The bow of choice for a majority of archery hunters, the compound bow uses wheels and cams. These allow the hunter to hold the bow at full draw for a longer period of time for the best shot, giving it a significant advantage over other bow styles.

As the hunter begins to draw the bow, the string starts to turn the wheel and cam attached to the bow limbs. The hunter pulls the full draw weight until the cam turns over, letting off the full draw weight. When the cam turns over, the draw weight is decreased by 50 to 80%. This decrease in draw weight, achieved by the cam turning over, allows the hunter to hold less draw weight at full draw.

There are also add-ons to help reduce the effects of vibration, a common drawback of this style of bow.

StabilizerAdding a stabilizer adds forward weight, which balances the bow and absorbs the vibrations when the string is released.

SightA mechanical device, a sight helps the archer to place a shot.

Arrow RestThis device holds the arrow above the arrow shelf.

Vibration Dampener A vibration dampener helps absorb vibration caused when firing the bow as well as help reduce shock and excess noise.