Editors' review
The PSE Centrix SD is a target bow designed specifically for smaller framed shooters, and is ready to go for all S3DA shoots right out of the box. Although this budget friendly target bow may be best suited for newer archers, any shorter draw archer will really benefit from what the Centrix SD has to offer. The three track binary cam system is amazing for providing a really smooth, almost effortless draw cycle while still producing some decent speed ratings. The target bow is also a bit on the smaller side being a 33-inch axle-to-axle model, which will be easier to manage for the smaller draw shooters as well. PSE also offers this bow in a variety of nice looking colors for a low price point of only $699. There are target rigs on the market for double, and close to triple this sticker price. Although the Centrix SD is not necessarily outfitted with the top of the line technology for 2020, what is used are old standby integrations that will perform great. As a target bow, there is a ton to like about the Centrix SD. Considering the price this bow is offered at, and that it may very well be the first target bow a young archer has, the Centrix SD is worth a hard look for those in the 23-26.5-inch draw length range.
Finish
PSE bows have always been finished well, and look great as a final product. However, it has never really been a bragging point of PSE to have a bunch of options available. Typically, bows with a smaller price tag are also offered in less finish options as well to help keep the overall cost of manufacturing the bows to a smaller amount. Surprisingly, the PSE Centrix SD is offered in five total color options, each of which look really nice. Each color scheme comes with solid black limbs except for the bow name and PSE logo. The available colors include: Platinum Titanium, Purple, Rose Gold, Black Cherry, White, and Black. Although some other models may have more colors, the Centrix SD has plenty of options to choose from, and looks like the more expensive models in the PSE target lineup. Overall, this is a great job from the PSE shop!
Riser
The Centrix riser with the SD cam system is designed for a 33-inch axle-to-axle target bow, and has a similar look to other PSE bows. The shorter framed target bow comes with a 6 ⅜-inch brace height measurement and an advertised weight of only 3.6-pounds. That bare bow weight is really pretty light in the compound archery world today, considering the actual size and purpose of the bow. For a target bow, that may be a good thing too. Generally speaking, target folks like heavier models. However, a lighter starting weight allows shooters to load the bow up with weight exactly where they want it without having to get a bow that is too heavy in the long run. With the SD designed for smaller framed, and potentially younger age of shooter, the lighter weight may be perfect for them to get a bow that has stabilizer weight where it is needed most without being so heavy it becomes uncomfortable. The integrated technology into the riser is pretty simplistic, and is not going to include any of the latest and greatest technology from the PSE engineering teams. However, this does help keep the price point as low as it is, and ultimately the technology used in going to work perfectly despite maybe not being the most recent the compound archery world has to offer. Shooters will still get a string stop system, stabilizer mounting locations, and multiple sight mounting holes PSE has used for years. The cable containment system is a traditional slider without a roller or a flexible rod. Although it is bare as can be, it functions well and keeps the price point super affordable in regards to a target model.
Grip
PSE has always had some pretty good feeling grips although they are fairly simplistic in their design. Shooters will have the option between two grips on the Centrix SD, which both come with the bow straight out of the box. Typically when multiple grips are available, one comes standard, and the other can be purchased in addition to the bow. For PSE to include both options is really awesome, and perhaps a model other manufacturers would benefit from including. The standard grip integrated into the riser is the smaller and more mainstreamed option of the two grip choices. This one is the same shape and design that has been used for a while now. In addition to that grip, there is a one-piece grip that can be added over the top of that grip. That option is a thicker grip, and takes up far more real estate in the shooter's hand than the other version. Neither one is uncomfortable, and it will boil down to what feels best for each individual person. To have two great feeling options included with the bow is an awesome feature!
Limbs
The split limbs continue to supply the power for PSE target models, and for great reason. These limbs work well, and virtually bulletproof, and have a great reputation for longevity. The limb bolts allow for 13 turns, which gives the poundage adjustment more than the standard 10-pounds folks have gotten used to in the archery world. The limb pockets are plastic, which may be concerning for some upon first glance. However, this style of limb pockets are used on other models in the SPE lineup with great success. Although the preference may be for metal pockets, the plastic is going to be just fine for almost everyone after getting past the fact they are not metal. This does help cut down on the overall cost of production though, and folks demanding metal can have that in a different price point if that is a deal breaker for anyone. The Centrix SD is offered in maximum draw weights of 40 and 50-pounds.
Eccentric System
PSE uses a three track binary cam system, known as the SB cam. This cam system is a slightly smaller version of the 3B cam system, which is used on a variety of other models in the PSE lineup with a pretty great following for the smooth drawing and easy tuning characteristics. Each cable anchors to the cam, which eliminates the need for any yokes for tuning purposes. The split limbs are weighted a bit different on each side to minimize cam lean, and shims are available to move the cam left or right to get the perfect arrow flight while tuning. The shims do require a press and some patience to move around, and there are certainly some other systems on the market that make this an easier process. However, once set, shooters should not have to play around with shimming again. The cams allow for a draw length range of 23-26 1/2-inches, with each adjustment on the rotating module capable of half-inch adjustments. The module is laser engraved with clear markings to change out the draw length, and can be done without the need for a bow press. The SB cam system has an ATA/IBO speed rating of 305-297 feet per second when set at the maximum draw length of 26 1/2-inches. The inner module also comes with an 85% let-off option for those who like to have less holding weight and a longer valley feel.
Draw Cycle/Shootability
The SB cams offer a really nice feeling draw cycle without much effort in drawing the bow. Thes cams are smooth in transitioning, has a gradual build to peak draw weight, and rolls over easily into the back wall. The hold on target is pretty awesome without any accessories, which is a good starting spot considering the rig will be loaded up with stabilizers and target accessories. The lightweight frame is noticeable when holding on to the bow, but it is surprisingly easy to hold on target. After the arrow is released, the bow has almost no noise or vibration, which is not as important with a target model, but still nicer to shoot for extended periods of time. Overall, this bow offers a great platform for smaller framed shooters wanting a relatively inexpensive target bow option. It is really hard to find something not to like about the bow other than its lack of cutting edge technology.
Usage Scenarios
The PSE Centrix SD is designed for smaller framed archers wanting to get into the target side of archery. With a partnership with S3DA, the model will more than likely appeal most to younger shooters who are serious about target archery. With a draw weight range from 23-26 1/2-inches, the bow is made for anyone that fits within those specifications, but will more than likely be primarily used for youth shooters, but could work equally as well for anyone within that specific draw length range. For those wanting a crossover bow to use for hunting as well, this bow could be used for that, but with only target colors, there may be better options to consider. For a target rig, this model can really do it all from spot leagues to 3D shoots.
Summary
The PSE Centrix SD partnership with S3DA is an awesome collaboration. For PSE to offer a fairly affordable target model geared towards younger shooters really speaks to their commitment to grow the sport of archery. Anything companies can do to promote the sport to younger shooters is great for the future of archery. This model is amazing for smaller framed shooters wanting to get serious about target archery, and is offered at an affordable price of $699. There are several nice looking color choices, two grip options, and a cam system designed to optimize the performance for smaller framed shooters. Everything about this model is perfect for the intended shooter. Some may be disappointed with lack of new technology, but those wanting that have a ton of other options within the PSE lineup. For those just wanting an affordable target rig, for a shooter who may still be growing, the PSE Centrix SD for a suggested retail of only $699 may be one of the best values in target archery and totally worth serious consideration for anyone within the draw length range.
