A new year means new gear for bowhunters. Check out the top new accessories for archers from sights to rests and releases.
1. IQ Bowsights Micro Sight
The Micro Sight by IQ Bowsights uses a new-and-improved bladed-pin construction that’s 50% thinner than prior models, while still providing enhanced fiber-optic containment for long-range accuracy. The five-pin Micro Sight comes standard with patented Retina Lock Alignment technology that’s guaranteed to improve shooter accuracy, while offering the flexibility of use with or without a peep sight. Tool-free, micro-adjust windage and elevation controls with an angled mounting bar offer multiple bow and quiver attachment points, while laser-etched windage/elevation marks make for simple and precise tuning. A new pin system allows for closer pin gaps for finely placed shots at varying distances. Fully captured fiber-optics offer the ultimate protection, making the Micro Sight even more durable than before. Ultra-bright .019-inch pins provide clarity when needed most, and right- and left-hand models make this sight necessary equipment for any bowhunter.
MSRP: $199.99 | feradyne.com
2. Axcel Landslyde Slider Sight
New for 2023, Axcel Archery introduces the Landslyde Slider Sight with Ranger Pin. This revolutionary sight allows for extended windage travel and features two individually adjustable pointers (for a quick reference when using the Ranger Pin or multi-pin housing). Also featuring true first, second and third axis adjustments, the sight is available in direct mount Carbon Pro model, or picatinny mount options. Smooth gear action allows for whisper-quiet operation and precise adjustments. A removable sight block features a taper-lock design knob and dovetail design mount that insures the scope relocates to the same exact spot every time. The Landslyde is made in the U.S.
3. Scott Archery Summit
You just bought a new bow, which almost broke your budget and made your significant other question your sanity. Now you’re looking for a new release that won’t force you to take out a second mortgage. Look no further than the Summit from Scott Archery. The Summit is built with a target-inspired design and tight tolerances to deliver unrivaled performance shot after shot, all at an amazingly low price. With an open hook and roller sear thumb button, the Summit offers archers the opportunity to expand their shooting style, while still featuring a best-in-class crisp trigger feel, adjustable trigger and an auto hook return. All of these features are usually found only on more expensive releases, making the Summit a forerunner in the bow release market. The Summit also features a comfortable, ergonomic, four-finger handle with a wrist lanyard, keeping your release ready for action.
MSRP: $109.99 | scottarchery.com
4. Rocky Mountain Horizon
Introducing Horizon, a new series of premium-quality sights by Rocky Mountain. Aiming to suit the needs of bowhunters across the globe, Horizon’s three sight lineup consists of a five-pin fixed, one- or three-pin driver, and a three-pin with a floating bottom pin furnished with a dovetail mount specifically engineered for compatibility with the Mathews® Bridge Lock mounting system.
All Horizon models are precision engineered and constructed with premium-built components with machined aircraft-grade aluminum mounting brackets and sight housings, all designed to be tough and durable. With precision at their core, extreme attention to detail was paid in all aspects of each sight’s design, making each version easy to use and customize — all in a versatile design. The tough, yet ultra-slim pins are 50% thinner for closer pin stack, excellent field of view/sight picture, and easier fiber optic acquisition. Coupled with a dual-track pin retention system — incredibly tight pin stack can be achieved. Each housing features an exchangeable sight ring, sight light compatibility, fiber wrap, and exceptionally bright .019-inch fiber-optic pins. Tool-free, low-pitch adjustability for exact windage/elevation and micro-adjustability with ergonomic adjustment knobs are hallmarks of all Horizon sights. Laser-etched windage and elevation marks help set and establish a visual reference for each user’s preferred custom settings and can also be found on each pin track. Hand constructed and built to eliminate noise and slop, each sight is crafted to provide exceptional field performance on the hunt or on the range. Further enhancing accuracy is a precision bubble level and second and third axis adjustments that bring into clear focus that Horizon is ready for whatever bowhunters coast to coast can throw their way.
5. TruFire Edge FT
By moving the trigger farther up the barrel of the release, the Edge FT (Forward Trigger) expands upon one of the most popular release designs ever offered from TruFire. This enhanced profile maximizes draw length by nearly one inch, yet allows users to still find their optimal anchor point without sacrifices to trigger pull or hand positioning. The result is less “floating” at full draw, a more solid anchor point, and increased accuracy. Adding to accuracy, the auto-closing trigger is powered by a closed-bias, dual-caliper dime-sized head that leverages an ultra-smooth linear motion bearing for a consistently crisp and clean trigger break. Users will appreciate the enhanced performance delivered by customizable trigger tension and travel adjustments — all easily set through the simple rotation of a set screw. Release length is also customizable to the user’s preference by simply loosening a set screw and rotating the release barrel to the desired length and angle for a truly personal fit.
Not to be outdone by tactical attributes, the fit and finish of the Edge FT is second to none, starting with hard-wearing anodized components on the trigger, jaws, and barrel of the release. The precision machined internal components are engineered and custom coated to offer a durable and smooth trigger that functions flawlessly at the moment of truth. The ultra-comfortable leather buckle strap is available in olive green or black, and features TruFire’s patented FoldBack™ design that allows users to fold the release out of the way while not in use.
6. T.R.U. Ball Centerline
The T.R.U. Ball Centerline is a new wrist strap release that contains a handy bail-to-wrist-strap connection to maintain a straight line and reduce pesky torque. The Centerline uses a new Tri-Star Hook system with a magnet that automatically resets shot after shot, delivering superior performance and reliability for today’s demanding bowhunters. Hardened stainless steel sears are designed to last a lifetime, and a thin profile allows your finger to reach the trigger more naturally, providing ultimate comfort and invaluable muscle-memory dexterity. Knurled, textured thumb and forefinger locations make drawing easier, while the Centerline’s small stature can be easily tucked into your sleeve for easy transport. The Centerline comes standard with a Globo-Swivel strap for selecting different hole settings that are 3/16 inch apart, while separate travel and sensitivity set screws allow for near-infinite trigger pressure adjustments.
MSRP: $129.99 | truball.com
7. QAD ULTRAREST Integrate R2
Built for bowhunters using the dovetail rest mount system, the ULTRAREST Integrate R2 uses cable-driven activation for simple installation and reliable functionality. The folks at Quality Archery Designs have packed all of the best features of their popular HDX model into a sleek, lightweight profile that is more cost-conscious, yet deadly effective. Unique Grip-N-Slide technology allows for nonmicro adjustments that stay in place, yet also lets the user adjust the position of the rest when needed. A simple turn with an Allen key locks the R2 in place. Arrow containment ensures your arrow never falls off, while lockdown technology eliminates bounce with zero fletching contact. Cambrake and dampers kill noise and vibration, and a high-tension spring drops the launcher at more than 400 fps. The ULTRAREST Integrate R2 is made in the U.S.A. and backed by QAD’s limited lifetime warranty.
MSRP: $199.99 | qadinc.com
8. TRUGLO Hyper Strike
The Hyper Strike is a new click-up, drop-away rest that provides stealthy-silent, full-arrow containment with an improved mechanism for delivering consistent and deadly shots. Available in both left- and right-hand models, it has an overhead capture bar that secures your arrow, enabling you to focus on the deer and making the shot. The Hyper Strike rest uses a cable clamp to simplify setup and attaches to a downward-moving take-up cable. In fact, folks at TRUGLO say setup is so simple that installation AND tuning will take you just five minutes! The Hyper Strike rest also includes independent windage and elevation adjustments, and comes with a water-resistant launcher insert, along with a spare in case the original gets misplaced. If you’re in the market for a rest that’s a breeze to install, and that will help you attain spot-on and successful shot routines, then the Hyper Strike is the rest for you.
9. Apex Surge
The Apex Surge is a click-up, drop-away rest with overhead capture bar that’s available in both left- and right-hand models. The Surge attaches to the downward-moving buss cable, while two launcher sizes offer maximum compatibility and can accommodate all aluminum and carbon arrows. A delayed trigger supports your arrow longer for improved accuracy, and a high-speed actuation enables you to easily clear fletching. Its steady-drop technology reduces irritating launcher bounce, and ingenious precision bearings help reduce friction and increase arrow speed. The Surge also contains independent windage and elevation adjustments, along with a laser-marked full-draw indicator to help you achieve accurate and ethical shots time after time. Its scant 3-ounce weight won’t bog you down, and a nonreflective black ops finish completes the setup.
MSRP: $76.99 | apex-gear.com
