The LIFT RS is a compact hunting bow that offers lots of customization in draw length and draw weight, along with a smooth draw and fast arrow speeds.
December 09, 2025
By Jon E. Silks
Mathews ’ string of high-performing bowhunting rigs marches forward with the company’s 2025 lineup. In addition to the LIFT X 29.5, which was reviewed in the August issue , Mathews has added the LIFT X 33, LIFT XD and the subject of this review, the LIFT RS . Together, these bows cover a very wide draw-length range from 23.5-33.5 inches, draw weights from 41-80 pounds and axle-to-axle lengths from 27.75-33 inches. There truly is something for just about everyone, with each model delivering true, flagship bow performance.
Designed for archers who prefer a more compact bow, the LIFT RS measures 27.75 inches between the axles, features the SwitchWeight X Cam and two base limbs sets covering an amazing 41-80-pound draw-weight range.
Set Apart The Mathews LIFT RS is different in several ways. First, there is the option between two base limb sets, with one covering peak draw weights of 41, 45, 49, 52, 56 and 60 pounds and the other 55, 60, 65, 70, 75 and 80 pounds. ARC 7 Limbs are made through a new, multi-step build process designed to bring strength and consistency and result in a more durable and efficient limb. Limbs also employ Resistance Phase Damping (RPD) Technology that uses eight individual pieces, two per split limb, and a thin layer of vibration dampening material between to reduce post-shot vibration and noise.
Patented Limb Shift Technology (LST) requires only the simple turn of a wrench to micro-adjust limb tip position — no bow press needed. The LST is built into the new, top-mounted axle system and works to match the limb positioning and cam angle to the shooter’s form.
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Super maneuverability, resulting from a compact profile and lightest overall weight among LIFT models, also sets the LIFT RS apart from the other options. The length and structure of the relatively short, skeletonized riser has much to do with the nimble nature of this rig. Many cutouts join bridging, struts, trusses, webbing and chamfers to eliminate unnecessary weight, while maintaining optimal stiffness and strength. Mathews BridgeLock Technology is built into the RS riser and works to bring sight and stabilizer weight closer to the overall centerline of the bow via through-riser mounting, while the Integrate dovetail mount does the same for the arrow rest. The riser also hosts the Company’s BOND Grip system, designed to produce enhanced ergonomics with its textured rubber grip surface that provides improved traction and control. The bow ships standard with the BOND Engage grip featuring a 12-degree angle, with 14-degree Contour and 17-degree Taper options also available.
The Centerguard Cable Containment system is attached to the riser at an angle that places the rollers in line with the Berger button and in the center of the bow to equalize bowstring angle for optimal cam timing and vane clearance.
Cam Tech The SwitchWeight X Cam with SwitchWeight Technology offers significant performance benefits through Advanced Vectoring System (AVS) Technology. This system uses two small discs on either side of each cam that are mounted offset to the axle. As the bow is drawn, these discs rotate non-concentrically, shifting the force vector, storing more energy on the front end of the draw and increasing letoff on the back side.
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The LIFT RS uses two base limb sets and SwitchWeight mods to cover draw weights from 41-80 pounds. Modules are also your source for draw-length changes from 23.5-29 inches and letoff of 80 or 85 percent. Premium MATCH bowstrings and cables are built with BCY Ultra-Low Wax 452X material pre-conditioned to eliminate stretch, serving separation and peep rotation.
At The Range The LIFT RS will grab your attention right out of the gate with its low weight and ultra-compact footprint. Much like the LIFT X, the LIFT RS test bow brought its A-game to the range. It demonstrated a consistent draw cycle, with an excellent blend of energy-building and smooth transitions, finished with a solid back wall. While at full draw, we could relax into the aiming process, and the RS clung to the bull’s-eye. We found the molded composite grip to be functional and comfortable, thanks to its textured, flat back and narrow profile.
A slight jump in the handle and short-lived, low-level vibration were noted at the shot, which was noticeably quiet.
The Specs Manufacturer: Mathews Archery, 608-269-2728; mathewsinc.com Model: LIFT RSRiser: Reflex, skeletonized, machined aluminumGrip: BOND Grip SystemLimbs: ARC7, Resistance Phase Damping (RPD), SplitDraw Weights: 41-80 pounds peak, across two base limb optionsDraw Lengths: 23.5-29 inches, in half-inch increments; modularCam System: SwitchWeight XLetoff: 80 or 85 percent; 81.4 percent as testedString: MATCH, BCY Ultra-Low Wax 452X, 60.75 inchesCables (x2): MATCH, BCY Ultra-Low Wax 452X, 26.5625 inchesBrace Height: 5.5 inchesAxle-to-Axle Length: 27.75 inchesWeight: 3.92 pounds (advertised); 3.97 pounds (as tested)Finish: Green Ambush Fade-to-Black (pictured), plus 10 other camouflage and solid-color optionsAdvertised ATA Speed: Up to 343 fps (at 29-inch draw and 80 percent letoff)Retail Price: $1,359Comments: Smooth drawing, super compact and quick!Draw-Force Curve Speed & Energy Arrow Speed: 310.6 fps (375-grain arrow), 293 fps (425-grain arrow)Kinetic Energy: 80.35 foot-lbs. (375-grain arrow), 81.0 foot-lbs. (425-grain arrow)Dynamic Efficiency: 84.0% (375-grain arrow), 84.7% (425-grain arrow)Average Shot Noise: 89.3 dBA (375-grain arrow), 87.6 dBA fps (425-grain arrow)
