Compound Bow Comparator

Martin went out of their way to create what archers wanted with the Phenix series- specifically the flagship Hellfire 35. With an appealing set of specifications, a newly styled bridged riser, an impressive symmetrical cam system, and a solid warranty to boot, this compound is one that stands apart from the rest. Although it may not be screaming fast, and it is somewhat heavy, it is minimal at the expense of having unique features that any archer would desire in a bow setup. For around $1000, the price of most top-of-the-line models on the market, the Hellfire 35 is not only a bow that Martin Archery should be proud of, but one that any archer looking for a new bow would be proud to own. Read full review...

The Defiant 34 returns shooters to the feel of a longer axel-to-axel measurement bow with the convenience of a shorter measurement. It was not long ago the archery industry was full of 37-40-inch bows marketed for treestand hunting. Trends pushing toward shorter axel-to-axel bows have finally joined up with the feeling and stability of a longer model for Hoyt in 2016. Hoyt is not the first company to incorporate more preloaded limbs, but the introduction to this style of bow in their 2016 lineup should be well received. Although the Defiant 34 is pretty slow, and on paper does not look to be much different than its predecessor the Nitrum 34, the feel and shootability of the Defiant 34 is what should draw shooters to giving it a try and ultimately falling in love with it. The $1049 price tag may be a bit steep for some, but considering the Defiant 34 can do everything from shooting paper and foam to a Boone and Crocket, shooters should be able to justify the price tag. Those not concerned with the overall speed of a bow should give the feel of the Defiant 34 a try. Read full review...

• Very quiet at the shot
• Incredibly stable at full draw due to extra mass
• Impressive symmetrical cam system

• Complete redesign from the 2015 model
• DFX cam offers cable stops or optional limb stop
• String angle is comparable to a 37" axel-to-axel bow

• Slower IBO speed of 328fps
• Pressrequired, draw specific modular cam system
• Longer Axletoaxle measurement for a hunting bow

• Slow IBO speed of only 325 feet per second
• $1049 bare bow MSRP is a little pricey for some shooters