Bow Review: Hoyt Pro Defiant

Hoyt has expanded its Defiant series for 2017 with three new models — the Pro Defiant, Pro Defiant 34 and Pro Defiant Turbo.

The Pro Defiant features Hoyt's DFX Cam & ½ system, UltraFlex split limbs, Pro-Fit laminated wood grip, Offset riser design, Fuse custom string and cables and more.

Specialized Engine

To the delight of many Hoyt fans, the company is bringing back its popular DFX Cam & ½ system, which is flexible in terms of draw length and the feel of the back wall. Three base cams and a rotating module cover draw lengths from 24-26 inches, 26-28 inches and 28-30 inches. System letoff is advertised at 75 percent. Dual cable stops offer a firm back wall, and for those wanting an absolutely rock solid back wall, there is an optional limb stop for the top cam.

One of the more unique features about this cam system is how the Hoyt engineers positioned the cams at full draw to lengthen the overall footprint, which changes where the string comes off the cam. Through this configuration, the string angle is opened up to allow the archer to maintain proper form without having to reach your head forward to meet the peep sight. The result is less string pressure, less facial contact, less shooter stress and less eye fatigue, all of which leads to more shooting enjoyment and tighter groups.

Stacked Riser

A Riser Tunnel on the bottom half of the riser broadens its width at a point that optimizes rigidity and strength. Also featured is Hoyt's Offset design above the sight window that works in tandem with the Tunnel to create a stiffer platform by independently running the front and back surfaces off the centerline for a wider stance. Hoyt's Perfect Balance Stabilizer system places the stainless steel stabilizer insert part way down the Tunnel to counter to the weight of a quiver and sights. This results in  improved overall bow balance and steadier aiming.

Hoyt finishes out the riser package with the one-of-a-kind ZT (Zero Torque) Cable-Guard System that employs a reverse-flex arm to reduce side-loaded torque and the laminated wood Pro-Fit grip, which is designed to produce a neutral wrist position and is interchangeable with wooden side plates and an elastomeric option.

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Split Strength & Precision

Hoyt's UltraFlex Split Limbs are made to withstand in excess of 1,000 full dry fires at 80 pounds and a 30-inch draw length, which is more than 104 foot-pounds of kinetic energy. Let your melon marinate on that for a few seconds; if these limbs can withstand such harsh punishment while shooting blanks, how confident can you be when loading up a hunting arrow? The laminated, pressed and machined multi-layer limbs are matched into sets based on deflection values. Archers can choose limb sets with peak draw weights of 40, 50, 60, 65, 70 and 80 pounds.

The interface between the riser and the limbs (the limb pocket) is extremely critical to stability, mechanical function and accuracy. Hoyt puts its Ultra-Lock Pocket to work using three counter-pressure control points on each limb, super-tight tolerances and a dual-rocker system, that combine to control the split limbs throughout the draw-weight adjustment and shooting processes.

Impressions

Hoyt's Pro Defiant is a prime example of the high-performance shooting achievements the company makes year in and year out. At the range, the test bow demonstrated the super consistent draw cycle we've come to expect from Hoyt. At the shot, a jump in the handle was followed by very light and short-lived vibration. Both the jump and the vibration were absolutely killed by adding my favorite Fuse stabilizer to the setup.

Handling the Pro Defiant was a pleasure, thanks to the well-formed grip and excellent balance. I cannot imagine anyone ever regretting a Hoyt Pro Defiant purchase.