How to Choose an Arrow Rest
An arrow rests holds your arrow in place, supporting it until you shoot it from your bow. Although providing a simple function, there are all sorts of arrow rests available. Some of these are very affordable, while others can be quite expensive, dramatically improving accuracy. The type of arrow rest that is best for you is not necessarily the priciest, as your arrow rest needs to be compatible with your bow and fit within your price range. There is no need to buy a high-end arrow rest if you have an inexpensive bow. Similarly, a high-quality compound bow can be as inaccurate as a cheaper one without the proper arrow rest. To help you in your search, read below for more information on how to choose the proper arrow rest.
When choosing the type of arrow rest that is best for you, it is important to know the types available. The primary types of arrow rests are shoot-through, containment, drop away, and plunger. Shoot-through arrow rests are the most popular type available, simple to install and work.
Shoot-Through Rests
Shoot-through rests have two prongs, creating a cradle in which your arrow rests. These spring-loaded prongs help shoot the arrow forward when you release the string, returning to their normal position almost immediately. The cost of a shoot-through arrow rest depends on the features you want and need, but basic models start around $20. They can run as high as $80. Shoot-through arrow rests are made for people who have bows with a mechanical release.
Containment Rests
Containment arrow rests eliminate the chance that the arrow falls from the rest by encircling it. Running anywhere from $30 to $60, containment arrow rests contact the arrow in three spots to hold it firmly into place. Containment arrows are meant for beginners who need to focus on their shooting form instead of keeping their arrow steady. Because of this, though, they do not allow for optimal accuracy and are not favored by experienced hunters.
Drop-Away Rests
Drop-away arrow rests have seen a surge in popularity lately because they allow for extreme accuracy. This is because they are designed to fall away as the arrow is shot, creating perfect clearance and no friction. Unlike a containment rest, there is a good chance your arrow will fall off of a drop away arrow rest if you do not know how to use it. Made for advanced bow hunters, drop away arrow rests are typically the most expensive variety.
Plunger Rests
Plunger arrow rests, also known as shoot-around rests, are designed differently than other arrow rests in that they provide support from the side to counteract the movement of arrows when they are released. Plunger arrow rests are made for finger shooters, so they do not fit mechanical bows. Because more and more people are moving to the latter type of bow, plunger arrow rests are falling out of vogue. If you have a non-mechanical bow, however, a plunger arrow rest can allow for good accuracy, providing shooters the ability to alter the amount of pressure the rest places on the arrow.
