A bow press is an important tool used by bow hunters to make sure that their bows are in tip-top shape.
Whether the archer is aiming for optimal impact on a big game target or working to ensure complete precision on a range.
A good quality bow press is the key.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Bow Presses
- OUR TOP PICK: Bow Medic Compound Bow Press
- BEST FOR COMPOUND BOWS: Ram Ratchet-Loc Bow Press
- BEST FROM BOWMASTER: Bowmaster® G2
Comparison of the Best Bow Presses
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What is a Bow Press?
A bow press is a mechanical press that helps an archer change bow strings, repair bows, change bow cables, etc. This tool simplifies these steps, thus enhancing its utilization. It completes these important functions by flexing the limbs of the bow to release tension from bow cables and strings, thus making it easier to perform maintenance.
How Does a Bow Press Work?
The basic principle and purpose of a bow press are to flex the bow’s limb and in order to reduce the tension from the string, thereby making maintenance easier to conduct.
In order to use a bow press, the first thing to do is to ensure that the spacing and tilt of the presser fingers are appropriate. Then, one needs to widen the presser fingers' distance. Afterward, while keeping the bow horizontal, place an end of the bow’s limb tip on the presser fingers. You can then easily crank the product’s handwheel and compress the fingers to perform any maintenance job.
After completing any repairs, it’s important to make sure that the spring and cable are perfectly positioned prior to cranking back the handwheel.
Are All Bow Presses The Same
All bow presses aren’t the same at all, which is why their buying process is difficult as multiple factors need to be taken into consideration.
Bow presses differ greatly from each other in terms of performance, construction, type, etc. One needs to invest in a unit that is suitable for the situation. Therefore, a very simple example would be that if you are someone who is out there in the field, you would prefer a portable option. This gives you the advantage of easy traveling and packing.
Furthermore, not all bows are compatible with a bow press. Thus, it’s important to check the compatibility of the two products prior to making an investment.
Full Sized Bow Presses vs. Portable Bow Presses - Similarities & Differences
Following are some of the differences and similarities between portable bow presses and full-sized bow presses:
Size
Apart from these factors, everything else such as performance, durability, reliability, etc. is pretty much the same between the two types of bow presses.
Features
Depending on the model, a portable bow press might have fewer features while a full-sized one is capable of making any type of repairs or changes to compound or crossbow.
Safety
The safety risk while using a portable unit is higher because the environment is not always suitable for any changes. Moreover, the bow press is not bench mounted, which could also become dangerous if not handled properly.
Apart from these factors, everything else such as performance, durability, reliability, etc. is pretty much the same between the two types of bow presses.
October Mountain Products OMP Versa-Cradle 360
What Makes a Great Bow Press
A great bow press must have the following features:
Durable
A durable bow press will be designed from good quality material such as metal or aluminum. A bow press that has a solid construction will last longer.
Ease of Use
Design is another important factor that enhances its application. A simple, easy to use design will be more popular among archers.
Price
There are many bow presses available that have different price tags. Breaking the bank is not required in order to get a good quality product.
Versatility
There are many bow presses available that can make any type of changes or repairs to various models of bows. Such products are more suitable as they can help you take care of your bows easily. Even if you own more than one bow, you should look for one that suits all.
Review of the Best Bow Presses
The market for bow presses is continuously expanding, which makes it difficult to decide which model is best. After the thorough research we have In this article, we have reviewed some of the top bow presses on the market to help you choose a suitable one:
Best Overall:
Bow Medic Compound Bow Press
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers love this product and recommend it highly to others. It is lightweight and the most portable model available and is able to repair or change all compound and crossbows. They particularly like its compact feature which allows them to carry this product easily in their backpacks for field repairs.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There are many things that we like about this amazing product. Firstly, it is a compact, lightweight model which is very easy to carry around. It is designed with a hand crank and a cable that makes this bow press suitable to work any solid limb bow. Moreover, this durable and well-engineered product makes it very easy to replace your failing bowstring.
Who Will Use This Most
This product is ideal for those who spend a lot of their time outdoors hunting and need a reliable product that they can use while they are enjoying this recreational sport. Besides strings and cables, you can fit peeps, replace cams, and adjust draw lengths easily with this Bow Medic Compound bow press.
What Could Be Improved and Why
The sturdy construction and high portability of this product make it very popular among users. However, some people find it difficult to turn the handle of this product. We feel that a slight change in its design will greatly increase its application.
Bottom Line
If you want a lightweight bow press that will be your perfect companion while you are out hunting, then the Bow Medic compound bow press is the one for you. Even at home, this product makes it easy to replace or repair any compound or crossbow.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
7 x 4.5 x 1"
Weight:
0.77 lbs
Type:
Cable
Best for Compound Bows:
Ram Ratchet-Loc Bow Press
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Bow hunters are very satisfied with this product because of its ease of use and high portability. It requires minimal practice; therefore, first-time users are also very comfortable with it. When in the field, archers can save valuable time by making adjustments quickly and easily. Moreover, it is suitable for a wide range of compounds and crossbows; that is why a large number of archers can use it conveniently.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We find this product to be one of the best available not only because it is easy to use but also because it helps to limit additional headaches and costs which can be caused by other bow presses available. Designed with the latest technology, this versatile model is suitable for a wide range of bows.
Who Will Use This Most
The Ram Locket-Loc bow press is perfect for people who do not want to waste time on adjustments while they are in the field or are at home. Archers do not have to miss a 3-D shot or lose out on valuable hunting time in case their bows need repairs.
What Could Be Improved and Why
This product is highly efficient and safe and works with all limb styles. However, it might need buffering against side contact with limb edges. Therefore, we recommend some sort of lining inside the aluminum frames to prevent scratching the limb edges.
Bottom Line
The Ram Ratchet-Loc is specifically designed for use both in the field and at home. Constructed from aircraft grade material this bow press can easily fit in a day-pack. It is one of the most time saving and valuable tools that an archer can own.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
12.2 x 3.8 x 3.5"
Weight:
0.15 lbs
Type:
Material:
Ratchet-loc
Aluminum
Best from Bowmaster:
Bowmaster® G2
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
It is hard to find a buyer who is not satisfied with this product. Every archer needs to press their bow at some point. Even if you always take your bow to a professional to get new strings, it is possible that something might happen to them when you are on a hunt. Most buyers see this bow press as a first aid kit for their bows as it is able to fix minor problems efficiently.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Flawless function, economical price, and excellent performance – there are various functions that we like about this product. Its compact design allows easy storage. The Bowmaster G2 enables users to add peeps, string silencers, and change strings easily. Another thing that we appreciate is the customer service provided by the company, which is fantastic.
Who Will Use This Most
This model is perfect for anyone who owns a compound bow and needs a unit that can easily fit in the pocket. It is a lightweight tool that comes with all the capabilities of a full-size press. It is simple to use; therefore, archers can easily change drawings or replace strings with the help of this product.
What Could Be Improved and Why
This bow is an invaluable asset for an archer. However, it may not work with some compound bows manufactured by different companies. Therefore, we suggest minor changes in the design to increase the compatibility of this unit.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a bow press that works flawlessly and provides excellent value for money, then the Bowmaster G2 is the press for you. Though it may seem small, it has all the capabilities of a full-size press, thus making it an essential tool for the person who wants to press the strings of his bow without much hassle.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
10.5 x 6.5 x 2"
Weight:
0.90 lbs
Type:
Material:
Cable
Metal
Best from Ez Green:
Last Chance Archery Ez Green Press
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
According to recent buyers, it is one of the best bow presses available. It is capable of safely pressing most compound bows. With this bow press they were able to not only press their own bows but those of their friends as well. It’s easy to set up and is an essential tool that makes it simple to learn how bows work.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What we find remarkable about the Last Chance Archery Ez Green Press is its ability to press most of the compound bows. It is designed while keeping the needs of an individual consumer in mind. Moreover, it is very easy to use. Its standard height legs allow you to mount it directly to your bench top.
Who Will Use This Most
Archers who do not want to take their bows to the shop every time they have a problem with it will find the Ez Green very handy. It uses a patented finger system that allows you to press compound bows easily. It is suitable for every archer as it is highly capable of taking care of your every tuning need.
What Could Be Improved and Why
The Ez Green may not be able to press all compound bow designs safely. A slight change in its design could greatly increase its application. Otherwise, we have no complaints regarding this bow press. It works fantastically.
Bottom Line
The Last Chance Archery Ez Green Press is a portable and robust unit that is capable of safely pressing most compound bows. If you want a bow press that is easy to use and will give great results every time, then this is the product for you.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
41 x 13 x 11"
Weight:
24 lbs
Type:
Hand Crank
Best Apple Bow Press:
Apple Edge Bow Press
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Overall, it seemed to be a hit amongst consumers. Buyers are very happy with how affordable and easy to work with this item is. However, some did find it slightly tricky to set up, given the limited instructions. Yet, the overall performance was worth a bit of struggle.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There aren’t many products out there that aren’t just accessible but highly innovative and high-quality. This product caught our attention with its highly reliable and durable construction and highly innovative design. It has a high-quality steel construction with a black powder coating. Furthermore, it is ergonomically designed to eliminate limb twisting.
Bottom Line
All in all, it is an excellent product. For the price, it is considered to be one of the best Apple bow presses out there. It can easily be compared to many of its higher-end counterparts. The design and construction are of great quality as well, allowing the product to be a great investment.
Product Specs
Type:
Steel
Most Portable Bow Press:
Highmoor Bundle
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have found this bow press very handy. They particularly like the simplicity of this product, which makes changing bow strings very easy. Another great feature that they particularly found useful is its compact size, which allows archers to store it in their pockets.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We are impressed with its sturdy construction and its versatility. It is a great tool for archers as it not only allows them to replace the strings and cables, it also makes it easy to replace cams or wheels, adjust draw length, install peep sight and even replace the handle.
Who Will Use This Most
The Highmoor Bundle is suitable for all archers who own a compound bow. It is comprised of a quad bracket set and metal arrow bow press that makes it best for people who enjoy compound bow hunting archery. As it is highly portable, archers can take this tool with them when they go out in the field.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Some people have found the quality of the metal brackets to be of inferior quality. If the manufacturers improved the quality of the metal bracket archers will find it much easier to work with this bow press. This will also increase its life, thus allowing archers to use it for many years.
Bottom Line
Highmoor is a well-known company that is committed to providing high-end tools that ensure a long-lasting experience that goes above and beyond expectations. The Highmoor bundle is another such product that is compatible with both split and solid compound bows. With this product, you can enjoy archery anywhere without any care.
Perks of Getting a New Bow Press
People often wonder if it’s even worth spending on a new bow press. Are you still on the fence about buying one? If that is the case, you might find it easier to make a decision after looking at all the perks getting a new bow press offers.
Durability
Bow presses now are constructed with high-quality materials like steel and often have a powder coating over them. This allows them to be durable and resistant to multiple types of damage. Furthermore, investing in a renowned brand will allow you to get a more reliable product that is long-lasting.
Versatility
Often times, older bow presses don’t work for many bows. This means that it is hard to find a bow press compatible with your bow. However, most units present in the market today are constructed to be more versatile and have a higher range of compatibility without being too expensive or inaccessible.
Ease of Use
If you struggle with setting up your old bow press, then perhaps it would be fruitful to consider getting a new one. This is because new ones are made to have an intuitive design, which allows the consumer to easily set it up without trouble. Furthermore, they have features that eliminate limb twisting.
How to Use a Bow Press
The purpose of a bow press is to flex the limbs of the bow to relieve the tension off the bowstring and cable to allow maintenance work to be performed. The following steps show how you can use a bow press safely:
- Adjust the tilt of the presser fingers and the spacing to ensure they fit properly, and the limbs do not twist.
- Next, expand the presser fingers. Make sure that the distance is wider than the compound bow’s limb tips.
- Now hold the bow horizontal and press one end of the bow’s limb tips into one set of presser fingers.
- Crank the hand wheel in order to compress the fingers against the bow’s limb tip.
- Once the work is complete, make sure the cable and string are in their proper position. Lastly, un-crank the hand wheel in order to relieve pressure off the compound bow.
Conclusion
A good quality bow press is one that meets the requirements of a hunter while standing up to the natural elements faced in rainy spring or deep winter hunts. Beyond the basic sturdiness, the adaptability and portability of a bow press to different bow types and sizes is important, especially if you own more than one bow.
Choosing the best bow press will impact the accuracy of each arrow fired and will help you maintain your equipment for many years. We hope that after reading the above review, you will be able to choose the right one.
