Compound Bow Comparator

The Defiant is taking some criticism for not being much different than the previous Nitrum 30 to warrant an upgrade. However, Hoyt has redesigned most major components on the Defiant to make it a new bow, with a better shooting experience. The Defiant has an option for cable stops of string stops, is offered in 50-pounds of draw weight adjustment, and features more highly stressed preloaded limbs for a better feel at full draw. The speed will more than likely not be a deciding factor one way of the other coming in at 331 feet per second, but it would be hard to say no to the Defiant if it added an additional 10 feet per second. The platform is great, the shooting experience is improved, but if shooters only look at the paper performance rating, it would be tough to justify $999 on a new Defiant. With that being said, those that feel the difference in how the Defiant shoots, will more than likely be impressed. Archery is all about personal preference, and the Defiant is no different. To know for sure, shooters should test shoot one for themselves. Read full review...

The Nitrum 30 is a well-designed bow that shoots like a dream and supplies a great deal of kinetic energy for hunting situations. The Nitrum's vibration after the shot is corrected with the added weight of accessories and a stabilizer, but when shooting bare bow there will be a little ring in the shooters hand. The Zero Torque Cable Guard System is a neat concept as well, and when paired with the riser cage and a bit of an offset in the top of the riser, the Nitrum should be easy to set up as well. With Hoyt, shooters will always be able to posted speed rating straight out of the box, which is great news for those on the market. Although 332 feet per second (ATA) is a decent speed number, those really wanting blistering speeds may be a little disappointed. Overall, the final decision is a personal choice, but the Nitrum 30 is a great shooter and backed by one of the largest names in archery. Read full review...

• Newly designed riser, DFX cam system, limb pockets, and preloaded limbs
• Compact bow with longer axel-to-axel feel
• 3.6-pounds bare bow
• 7-inch brace height

• New offset riser and cage design adds strength and stiffness like never before
• Zero Torque cable guard system pivots to reduce cable induced torque
• Weighs in at 3.9-pounds

• 331 feet per second is on the slow side in the speed department
• $999 although a comparable flagship price, is a premium price

• Noticeable hand shock without added accessories
• 332 feet per second may be a little slow for some