra-thin durable limbs and a better grip, this bow delivers great performance in a very lightweight and maneuverable package. The DXT is a high performing rig with minimal hand shock and vibration. While the draw length can not be changed without replacing the cam, the bow is designed this way to deliver optimal performance and shootability characteristics. Ideal for tree-stand and blind hunting, the DXT is a great choice for average shooters who prefer smooth and quiet bows.

User Reviews

  • 16 reviews
  • ( out of 16 reviews for all versions)
Matthews DXT 70# @ 28.5 draw length is one smooth shooting quiet killer!

Version: 2009 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: Light weight, maneuverable, accurate, and fast enough to put game on the table! It’s just a great bow that’s very easy to shoot and stays in tune well.

Cons: If it was a little faster with the same qualities I’ve mentioned (pros) it would compete with today’s bows for top pick, that being said it has aged very well.

Full review:

I’d like to compare this bow in a blind fold test with today’s top bows because IMO it could hold its own be it a little slower but smooth as silk with a great back wall and repeatable accuracy that brings confidence to your shot placement. It’s what a great bow should be for a hunter- making the tough shots seem easy!

Still slinging with my DXT

Version: 2008 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: Light weight, Short bow great for ground hunting or out of a blind. Fast and accurate.

Cons: Mathews does make smoother faster bows.

Full review:

It is going into the 2019 season and I am still rocking my DXT. I guess ignorance is bliss but I have had no urge to go try new bows. I do not shoot over 50 yards and my DXT has been consistent money inside of that. If it ain't broke don't fix it. This bow has never let me down.

It's been a great bow

Version: 2008 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: Compact and lightweight yet fast and vibration free. It's a great hunting bow whether you hunt from a trees-stand, ground blind or spot and stalk. Stays tuned and arrows always pass-through if I do my part.

Cons: Not quite as smooth drawing as the new Vertex, but I since I prefer a single-cam bow I won't be switching any time soon.

Full review:

I've been shooting a bow since 1991 and have owned a DXT since the first year it came out in 2008. It is my 3rd bow and has been the best one thus far. I haven't touched the sights in at least 3 years so it keeps a tune well and has been very consistent. I agree with the other reviewers that the DXT is an excellent all-around bow and can be bought used for a third of what the new models cost. It has also been very durable as the only thing that I've ever done is replace the string every 3 years.

One of the best in bow crafted in the history of bow making.

Version: 2009 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: Very consistent shooting
Manœuvrable and light for stalking for long distances in in different types of forests
Very fun to shoot with
Easy to draw and solid backwall
Short and so easy to use on a treestanf

Cons: Maybe too light. Needs a stabilizer to add weight and increase a bit the precision.

Full review:

I used to shoot a Mathews Ultra max and when I’ve started to shoot with a DXT, it was a whole other feeling. My grouping has always been amazing since, and the number of moose and deer I were able to harvest with this little machine, stalking or on a stand, proves it was the best buy I could have made.
I watch the new bows every year, and I never feel I need to change.

Amazing Bow, Have not shot a more versatile bow ever. This bow is light and extremely accurate.

Version: 2010 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: The bow is the lightest bow that I have shot. that is important if you aer carrying it up to 10klm in a day through the Australian bush. The bow can handle a lot of rough treatment and still perform.

Cons: A little harsh on the draw but is tolerable for the results that the bow puts out.

Full review:

Excellent all round bow. I have a friend that runs an archery shop and I try out all the new bows each year and each year I tell him that I have not yet found a reson to hand in my DXT.
The bow is perfect to manouver around in a tree stand or to carry all day on a walking hunt.
It is very accurate and very durable, I dropped it 15 feet down a cliff one day and after checking the bow continued to hunt and take game with it.

Spiffy little sucker.

Version: 2009 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: Short, light, fast and accurate. Mathews has done a lot while I wasnt paying attention. Smooth draw cycle. Rock solid back wall. Super easy to tune like all single cam bows. Incredibly Vibe free especially when you take ATA into account.

Cons: A short bow takes some getting used to,... Other than that, Nothin.

Full review:

Ive been shooting a Mathews Q2 for 16 years at 70 # 27 inch draw. Great bow. My shoulder isnt getting any younger so I got this DXT at 60# 27.5 and I swear its faster even with a much heavier arrow. Its definitely More accurate and smoother. 2 inch groups at 35 yards with fixed blade 100 g. broad heads is hard to argue with. I have a great tune with my Q2 and couldnt manage that at 35 yards. I am ready for this season and I doubt Ill be switching bows again anytime soon. Great Job Matt!

It doesn't get much better for a lightweight short bow, fast, accurate, quite, stays in tune.

Version: 2008 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: When I pick a bow, the first thing that must match with me is looks, then how it feels in the hand, then draw cycle, then accuracy, next would be staying in tune, repeat accuracy, and bow noise. The DXT exceeds almost all my requirements.

Cons: Cams will separate the servings at a couple of places, but this happen to almost all bows today.

Full review:

Add a Mathews quiver, your favorite sights, and hunt or shoot till your hearts content, I'm on my 6th set of strings, never had a issue with this bow, I've hunted the Rocky Mountains, several times, and there very hard on a bow, never a issue. The DXT is one of those bows that most likely will be my last bow.

You don't realize how bad your old bow is until you try the DXT.

Version: 2009 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: Weight, length, consistent grouping up to and out past 60 yds.

Cons: I shoot quite a bit and it seems like the cable wears at the rollers pretty quickly. Remember I said I shoot quite a bit.

Full review:

I hunt climbers most of the time and this small bow fits the bill perfectly. I have a 30 inch draw and at 70 pounds I get 291 with Victory V force 300 w/4 inch vanes and shot my sons Easton axis with blazers at 298. The issue of speed is not my real concern. I think if you have anything over about 270 but can hit the spot you are aiming at consistently you minimize the speed factor to the point it's not a worry.

This bow Exceed my expectations.

Version: 2008 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: In my opinion its a great bow for hunting from a blind, stand or stalking. Easily drawn even from a sitting position @70# draw weight.

Cons: Takes a while to get used to a shorter bow but the only con I can think of is not being able to change the draw length without changing the cams.

Full review:

I would tell anyone who's looking for a quality bow To pick one up. I've had this for 5 years now buying it used in 2010.
When my trusty 25 year old Browning limb cradles bit the Dust I picked this one up. I went from using a traditional long compound so I was Leary about the short cam to cam lenght but after firing it at the range I was pleasantly surprised how accurate & powerful it was.
I've harvested at least 1 per season between 20-45 yards. Some have complained about it not being a smooth shooting bow but I haven't had any issues yet.
My setup is as such;
Axcel 3 pin site with a peep as well,
Trophy Taker drop rest,
Limbsaver Stabilizer,
ICS Bowhunter 28" carbon arrows,
105 grain 3 blade G5 fixed broadheads,
And a G5 5 arrow quiver

Love this bow,quick and accurate

Version: 2010 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: The ata is fine for me,has a good draw cycle ,the bow is very quiet compared to other bows,recently shot a zebra arrow went thru at 50 yards, 60 pounds,gold tip pro hunter arrow,meatseeker 100g mechanical

Cons: Ive had the bow for almost a year now and havent had any problems

Full review:

I keep looking at bows, but always come back to my dxt.

Version: 2009 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: small frame maneuverability,light weight,good brace hieght(7"),good speed,accuracy.

Cons: That mathews discontinued this model

Full review:

I have dropped the bow out of a treestand at 20 ft.damaged the cam.replaced the cam and shot just like new. other than my fault this bow has preformed flawless for years. Hands down the best bow I have ever owned

Great shooting bow, fast,quiet and very light weight

Version: 2008 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: Fast,quiet, and holds a tune very well. The height is perfect for ground blind hunting but still short enough to maneuver around limbs while your hunting in a tree.

Cons: None

Full review:

Love this bow I've had several bows in the past from bowtec to Hoyt and nothing compares to mathews dxt fast super quiet and a very durable bow got it tuned up a few years ago and check the tuning every year before deer season and everything is still perfect hadn't had to tune it in 3 years would highly recomended shooting mathews to anyone who's looking for a good hunting bow

EXCELLENT CHOICE for hunting. Lightweight and easy to maneuver, yet fast and accurate.

Version: 2008 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: Easy to shoot. Consistent and accurate. Lightweight and easy to maneuver in any stand or blind.

Cons: had a difficult time trying to tune the bow... the old timers couldn't figure it out... just recently got it perfectly tuned... shoots amazing now.

Full review:

Absolutely love this bow???

Version: 2010 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: Smooth, quiet, light, fun to shoot. easy to maintain. Very accurate.

Cons: Nothing

Full review:

Love this bow, prolly wont buy another for a very long time. I enjoy just shooting this bow. it has made me a better archer. I have set this bow up with the best accessories, and have a very light arrow and shoot 85 grain broadheads which are grim reaper mechanical. very flat shooting and have killed deer at 70 yards with this bow. wish Mathews didn't discontinue this line.

Deer Killing Machine

Version: 2008 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: Best Tree Stand bow I've ever had, light, great for tight quarters hunts. Goes thru the thickest places in the woods and then kills deer every time.

Cons: Not the fastest bow out there, but the deer don't seem to notice until they feel faint from blood loss.

Full review:

I have multiple bows and this is the one that keeps going hunting every year. Shoots well at 0-50 yards from tree stand. Draw is slightly more harsh the the Switchback XT, but not by much. I seem to get about 264 feet per second thru the chronograph with a 27" draw and Gold tip 5575 arrow with 100grain broad head. Get good penetration with this set up. Arrow is always sticking in the ground when I find it after passing thru deer.

A nice bow for tree stand or stalking.

Version: 2008 Mathews DXT

Rating:

Pros: The weight, and short ATA is a plus for certain situations. The grip seemed better than former grips by mathews to me. A pocket rocket as to speed and has smooth draw.

Cons: I could not get used to the short ATA and weight. Fine for some people but not for me. Am sure it is a well made bow but questioned it's durability on a hard hunt.

Full review:

It is a fine bow but I preferred the drenalin to the DXT. Only because I shoot better with longer ATA bows. But for someone with a short draw length or with no issues as to short bows, it would work very well for them.

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