Compound Bow Specs Chart

Q: What compound bow specs matter most?

Most important compound bow specs: Draw weight range (determines adjustability for your strength), Draw length range (must fit your measurements), Axle-to-axle length (affects forgiveness vs maneuverability), IBO speed (arrow velocity baseline), Let-off percentage (holding weight at full draw), Brace height (forgiveness vs speed). For hunting: prioritize 60-70 lb draw weight, 28-34 inch ATA, 80-90% let-off. For target: prioritize longer ATA (35+ inches), lower let-off (65-75%), adjustable draw length.

Q: What's the difference between Mathews and Hoyt compound bows?

Mathews bows: Known for smooth draw cycle, quiet operation, excellent vibration dampening. Typically more expensive ($1000-1400). Popular for hunting. Technologies: Switchweight, Crosscentric cam. Models: V3, Phase4, Atlas. Hoyt bows: Known for speed, durability, adjustability. Wide price range ($800-1600). Popular for both hunting and target. Technologies: HBX cam, In-Line system, carbon risers. Models: RX-8, Ventum, Alpha. Both are top-tier manufacturers. Choice comes down to feel, draw cycle preference, and specific model features.

Q: What axle-to-axle length is best for hunting?

Best ATA for hunting depends on hunting style: Tree stand hunting: 30-33 inch ATA for maneuverability in tight spaces. Ground blind: 28-32 inch ATA for ultra-compact setup. Spot-and-stalk / Western hunting: 33-36 inch ATA for stability on longer shots. All-around hunting: 32-34 inch ATA balances forgiveness and maneuverability. Longer ATA (35+ inches) is more forgiving but bulkier. Shorter ATA (under 31 inches) is maneuverable but less forgiving. Most hunters shoot best with 32-34 inch ATA.

Q: How much should I spend on a compound bow?

Compound bow price ranges: Budget ($400-600): Bear Cruzer, Diamond Infinite Edge - good for beginners, highly adjustable. Mid-range ($700-900): PSE Decree, Bowtech Solution - excellent performance, good value. Premium ($1000-1200): Mathews V3, Hoyt Ventum, Elite Omnia - top performance, refinement. Flagship ($1200-1600): Mathews Phase4, Hoyt RX-8, Bowtech SR350 - cutting-edge technology. Recommendation: First bow - spend $600-800 for quality without overpaying. Experienced hunter - $900-1200 for noticeable performance improvement. Competition shooter - $1200+ for every advantage. Most hunters are happy with $800-1000 bows.

Complete specifications for popular compound bows.
Compare Mathews, Hoyt, Bowtech, Elite, PSE, and Bear models.
Draw weight, draw length, ATA, IBO speed, and more.

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Understanding compound bow specifications

Key specifications explained

Specification	What It Means	Why It Matters
Draw Weight Range	Min/max poundage bow adjusts to (e.g., 50-60 lbs)	Must include your target draw weight. Wider range = more versatile
Draw Length Range	Min/max draw length bow adjusts to (e.g., 26-30")	Must fit YOUR draw length. Check with our draw length calculator
Axle-to-Axle (ATA)	Distance between top and bottom cam axles	Shorter (28-32") = maneuverable. Longer (34-38") = forgiving/accurate
Brace Height	Distance from grip to string at rest	Shorter (6-6.5") = faster/harder to shoot. Longer (7-7.5") = forgiving/slower
IBO Speed	Arrow velocity at 70 lbs, 30" draw, 350gr arrow	Higher speed (340+ FPS) = flatter trajectory. Actual speed varies with YOUR setup
Let-Off %	Percentage of draw weight reduced at full draw	Higher (80-90%) = easier to hold. Lower (65-75%) = more control for target
Physical Weight	How much the bow weighs (typically 3.5-4.5 lbs)	Lighter = less fatigue. Heavier = more stable (matters less than you think)

What specs matter for hunting vs target?

Hunting priorities:

Draw weight: 60-70 lbs for deer, 65-75 lbs for elk
ATA: 30-34 inches (balance of forgiveness and maneuverability)
IBO speed: 320-340 FPS (adequate for hunting to 60 yards)
Let-off: 80-90% (easier to hold at full draw on game)
Brace height: 6-7 inches (forgiving enough for hunting situations)

Target/3D priorities:

Draw weight: 50-60 lbs (lower weight = longer hold without fatigue)
ATA: 35-40 inches (maximum stability and forgiveness)
IBO speed: Less important (accuracy > speed)
Let-off: 65-80% (more control at full draw for precision)
Brace height: 7-8 inches (very forgiving for perfect release)

Major compound bow brands comparison

Brand	Known For	Price Range	Best For	Flagship Model
Mathews	Smooth draw, quiet, vibration dampening	$1000-1400	Premium hunting	Phase4 (33")
Hoyt	Speed, durability, wide model range	$800-1600	Hunting & target	RX-8 (30.5")
Bowtech	Innovation, dead-in-hand, micro-adjust	$900-1300	All-around hunting	SR350 (30")
Elite	Shootability, smooth cams, accuracy	$1000-1300	Serious hunters	Omnia (33")
PSE	Value, innovation, wide range	$600-1100	Budget to mid-range	Levitate (33")
Bear	Affordability, adjustability, heritage	$400-900	Beginners, value hunters	Refine EKO (32")

All major brands make excellent bows. Choose based on how the bow feels to YOU, not brand loyalty. Visit a pro shop and shoot multiple brands before buying.

Mathews compound bow specifications

Mathews Archery is known for exceptionally smooth draw cycles, industry-leading vibration dampening, and quiet operation. Premium pricing reflects refinement and performance. Popular among serious whitetail hunters.

Model	Draw Weight	Draw Length	ATA	Brace	IBO Speed	Let-Off	Weight	MSRP
Phase4 (2023)	60, 70, 80 lb	25.5-30"	33"	6.25"	342 FPS	85%	4.49 lbs	$1,299
V3 (2020)	60, 70, 80 lb	26-30"	33"	6"	342 FPS	85%	4.5 lbs	$1,099
V3X (2021)	60, 70, 80 lb	26-30"	30"	6"	346 FPS	80%	4.6 lbs	$1,199
Atlas (2022)	60, 70, 80 lb	25.5-30"	30"	6"	350 FPS	85%	4.56 lbs	$1,199
Lift (2024)	40, 50, 60 lb	23.5-28"	33.7"	7"	315 FPS	80%	3.8 lbs	$999
TRX (2020)	40, 50, 60 lb	24-29"	38"	7.875"	325 FPS	80%	4.65 lbs	$1,099

Mathews technology highlights

Switchweight Technology: Adjust weight without a bow press (Phase4, Atlas, V3X)
Crosscentric Cam: Smooth draw cycle with consistent feel throughout
3D Damping: Industry-leading vibration and noise reduction
Bridge-Lock Sight System: Ultra-stable sight mounting platform

Which Mathews bow to choose?

Best all-around hunting: Phase4 33" - smooth, forgiving, versatile
Compact hunting: Atlas 30" - speed + maneuverability in tight spaces
Speed hunting: V3X 30" - 346 IBO in short package
Target/3D: TRX 38" - long ATA for maximum stability
Women/youth: Lift 33.7" - lower draw weights, smooth draw

Shop Mathews bows at Archery Country →

Hoyt compound bow specifications

Hoyt Archery offers the widest model range from budget to premium. Known for durability, speed, and innovation. Popular in both hunting and competitive target archery. Carbon riser models are ultra-lightweight.

Model	Draw Weight	Draw Length	ATA	Brace	IBO Speed	Let-Off	Weight	MSRP
RX-8 (2023)	40-80 lb	24.5-30"	30.5"	6.5"	342 FPS	85%	4.4 lbs	$1,399
Ventum 33 (2022)	50-80 lb	25-30"	33"	6.75"	335 FPS	85%	4.2 lbs	$1,299
Carbon RX-7 (2022)	50-80 lb	25-30"	30.5"	6.5"	342 FPS	85%	3.5 lbs	$1,899
Alpha X33 (2021)	50-80 lb	25.5-30"	33"	6.75"	332 FPS	85%	4.4 lbs	$1,249
Torrex (2023)	40-70 lb	24-30"	32"	7"	330 FPS	80%	4.1 lbs	$999
Invicta 40 SVX (2024)	40-60 lb	25-31"	40"	7.625"	325 FPS	80%	4.8 lbs	$1,499

Hoyt technology highlights

HBX Cam System: Fast, smooth, highly adjustable
In-Line System: Reduces vibration and hand shock
Carbon Riser Technology: Extremely lightweight (Carbon RX series)
Picatinny Sight Mounting: Versatile accessory mounting

Which Hoyt bow to choose?

Best flagship hunting: RX-8 30.5" - latest technology, wide adjustment
Forgiving hunting: Ventum 33" - longer ATA for stability
Lightweight hunting: Carbon RX-7 30.5" - 3.5 lbs carbon riser
Target/3D: Invicta 40" - long wheelbase for competition
Value hunting: Torrex 32" - excellent performance under $1,000

Shop Hoyt bows at Archery Country →

Bowtech compound bow specifications

Bowtech pioneered many innovations in compound archery. Known for "dead-in-hand" feel with minimal vibration, micro-adjustability, and excellent accuracy. Strong reputation among serious hunters.

Model	Draw Weight	Draw Length	ATA	Brace	IBO Speed	Let-Off	Weight	MSRP
SR350 (2023)	50-70 lb	25-31"	30"	6"	350 IBO	80%	4.4 lbs	$1,199
Solution (2022)	50-70 lb	25-31"	33"	6.5"	338 IBO	80%	4.5 lbs	$1,099
Amplify (2024)	40-70 lb	23.5-30.5"	32"	6.75"	335 IBO	80%	4.2 lbs	$999
SR6 (2020)	50-70 lb	25.5-31"	31"	6"	350 IBO	80%	4.3 lbs	$1,099
Realm SR6 (2021)	40-70 lb	24-31"	31"	6"	344 IBO	80%	4.4 lbs	$999

Bowtech technology highlights

DeadLock Cam System: Micro-adjustable for perfect tune without press
Orbit Dampening System: Reduces hand shock and vibration
FlexGuard Cable System: Self-adjusting for consistent performance
Clutch Performance Grip: Narrow, consistent hand placement

Which Bowtech bow to choose?

Speed hunting: SR350 30" - 350 IBO, compact, fast
Forgiving hunting: Solution 33" - longer ATA for stability
Value all-around: Amplify 32" - excellent specs under $1,000
Proven performer: Realm SR6 31" - wide adjustment, reliable

Shop Bowtech bows at Archery Country →

Elite Archery compound bow specifications

Elite Archery focuses on pure shootability with smooth cam systems and exceptional accuracy. Premium brand favored by serious hunters who prioritize feel and precision over gimmicks.

Model	Draw Weight	Draw Length	ATA	Brace	IBO Speed	Let-Off	Weight	MSRP
Omnia (2023)	50-70 lb	25-31"	33"	6.5"	338 IBO	90%	4.5 lbs	$1,299
Era (2022)	40-70 lb	24-31"	32"	6.5"	335 IBO	90%	4.3 lbs	$1,149
Enkore (2024)	40-70 lb	24-31"	30"	6.375"	342 IBO	90%	4.2 lbs	$1,199
Rezult 36 (2023)	40-70 lb	24-31"	36"	7.25"	328 IBO	80%	4.6 lbs	$1,299
Ritual 35 (2021)	40-70 lb	24.5-31"	35"	6.75"	330 IBO	90%	4.5 lbs	$1,099

Elite Archery technology highlights

ASYM Cam System: Asymmetric design for smooth, consistent draw
S.E.T. Technology: Simplified tuning without bow press
90% Let-Off: Easy to hold at full draw (most models)
Riser Design: Focus on balance and vibration dampening

Which Elite bow to choose?

Best all-around: Omnia 33" - smooth, forgiving, 90% let-off
Compact hunting: Enkore 30" - speed in short package
Versatile: Era 32" - balance of size and forgiveness
Target/3D: Rezult 36" - long ATA for stability

Shop Elite bows at Archery Country →

PSE compound bow specifications

PSE (Precision Shooting Equipment) offers the widest range of compound bows from budget-friendly to premium. Known for innovation and value. Excellent choice for first-time bow buyers and budget-conscious hunters.

Model	Draw Weight	Draw Length	ATA	Brace	IBO Speed	Let-Off	Weight	MSRP
Levitate (2023)	50-70 lb	24-30"	33"	6.75"	338 IBO	90%	4.1 lbs	$1,099
Mach 34 (2022)	50-70 lb	24.5-30.5"	34"	7"	334 IBO	90%	4.5 lbs	$999
Decree HD (2024)	40-70 lb	23.5-30"	30"	6.25"	345 IBO	85%	4.3 lbs	$899
Bow Madness Unleashed (2020)	40-70 lb	24.5-30"	31.5"	7"	335 IBO	80%	4.2 lbs	$699
Drive NXT (2021)	50-70 lb	25-30.5"	33"	6.75"	335 IBO	85%	4.1 lbs	$849
Carbon Air (2023)	50-70 lb	25-30"	33"	6.5"	342 IBO	90%	3.1 lbs	$1,599

PSE technology highlights

Evolve Cam System: Smooth, quiet, adjustable
Limb Dampening: Reduces noise and vibration
Carbon Risers: Ultra-lightweight on premium models
Wide Model Range: Something for every budget

Which PSE bow to choose?

Best value flagship: Levitate 33" - excellent specs for $1,099
Forgiving hunting: Mach 34" - long ATA, smooth
Speed compact: Decree HD 30" - 345 IBO under $900
Budget hunter: Bow Madness Unleashed 31.5" - solid performer under $700
Ultra-lightweight: Carbon Air 33" - 3.1 lbs carbon riser

Shop PSE bows at Archery Country →

Bear Archery compound bow specifications

Bear Archery (founded 1933) is America's oldest bow company. Known for excellent value, beginner-friendly adjustability, and solid performance at budget prices. Great choice for first bow or casual hunters.

Model	Draw Weight	Draw Length	ATA	Brace	IBO Speed	Let-Off	Weight	MSRP
Refine EKO (2023)	45-70 lb	23.5-30"	32"	6.875"	330 IBO	80%	4.2 lbs	$849
Kuma 30 (2022)	45-70 lb	23.5-30"	30"	6.5"	335 IBO	80%	4.1 lbs	$799
Status EKO (2021)	45-70 lb	23.5-30"	33"	7"	325 IBO	80%	4.3 lbs	$749
Legit (2020)	45-70 lb	23.5-30"	31"	7"	328 IBO	80%	4.0 lbs	$699
Cruzer G2 (2018)	5-70 lb	12-30"	30"	6-7.5"	315 IBO	75%	3.0 lbs	$449
Species EV (2020)	45-70 lb	23.5-30"	34"	7"	320 IBO	80%	4.4 lbs	$649

Bear Archery technology highlights

EKO Cam System: Smooth draw, quiet shot
Sonic Stop String Suppressors: Noise reduction
Wide Adjustment Range: Great for beginners and growing archers
Value Pricing: Quality performance at affordable prices

Which Bear bow to choose?

Best value hunting: Refine EKO 32" - excellent specs under $850
Compact hunting: Kuma 30" - speed and maneuverability
Forgiving hunting: Status EKO 33" or Species EV 34" - longer ATA
Beginner/youth: Cruzer G2 - adjusts 5-70 lbs, 12-30" draw (grows with archer)

Shop Bear bows at Bass Pro Shops →

How to choose the right compound bow

Step 1: Determine Draw Length

Use our draw length calculator. You need 26-30" for most bows. This is NON-NEGOTIABLE - bow must fit your draw.

Step 2: Choose Draw Weight

Use our bow poundage calculator. Most men: 60-70 lbs. Most women: 40-50 lbs. Can you draw smoothly 20 times?

Step 3: Decide ATA Length

Hunting in tight spaces: 28-32". All-around hunting: 32-34". Target/forgiving: 35-38". Use our bow size calculator.

Step 4: Set Your Budget

Budget: $400-700. Mid-range: $700-1000. Premium: $1000-1400. Don't cheap out on first bow - buy once, cry once at $800-1000 range.

Bow shopping checklist

✅ Verify bow adjusts to YOUR draw length (measure first)
✅ Choose draw weight you can comfortably pull 20+ times
✅ Consider ATA based on hunting style (tight vs open)
✅ Visit pro shop - shoot multiple brands before buying
✅ Focus on how bow FEELS, not brand loyalty or specs alone
✅ Budget for accessories: sight ($100-300), rest ($50-150), release ($50-150)
✅ Plan for arrows: calculate correct spine for your bow

Common bow buying mistakes

❌ Choosing draw weight too high:

Can't draw smoothly = bad form = poor accuracy
Better to shoot 60 lbs accurately than struggle with 70 lbs

❌ Not testing draw length fit:

Bow must adjust to YOUR exact draw length (±0.5")
Wrong draw length = uncomfortable anchor, poor accuracy

❌ Buying ultra-compact for first bow:

28-30" ATA bows are HARD to shoot accurately
Start with 32-34" ATA - much more forgiving

❌ Choosing based on IBO speed alone:

A smooth-drawing 330 IBO bow you shoot well > harsh 350 IBO bow you struggle with
Speed matters, but shootability matters MORE

What compound bow specs actually matter (and what's marketing)

The archery industry loves to sell you on specs - IBO speed numbers, exotic cam designs, carbon risers, and "revolutionary" technologies that promise to transform your shooting. Walk into a pro shop and the sales pitch focuses on numbers: "This bow shoots 350 IBO!" or "Look at this 3.5 lb carbon riser!" Meanwhile, the most important question gets ignored: Does it FIT you, and can you SHOOT it well?

Here's what I've learned watching hundreds of hunters choose bows: the specs that actually matter are draw length fit, comfortable draw weight, and axle-to-axle length appropriate for your hunting style. Everything else is secondary. A $800 bow that fits perfectly will outshoot a $1,400 flagship that doesn't fit, every single time.

IBO speed is the most overrated spec in archery. Yes, faster arrows have flatter trajectories. But the difference between 330 IBO and 345 IBO is about 1.5 inches of drop at 40 yards - completely irrelevant if you miss by 6 inches because the bow's draw cycle is harsh and you can't hold steady. I've watched hunters obsess over getting the fastest bow, then struggle to draw it smoothly or develop target panic because the aggressive cam system feels violent.

Axle-to-axle length actually matters, but not the way manufacturers market it. They push ultra-compact 28-30 inch ATA bows as "maneuverable hunting machines." Sure, they're easier to carry through thick brush. But they're also significantly less forgiving - every tiny mistake in form gets amplified. I've seen more wounded deer from accuracy issues with ultra-compact bows than I can count. A 33-34 inch ATA bow is only 3-4 inches longer but shoots SO much easier for most hunters.

Let-off percentage is interesting: most modern bows have 80-90% let-off, which is plenty. Elite bows offer 90% let-off and it's noticeably easier to hold at full draw - great for beginners or anyone who struggles with holding weight. But don't choose a bow solely for 90% vs 80% let-off. The difference is real but small (holding 6 lbs vs 12 lbs on a 60 lb bow).

Physical bow weight (the actual weight of the bow itself) matters way less than people think. Yes, a 3.5 lb carbon riser feels lighter to carry than a 4.5 lb aluminum riser. But when you're at full draw, that difference disappears. The lighter bow might actually be LESS stable - some weight helps with steadiness while aiming. Unless you're hiking miles in the mountains every day, save the $500-800 premium on carbon risers.

Brand differences are real but overblown. Mathews bows genuinely have smoother draw cycles and better vibration dampening than most brands - you're paying for refinement. Hoyt offers the widest range and great durability. Bowtech's dead-in-hand feel is distinctive. Elite's shootability is excellent. PSE offers tremendous value. Bear makes solid beginner bows. But here's the secret: all flagship bows from these brands will kill deer equally well if you do your part.

The most important spec isn't on any chart: does the bow feel right when YOU shoot it? A bow that draws smoothly, sits comfortably in your hand, and feels stable when you're at full draw is worth more than any combination of impressive numbers. Go to a pro shop. Shoot five different bows. Ignore the specs and the salesperson's pitch. The bow that feels best IS the best bow for you.

My recommendation for 90% of hunters: Buy a bow in the $800-1,100 range with 32-34 inch ATA, 60-70 lb draw weight, that fits your draw length perfectly. Mathews V3, Hoyt Ventum, Bowtech Solution, Elite Era, PSE Levitate - any of these will serve you well. Don't overthink it. The difference in accuracy comes from practice, not from choosing the "perfect" specs.

Compound bow specs FAQs

What compound bow specs matter most?

Most important compound bow specs: Draw weight range (determines adjustability for your strength), Draw length range (must fit your measurements), Axle-to-axle length (affects forgiveness vs maneuverability), IBO speed (arrow velocity baseline), Let-off percentage (holding weight at full draw), Brace height (forgiveness vs speed). For hunting: prioritize 60-70 lb draw weight, 28-34 inch ATA, 80-90% let-off. For target: prioritize longer ATA (35+ inches), lower let-off (65-75%), adjustable draw length. Use our bow size calculator for personalized recommendations.

What's the difference between Mathews and Hoyt compound bows?

Mathews bows: Known for smooth draw cycle, quiet operation, excellent vibration dampening. Typically more expensive ($1000-1400). Popular for hunting. Technologies: Switchweight, Crosscentric cam. Models: V3, Phase4, Atlas. Hoyt bows: Known for speed, durability, adjustability. Wide price range ($800-1600). Popular for both hunting and target. Technologies: HBX cam, In-Line system, carbon risers. Models: RX-8, Ventum, Alpha. Both are top-tier manufacturers. Choice comes down to feel, draw cycle preference, and specific model features. Visit a pro shop to shoot both before deciding.

What does IBO speed mean on compound bows?

IBO speed is standardized arrow velocity measurement set by International Bowhunting Organization. Tested at: 70 lbs draw weight, 30 inch draw length, 350 grain arrow (5 grains per pound). Example: Bow rated 340 IBO shoots 340 FPS under these exact conditions. Your actual speed will differ based on your draw weight, draw length, and arrow weight. Faster IBO (330-350+ FPS) = flatter trajectory, better for long shots. Slower IBO (310-330 FPS) = typically more forgiving, smoother draw. Speed isn't everything - accuracy and comfort matter more for most hunters. Use our arrow speed calculator for YOUR actual speed.

What axle-to-axle length is best for hunting?

Best ATA for hunting depends on hunting style: Tree stand hunting: 30-33 inch ATA for maneuverability in tight spaces. Ground blind: 28-32 inch ATA for ultra-compact setup. Spot-and-stalk / Western hunting: 33-36 inch ATA for stability on longer shots. All-around hunting: 32-34 inch ATA balances forgiveness and maneuverability. Longer ATA (35+ inches) is more forgiving but bulkier. Shorter ATA (under 31 inches) is maneuverable but less forgiving. Most hunters shoot best with 32-34 inch ATA. Use our bow size calculator for recommendations.

How much should I spend on a compound bow?

Compound bow price ranges: Budget ($400-600): Bear Cruzer, Diamond Infinite Edge - good for beginners, highly adjustable. Mid-range ($700-900): PSE Decree, Bowtech Solution - excellent performance, good value. Premium ($1000-1200): Mathews V3, Hoyt Ventum, Elite Omnia - top performance, refinement. Flagship ($1200-1600): Mathews Phase4, Hoyt RX-8, Bowtech SR350 - cutting-edge technology. Recommendation: First bow - spend $600-800 for quality without overpaying. Experienced hunter - $900-1200 for noticeable performance improvement. Competition shooter - $1200+ for every advantage. Most hunters are happy with $800-1000 bows.

Do I need a bow press to adjust draw weight?

Depends on bow model. Older bows: Usually require bow press for weight adjustments (limb bolts only adjust 10-15 lbs). Modern bows with adjustable weight modules: Some adjust without press (Mathews Switchweight, Bowtech DeadLock, Elite S.E.T.). Check your specific model. Draw length adjustments: Most bows need press to change draw length modules/cams. Recommendation: Have a pro shop make major adjustments. Limb bolt adjustments (minor weight changes) you can do yourself - never more than 5 full turns.

What's better: single cam or dual cam compound bows?

Single cam (hybrid cam): One cam on bottom, idler wheel on top. Easier to tune, stays in tune longer, quieter, smoother. Most modern hunting bows use single/hybrid cam systems. Examples: Mathews, Bowtech, Elite. Dual cam (binary cam): Two identical cams top and bottom. Potentially faster, harder to tune, can go out of sync. Less common now but some manufacturers still use. Modern reality: Single cam technology has advanced so much that speed difference is negligible. Most hunters prefer single cam for reliability and ease of maintenance. Unless shooting competitively, single cam is better choice.

Can I use a compound bow for both hunting and target?

Yes, most hunting bows work fine for target shooting. Hunting bow for 3D/target: 32-34" ATA hunting bows are great for 3D competition and casual target shooting. May be less forgiving than dedicated target bows but perfectly usable. Target bow for hunting: Possible but not ideal. 36-40" ATA target bows are bulky in tree stands and thick cover. Best compromise: 33-34" ATA hunting bow works well for both. Examples: Mathews V3 33", Hoyt Ventum 33", Elite Omnia 33". If primarily hunting, buy hunting bow and use it for target practice. If primarily target shooting, buy dedicated target bow (longer ATA, lower let-off).