Hoyt Alphaburner Compound Bow

At its $999 launch MSRP, the AlphaBurner was Hoyt's statement that a speed bow did not have to shoot like a short, twitchy one. It backs the 340 fps IBO rating with a real 338.9 fps chronograph reading, stores deep energy for heavy-arrow authority, and does it on a long 34 3/4-inch platform that holds steadier than most bows built purely for velocity. The 180 grip's torque resistance and the Pro-Lock pockets' consistency are what let that speed turn into accuracy in the field. The honest catch is the cam: a short valley and low let-off mean it wants forward pressure and rewards discipline, and it carries a touch more shot jump and noise than a mild bow - both manageable with a stabilizer and good form. What I keep coming back to is that this is a rig that shoots as well as the archer behind it demands. An excellent bow for the speed-first hunter with steady form who values a flat arrow and a stable, target-style hold. Buyers who want comparable velocity with a more forgiving brace and an easier hold should also look at the Bowtech Destroyer 340, while those chasing the outright fastest arrow should look at the Mathews Monster... read full review