The V3 line shares quite a bit in common with the last few offerings from Mathews, including the proven CrossCentric cam system. But the V3 is the latest evolution and it comes with a few key changes, which we will get to in a bit.
First, let’s start with the specs. The V3 31, as the name implies, has an axle-to-axle length of 31 inches, a brace height of 6 inches, and an IBO rated speed of 342 feet per second. MSRP for the V3 31 (and the shorter V3 27) is $1100. My bow came with the 85% let-off mods, though 80% mods are available.
Among the new features on the V3 31 is an extended bridge riser. In fact, Mathews says it is their longest riser to ATA ratio ever. To be fair, last year’s VXR and 2019’s Vertix also have very long risers, so don’t expect a massive difference for the shooter. This is an incremental change…but ultimately one that should make an already stable platform even more stable.
Perhaps the most noticeable change on the V3 lineup is the new centerguard cable containment system. Rather that come out at 90 degrees like other cable guard bars, the centerguard is angles down so that the rollers is smack dab in the middle of the bow. Mathews says this helps provide optimal cam timing. While I can say I didn’t have any trouble getting the V3 tuned up easily, this was not really an issue for me on other Mathews bows. I’m not sure that it was intentional, but one thing I like about this design is that I started out with my nocking point right in the middle of the centerguard and never had to move it.
Finally, Mathews outfitted the V3 with a new Nano 740 dampener for even better vibration control. More on that in a minute.
As for the review, we will look at draw cycle, speed, stability, noise/vibration, and fit & finish.