How to tune a compound bow. Tuning your bow ensures consistency, accuracy, and ethical shots. Whether for hunting or target shooting, follow this step-by-step bow tuning guide to achieve the tightest groups possible.
π― 1. Why Bow Tuning is Important
- βοΈ Ensures straight arrow flight
- βοΈ Improves grouping and confidence
- βοΈ Prevents broadhead planing during hunting
Even top-quality bows like Mathews V3X, Bowtech Solution, and Hoyt Ventum Pro require precise tuning for peak performance.
π― 2. Step-by-Step Compound Bow Tuning Process
π§ Step 1: Check Cam Timing
- βοΈ Draw your bow slowly.
- βοΈ Both cams should reach the stops at the same time.
- βοΈ If not, adjust your cable twists or visit a pro shop.
π§ Step 2: Paper Tuning
- Stand 6-8 feet from a paper tuner.
- Shoot an arrow through the paper.
- Analyse the tear:
- Bullet hole tear: Perfect tune.
- Nock left/right tear: Adjust rest left/right.
- Nock high/low tear: Adjust rest vertically or check nocking point.
Repeat until achieving a clean bullet hole tear.
π§ Step 3: Walk Back Tuning
- Sight in at 20 yards.
- Back up in 10-yard increments to 40-50 yards, shooting each time at the same vertical line.
- If arrows drift left/right as you move back, adjust your rest opposite the drift slightly.
π§ Step 4: Broadhead Tuning
βοΈ Shoot a field point arrow and a broadhead arrow at 20-30 yards.
βοΈ Both should impact the same point.
If not:
- Broadhead left of field point: Move rest right slightly.
- Broadhead right of field point: Move rest left slightly.
Repeat until broadhead and field point group together.
β Recommended broadheads: Browse Broadheads β
π― 3. Watch: Bow Tuning Tutorial
Here is a copyright-safe, practical video tutorial:
π How to Tune Your Bow β John Dudley Nock On YouTube
π― 4. Pro Tips for Perfect Bow Tuning
- βοΈ Always use matching arrows with correct spine.
- βοΈ Check your bowstring condition and wax regularly (Bowstring Wax Guide β).
- βοΈ If tuning issues persist, visit a professional archery shop for advanced tuning.
π― 5. Final Thoughts
Learning how to tune a compound bow improves your accuracy, confidence, and hunting ethics. Dedicate time to tuning, and your bow will reward you with tighter groups and cleaner kills.
π Explore Recommended Hunting Bows:
π Need Expert Assistance?
Contact our bow technicians for professional tuning and setup support to keep your gear hunt-ready.

