Mathews SWXZ Mod vs SWX Mod: Speed Test, Draw Cycle & Which One Should You Choose?

When Mathews Archery introduced the new SWXZ mod, it immediately sparked debate.

Is the smoother draw cycle worth sacrificing speed?

Does it outperform the standard SWX SwitchWeight mod for bowhunters?

And which one should you actually run on your ARC series bow?

We tested both mods side-by-side on the Mathews ARC 30 to find out.

Let’s break it down.

Understanding the Mathews SwitchWeight Mod System

One of the most innovative features Mathews offers is the SwitchWeight mod system.

Instead of swapping limbs to change draw weight, you simply swap mods. That means you can:

• Change draw weight (50–80 lbs depending on configuration)
• Adjust draw length
• Select let-off percentage

The standard SWX mod offers 80% or 85% let-off options.

The SWXZ mod, however, is fixed at 85% let-off and is designed to provide:

• A smoother draw cycle
• A more forgiving valley
• Less aggressive “dump” into the back wall

But smoother usually means slower.

So how much speed do you actually lose?

Speed Test: SWX vs SWXZ Mod

We tested both mods under identical conditions:

• Bow: Mathews ARC 30
• Draw Length: 28.5 inches
• Arrow Weight: 412 grains
• Draw Weight: 70 pounds

70 lb SWX Mod Results:

Average: 305 FPS

The bow was absolutely moving. Peak performance. Aggressive feel. Shorter valley.

70 lb SWXZ Mod Results:

Average: 298 FPS

That’s roughly a 7 FPS difference.

Is it measurable? Absolutely.

Is that drastic? No.

What You Gain with the SWXZ Mod

While the SWX mod delivers maximum performance, the Mathews SWXZ mod changes the feel of the bow significantly.

Draw Cycle Differences

SWX Mod:

• Slightly stiffer draw
• Shorter, less forgiving valley
• More aggressive feel at the back wall

SWXZ Mod:

• Noticeably smoother pull
• Less dump into the wall
• Slightly more forgiving valley
• Easier to hold at full draw

For bowhunters, that forgiveness can matter. Especially in real-world scenarios where you may need to hold at full draw longer than expected.

80 lb SWXZ Mod Test

To push it further, we compared:

• 70 lb SWX Mod (305 FPS)

vs

• 80 lb Mathews SWXZ Mod

80 lb SWXZ Results:

Average: 316 FPS

The ARC series bows are fast by design. Losing 5–7 FPS with the SWXZ mod does not suddenly make the bow slow.

Even with the smoother mod, performance is still extremely strong.

Which Mod Should You Choose?

Choose the SWX Mod If:

• You want maximum speed
• You prefer a firmer back wall
• You prioritize raw performance
• You shoot heavier arrows and want every FPS possible

Choose the Mathews SWXZ Mod If:

• You want a smoother draw cycle
• You prefer a more forgiving valley
• You’re primarily bowhunting
• You value feel over minor speed gains

For many shooters, especially hunters, the Mathews SWXZ mod offers the better overall shooting experience, even if it costs a few feet per second.

Is the Speed Difference Noticeable in the Field?

Realistically?

For most hunting setups, a 5–7 FPS difference will not meaningfully change your effective range or trajectory inside ethical bowhunting distances.

What can impact your shot more significantly is:

• Comfort at full draw
• Ability to settle your pin
• Confidence in the back wall

That’s where the Mathews SWXZ mod shines.

Final Verdict: SWX vs Mathews SWXZ Mod

Mathews did something smart — they gave shooters options.

If you want peak performance numbers, the SWX mod delivers.

If you want improved feel and forgiveness, the Mathews SWXZ mod is an outstanding upgrade.

On already fast ARC series bows, the smoother shooting experience often outweighs the minimal speed loss.

For many bowhunters, the SWXZ mod is the move.

Shop Mathews Mods

At Extreme Outfitters, we carry:

• SWX SwitchWeight mods
• Mathews SWXZ mods
• All poundage configurations
• ARC series accessories

If you’re unsure which mod fits your shooting style, stop in or reach out — we’ll help you configure it correctly.