PSE X Force omen ($950) pse-archery.com
Weight: 4.2 lb. • Length: 331⁄2" • Brace Height: 51⁄2" • Maximum speed: 366 fps, advertised IBO • Let-off: 70 to 75 percent

THE LOWDOWN Shooting the same arrows at the same draw length (minus the 3⁄8 inch mentioned above), the Omen averaged an equally astonishing 319 fps. Sleek and aggressive, the Omen is powered by a new UltraFast Hybrid Cam system that PSE touts as the fastest, most efficient ever produced. The trade-off for all that speed is a long power stroke, a shallow valley, and decreased let-off. (The cam can be adjusted for a longer valley, but you lose speed when you do this.) I shot this bow well given the short brace height, and I liked the slim grip.

HITS The Omen feels light and maneuverable in the hand. It’s surprisingly quiet for all that speed.

MISSES The cam turnover is rough; you may need a full-capture rest to secure the arrow. Don’t let up, even a little, at full draw.

WHO SHOULD BUY Speed freaks who will accept a rough draw cycle to get a handy, comparatively quiet, ­ultrafast bow.