Photo: G5 C-Max

Ripcord Max Micro

Ripcord takes innovation to the max, literally, with the Max Micro ($175). FireFall drops the launcher when you fire, not when you let down. The RightTime Fall-Away System ensures the Ultra SlimLine Launcher fully guides the arrow during the first few inches of travel before falling away and providing absolute vane clearance — 46 percent more than traditional designs, to be exact. Micro-adjustability lets you fine-tune the rest for the ultimate broadhead accuracy. FullTime Arrow Containment instills peace of mind as you move into position and draw your bow. X-Change Blade Angle, paired with the Double Down Brake, eliminates bounce-back, and the ThumbCock on the Max launcher is positioned for convenience. A ball-bearing drive system tightens tolerances and cycles smoothly for reliable performance.

 Spot-Hogg Edge Swap

The market’s first quick-detach arrow rest, Spot-Hogg’s Edge Swap ($155, one bar and one body; $260, one bar and two bodies) utilizes the same basic features as the original Edge but with innovative SWAP Technology. The rest’s body can be installed, tuned, removed and re-attached to the bar without changing your tune or accuracy. The Edge Swap comes in long and short mounting bars, and no-clamp vertical and horizontal adjustments provide hassle-free micro-tuning. Self-centering blades are easily replaced, and the rest boasts micro-click adjustable blade angle. Shooters can transport the Edge Swap’s body in the included hard carrying case, then attach it to the bow when they arrive at the range.

QAD UltraRest HDX and MXT in Gore Optifade Patterns

QAD's UltraRest is perhaps the market’s most popular arrow rest, and the MXT ($250) and HDX ($160) models are now available in Gore Optifade Elevated, Subalpine and Open Country patterns. Several flagship bows are offered in these finishes, and what’s a good bow without matching accessories? The MXT’s 90-degree launcher angle is proven to be the most accurate position. Laser-cut felt provides a dead-quiet draw, and rubber dampeners absorb vibration to provide stealthy shooting when up against jumpy critters. The U.S.A.-made MXT features Lock-Down Technology for zero bounce-back, and users can precisely tune the rest with micro-adjustable windage and elevation. Anti-Backlash Technology, full containment and zero fletching contact are Ultra-Rest mainstays.

HHA Virtus

An average of 22 veterans in America take their lives daily. That’s a number HHA Sports aims to reduce by contributing 2.2 percent of all Virtus VR-22 arrow rest sales to the Operation HHAUSA Project, a cause that involves veterans in the pursuits of archery and hunting. The Virtus VR-22 features HHA’s zero bounce-back, patent-pending LBS+ Braking System. The launcher supports the arrow longer than most rests but provides total vane clearance. Designed for hard-core bowhunters, the Virtus VR-22 includes HHA’s 100 percent lifetime warranty — if the product fails, HHA will repair or replace it and return it to the customer within 48 hours. Laser-cut felt is provided to line the launcher to silence arrow contact, and a sleeve over the containment arm further does likewise.

Vapor Trail Limb Driver Pro-V

Vapor Trail’s first rendition of the Limb Driver Pro-V ($140) arrow rest was the industry’s premier full-capture, limb-driven rest, and it has since evolved to provide unparalleled accuracy and forgiveness. Weighing just 3 ounces, the Pro-V incorporates a free-floating head and adjustable spring tension. Perhaps its best feature is that it guides the arrow through nearly 70 percent of the shot cycle for incredible arrow stabilization before dropping and providing complete vane clearance. That, combined with American-made quality, puts the Limb Driver Pro-V a cut above. Additionally, the Pro-V is available in 15 color combinations for a flavor to fit every taste.

 

G5 C-Max

G5 Outdoors’ C-MAX ($135) provides 360 degrees of arrow containment — no more arrows jumping off the launcher as you draw. The C-MAX’s launcher raises either when you push the large “G5” button or when you draw back — you choose. Either way, the limb-activated design ensures maximum guidance but drops immediately before the fletching passes through, providing clearance with even high-profile vanes. The launcher doesn’t bounce back, and fletching can be oriented any way you like without affecting clearance. At just 2.7 ounces, you’ll hardly know it’s there. The C-MAX offers 1 full inch of adjustment for elevation and windage, meaning it works with virtually any bow. Combine all that with an all-metal frame, and you have a truly dependable rest.

 

Trophy Ridge Level

Featuring Trophy Ridge’s Vertical Drop Technology is the Level ($70) drop-away arrow rest. It provides optimal vane clearance, launching your arrow flawlessly for superior broadhead accuracy. The Level weighs just 3 ounces, and its V-notch launcher accepts any arrow. Rubber launcher inserts dampen noise as the bow is drawn. The Level offers easy loading, and it’s constructed of 100 percent engineered aluminum. With this arrow rest, you never have to worry if your arrow is on the launcher.

Apex Gear Covert

The Covert ($123) arrow rest by Apex Gear was redesigned with independently micro-adjustable elevation and windage. The benefits are simplified and more precise tuning. Hammer Release Technology means the launcher maintains a continuous height before and while the bow is drawn. It also won’t allow the rest to drop when the bow is let down. The launcher’s delayed drop ensures maximum arrow support but with the advantage of complete vane clearance. The Covert’s ergonomic thumb lever activates the launcher at the shooter’s will, and the full-capture design always keeps the arrow on the launcher. Apex Gear includes Silent Draw inserts of five different colors for the shooter’s preference.

TruGlo Lock-Fire

The full-capture design of TruGlo’s Lock-Fire ($123) helps bowhunters shoot confidently under the influence of shakes and adrenaline. This high-tech arrow rest features micro-adjustable windage and elevation, and each rotation precisely moves the launcher .025 inch for impeccable precision. Plus, the Lock-Fire offers user-friendly installation and tuning. The universal mounting bracket is compatible with most bows. The Lock-Fire’s delayed-drop actuation supports the arrow longer, then the speed-activated hammer rapidly drops the launcher as the fletching approaches to provide full clearance. The 2018 redesigned model boasts a novel housing design and includes self-lubricating coatings on the internal workings. Five launcher inserts of different colors complete the ensemble.

Mathews Edition UltraRest

Mathews joins forces with arrow rest giant QAD to bring you the Mathews edition UltraRest ($170). It offers all the notable qualities for which the UltraRest is known. Smart Rest Technology means the launcher only drops when fired, not during let down. An ergonomic thumb tab actuates the rest into the activated position at the shooter’s command. An arm over the launcher ensures positive arrow containment, and precision CNC aluminum delivers rock-solid quality. Lock Down Technology prevents bounce-back, and the Mathews earmarks — logo and two strategically placed Harmonic Dampers, which bring great stealth to the equation — denote this as the perfect complement to any Mathews bow.

 

Fuse Pro Drop

Versatility best describes the Fuse Pro Drop ($170). It easily sets up as a limb- or cable-activated rest, and its micro-adjustable windage and elevation simplify tuning. Speedy axle rotation is thanks to the Pro Drop’s Twin Ball Bearing assemblies. The Pro Drop is designed for ultimate arrow containment and maximum fletching clearance. The results are fuss-free operation and repeatable accuracy. Machined-aluminum construction lays worries to rest amidst punishing bowhunting conditions, and etched reference marks provide positive feedback as you micro-adjust and tune the rest.

Trophy Taker Throwdown

Backed by Trophy Taker’s Unconditional Lifetime Warranty, the 2018 Throwdown ($80) flaunts sensational styling at an affordable price. Built on Trophy Taker’s deep, V-shaped launcher, the Throwdown offers 75 percent containment with a strategically placed side port for easily loading arrows onto the rest. The free-falling, cable-actuated design is user-friendly and problem-free, and an integrated noise-dampening system ensures quiet shooting. An included buss-cable clamp simplifies installation, and the durable yet lightweight design withstands the knocks and blows common with back-country bowhunting. Finally, the rubber-coated containment ring silences arrow contact.

 

LimbSaver PT100

LimbSaver’s PT100 ($200) arrow rest employs a Twin-Bearing Launcher System to function smoothly even in harsh weather conditions. PTFE Arrow Sliders silence arrow contact and can handle wet conditions, unlike felt or moleskin. The lock-up launcher produces positive arrow containment without a containment arm/bar. Windage and elevation adjust easily, and the Double-Wedge Locking Clamp System on both adjustments eliminates marring and denting, prolonging the rest’s life. Unlike most rests, the PT100 features Adjustable Lock-Up Time, which means the shooter can set the timing for 2 to 5-plus inches of arrow contact before the launcher begins dropping. LimbSaver outfits the PT100 with a Flexible Spring Arm to prevent conflict with cam synchronization.

 

NAP Nighthawk

NAP’s Nighthawk ($50) is one of the most inexpensive full-containment arrow rests available. Rigid all-metal construction lays worries to rest as you tread across varied terrain through unrelenting conditions in search of that elusive buck or bull. The ultra-light magnesium housing reduces weight while protecting the arrow, and laser-etched marks provide easy reference as you adjust the rest. The containment and launcher are lined with Santoprene silencing material to thwart arrow-on-metal noise. A universal mounting bar is compatible with most bows, and the Nighthawk is available in a right-handed model only. The simplistic, free-falling design of this buss-cable-actuated rest is problem free, and wide clearance eliminates fletching contact for the purest shot possible.

Axion Archery Ergo

Affordability meets quality in Axion Archery’s Ergo ($97). The rest only drops when the bow fires, so there’s no need to reactivate the launcher following letdown. Further, the launcher features zero bounce-back when fired, providing complete vane clearance for true, unadulterated arrow departure. The Ergo offers easy arrow loading and a containment bar for added confidence. Etched reference marks help the user make precise adjustments. Axion includes a no-questions-asked lifetime warranty.

Schaffer Archery XV

Schaffer Archery products are sold exclusively through pro shops. The XV ($149) arrow rest, which operates like the original Opposition rest, flaunts a clean, lightweight design, weighing just 2.5 ounces. Dual Jaw Technology incorporates two ultra-durable Delrin jaws, which cradle the arrow as the bow is drawn. Once an arrow is loaded, the Dual Jaws can be set in the closed position for full arrow containment, or left de-cocked, which still provides nearly 75 percent arrow containment. The XV is available in black or Lost Camo, and the mounting bracket provides secure, unmovable attachment. Tested to 410 feet per second, the XV simplifies rope replacement and features Glide Away Technology to deliver total clearance in an ultra-quiet design.

 

Bowfinger Medusa MAX

Bowhunters looking for the ultimate feature-and-benefit package need look no further than Bowfinger’s Medusa MAX ($140) drop-away arrow rest. The launcher drops only when the bow is fired, which means the launcher will remain upright if you must let down to wait for a better shot angle. The MAX provides complete vane clearance with zero bounce-back. Felt pieces are included to silence arrow-on-launcher contact, and the launcher itself has four mounting positions. A single spring translates to problem-free operation, and a de-cocking lever allows for easier arrow removal following an unsuccessful hunt. Full containment and U.S.A.-made quality round out the Medusa MAX.

 

Bodoodle Switchblade Hunter

The Bodoodle name has withstood the tests of time and competition, and it now unveils the Switchblade Hunter ($110), which offers a wider, taller frame to provide even more clearance than the Pro Lite II. The Switchblade Hunter’s universal fit is compatible with most compound bows and all arrow materials/diameters. At 4 ounces, the Switchblade Hunter is lightweight yet constructed of 6061 T6 aluminum for the durability it takes to outlast knocks and blows. Smoke Quiet silencing tape ensures that arrows ride silently across the launcher blades. A zero-play, frictionless yoke assembly and jewel-like bearing provide quiet, worry-free shooting. Available in right- or left-handed variations, the Switchblade Hunter offers windage and more than 1 inch of elevation adjustment.

 

JoDash Creations 360 Ultimate Arrow Rest

JoDASH Creations introduces a unique arrow rest concept with its 360 Ultimate Arrow Rest ($100). The rest is ultra-trim and lightweight, but constructed of tough 6061 T6 aluminum, and equipped with rubber-wrapped Delrin wheels to silence arrow contact for a deadly silent draw. Each wheel adjusts independently, and the wheels accommodate all arrow-shaft diameters. The 360 Ultimate Arrow Rest is ambidextrous, installs easily and tunes like a champ. With proper vane orientation, the rest provides superior arrow support with the benefits of full fletching clearance.

 

APA Archery Safari Traditional

For finger shooters, nothing beats the simplicity of APA Archery’s Safari Traditional ($31) arrow rest. Arrow containment is a common dilemma finger shooters face, but the Safari Traditional features full containment. Perfect for youth or women, the Safari Traditional is incredibly lightweight and designed universally to fit most bows. One simple set screw lets the shooter adjust both windage and elevation. With this rest, what you see is what you get — bare minimum mechanics — which means less that can go wrong.

 

.30-06 Outdoors Talon2

.30-06 Outdoors offers no-nonsense archery products at ultra-reasonable prices. The Talon2 ($36) is no exception. Rather than the three-way bristle design of most bristle-style full-containment rests (prone to wear), two Delrin-style supports serve as the launcher, while the top support features bristles to gently secure the arrow before and during the draw cycle. The C-shaped containment ring features a loading port on the side, and the bottom arrow supports adjust simultaneously for arrow diameter. The brush support can be removed for bowhunters who desire to shoot the Talon2 as a conventional “two-prong” rest.

Buck Rub Outfitters Magne’ Drop

The Magne’ Drop ($169) arrow rest by Buck Rub Outfitters is acclaimed as the world’s only magnetically actuated rest, and it’s now available with the new Raven Claw launcher. The most notable benefits of the magnetic actuation are faster drop speed, zero bounce-back and zero fletching contact. Powerful neodymium magnets eliminate spring failure and never wear out, while durable CNC construction withstands bowhunting abuse. The Magne’ Drop’s cord can be attached to the buss cable or bow limb, and an ambidextrous design suits right- and left-handed shooters, all without any additional parts. Buck Rub guarantees the rest with an unconditional lifetime warranty.