Should You Use a Fixed or Adjustable V-Bar?

Nearly all recurve archers use two short side stabilizers angled back toward them in a V shape. These are often called side rods, side stabilizers, short stabilizers, or V-Bars. Their purpose is to increase stability and allow fine-tuning of how mass is distributed across the bow.

To mount these stabilizers, you'll need a V-Bar bracket—either fixed or adjustable. In this article, we’ll go over the pros and cons of each style to help you find the right fit for your setup.

Fixed V-Bars

A fixed V-Bar mount is a solid, one-piece bracket with threaded ports for your side rods. Once installed on your riser or extension, your front stabilizer mounts directly to the front.

Pros:

• Incredibly durable and simple
  
  

• Easy to set up and never slips out of position
  
  

• Guarantees a consistent, specific angle
  
  

• Lightweight (typically 1.5 to 3 oz)
  
  

• Affordable ($20–$50 for a quality mount)
  
  

Cons:

• No angle adjustments—what you see is what you get
  
  

• You’ll need a new mount if you ever want to change your side rod angle
  
  

Is a Fixed V-Bar Right for You?

If you already know the exact side rod angle you want—or just want a lighter, ultra-reliable mount—the fixed V-Bar might be perfect. Take a look at the EDGE Fixed V-Bar for a durable, minimalist setup.

Adjustable V-Bars

Adjustable V-Bar mounts are made of multiple interlocking components that allow you to customize the angle and position of your side rods. Just like with fixed mounts, your front stabilizer bolts onto the front of the assembly.

Pros:

• Lets you dial in the exact angle that works best for your form
  
  

• Adaptable—ideal for growing archers or changing setups over time
  
  

Cons:

• More expensive ($100–$165 for a quality mount)
  
  

• Heavier (typically 6 to 10 oz)
  
  

• Lower quality models can slip out of alignment
  
  

Is an Adjustable V-Bar Right for You?

If you like to fine-tune your setup or want the flexibility to evolve over time, an adjustable V-Bar may be your best bet. Check out the EDGE Adjustable V-Bar for smooth adjustability without compromising on stability.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between fixed and adjustable V-Bars comes down to your priorities:

Still not sure which one to choose?

Take our stabilizer quiz or message us for personalized setup advice.