What do you really need to look for in a new bow?

In this episode, I sit down with Ian Summers to unpack the process of choosing a 2026 model hunting bow. 

We get real about the 2026 bows and their stats, and what actually matters when you’re out in the bush versus what’s just clever marketing.

Ian brings deep insight from years of archeryand bowhunting experience…  Plus many years of running Summers Archery Solutions, where he tunes bows daily and helps to coach bowhunters and archers through better shot mechanics.

We talk about the quirks and improvements of the 2026 flagship bows from top manufacturers, including Hoyt, Mathews, Bowtech, Elite, Bear, PSE, Expedition, Truth, Darton and more. 

We also explore some of the engineering changes, personal setup preferences, and why some bows feel better in hand than others even with the same specs on paper.

Whether you're upgrading your current rig or diving deep into your first major bow purchase, this episode offers grounded advice and real talk about what's worth your money… and what’s not.

🔍 What We Cover in This Episode:

• All Flagship bows on offer in 2026
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• How brace height, draw length, and axle-to-axle affect performance
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• Differences in cam design and let-off feel
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• Tuning quirks and 2026 bow setup tips
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• Advice for bowhunters with a 30” draw length
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• Why specs don’t always tell the whole story
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• Considerations around noise, vibration, and hand shock
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Find Our Guest:

Ian Summers

Instagram:

@summersarchery

@iansummersofficial

🎙 Follow Becoming a Bowhunter:

Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast

Hosted by: @mattyafter

🎧 Episode Sponsors:

Dog and Gun Coffee – Fuel your hunt with premium coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off

@dogandguncoffee

Kayuga Broadheads – Precision and reliability for every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off

@kayuga_broadheads

Venture Hunting & Outdoors – Gear up for your next hunt

@venturehunting

Jab Stick Outdoors – Precision-engineered carbon shafts. Use code BAB10 for $10 off

@jabstickoutdoors