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A drop-away arrow rest is one of the most popular types of arrow rests for bowhunters. But there are a lot of different types and brands of drop rests on the market these days and it can be tough to decide which one is right for you.
We’ve put together this list of the best models available. We’ll help you figure out which one is perfect for your bow and your shooting style.
Once you find the perfect drop rest, you’ll be able to shoot with more accuracy and stability than ever before. And you’ll be doing it all with hardly any noise so that you won’t spook any nearby game.
Check out our list today and find the perfect one for your setup!
Selecting The Best Drop Away Arrow Rests
You've probably heard a lot about drop-away arrow rests, but you're not sure what they are or why you should switch from your current rest.
These have been growing in popularity among hunters for good reason - they can help you shoot more accurately and silently. But with all of the different designs and features available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
After reading through thousands of reviews and consulting with veteran bowhunters, we've made this list consisting of the best options on the market.
Why You Will Love It
Quality Archery products have built a reputation for their superior sturdiness and reliability. The QAD Ultra-Rest HDX is the pinnacle of these high quality products, offering hunters an incredibly durable and long lasting solution that will withstand even the toughest conditions!
Thanks to its CNC aluminum and stainless steel construction, this is built to last and can withstand all types of weather conditions. It is also pretty easy to set up and comes with an instructions manual, both a DVD and a book manual.
Whether you shoot with your left or right hand, with the QAD Ultra-Rest HDX, you can be sure that your arrows will be contained even when the bow is drawn and let down.
What You Should Know
The Ultra-Rest HDX from Quality Archery Designs is one of the most popular rests on the market, and for good reason. It features an adjustable timing cord for easy attachment and a molded rubber vibration system that absorbs noise and increases accuracy.
In addition, the HDX has a forward-locking launcher that prevents kick-up from messing with arrow flight, making it a reliable option for archers and hunters alike.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Ultra-Rest HDX is sure to give you the performance you need.
What Could Have Been Better
The QAD HDX arrow rest is a popular pick known for its durability, ease of use, and adjustable launch angle.
One thing we would like to mention, however, is that the clamp that holds the timing cable to the bus cable is quite poorly designed. The slot in the clamp is too small, making it difficult to attach the cable. As a result, many archers have had to replace the clamp with a better-designed one.
Despite this flaw, the Ultra-Rest HDX is still a great choice for those looking for dependable and adjustable options for their bow setup.
Why You Will Love It
The Hamskea Trinity Hunter is easily one of the best drop rest for bowhunting on the market because of its consistent accuracy and ease of use.
We really loved the intricate elevation adjustments that Trinity Hunter boasts of. With graduated horizontal adjustments and micro-vertical adjustments, you can easily get the perfect shot every time.
The spring knob for internal torsion positions also allows you to micro-tune the rest for even more precision.
Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this is the perfect choice for you.
What You Should Know
The Hamskea Trinity Hunter features a rebound dampener that helps to mitigate the shock that is transferred from the limb to the rest during the shot. This not only makes it quieter but also prevents the wear that could eventually lead to failure.
It also absorbs the shock to eliminate the launcher flutter and minimize the friction caused because of the rubber material. The Hamskea Trinity is designed to work with any compound bow, and it is fully adjustable to accommodate different draw lengths.
The Trinity Hunter Micro Tune is the best choice for bowhunters looking for a high-quality rest that will provide years of trouble-free performance.
What Could Have Been Better
The Hamskea Trinity Hunter is a premium and expensive option, but it is also one of the most effective drop rest featuring micro-adjustments for every scenario, that can justify the price.
The other thing about this arrow rest is that some shooters find the rubber design to be a bit awkward. You might love it or you may hate but it is eye-catching and unique, and it helps to keep the design lightweight.
But overall, if you're looking for an arrow rest for bowhunting that is both accurate and lightweight, the Hamskea Trinity Hunter Micro Tune should be your go-to option.
Why You Will Love It
Looking for a top-quality, limb-driven arrow rest? Look no further than the Vapor Trail LimbDriver Archery Arrow Rest Pro V! It has a proven design that has been unchanged for a decade.
It features an excellent spring retention system that can be adjusted to fit the length of your arrow, ensuring precise guidance and a clean release.
The Pro V is perfect for serious archers who demand the best performance from their gear. Invest in the Vapor Trail Limb Driver and take your target shooting to the next level!
What You Should Know
The Vapor Trail Archery Pro V is a favorite among serious archers, who praise its rugged construction and dependable performance.
It is made of durable materials, and it features a moleskin covering that helps to reduce vibration for more accurate shooting. In addition, the Pro V is designed cleverly to give you maximum support during your release, maximizing accuracy.
Whether you're a competitive shooter or a casual hunter, the Vapor Trail Limbdriver Arrow Rest Pro V is a great choice for a drop rest.
What Could Have Been Better
The Pro V is a great drop rest, but it is not the easiest to install and adjust. It also lacks 100% containment, which you might not like. Also, sometimes there are noticeable clearance problems for the cock feather.
If you need a complete cage in your arrow setup and are willing to pay a premium price for it, you can check out their newer model, the Vapor Trail Archery Gen 7X Arrow Rest. This is a refined and improved version of Pro V and has a full arrow containment cage and is easier to adjust.
Why You Will Love It
The New Archery Products (NAP) Apache is a great choice for hunters who want an affordable rest that is also easy to adjust.
Made from high-quality materials, it has a great feel and is very easy to set up, thanks to its toolless adjustment system.
Additionally, for its price, the Apache features one of the best sound-dampening systems, making it the best budget choice for hunting.
What You Should Know
The New Archery Apache has one of the simplest tuning systems among all models we have considered.
It has both vertical and horizontal adjustments, so all you have to do is loosen the adjustments. The Apache also features full containment and 360-degree sound dampening, making it a complete arrow rest for hunters and archers alike.
When tuning your Apache, be sure to test it thoroughly to ensure that it is performing at its best. With a little bit of care, your Apache will provide years of reliable service.
What Could Have Been Better
The New Archery Apache features a simple, metallic design that is quite heavier compared to the others on our list. Despite its weight, it is still a good choice as it is easy to use and set up and it is also durable and will withstand all weather elements well.
This containment rest also features Laser gradations for finer adjustments on the field. However, even with this, NAP Apache has some problems with this some archers don't like their less refined elevation adjustments.
Nonetheless, the NAP Apache is a great option for those who are looking for a durable drop rest on a budget.
Worthy Contenders

Ripcord Code Red
The Ripcord Code Red Drop has been around for quite some time and is considered among the bests on the market. It features a noise-dampening system that ensures your shots are silent and deadly accurate.
The deep "V" design, which provides stability and accuracy is more like a tuning fork. The drop dead brake feature minimizes bounce back on the rest. The containment bar keeps your arrows in place, even during the most vigorous bows.
However, you'll find the football clamps quite difficult to set. Also, if you are an experienced hunter, you will notice that Ripcord does not support your arrow long enough through the shot cycle. Though these are not game changers, and if you are a novice hunter, Code Red can be a nice place to start.
The QAD Ultra-Rest Pro Series Arrow Rest

This is another reliable and stable arrow rest with nice harmonic damp features from Quality Archery Design. Constructed from aluminum, it is designed to be smooth and quiet while in use. You will notice how stable its design is when you try to paper-tune your bow.
With QAD Ultra, you will not face any fletching clearance issues. This QAD rest is better suited for shorter hunting arrows. Plus, the harmonic damp technology helps reduce vibration and noise, making your shots even more accurate.
This arrow rest has always been shadowed by its more famous brother, the HDX, which is our top pick also, however, the Ultra Pro Series is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality and durable arrow rest.
Trophy Ridge Sync Drop Away Right Hand Rest

For budget-minded hunters, who need a no-nonsense drop-away rest with micro-tuning features, the Trophy Ridge Sync Drop Away Right Hand Arrow Rest is a nice choice. So you won't have to sacrifice quality or performance without blowing your budget.
Installation is easy and comes with all necessary mounting hardware, as well as noise-reducing laser-cut felt. But we would have loved a more detailed set of instructions. The full containment offered by this arrow rest ensures that arrows stay in place until fired, and it offers reliable draw cycles for consistent accuracy and precision each time.
You can make easy corrections with windage and elevation adjustments, which are also surprisingly accurate given the price range. Additionally, the design of this arrow rest reduces limb vibration and bounces back to ensure silent arrow release every time while helping to maintain accuracy over long distances.
All in all, if you're looking for an affordable drop-away arrow rest that gets the job done quietly, the Trophy Ridge Sync is a nice pick.
If you need to get some energy and keep your gut healthy during your hunting trips, check out our article on the Best Prebiotic Sodas.
Frequently Asked Questions
People are always looking for the best upgrades for their bows, (at least before every hunting season) but when you're looking for a new arrow rest, there are a lot of things to consider.
It can be tough to figure out the right one that will serve you best, as there are so many different brands and models on the market, it's hard to know which one will work best for your needs, and with so many conflicting arrow rest reviews out there the decision only becomes harder.
We've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions people have when they're looking for a new drop-away arrow rest. This will help you narrow down your options and find the perfect one for your setup.
Is an arrow rest necessary?
It is not strictly necessary for shooting a bow, as it is possible to shoot a bow without an arrow rest by using a traditional "finger release" technique. However, it can help to improve accuracy and consistency by providing a consistent and repeatable placement for your arrow when you draw your bow and release it.
This helps to ensure that your arrow flies straight and true. Without an arrow rest, the arrow may be less stable on the bow and could potentially be affected by the movement of the bowstring or the bow itself upon release.
What is a drop-away arrow rest?
It is an archery accessory that is attached to the bow and helps support the arrow during the shot. The rest drops away from the arrow when the shot is released, allowing for a cleaner release and improving accuracy.
There are different types of drop rests, some use a spring-loaded mechanism, while others use a cable system and there is also some adjustable descent rate rests available. But they all function in basically the same way.
The rest will automatically pivot out of position, clear of the arrow path, upon release allowing for improved accuracy. Many hunters prefer this type of arrow rest because of their better accuracy.
How do you set up drop-away rests without a bow press?
You can set up a drop rest without a bow press by using a vise or clamp.
Start by finding the spot on your bow where you want to install the drop-away rest. Mark the spot with a pencil and then remove the bow from the string.
Next, use a vise or clamp to secure the bow in place. Be sure to use padded clamps to avoid damaging the bow.
Now, install the arrow rest according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure that it is installed in line with your mark on the bow and that it is tight against the limb.
Finally, reattach the bowstring and check that the drop arrow rests are still in contact with your point of aim. If they are not, make the necessary adjustments and re-check.
It can be tricky at first, but most manufacturers come with a setup guide to help you through this process.
What are the benefits of using a drop-away arrow rest?
There are several benefits to using a drop-away arrow rest over other types of rests.
One benefit is that they offer improved shot accuracy over traditional fixed rests. This is because the support arm drops out of the way of the arrow immediately after the shot, eliminating any chance of contact between the rest and the arrow.
Another benefit is that drop-away arrow rests are less likely to damage your arrows. This is because the support arm is not in contact with the arrow during flight and therefore cannot cause any damage.
Finally, drop-away arrow rests are easier to use and set up than other types of rests. This is because you don't have to worry about the rest getting in the way when you cock the bow or load the arrow.
What are the different types of drop-away arrow rests?
Broadly speaking There are two main types of drop-away arrow rests: mechanical and gravity-operated.
Mechanical drop-away arrow rests use a spring-loaded mechanism to drop the support arm down out of the way when the shot is fired. They can be further classified into Limb Driver Rests or Cable Driven Rests.
In a Limb-driven rest, a cord connects it to one of the two limbs and holds it in the down position. As you draw the bow, the limb flexes, and the cord relaxes raising the rest into position. When you release the shot, the limb relaxes, creating tension in the cord, thereby pulling the rest down.
Whereas in a Cable Driven Rest a cord connects it with the down cable of the bow. When the bow is drawn, the cable creates tension on the cord, raising the rest into position. When the shot is released, the cord relaxes and the rest falls down.
Gravity-operated rests or better known as inertia rests use a detachment system that allows the hunter to cock the bow in the upright position and load the arrow without having to worry about them getting in the way. Even if you draw and let it down without actually shooting, the arrow will stay in its position, only when you shoot the arrow, the change in the inertia of the string will cause the rest to fall out of the way.
There is also some adjustable descent rate rests available, which allow you to set how fast or slow you want the support arm to drop.
Is a drop-away rest better than a whisker biscuit?
There is no simple answer to this question, as there are pros and cons to both drop rests and whisker biscuits. Ultimately, it depends on what you are looking for in your bow setup, and what kind of bowyer you are.
Some archers prefer drop-away rests because they allow for more precise aiming. The main advantage of this type of rest is that it allows for complete arrow clearance, which can be helpful in preventing arrow impact damage to your bow. They are also adjustable, so you can customize the level of support that you need. Additionally, they are easier to use than whisker biscuits, making them a good choice for novice archers. However, they can be affected by wind, and they require more frequent tuning than other types of rests.
On the other hand, some archers prefer complete containment rests like a whisker biscuit because they are simpler and require less maintenance. A whisker biscuit can be more reliable, as it is less likely to fail or malfunction and is also less likely to be affected by wind. Whisker biscuits are also less likely to damage your arrows, as the bristles act as a cushion when the arrow hits, though some say this can affect the arrow speed.
Ultimately it really comes down to personal preference, so you will have to try out both types of rests to see which one works better for you.
Why are my arrows hitting my drop-away rest?
There are a few things that could be happening when your arrows are hitting your arrow rest:
1. Your nock might not be fitting properly on the string. When the nock isn't fitting properly and is too high or too low, it can cause the arrow to hit the rest.
2. If the arrow spine (stiffness) is not properly matched to your bow setup, it can cause the arrow to bend or deflect upon release, which can cause it to hit the rest.
3. Make sure that the fletching on your arrows is properly aligned with the bow and the rest. If the fletching is misaligned, it can cause the arrow to behave erratically and potentially hit the rest.
4. The guide vanes on your arrows might not be aligned properly with the slit on your drop-away rest. If the guide vanes aren't aligned properly, it can cause the arrow to hit your rest.
5. The release aid that you are using might not be compatible with your drop-away rest. If the release aid is too light, it can cause the arrow to bounce up.
6. There might be something wrong with your arrow rest itself. If the detent is too strong, or the support arm is too long, or if your rest is worn out or damaged, it may not be functioning properly, causing the arrow to hit it.
7. If your form or technique is not consistent, it can cause the arrow to veer off course and hit the rest. Make sure you are holding the bow steady, keeping your sights aligned with the target, and releasing the string smoothly and consistently.
Finally, if you still can't figure out what the problem is, you should take your bow and arrow rest to a qualified archery technician to have it checked out.
How do you serve in a drop-away rest?
There are a few different ways that you can serve, and it is one of the most beginner-friendly rest. The most common way is to simply release the arrow when the string is at full draw and the sight is lined up on the target.
However, you can also use what is called a plunger to release the arrow. This allows for a more precise release but takes some practice to get used to. Whichever method you use, just make sure that your fingers are not in front of the Arrow when you release it, as this can cause injury.
Are drop-away rests more accurate?
Yes, they are more accurate because they hold the arrow in place until it is released. This eliminates any movement that could occur if the bow was bumped or nudged.
They also provide a more consistent release of the arrow because they use a cam system to lift the rest away from the arrow after it has been released. This eliminates any play that could occur if there was looseness in the mechanism.
Can I use drop-away arrow rests with a recurve bow?
Yes, you can use a specially designed drop-away arrow rest (as the Zniper arrow rest) with a recurve bow, but it is not something commonly used. While recurve bows do not necessarily need an arrow rest, and traditional hunters using recurve bows for deer hunting avoid customizing their bows with modern technology, using one can improve accuracy and consistency in your shots. It can potentially reduce the spread of your crawl gaps.
If you need to choose an arrow rest for your hunting recurve bow, consider factors such as personal shooting style and choose something like a stick-on rest, screw-in rests, or wrap-around rest. If you need to use a drop-away rest, choose wisely, something that is built for recurve bows only and it's important to properly set up the drop-away rest to ensure it functions correctly with your bow's pull-down cable.
How long does a drop-away arrow rest last?
This depends on how often it's used and how well it's taken care of. On average, if it's used frequently, it will last for around 1000 shots.
However, if it's only used occasionally, it can last up to 5000 shots. To ensure that your arrow rest lasts as long as possible, make sure to keep the moving parts clean and free of debris, and always use a bow case when transporting your bow.
Factors to Consider for Choosing an Arrow Rest
There are several factors to consider and you have to be conscious of all the features of your drop-away arrow rest, but some of the factors that stand out are :
Size and weight An arrow rest, by its nature, adds weight to your bow setup. Experienced archers will be aware of the ideal weight configuration for them when it comes to precision and accuracy in hunting and archery. The rest should not add too much weight to your system
Durability The drop-away function is achieved through a spring or similar mechanism. This means that there are moving parts that can potentially break. When choosing an arrow rest, be sure to select one that is made of high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of hunting and archery.
Ease of installation and adjustment Some require special tools for installation, while others can be installed with just a few turns of a screwdriver. When choosing the one for your setup, be sure to select one that will be easy for you to install and adjust. Compatibility with your bow is another important factor to consider when choosing an arrow rest.
Sound-dampening features Most of these rests come with some sort of sound-dampening technology that can help to reduce the noise made by your bow. This can be important for hunters who need to be as stealthy as possible when pursuing their game.
Arrow Containment An arrow containment feature that will help to keep your arrow in place. This is important for those who need to be able to shoot quickly and accurately.
So, What Is The Best Drop Away Arrow Rest For You
Well, it depends on your needs and preferences and also on the quality of your rest! But we can say with certainty that any of the models on our list will serve you well. They are all made from high-quality materials and boast impressive accuracy ratings.
These are all tried and trusted models and will provide accuracy while still preserving arrow speed for success on the archery target range or in the tree stand. For your reference, our best picks for all different uses are:
Best Overall - Quality Archery Designs Ultra-Rest HDX
Best For BowHunting - Hamskea Trinity Hunter Micro Tune
Best Limb Driven - Vapor Trail Limbdriver Archery Pro V
Best Budget Cable Driven - NAP Apache
Another Worthy Pick - Ripcord Code Red
If you want to make sure your shot is dead-on every time, don't forget to click the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons and add one (or more!) of these drop rests to your shopping cart before checkout! We know you'll be happy with your choice!
Happy hunting!
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