For years, women have been getting the short end of the stick when it comes to compound bows. Even though you can adjust most bows down to shorter draw lengths, many won't get that full rotation of the cams, which limits performance. Other so-called women's bows just aren't made well. That is not the case with the Bowtech Eva Gen 3. Bowtech took all the leading-edge technology used in their other compound bows and developed a top-tier women's compound bow.
I got a chance to put the Eva Gen 3 through the paces at the 25th anniversary Bowtech Rally. Over the course of the weekend, I tested the bow on two of Mountain Archery Fest's shooting courses. The courses were designed to mimic real life scenarios, with varied shot distances, topography and natural camouflage. They used the terrain to create challenging angles and test you physically. Each course took 2 to 3 hours for us to complete. It was a lot of fun and I was able to shoot alongside some of the best. More importantly, I got a real feel of the new Eva bow—and it surpassed my expectations.
When it comes to hunting weapons made for females, I like to analyze what exactly makes it a women's bow or firearm. It comes down to fit, feel, and performance. Gone are the days when "shrink it and pink it" designs would suffice. Sportswomen have (rightfully) been asking for the same technology and quality developed in other bows but with a women's fit in mind. Bowtech delivered that with the Eva Gen 3.
Quick Overview
Specs
Mass Weight: 3.9 lbs
Draw Length: 24" - 29"
Draw weight: 40, 50, or 60 lbs
Speed: 326 fps
Axle to Axle: 28"
Brace Height: 6.125"
Colors: 4-options: Black, Forest, Smoke Grey, Mossy Oak DNA
Dexterity: LH and RH
Price: $1,299
What's New
As the name suggests, this is the third generation of the Eva bow. I like that the Gen 3 has taken Bowtech's advanced flagship technology—like the DeadLock Cam system—and adapted it to a women's fit. As for what else makes it different than past models? Below are some of the new modifications and enhancements I'm most excited about:
Axel to Axel Length: This bow measures 28 inches from axel to axel, a 2-inch decrease from the Gen 2 model.
Reduced Vibration: With a change-up in the position of the orbit dampeners, the advanced vibration-dampening technology significantly reduces hand shock and noise. I found this provides a quieter and more enjoyable shooting experience.
Customizable Grip: The customizable GripLock system allows you to fine-tune the grip angle using a simple Allen wrench. You can easily adjust from a low to high wrist position or anywhere in between for better comfort and accuracy.
Increased Draw Length: This model offers greater adjustability in terms of draw length. It extends out to 29 inches for archers of all sizes.
Improved Cam System: The updated cam system provides a more efficient energy transfer, resulting in faster arrow speeds and improved overall performance.
Style: The Eva Gen 3 comes in four colors: black, smoke gray, Mossy Oak Country DNA, and my favorite, a pretty mint green.
Testing Results and Analysis
Performance
During the days I spent shooting at the Bowtech Rally, the Eva Gen 3 performed well in a wide range of scenarios, from the practice range to 3D targets at various distances using the topography to camouflage and create challenging shots. The draw cycle provided a smooth and comfortable experience. I have had a previous shoulder injury but had no problem with this system.
I shot upwards of 100 arrows through this bow. It remained consistent with no deviation in power the whole time I was shooting on the practice range and through the courses. I talked to Eva Shockey herself about the genesis of the Eva bow, and she spoke to its reliable performance, as well—highly important when you're in the stand.
Durability
Constructed with high quality materials and robust components, this bow is clearly very durable. Over days of frequent use and abuse on the range and in the forest, it held up well, without any signs of wear or damage. I easily walked through the woods and set it down without feeling the need to baby it.
The lightweight frame was easy to handle yet didn't compromise on strength. It maintained its integrity during testing and it feels like it will hold up for years to come, at least in my experience. Overall, the Eva Gen 3 proved to be a resilient bow, capable of enduring the rigors of regular use while maintaining top-notch performance.
Adjustability & Customization
What I love most Bowtech bows—the Eva included—is that you can make adjustments without needing a bow press. TimeLock's unique no-bow-press design allows for quick and easy cam positioning adjustment with a simple Allen wrench. I really like this feature because I have had maintenance issues in the past and was at the mercy of the bow shop for repair.
With the Gen 3, you can also build a somewhat custom bow, which is pretty cool. You can customize the color of the riser, limbs, and orbit, choosing from 4 colors. I really like the color palette Bowtech offers—it gives the bow a stylish flare without making it look cheap. You can also choose right or left hand with adjustable draw lengths from 22" -29" and draw weights of 40, 50, and 60.
Price
The Eva Gen 3 is on the higher end of the price spectrum compared to other women's bows. However, this reflects current market trends of other quality compound bows rather than Bowtech inflating the cost. This is not your budget buy, and unfortunately, it's challenging to lower the price without compromising the quality of materials and components used.
Like I mentioned before, sportswomen have been asking for the same technology and quality developed in other bows, but with a women's fit in mind, and I believe Bowtech delivered that with the Eva Gen 3. In reality, its price is comparable to other high-quality bows with similar features. If you are in the market for a quality bow that will perform, you should be ready to make an investment.
Verdict
The Bowtech Eva Gen 3 is easily the best compound bow I've had a chance to shoot. And a bunch of other experienced female bowhunters at the Bowtech Rally agreed. I especially love the adjustable grip, lightweight design, and accommodating draw length—all things that absolutely justify the higher price.
This will be my go-to bow for the upcoming deer season here in Oklahoma. I'd recommend it for any woman heading out into the woods this year, whether you've been bowhunting for years or are just starting out. It's a game-changer.
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