How to Adjust Compound Bow Sight: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Updated November 2026

Learning how to adjust compound bow sight pins comes down to three things: setting windage so the pins line up left and right, setting elevation so they line up up and down, and marking your yardage pins so you know where your arrow lands at each distance. You can do all of this at home with a target, a tape measure and a few arrows. Once you finish, you will have a sight that holds steady from 20 to 40 yards.

Before You Start: Get the Bow Ready

A sight only works well on a bow that is tuned. Before you touch the pins, confirm that your draw length, draw weight and cam timing are set correct, and that your arrows fly straight. If the bow shoots left or right on its own, fix that first, because no sight adjustment will compensate for a bow that is out of tune.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 5 Best Lancaster Archery Made to Order Arrows Compared for Every Bow.

Set up your target at 20 yards on a stable stand, and make sure your sight is mounted firmly and the scope or pin housing does not wobble. Tighten all mounting screws to the torque the manufacturer specifies, and use a thread locker on screws that tend to back out.

Step 1: Set Windage (Left and Right)

Windage moves the sight housing side to side. Start by shooting three to five arrows at a target placed at 20 yards, aiming at the center of the bull and using your best form. Look at the group of arrows, not a single shot. If you want more background, see Bow Mounted Fish Finder: How to Choose and Install One (2026).

1. Find the center of your arrow group.
2. If the group sits to the left of the bull, move the sight housing to the right. If it sits right, move it left.
3. Make small adjustments, usually a quarter turn of the windage screw at a time, then shoot another group.
4. Stop when the group centers horizontally on the bull.

Step 2: Set Elevation (Up and Down)

Elevation controls the vertical position of your pin. Using the same 20-yard target, shoot a fresh group with the windage now set. If the arrows hit high, lower the pin by turning the elevation adjustment in the direction the sight manufacturer marks. If they hit low, raise it. Adjust in small increments and reshoot after each change.

Once the group is centered both horizontally and vertically at 20 yards, lock down all adjustment screws so the setting holds.

Step 3: Set Pin Spacing for Each Yardage

Most multi-pin sights are set at one distance, and the other pins are then marked for longer ranges. To mark each pin, move the target to 30 yards, shoot a group using the top pin, and adjust that pin’s position so the arrows land on the bull. Repeat at 40 yards for the next pin. Mark each pin with a label or paint pen so you can recognize it quickly in the field.

Quick Reference for Pin Marking

Step	Distance	Goal
Windage	20 yards	Group centered left to right
Elevation	20 yards	Group centered up and down
Pin 2	30 yards	Arrows land on bull with that pin
Pin 3	40 yards	Arrows land on bull with that pin

Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adjusting the sight on a bow that is not tuned. Fix arrow flight first.
• Judging a single arrow. Always shoot groups of three to five.
• Changing your form between shots. Use the same anchor point and release every time.
• Making large turns on adjustment screws. Small changes are easier to track.
• Skipping a recheck. Shoot a group again after a few days or after any bow maintenance.

Recommended Gear

A stable target stand keeps your groups honest, so you are not chasing the target when you shoot. View on Amazon

A bow square helps you check that the arrow sits square to the string before you shoot, which affects where the group lands. View on Amazon

A paint pen or label kit lets you mark each yardage pin clearly so you can identify it quickly outdoors. View on Amazon

If you are also setting up other archery gear, such as a quiver, you may find Leather Quiver for Archery: How to Choose the Right One (2026) useful for keeping arrows organized while you tune.

FAQ

How often should I adjust my compound bow sight?

Check it whenever you change arrows, adjust draw length or weight, or notice your groups drifting. Many archers also recheck after a season of heavy use or after the bow has been transported.

Why does my sight keep moving out of place?

Loose mounting screws or vibration from shooting are the usual causes. Check the mount and use thread locker on the screws the manufacturer recommends.

Do I need a bow press to adjust my sight?

No, but a bow press makes it easier to inspect the cams and string safely. If you are unsure about any part of the bow, consult a qualified archery pro shop before making changes.

Conclusion

Adjusting your sight is a matter of setting windage, then elevation, then marking your yardage pins, shooting groups at each step. Work in small changes and keep your form consistent. With a tuned bow and a stable mount, your sight will hold its setting and help you shoot with confidence.

Related reading

• Peep Sight on Recurve Bow: How to Install and Tune It (Step-by-Step)
• Installing Peep Sight on Compound Bow: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

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