Bow Sights: Fixed Vs. Movable Pins

what type of bow sight for archery hunting

Bow sights are an essential accessory for archery hunting. They are circular housings that hold fibre optic pins, which correspond to a certain range. There are several types of bow sights, including single-pin, multi-pin, slider, and fixed. The best bow sight for you will depend on your needs and capabilities.

Single-pin sights feature one fibre optic pin in the middle of the sight housing. The pin is adjusted for different yardages by moving the sight body up or down. These sights are accurate and comfortable to shoot, but they may not perform as well in hunting scenarios as they require additional time to adjust.

Multi-pin sights have three or five pins within a single, fixed sight body. They are simple, with few moving parts, and allow archers to make shots at a variety of distances without much adjustment. Multi-pin sights are a popular choice for hunting as they provide the advantage of being able to make adjustments at full draw.

Multi-pin adjustable sights offer the best of both worlds, with a combination of fixed pins and a floating pin that moves within the fixed sight body. Hunters can choose to have three to five pins, depending on their preferences.

Other factors to consider when choosing a bow sight include the number of pins, pin orientation, price range, pin size, and the inclusion of features such as a bubble level or micro-adjustment capabilities. Ultimately, the choice of bow sight is a personal matter and will depend on individual preferences and hunting styles.

Characteristics Values
Number of pins 1, 3, 4, 5, 7
Axis adjustments 1st, 2nd, 3rd
Mount type Fixed hunter bracket, long and short dovetail, Picatinny, standard extension, direct, bridge-lock
Pin size .010", .019", .029", .050"
Pin colour Red, yellow, green, blue, orange, white, grey
Pin brightness Adjustable, auto-adjusting
Light Rheostat light, LED, battery-operated
Rangefinder Yes/No
Weight 7.5 oz, 9 oz, 9.4 oz, 9.8 oz
Price $50-$1500

shunoutdoor

Fixed multi-pin sights

The number of pins can vary, with options ranging from 3 to 7 pins, each corresponding to a specific distance. For instance, a 5-pin sight might have pins set at 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 yards. This setup enables hunters to make quick adjustments if their target moves closer or farther away. Additionally, some sights offer the option to add or remove pins, providing customizability to suit individual preferences.

While fixed multi-pin sights offer convenience and speed, they may not be ideal for all hunting scenarios. One consideration is the potential clutter in the sight picture, especially with a higher number of pins. This can be a matter of personal preference, as some hunters find it distracting, while others appreciate having multiple references readily available.

Another factor to consider is the lighting conditions. In low-light situations, such as hunting under a heavy canopy, the brightness of the pins becomes crucial. Thinner pins transmit less light, making them more challenging to see in dim conditions. On the other hand, thicker pins gather more light and remain visible for longer, but they may cover a larger area of the target at longer distances.

Self-Healing Archery Targets: DIY Guide

You may want to see also

shunoutdoor

Single-pin sights

However, one disadvantage of single-pin sights is the time it takes to adjust for yardage. If your target moves at the last minute, you will need to let down and readjust or try to compensate, which can be risky. This can be a challenge when you need to act quickly, especially in high-intensity bowhunting situations.

Despite this drawback, single-pin sights are a popular choice for archery hunting due to their accuracy and clear line of sight. They are a good option for those who prefer a simpler setup and are willing to take the time to make precise adjustments.

  • CBE Trek Pro Micro 3V: This sight offers a hybrid design with 3 stacked pins in a single-pin configuration. It provides first, second, and third-axis adjustments, and you can choose between right or left-hand models and pin sizes of 0.010" or 0.019".
  • Black Gold Pro Dual Trac: This lightweight sight has two stacked pins, providing the benefits of both multi and single pins. It includes a second, lower aiming reference that can be adjusted, and the dovetail mount allows for easy transportation.
  • HHA Tetra RYZ: This sight has a vertical pin design with multi-pin technology, allowing for adjustments on the fly. It offers a green primary pin and a choice of red or yellow secondary pin, with pin sizes of 0.019" or 0.010".
  • TRUGLO Range Rover: This sight is adjustable for left and right-handed configurations and includes a zero-in adjustment dial, an adjustable quiver mount, and an LED light.
  • RL-2 Single Pin Slider: This ultralight sight offers pinpoint accuracy with a quick turn of the dial. It is a popular choice and receives positive reviews for its smooth dials, bright pins, and lightweight design.

These are just a few examples of the many single-pin sights available on the market. Each has its own unique features, so it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences when making a decision.

Archery Island: Win the Champion Title

You may want to see also

shunoutdoor

Multi-pin adjustable sights

Number of Pins

Multi-pin sights typically offer three, five, or seven pins. Having more pins provides more information about objects at multiple distances, but it can also be confusing and lead to a cluttered sight picture. It's important to find the right balance for your needs.

Pin Orientation and Size

You can choose between vertical or horizontal pin orientation. Vertical pins travel along a line within the sight housing, helping to keep all the pins in line and aiding in third-axis adjustments. Horizontal pins offer a clear sight picture, especially when combined with a second or third axis adjustment. Pin size also varies, with options including 0.010", 0.019", and 0.029". Smaller pins allow for more precise aiming but may not be as visible in low light conditions.

Mounting Options

Multi-pin sights can be mounted directly to the bow with screws or attached to a block that is mounted to the bow. Direct-mount sights tend to be quieter and more secure, while block-mounted sights offer more flexibility in adjusting the distance of the scope from the riser.

Adjustability

Look for sights with micro-adjustability for windage and elevation, as well as second and third-axis adjustments. This will ensure that you can make precise adjustments to achieve the perfect shot. Some sights also offer the ability to switch between a multi-pin and single-pin configuration, providing more versatility.

Durability and Weight

Consider the materials used in the construction of the sight. Aluminum and carbon fiber are strong and lightweight options. You want a sight that can withstand the rigors of hunting without adding too much weight to your bow.

Additional Features

Some multi-pin sights include features such as built-in rangefinders, rheostat lights, and laser-engraved sight tapes. Consider which features are most important to you and your hunting style.

Bards' Longbows: Striking a Chord

You may want to see also

shunoutdoor

Fixed pins vs. adjustable pins

When it comes to bow sights, the two main types are fixed pins and adjustable (or movable) pins. Both have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your personal preference and hunting style.

Fixed-pin bow sights have multiple pins that are set at different distances. When hunting, you simply select the pin that corresponds to the distance of your target, aim, and release. This type of sight provides confidence, as you don't have to worry about adjusting the pin to the proper distance when taking a shot. However, it's important to select the correct pin, as using the wrong pin can result in missed opportunities. Fixed pins also offer a simpler selection process, as you only need to set the pins for the distances you expect to encounter while hunting.

On the other hand, adjustable pin sights have a single movable pin that can be adjusted to the desired distance. These sights often feature a reference guide or tape with marks for different yardages, allowing you to slide the pin to the correct position before drawing, aiming, and releasing. While this eliminates the risk of selecting the wrong pin, it does require additional time for adjustments. If your target moves closer or farther after you've adjusted the pin, you'll need to re-adjust or adjust your aiming point accordingly.

The number of pins you choose to use will depend on your personal preference and the distances you plan to shoot at. As a rule of thumb, it's best to use the least number of pins possible to simplify the sight picture and reduce the chances of making a mistake during the excitement of aiming. For example, a single pin may be sufficient for hunters who never shoot past 30 yards, while a three-pin sight is a good choice for those taking shots up to 40 yards. If you plan to shoot at longer distances, you may consider adding more pins to your sight.

Ultimately, the decision between fixed and adjustable pins comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Fixed pins offer simplicity and quick yardage acquisition, while adjustable pins provide exact yardage accuracy and a clearer sight picture. Consider your hunting style, the distances you typically shoot at, and how much time you have to make adjustments before taking a shot to determine which type of bow sight is right for you.

Cheryl Blossom: Riverdale's Archery Ace

You may want to see also

shunoutdoor

Pin sizes

When it comes to bow sight pin sizes, there are a few standard sizes that are commonly used. The three most common pin sizes are .010, .019, and .029 inches, which correspond to 10, 19, and 29 thousandths of an inch, respectively. Less commonly, pins can also be found in .015, .040, .060, and .125 inches. It's important to note that the smaller the number, the thinner the pin.

The size of the pin affects the amount of light it transmits. Larger pins transmit more light, making them ideal for low-light conditions such as hunting in the woods. Smaller pins transmit less light and may be more difficult to see, especially for older archers or in low-light conditions. However, smaller pins allow for more precise aiming since they cover less of the target.

When choosing a pin size, consider your age, eyesight, and lighting conditions you'll be shooting in. If you plan to hunt in low-light conditions, a larger pin size like .019 or .029 may be a better option. If you have good eyesight and want the most precise aiming, a smaller pin size like .010 could be a good choice. Additionally, the number of pins you choose to have on your sight will also depend on your personal preference and hunting style.

Archery Sight: Single Pin Setup

You may want to see also

Frequently asked questions

The two main types of bow sights are fixed pin sights and adjustable pin sights. Fixed pin sights have multiple pins that are sighted in for various distances. Adjustable pin sights have a single movable pin that can be slid up and down to the desired distance.

Fixed pin sights provide the confidence that you won't be stuck fiddling around with setting your pin to the proper distance when a shot presents itself. Simply draw back, select the correct pin for the distance, aim and release. However, using the wrong pin is a common mistake that can result in a miss.

Adjustable pin sights eliminate the chance of selecting the wrong pin. However, they require additional time to adjust the pin to the correct distance, which can be in short supply during the moment of truth.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment