Review: Hoyt Helix Ultra Compound Bow + Video
Lucas Cooney 07.30.19
I’ve been shooting the Hoyt Helix Ultra for more than three months now as part of ArcheryTalk’s 2019 Hunting Bow Project. This bow is outfitted with a Burris Oracle range finding sight, QAD UltraRest HDX arrow rest, and a peep.
This bow has an axle-to-axle length of 34 inches, brace height of 6 ¾ inches, and IBO rated speed of 334 feet per second. I am shooting the Helix Ultra with the draw length set a hair longer than 29.5 inches and a draw weight of 70 pounds.
The Hoyt Helix Ultra offers up a very light-feeling draw cycle that has just the slightest dip into the valley. This is what I like to call an all-day shooter, as it doesn’t feel taxing to pull back time and time again.
Hoyt engineers have traditionally produced bows with softer back walls and this bow is no exception. For shooters like me who like a bit of give as you pull through the shot, this is a good thing. But if you prefer a rock solid wall, this bow might not be for you.
Once you get to full draw the Helix Ultra really shines. This is a longer hunting bow and that no doubt helps create a really steady platform. I can also comfortably touch my nose to the string without dipping my head – something I can’t normally do on hunting bows. This bow would be right at home on the 3D archery course.
After the shot, the Helix does a great job of absorbing vibration. I suspect the elastomers built into the string are partly to thank for that.
To test for speed, I shot a 350-gran Gold Tip Platinum Pierce and a 475-grain AirStrike through the chronograph. The lighter arrow produced an average of 326 feet per second, while the AirStrikes saw an average of 279 feet per second. That second number is pretty much exactly what I like for fixed blade broadheads.
Longer hunting bows are something I’ve gotten along well with for years and the Helix Ultra fits me great. If you are looking for that one do-everything bow from hunting to league night at the club, go check out the Hoyt Helix Ultra at your local dealer.
Products Used in this Video
