PSE Force Bow Review: Flagship Performance in a Mid-Price Hunting Bow

The mid-price bow category just got serious.

In this PSE Force bow review, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about PSE’s newest addition to their lineup — a bow that delivers flagship-level technology at a sub-$1000 price point.

PSE didn’t cut corners with this one. Instead, they changed how it’s manufactured to reduce cost while keeping performance high. After putting it through real-world testing, including a chronograph session, here’s what you need to know.

PSE Force Bow Specs Overview

Let’s start with the hard numbers.

• Axle-to-Axle: 30”
• Brace Height: 6.625”
• Draw Length Range: 25.5” – 31”
• Let-Off: 85% (fixed)
• IBO Speed: 335 FPS
• Mass Weight: 4.6 lbs
• Cam System: FDS Cam System
• Tuning System: EZ 220 Shim System
• Riser: Cast aluminum

On paper, this bow checks every box for a serious bowhunter looking for performance without flagship pricing.

FDS Cam System in a Mid-Price Bow?

One of the biggest highlights of this PSE Force bow review is the cam system.

PSE integrated their FDS (Force Distribution System) cam system into the Force — the same cam found in their higher-end bows. That’s rare in the mid-tier category, where manufacturers often downgrade cams or tuning systems to cut cost.

The result?

• Smooth draw cycle
• Strong, consistent back wall
• Excellent holding stability
• High performance without harshness

There is a slight roll-over into the back half of the draw cycle, but it’s controlled and predictable. The valley feels forgiving without being overly aggressive when letting down.

For bowhunters, that balance matters.

Real-World Speed Test Results

Specs are one thing — performance is another.

For this PSE Force bow review, we chronographed the bow at:

• 29” draw length
• 70 pounds
• 412-grain arrow

Average Speed: 306.7 FPS

That is impressive for a mid-price hunting bow.

Considering the 335 FPS IBO rating, these real-world numbers confirm that the Force is delivering serious performance. It’s fast enough for western hunts, whitetails, and anything in between.

How PSE Reduced Cost Without Sacrificing Performance

The biggest difference in the Force compared to flagship bows is the riser.

The PSE Force uses a cast aluminum riser, which helps reduce manufacturing cost. This does increase mass weight slightly (4.6 lbs bare bow), but the weight distribution is excellent.

In fact, slightly heavier bows often:

• Aim steadier
• Hold better on target
• Reduce float at full draw

The Force feels solid and stable without feeling cumbersome. The riser is over-engineered and extremely durable — just built differently than premium machined risers.

Tuning Made Simple: EZ 220 Shim System

Another major win in this PSE Force bow review is the inclusion of the EZ 220 shim system.

This allows archers to:

• Press the bow
• Swap shims
• Correct paper tears quickly

Again, this is typically reserved for flagship bows. Having this feature at this price point is a huge advantage for both shop technicians and DIY archers.

Premium Features Included

PSE didn’t stop at the cam system.

The Force includes:

• Picatinny sight mounting system
• IMS rest integration
• Metal limb pockets
• Metal cam mods
• Roller cable guard (no friction slide)
• Quiver and stabilizer integration compatibility

In short — it’s fully modern and fully integrated.

Shooting Experience & Feel

Beyond specs and speed, how does it feel?

• Smooth draw cycle
• No sponge in the back wall
• Minimal vibration at the shot
• Very quiet
• Repeatable rubber grip
• No noticeable hand torque

At full draw, the bow holds extremely steady. There’s little post-shot vibration and only minimal feedback through the riser.

For a bow in this price category, that’s impressive.

Who Is the PSE Force For?

This PSE Force bow review makes one thing clear: this bow is designed for serious hunters who want premium features without premium pricing.

It’s ideal for:

• Hunters shopping under $1000
• Archers wanting flagship performance
• Bowhunters who value easy tuning
• Shooters needing wide draw length adjustability
• Anyone upgrading from an older mid-tier platform

Will It Compete With PSE’s Flagship Bows?

That’s the interesting question.

By including the FDS cam and premium tuning features, PSE has blurred the line between mid-price and flagship.

The primary difference comes down to riser construction and overall weight — not performance technology.

For many hunters, the Force may offer everything they need without the added cost of a top-tier riser.

Final Thoughts on This PSE Force Bow

After testing and evaluating the bow, one thing stands out:

PSE didn’t compromise performance — they just manufactured smarter.

With 306+ FPS real-world speeds, flagship cam technology, modern integration, and easy tuning capability, the Force may be one of the strongest values in the compound bow market this year.

If you’re shopping in the mid-price category, this bow deserves serious consideration.

Order yours today and we can set it up and ship it directly to you!