Over the years, I have read “Bow Tests” from various sources with varying degrees of satisfaction. I have yet to read a report using a qualitative accuracy testing. My technical background comes from manufacturing and from study of the firearms industry. In virtually every gun test there is group testing using at least three types of commonly used ammunition, fired at a standard 100 yard range. It would seem a simple matter to apply the same testing regimens to archery equipment using commonly available ammunition (including one alloy and one each light and moderately heavy carbon shaft) and a “standard” tuning set up (i.e. the ubiquitous Whisker Biscuit, a lazar indicated center shot position, D-loop set 1/8th inch high of level). The range should be 40 yards and machine rest fired to reveal idiosyncrasies within each system. I get the impression archery magazine publishers are afraid to bruise the feelings of their advertisers and as such shy away from this type of objective testing. It is interesting how in the firearms trade the quality AND accuracy of the least expensive manufacturers has improved the quality and accuracy of even the legendary marques. Only when someone is willing to broach the subject will we begin to wade through the brand loyalty hype and start to see real truth. All the bells and whistles, fancy machine work and flashy strings are nothing when compared to the accuracy potential of any given platform. Accuracy is, after all, what it’s about.
I was thinking along the same lines. It would be nice to have a baseline to work from. When I dial my rifles in, I break out the lead sled and get a non shooter induced zero on the weapon. Wish I could do the same. I am the worst factor in my bow tuning.
I am surprised that they haven't done this... however, I think that the data gathered would be mostly useless, short of bragging rights. With the shorter range, slower speeds, and more complicated process to shoot a bow (accurately), there are just too many variables to our own accuracy. The information would be interesting, but wouldn't make much of a difference IMO.
This is a wonderful post, Its about time somebody needs to do this! But imho i think all top of the line or close to top of the line bows will be shooting all the same with shafts touching every shot.
