Have you ever wondered which bow would prove superior when comparing the Diamond Edge 320 VS PSE Stinger Max? If so, you are certainly not alone. Both of these bows are known as flagship models of the brands that they represent, and offer significant value to consumers.
One important note: we tested the bows in real life. Yes – We went and actually send some arrows downrange. The following is a comprehensive look at what we found comparing the Edge 320 with the PSE Stinger MAX.
While there is no doubt that the Diamond Edge 320 offers a substantially greater range of adjustability, it is also important to consider the value of the Stinger Max’s ultra-compact design.
While these are only the most obvious factors for consideration, there is far more to this comparison that has yet to be discussed.
Contents (Jump to Topic)
Tech Talk
Diamond Edge 320
Diamond Archery has rocketed to mainstream notoriety within the archery world, at a pace far quicker than most. Starting in the 1990s as a small privately-owned archery manufacturer, Diamond now operates as a house brand of industry giant, Bowtech.
The Diamond Edge 320 is an extension of the company’s massively popular Diamond Edge lineup. Bows offered within this platform are known for their immense range of adjustability. True to form, the Diamond Edge 320 features an effective draw weight range of 7-70 pounds, and a variable draw length of 15”-31”.
One characteristic that sets the Edge 320 apart from other offerings within the Diamond lineup is its highly respectable IBO speed.
The Edge 320 is capable of propelling arrows downrange at impressive speeds of up to 320 FPS.
Specs:
- Draw Length – 15”-31”
- Draw Weight – 7-70 LBS
- Speed – 320 FPS
- Brace Height – 7 1/4”
- Axle-to-Axle – 32”
- Weight – 3.6 LBS
- Effective Let-Off – 85%
Pros:
- Blazing Fast 320 FPS I.B.O. Speed
- Highly Versatile Draw Weight/Length Ranges
- Impressive Physical Characteristics
- Smooth Draw Cycle and Solid Back Wall
Cons:
- Basic 3-Pin Sight Is Minimal In Features
- Quiver Mount and Cam-Lock Design Can Be Cumbersome
Here you´ll find our review of the Diamond Edge 320
PSE Stinger Max
PSE Stinger Max
PSE’s Stinger Max is one of the top-selling left-hand compound bow of the past decade and has made a name for itself, both in the woods and on the water.
The Stinger’s reputation as an excellent “all-around” bow has served it well, as both beginning and experienced archers alike have found favor in this model.
The Stinger Max utilizes a proprietary SS cam system, and shortened limbs, to post impressive IBO figures of up to 312 FPS.
While there are certainly faster bows on the market, no one can rightfully refer to the Stinger Max as slow by any stretch of the imagination. Additionally, the Stinger Max can achieve its specified speed rating, while maintaining ample forgiveness due to its 7” brace height (read.. Uprising Bow Review)
Also of note, is the Stinger Max’s ultra-compact design. This bow features an overall axle-to-axle length of only 30 inches, which is 1”-2” shorter than the bulk of competitors’ bows on the market today.
This makes the Stinger Max ideally suited for use when hunting out of a ground blind, or other confined spaces.
Specs:
- Draw Length: 21 ½” – 30”
- Draw Weight: 55-70 LBS
- Speed: 312 FPS
- Brace Height: 7”
- Axle-to-Axle: 30’
- Weight: 3.8 pounds
- Effective Let-Off: 80%
Pros:
- Features vibration damping system, including advance rubber grip
- Advanced SS Cam System for a smooth draw
- Machined from T6 aluminum for durability
- Offers enhanced maneuverability due to compact design.
Cons:
- Adjustability not suited for youth or small-framed women
- IBO speed is somewhat moderate by today’s industry standards
Head to Head Comparison
To provide a fair comparison between the Diamond Edge 320 and PSE Stinger Max, we must first compare the most prominent features of each bow in relation to one another. Here is how they stack up.
Here is how they stack up.
IBO Speed
When comparing IBO speed ratings, the Diamond Edge 320 comes out squarely on top. The Edge 320 features an IBO speed rating of 320 FPS, while the Stinger Max carries a speed rating of 312 FPS.
This gives the Edge 320 an 8 FPS advantage over the PSE Stinger Max, which many in the archery community will likely find favorable.
IBO Speed Comparison
| Edge 320 | PSE Stinger Max |
| 320 FPS | 312 FPS |
Effective Let-Off
The Edge 320 and Stinger Max are not far apart in regards to effective let-off.
The Edge 320 features a let-off factor of 85 percent, while the Stinger Maxs´ let-off factor is 80 percent.
Effective Let-Off
| Edge 320 | PSE Stinger Max |
| 85 % | 80 % |
The Edge 320 reigns in this category. A 5% difference in let-off is not significant but still slightly better …
Axle-to-Axle Length
Axle-to-Axle Length
| Edge 320 | PSE Stinger Max |
| 32″ | 30″ |
In regards to axle length, the PSE Stinger Max is the clear favorite, with its ultra-compact design. The Stinger Max features an axle-to-axle length of only 30 inches, while the Diamond Edge 320 measures in at 32 inches.
Although two inches of difference in length certainly does not seem like much, in reality, this discrepancy would be quite noticeable with both bows sitting side by side.
Adjustability
Perhaps the most significant difference between the Edge 320 and Stinger Max comes regarding their levels of functional adjustability.
In this realm, the Edge 320 offers a distinct advantage, as it features a draw length range of 15”-31”, and a draw weight range of 7-70 pounds.
| Edge 320 | PSE Stinger Max | |
| Draw Weight | 7 – 70 lbs. | 55 – 70 lbs. |
| Draw Length | 15″ – 31″ | 21 1/2″ – 30″ |
For comparison, the PSE Stinger Max features a draw length range of 21 ½” – 30”, and a draw weight adjustment of 55-70 pounds.
Additional Features
PSE Stinger Max
- High-End Accessory Package: The PSE Stinger Max comes outfitted with one of the most comprehensive and well thought out accessory packages of any bow on the market. This package includes a Sierra Micro 5-Pin Sight, Phantom Drop-Away arrow rest, Torment Quiver, Recon 6″ Stabilizer, and more.
Edge 320
- EZ-Adjust label: The Edge 320 comes equipped with an EZ-Adjust label at each limb pocket. This assists archers in keeping track of limb poundage values.
A Winning Choice
The Diamond Edge 320
is for you if:
- You are looking for a fast bow for the money
- You shoot frequently and prefer a high let-off factor
- You already intend to upgrade accessories in the future
The PSE Stinger Max
is for you if:
- You hunt from a blind or other confined space
- You are more concerned with overall accuracy than speed
- You are searching for a package bow pre-outfitted with premium accessories
Please feel free to leave any comments that you might have. We appreciate receiving feedback from our readers.
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