The 8 Best Bow Stabilizers to Improve Your Shooting Accuracy
A bow stabilizer is an important piece of equipment for anyone who wants to improve their shooting accuracy. A good stabilizer will help to reduce vibration and noise, making it easier to hit your target. In this blog post, we will discuss the 5 best bow stabilizers on the market today. We’ll also provide a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right one for your needs!
Not sure which bow stabilizer to choose for your hunting needs? Below are our top recommendations. We’ve included the best size for hunting purposes, but keep in mind that some models come in multiple sizes. For each model, we discuss its pros and cons as well as its purpose and best use case. That way, you can select the bow stabilizer that makes the most sense for you.
1. Archery Apache Stabilizer
The NAP Apache is our top pick. Depending on your hunting style and needs, you can choose between the 5-inch and 8-inch versions. However, we believe that the 8-inch version provides superior stability without sacrificing portability. The only potential drawback of this size is that it might not fit in your case unless removed; however, this 3” carbon fiber extension screw on the end allows for easy removal if needed.
The Apache is a great addition to any bow and comes in either black or camo patterns. The rubber dampener discs work well at squelching vibrations and silencing bows. The NAP Apache is priced reasonably for its level of performance, which is why we consider it the best bow stabilizer for the money.
- Length: 5” and 8”
- Weight: 5.5 and 7.5 oz
What We Like
- You can easily convert the 8” model to the 5” by unscrewing the extension tube.
What We Don’t
- This product is not adjustable beyond the extension tube.
2. TRUGLO Tru-Tec Carbon Pro Archery Stabilizer
If you’re in the market for a state-of-the-art stabilizer that is adjustable and also looks good, consider the Tru-Glo Tru-Tec Carbon Pro. The Tru-Glo Tru-Tec Carbon Pro comes packed with features like a carbon–composite exoskeleton and high–modulus carbon fiber rod, making it incredibly strong and durable.
The composites in this bow stabilizer work well to reduce both vibration and noise. It comes with the option of a 6-inch or 8-inch size, and you can adjust the weight with three 1-ounce discs made from stainless steel. It has a trefoil design for good rigidity and is coated with a soft, technical feeling coating.
The Tru-Glo Tru-Tec Carbon Pro comes in black, REALTREE™ APG, Lost Camo™, and REALTREE__Xtra–worth considering. The only possible downside is that you need an Allen wrench to adjust the weight on the front end; however, this can be easily remedied by keeping track of the wrench or duct-taping it to the body of the product.
- Length: 6” and 8”
- Weight: Adjustable with three 1-ounce weights.
What We Like
- These weights are adjustable and have excellent dampening abilities.
What We Don’t
- The weight on the front end is adjustable with an Allen wrench (hex key), which can be lost easily.
3. Trophy Ridge Static Stabilizer
Trophy Ridge’s Static stabilizer is unique because of its design. Most stabilizers are tubes with threaded studs, but Trophy came up with a skeleton-like frame made from their lightweight Ballistix composite material–allegedly 25% lighter than aluminum in the same size. This hollow design is supposed to let wind pass through without throwing off your aim, and many user reviews suggest that it does help minimize the effect of wind.
The Trophy Ridge frame comes with two 1-ounce disc weights for adjustments, attached by a large dampener that threads into the end. The Trophy Ridge used to come with 2 additional dampeners that were mounted inside the frame; however, this is no longer the case because they were most likely of little benefit in the first place. Choose from either the 6″ or ultralight 9″ model in black or RealTree XTRA camo.
- Length: 6” and 9″
- Weight: 7.0 and 9.0 ounces
What We Like
- This product looks great on any bow and the adjustable weights make it perfect for customizing your shooting experience.
What We Don’t
- Does not come with internal dampers.
4. Bee Stinger Pro Hunter Maxx Stabilizer
The Sport Hunter Xtreme by Bee Stinger comes with awesome dampening technology that doesn’t look like much. A Sims harmonic dampener insert is hidden inside the carbon fiber shaft, and there’s a large rubber damper at the end. Together, they make it so the vibration from the limbs to the riser and stabilizer is reduced.
The best thing about Bee Stinger is that you can pick your weight. You just screw on as many or a few of the three 1-ounce discs as you want for perfect stability. That’s why we think it’s the best adjustable bow stabilizer for hunting around. The weights are also smaller in diameter than what you’ll find on a Pro Hunter Maxx, which comes in handy when packing into remote tree stands. For most people, the 6” Sport Hunter Xtreme will do nicely. But if you don’t mind the extra weight, go with the 8” Bee Stinger instead.
- Length: 6”, 8″, and 10”
- Weight: Adjustable with three 1 oz discs.
What We Like
- This product features adjustable weights and great dampening technology.
What We Don’t
- A little pricey.
5. SAS Archery All-CNC Aluminum Bow Stabilizer
This stabilizer is made of highly machined aluminum, meaning it will get the job done without any frills. The intricate machining on the outer body helps reduce wind resistance so your bow won’t be pushed around as easily.
The 11″ might seem like a long size, but it’s the best size for balance on compound bows. If you prefer an averagely-sized stab then the 8″ is great too, especially for tree stand hunting.
There is also an integrated dampening system running down the center of the body that works to turn your buzzing bowstring into one solid ‘thump’ noise upon release.
- Length: 5″, 8”, 11″
- Weight: 5.3, 6.5, 10 oz
What We Like
- The aluminum exterior with a soft, internal core effectively reduces noise and vibration.
What We Don’t
- This product is not adjustable.
6. Limbsaver S-Coil Stabilizer
The S-Coil is a popular hunting stabilizer that performs well for most people, which contributes to the numerous positive reviews. If you’re looking for a cheap but effective bow stabilizer, we recommend the S-Coil.
Although it is a similar size and weight to the Deadenator XS, the NAVCOM elastomer has different geometry to reduce vibration noise. The S-shaped coil increases the surface area of said elastomer, which typically means better vibrations are dissipated. There are two types available: one with regular camo finishes, while the other has upgraded RealTree and Mossy Oak patterns.
- Length: 4.5”
- Weight: 4.7 ounces
What We Like
- Attractive price.
What We Don’t
- Hard to feel the benefits of some bows.
7. Trophy Ridge Hitman Stabilizer
The Trophy Ridge Hitman Stabilizer is the perfect way to add some extra weight and stability to your bow. Made from black carbon, it comes in a variety of sizes so you can find the perfect fit for your setup. Choose from a variety of color accents to customize your look.
The quick connect/ disconnect feature enables you to easily set up and take down the stabilizer while in use. It comes with a wrist strap for easy carrying, is black only but offers rings in six different colors. The Trophy Ridge Hitman Stabilizer isn’t as adjustable as other stabilizers in the same price range; however, it’s still a good product overall.
- Length: 6″, 8″, 10″, or 12″
- Weight: Adjustable with two 1-ounce weights
What We Like
- This feature allows you to adjust the weight of the item, and quickly connect or disconnect it as needed.
What We Don’t
- The product has multiple parts that can be easily lost or misplaced.
8. Trophy Ridge Blitz Stabilizer
The Trophy Ridge Blitz Stabilizer might be a good option if you’re not too picky and are just looking for a basic stabilizer that gets the job done. Although it’s on the lower end when it comes to price, this could be the best cheap bow stabilizer around.
The Trophy Ridge Blitz Stabilizer is a no-frills bow stabilizer made of vibration and noise-dampening rubber. Its main appeal is its low price, but it sacrifices features that other stabilizers have. It comes with a leather mount and wrist string for attaching and detaching in the field, but it’s only available in black.
- Length: 8”
- Weight: 4 ounces.
What We Like
- High-quality and affordable.
What We Don’t
- Not adjustable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a bow stabilizer help with accuracy?
You will find that longer stabilizers help with accuracy more than shorter models, though you must strike a balance as too long of a rod can get caught on branches or be difficult to manage. For the best steadying and silencing attributes, stick with medium-sized models.
What size stabilizer is best for bowhunting?
To bowhunt successfully in the woods, you’ll need a mid-sized stabilizer. Look for something that falls 5” to 8” in length, and 4 to 7 ounces in weight. These sizes will give you the stats needed for hunting with a bow.
Do I need a stabilizer if my only method of hunting is bow hunting?
Though it may not be necessary, a bow stabilizer could very well be the finishing touch to your hunting setup. By adding this one piece to your bow, you can improve your shot accuracy, have a steadier aim in windy weather, and reduce vibrations that might scare away deer.
