2026 Mathews ARC Series Review: ARC 30 & ARC 34 Full Breakdown, Speeds, and First Impressions

The 2026 Mathews ARC Series Review is officially here, and Mathews has once again raised the bar for innovation, performance, and shootability. In this Mathews ARC Series Review, we take a deep dive into the brand-new ARC 30 and ARC 34, two aluminum bows that combine lightweight construction, redesigned risers, updated cam systems, and some of the most integrated accessory features Mathews has ever released.

If you loved the Lift X series, prepare to be impressed—because the ARC lineup is on track to become one of the most talked-about bows of 2026.

What’s New in the Mathews ARC Series?

For 2026, Mathews introduced two all-new axle-to-axle options:

• Mathews ARC 30
• Mathews ARC 34

These lengths hit the sweet spot for both treestand hunters and longer-draw shooters looking for stability and accuracy. The East Coast market has always favored 30-inch bows, while the growing demand for 34-inch bows makes the ARC 34 a perfect option for archers wanting a single bow for all purposes.

In this Mathews ARC Series Review, it’s clear Mathews focused heavily on reducing weight, refining integration, and maximizing performance.

Mathews ARC 30 Specs

• Axle-to-Axle: 30"
• Brace Height: 6"
• Weight: 3.99 lbs (sub-4-pound bow)
• IBO Speed: 348 FPS
• Draw Weights: 55–80 lbs
• Draw Lengths: 25–30.5"
• Let-Off: 80% or 85%
• Cam System: NEW SWX2 Cam with SWX and SWXZ mod options

The ARC 30 is built for speed, maneuverability, and performance in tight spaces—while still offering exceptional stability.

Mathews ARC 34 Specs

• Axle-to-Axle: 34"
• Brace Height: 6.5"
• Weight: 4.3 lbs
• IBO Speed: 343 FPS
• Draw Weights: 55–80 lbs
• Draw Lengths: 26.5–32"
• Let-Off: 80% or 85%
• Cam System: SWX2 with SWX or SWXZ mod compatibility

Longer bow shooters will appreciate the increased forgiveness and excellent string angle, especially at longer draw lengths.

The All-New SWX-2 Cam System

A major highlight of this Mathews ARC Series Review is the introduction of the SWX-2 cam. This next-generation cam offers:

Two Mod Options:

• SWX Mods: Maximum performance, speed, and efficiency

• SWX-Z Mods: A smoother draw cycle with a softer bell curve

This flexibility allows archers to tailor the ARC bows exactly to their draw cycle preference without sacrificing consistency or shootability.

New Integrated Accessory Design

Mathews continues to push accessory integration with features that streamline setup and improve balance.

Key New Additions

• Integrated Silent Connect System (built directly into the riser)
• Integrated V-Bar Mount
• New Engage ARC Limb Legs
• New 7-Degree Angled Bridge-Lock Stabilizers
• Full Bridge-Lock Sight and Rest Compatibility

These updates not only reduce excess weight but improve the bow’s center of gravity for better stability and shot execution.

Real-World Performance: ARC 30 Speed Test

Using a 412-grain Easton 5.0 arrow, set at 28 inches, 70 lbs, and 85% let-off:

ARC 30 Speed: 304.4 FPS average

The draw cycle is slightly stiff but extremely smooth throughout. There is no aggressive dump, and the bow transitions cleanly into a firm back wall. Despite the shorter valley characteristic of Mathews bows, letting the ARC 30 down is incredibly controlled.

Post-shot vibration is almost nonexistent, and the bow is impressively quiet—just as Mathews is known for.

Real-World Performance: ARC 34 Speed Test

Set at 29 inches, 70 lbs, and using the same 412-grain arrow:

ARC 34 Speed: 303.3 FPS

The ARC 34 offers an even smoother draw cycle than the 30. The string angle feels comfortable and stable, the bow settles extremely well, and the shot is quiet and dead in the hand.

With its longer riser and increased brace height, the ARC 34 may be the favorite for target-minded hunters or shooters with longer draws.

Shooting Impressions & Final Thoughts

After completing the full Mathews ARC Series Review, a few things stand out:

• These are the lightest aluminum bows Mathews has ever produced.
• The performance-to-weight ratio is unmatched in the 2026 lineup.
• The new Kodiak Brown finish is stunning—rich, dark, and visually sharp.
• Integrated accessories make the ARC bows feel like a fully engineered system, not a collection of add-ons.
• Speeds are extremely impressive with real hunting arrows, not lightweight test arrows.

Overall, the Mathews ARC 30 and ARC 34 are easily among the top contenders for Bow of the Year in 2026. Whether you want a compact, fast bow or a longer, more forgiving platform, the ARC Series delivers.

Which ARC Model Is Right for You?

Choose the ARC 30 if:

• ✔ You hunt from tight blinds or treestands
• ✔ You want maximum maneuverability
• ✔ You prefer a 30" ATA platform

Choose the ARC 34 if:

• ✔ You want a more forgiving, stable shooter
• ✔ You have a longer draw length
• ✔ You want one bow for both hunting and 3D shooting

Shop the New 2026 Mathews ARC Series

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👉 Visit ExtremeOutfitters.com to get equipped.