The 11 Best Bowhunting Sights

Updated March 2023

When it comes to choosing a sight for your bow, there are many different factors to consider. Besides your bow, the sight you put on it should be carefully considered. Similar to the importance of putting a quality scope on a rifle, the same should be considered for a selecting a quality sight for your bow setup. With many different types of sights and various features out there, this guide will assist you in determining which type, style and brand of sight is best for you and your hunting situation.

Summary List

Types of Bow Sights

Fixed Pin (or Multi-Pin) – Fixed pin sights are the most popular and commonly-used sights you will find in most bow shops. These sights have anywhere between 3 and 7 pins to allow for precise yardages, usually in 10-yard increments. When setting up a fixed multi-pin sight, all you have to do is sight in each pin at your desired distance and you are ready to go. Fixed pin sights are great for beginners or those wanting an easy-to-use sight for most situations.

Single Pin (or Moveable/Adjustable Pin) – Single pin sights differ from fixed pin sights as they use a pre-calculated sight tape that the user adjusts for the distance they are shooting. When adjusted, the entire sight will move to the designated distance. Once you get this type of sight properly set up, it is easy to use from there. Just turn the dial to your desired yardage and the pin adjusts accordingly. This sight is commonly used by intermediate and advanced hunters. Western hunters also use this type of sight because they can shoot out to longer distances.

Pendulum Sights – Pendulum sights are less common but have their specific use. Pendulum sights are sometimes used by treestand hunters to provide a more accurate downward angle shot. A pendulum style sight has pins housed inside of a pendulum that pivots when the bow is aimed at various angles.

How to Choose a Bow Sight

The location you are hunting is one of the biggest factors in choosing a bow sight. If you are hunting primarily western game such as mule deer in the Great Plains or elk in the high country of Colorado, a single-adjustable pin sight is going to serve you best in this type of situation. In most western-hunting situations, you will have time to accurately range or judge the distance of the animal and adjust your sight accordingly prior to the shot. Alternatively, if you are hunting whitetail in the Midwest or Eastern states from a treestand or ground blind, a multi-pin sight will probably be best. This is because there is a high probability of a quickly approaching animal in tight quarters that will not allow for a hunter to have time to precisely range and adjust their sights prior to the shot. This is where having multiple pins set at distinct yardages is helpful.

The game you are hunting is also important to take into consideration. If you are hunting a smaller-bodied animal or game at a distance, having smaller diameter pins will allow for more precise accuracy at greater distances.

Features to Consider

Pin Size – Pins on a sight come in different diameters. The most popular diameter pin sizes you will see are .010, .019 or .029”. A smaller pin size such as .010 will cover up less of the target and allow for more precise accuracy, whereas a larger pin diameter could cover up more of the target, making it harder to see the exact spot you are aiming. In general, smaller pins are better for longer shots and smaller targets whereas larger pins are better for closer shots and larger targets.

Adjustability – Most sights come with the ability to adjust up, down, left, right, forward and back. Having the ability to adjust a sight in all directions allows you the ability for greater accuracy. Most sights also have the ability to micro-adjust the entire sight and the pins themselves for extreme precision.

LED light – Most sights come with fiber optic pins that are easy to see in most lighting situations. For extreme low-light conditions, such as sunrise, sunset, or in heavily wooded areas, you may have trouble seeing your pins through your peep. Because of this, some sights come equipped with a small LED light that is usually enabled by a switch or button. When turned on, this light illuminates the fiber optic pins making them almost glow, and easier to place on your target. This can be a great advantage for those low-light type situations.

Effective Distance – Most fixed pin sights are good out to around 60 yards or so. I use a 7-pin sight in which my last pin is set at 80 yards. Most 5-pin sights are sufficient for your average hunting scenario. If you are hunting out west or planning on shooting further distances, an adjustable pin sight may be a better option. Adjustable pin sights allow the user to adjust the pin to ranges out past 100 yards in some situations.

Bubble Level– Levels have become increasingly popular on a lot of newer sights out there, and for good reason. A level helps you see if you are holding your bow straight when drawn back by the use of a bubble. This helps eliminate variability in each shot. If your bow is not vertically aligned correctly, you will probably see inconsistency in arrow groupings.

Material – Most sights are constructed from plastic or machined aluminum. Aluminum sights are typically more durable and able to withstand harsh hunting conditions. Most of your higher end and quality sights are made of at least some aluminum. Plastic sights are typically lighter weight and are less durable than aluminum sights. Sights made of mostly plastic are usually fine but may not hold up when exposed to tougher conditions. There are also some sights made from carbon that offer a lightweight but sturdy design.

The 11 Best Bowhunting Sights

Field Logic IQ Ultra Lite 5-Pin – The Field Logic IQ Ultra Lite 5-pin bow sight is a great all around sight that is one of the lightest and most affordable sights out there. IQ Bowsights are known for their ultralight and durable designs and this sight is no different. This sight is constructed of lightweight polymer fiber that is impact resistant for all types of situations. The five .019” sight pins allow for great all around use and easy target acquisition at all distances. This sight uses IQ’s Retina Lock which provides instant feedback to help identify any torque or anchor point changes.

Features:

Built-in sight level.
Tool-less micro adjusting knobs.
IQ Retina Lock Technology to ensure precise sight alignment.
Dual position mount lets user match their shooting style.
Weight: 5.6 oz.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

Black Gold Rush 5-Pin – The Black Gold Rush 5-pin sight is another great sight that is great for just about any situation. This sight is designed of lightweight material that features exceptional durability. A helpful feature that stands out from other bow sights is the interchangeable fluorescent sight ring that allows for quick and positive peep acquisition and alignment, even in low light scenarios. Overall, this a very popular and cost effective sight that delivers in both accuracy and dependability.

Features:

Built-in level.
Black Gold’s PhotoChromatic Technology.
Durable machined aluminum design.
Pin Size: .019”
Weight: 5 oz.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

Field Logic IQ Micro 7-Pin – The IQ Micro 7-pin sight features IQ’s Retina Lock Technology and built-in level for extended accuracy at longer distances. Similar to other IQ sights, the Micro 7-pin sight is constructed of machined aluminum to provide a light weight and durable design. Overall, the IQ Micro 7-pin will allow you to shoot longer distances and tighter groups than a lot of other sights out there. I prefer 7-pin sights over 5-pin sights because the two extra pins allow for extended range and more precise yardage increments.

Features:

IQ’s Retina Lock Technology.
7 ultra-bright .019” pins.
Tool free micro adjustment knobs.
Available is right or left hand models.
Dual position mount.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

CBE Tactic Hybrid 3-Pin – The CBE Tactic Hybrid sight is a quality hunting sight for all situations. This sight has multi-position mounting holes that makes mounting to your bow’s riser a breeze. The fluorescent sight ring allows for quick sight acquisition and alignment through your bow’s peep. This sight also has a pin light that is used to illuminate your pins in low light. Overall, CBE is known for its quality archery equipment and this sight is no different.

Features:

Elevation and windage adjustment with laser engraved markings.
Ambidextrous design.
Multi-position mounting holes for compatibility with most bows.
.019” pin size.
Ability to set a floating pin.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

TruGlo Carbon Hybrid Micro 5-Pin – The TruGlo Carbon Hybrid Micro 5-pin sight is made from a mix of lightweight carbon composite material and aluminum. This hybrid construction design results in less vibration and increased durability. The extra-long fiber optics in the pins allow for maximum brightness when combined with the glow-in-the-dark sight ring. TruTouch soft-feel coating on all of the sight allows for a smooth and durable finish.

Features:

TruGlo’s Trufusion Hybrid Technology.
Ultra-lightweight carbon and aluminum design.
.019” pin diameter.
Micro adjustments for windage and elevation.
Adjustable for right and left-handed shooters.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

Trophy Ridge Volt 5-Pin – The Trophy Ridge Volt 5-pin sight is another quality product from Trophy Ridge. This sight is a perfect combination of price and essential features for a bowhunter. This quality sight has laser-etched measurements for precise sight adjustments allowing for greater accuracy down range. The Volt also comes equipped with a sight light to further illuminate the fiber optic pins for low-light scenarios. A variety of mounting holes make it easy to attach to most compound bows.

Features:

.019” ultra-bright fiber optic pins.
Flourescent sight ring for quick sight acquisition.
Bubble level.
Adjustable for right or left-handed shooters.
Soft coating for added vibration reduction.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

Trophy Ridge React Pro 5-Pin – The Trophy Ridge React Pro 5-pin sight comes equipped with Trophy Ridge’s exclusive React Technology that automatically adjusts all five pins to the optimal distances for different yardages. To do this, you sight in your 20 and 30 yard pins and the 40, 50 and 60 yard pins move automatically to their precise locations allowing for easy and effortless ability to sight in your bow. This sight can also be adjusted by hand in the field without the use of any tools. The solid aluminum construction of this sight makes it durable for all situations. This sight also has the ability to adjust the third axis allowing for greater accuracy down range.

Features:

External light illuminates fiber optic pins.
Solid aluminum design.
Available in .010 or .019” pin sizes.
Glow-in-the-dark sight ring.
Micro-click windage and elevation adjustments.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

Trophy Ridge Fix 5-Pin – The Trophy Fix sight is a dependable all-around sight that allows an arrow to be send down range with precise accuracy with tool-less micro-adjustable pins. The Trophy Ridge Fix also comes in 3 and 7 pin options. Equipped with a bubble level, you can easily see if you are holding your bow level with every shot. The green fluorescent sight ring allows for easy sight acquisition through the peep. The Trophy Ridge Fix also has for 4 different mounting positions on your bow for precise position.

Features:

.019” fiber optic pins.
External light illuminates fiber optic pins.
Windage and elevation adjustments.
Weight: 5.1 oz.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

HHA Optimizer Lite – HHA is one of the leading brands when it comes to bow sights. HHA’s Optimizer Lite is the #1 best-selling single pin adjustable sight on the market. The Optimizer Lite works by sighting in your 20 and 60 yard pins to determine which preprinted sight tapes to use. The sight tapes allow users to shoot from 20 to 80 yards in 5 yard increments. The HHA optimizer is designed to fit all bows currently on the market. HHA did not cut any corners in designing this sight as you will notice the outstanding quality of this product.

Features:

Adjustable light for fiber optic brightness control.
Bubble level for exact vertical alignment.
Tool free windage and elevation adjustments

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

Spot Hogg Fast Eddie XL – Spot Hogg is another popular brand that is well-known by many western hunters because of their adjustable pin sights that are optimal for longer range shots. The Fast Eddie XL is built off of Spot Hogg’s highly popular Fast Eddie sight. The Fast Eddie XL features a newly designed 6 inch dovetail mount making it easy to remove and reinstall while maintaining your sight marks. The Fast Eddie XL is different from a single pin sight as it has a yardage dial that allows you to adjust the sight to shoot even further. Spot Hogg is well-known for their superior quality and detailed design that sets their products apart from others. Expect to pay more for a Spot Hogg sight but also expect one of the best products out there. Overall, the Fast Eddie XL does just about everything from heading to the woods or shooting in a tournament.

Features:

Tool-less adjustments.
Quick release mount.
Yardage dial.
Available in single, double, three, five and seven pin designs.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

Spot Hogg Grinder – The Grinder sight by Spot Hogg is a rock solid sight for just about all bowhunting scenarios. The rugged and compact design makes the Grinder one of the toughest sights on the market with its solid aluminum construction. The best part about this sight is that it is simple to set up and use. If you are looking for a dependable all-around sight that is made to withstand just about everything you throw at it, then look no further.

Features:

Available in three, five and seven pin designs.
MRT (Multi-Ring Technology) pin guards gives the ability to customize to your preference.
Lightest fixed pin sight from Spot Hogg.
Easy installation and setup.
Superior quality and construction.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

Budget Bow Sights

If you’re looking for a low-cost sight without all of the bells and whistles, there are many other sights out there that will get the job done. The three sights below are some that I have used in the past or currently use now that are budget-friendly and still perform well.

TruGlo Carbon XS Extreme – The TruGlo Carbon XS Extreme is a great little sight that checks all of the boxes for almost any hunting situation. This ultra-lightweight sight is designed to be quickly and easily mounted to just about any bow in minutes. The Carbon XS Extreme is made with carbon composite, giving it a sturdy but lightweight finish. Overall, this is a great go-to sight for both beginners and budget-conscious buyers.

Features:

Available in black or camo.
TruGlo’s ProBrite technology for increased pin durability and brightness.
Extra-long fiber optics for maximum brightness.
Glow-in-the-dark sight ring for easy peep alignment.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

Trophy Ridge Joker – The Trophy Ridge Joker sight is the budget-friendly model from the widely-known Trophy Ridge brand. Trophy Ridge designed this sight with the budget-friendly bowhunter in mind. The Joker sight provides archers with all of the reliable tools needed to get the job done. This sight also has a bubble level to make sure that you are holding your bow straight when drawn back. This sight is worth giving a try and is available at a fair price for the quality you get. This may be one of the best bang-for-your buck sights.

Features:

Available in 3 or 4 pin models.
.019” ultra-bright fiber optic pins.
Multiple mounting holes for easy adjustability and mounting options.
Bright green sight ring allows for easy sight acquisition through your peep.
Adjustable for right or left hand use.
Sight light to illuminate fiber optic pins in low light.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

Dead Ringer Tack Driver – The Dead Ringer Tack Driver is a solid sight that delivers excellent durability and ease-of-use. This 5-pin sight offers all of the basic options you need in a bow sight including fiber optic pins, a bubble level and multi-angle adjustment knobs. The Dead Ringer Tack Driver is a quality sight that is made to deliver results at an affordable price.

Features:

Tool-less windage and elevation adjustments.
Glow-in-the-dark sight ring for easy sight alignment is low light conditions.
Sight light that illuminates fiber optic pins.
Bubble level.

Click here to view this sight on Amazon

Top Brands

Trophy Ridge – Trophy Ridge has exploded in popularity over the past 10 or so years, and for good reason. They make quality products including outstanding hunting sights that are simple, easy to use and dependable. I personally use the Trophy Ridge Fix 7-pin sight and have been completely happy with it. Trophy Ridge offers a lot of other great sights that are not mentioned in this article that I recommend you check out. Overall, you can’t go wrong with any sight by Trophy Ridge. You will see Trophy Ridge sights in almost all sporting good stores.

IQ Bowsights – IQ is a brand owned by the parent company Feradyne Outdoors. Ferradyne Outdoors owns many other companies including Rage and Muzzy broadheads, Block targets and Trufire releases. IQ Bowsights are used by many of the big names in the bowhunting industry such as Eva Shockey, and Mark and Terry Drury to name a few. Just like Trophy Ridge, you will see IQ Bowsights in almost all major sporting good stores and online retailers.

Spot Hogg – Spot Hogg is known for producing some of the highest quality and precision bow sights on the market. They are most widely known for their popular adjustable pin sights used by many western hunters. In recent years, Spot Hogg has come out with some fixed pin options that are more suitable for Midwestern hunters. Overall, Spot Hogg is a highly regarded name in the outdoor industry and you can’t go wrong with any of their products.

HHA Sports – HHA Sports has caught the attention of many bowhunters in recent years because of their quality products. HHA is right up there with many of the other leading bow sight brands and can be seen in most local bow shops. HHA is widely-known for their adjustable pin sights. Because of their attention to detail and quality, you can’t go wrong with any of HHA’s sights. HHA also makes a variety of other products including arrow rests and crossbow sights.

CBE – CBE or Custom Bow Equipment, is another reliable brand that makes quality and dependable bow sights. CBE is well-known for their functional and affordable products and are always coming out with new and innovative designs. I recommend CBE products for just about any hunting situation out there. As with any CBE sight, you really can’t go wrong in terms of quality and durability. CBE also makes competition bow sights, quality arrow rests and stabilizers.

How to Sight-In a Bow

When installing a sight, the first step is attaching it to the riser of your bow. This is usually done by screws that are included with the sight. Most sights fit universally on the majority of the popular bow brands. When attaching the sight to the riser, you should make sure that the outer ring of the sight matches up perfectly to the ring of your peep. By adjusting how far or close your sight is, will help provide the correct distance so the outer circle and peep align. If both do not line up, you many have trouble seeing your pins and aligning them with your target.

Next, sight in each pin, or yardage increment. I use a rangefinder to mark 20, 30, 40 yards and so on. Check out this rangefinder buyer’s guide for help choosing the best rangefinder for you.

Summary

As you now know, when choosing a bow, there are a lot of options to consider such as sight type, pin size, effective distance, brand and intended use. I am confident that the 11 sights reviewed above are all quality sights that will get the job done. I hope this article has informed you about different bowhunting sight options and helped you make the right decision when purchasing a sight.

Bowhunting Depot