Unexpected Results in the 2025 Carbon Bow Showdown

The results are in—and they weren’t what I expected. In this full test, I put the top 2025 carbon bows through six head-to-head categories to see how they really perform. Each bow was tuned to the same three arrows and tested under consistent conditions. From weight to shootability, this is a no-fluff breakdown based on real-world results. Bows Tested: • Hoyt RX-9 Ultra • Prime FORM • Elite Carbon EON • PSE Mach 33 DS • Mathews Lift X 33 (reference) • Bowtech Proven 34 (reference) Test Categories: • Out-of-the-Box Weight • Draw Cycle & Shot Feel • Sound • Back Wall Movement • Arrow Speed (27" and 29" draw) • Shootability (five 3-arrow groups at 70 yards) The shootability test was conducted indoors at 70 yards to eliminate variables. All other tests were performed under controlled conditions using the same matched arrows. No bias. Just real data. Special thanks to all the companies that sent in bows, sights, rests, and stabilizers, which supported this test. Your participation helps make this kind of honest, side-by-side comparison possible.