How Hoyt's New XTS Tuning System Addresses Cam Lean

Question: I’m researching new bows, and there seems to be a lot of emphasis on eliminating cam lean. Hoyt’s new XTS Tuning System takes a different approach. Explain please. — Danny L. via email

Answer: First, let’s define cam lean. Because your arrow cannot be propelled directly forward of the bowstring due to the presence of the cable system, the cables must be pulled aside by a roller guard. This creates sideways torque on the cams, commonly known as cam lean, which is much more evident at full draw when torque is at its peak. Left unchecked, your arrow cannot fly straight and true off the bowstring.

This problem is addressed in several ways, including yoke tuning, which equalizes the side pressure on the cams, and systems that move the cams along the axle (shims or mechanically) to help mitigate the sideways torque.

Hoyt’s new-for-2026 XTS Tuning System takes a different, more precise approach. It allows you to adjust each of the four split limbs at the limb pockets. By increasing or decreasing the resistance, or “poundage,” of each limb, you can correct cam lean. No bow press is needed with this system, only a 3⁄32 Allen wrench. The exception would be if you have more than a one-inch tear when shooting through paper. In that case, you would want to take the “macro” approach by swapping axle shims. The XTS System is designed to be a “micro” approach to tuning.

I have seen some posts on social media that claim this system requires a learning curve. That is not true. It is very simple and easy. Just watch the video at Hoyt.com and follow the step-by-step instructions when correcting specific tears while paper tuning. For example, if you have a slight right tear, you will loosen the locking screws on top of the limb pocket and add resistance to the right limb (looking at the bow from the front) on both top and bottom, by turning the adjustment screw clockwise. Start with a half turn. Then decrease the resistance on the left limbs an equal amount, a half turn counterclockwise. Shoot another arrow and react accordingly. Keep in mind, adjusting one side against the other maintains balance and string alignment with your arrow rest. That will keep you on target with fieldpoints.

Of course, we know paper tuning is not the final tuning step. The real benefit of this micro-adjusting system comes in when tuning broadheads. It’s also possible to precisely correct high and low tears after you’ve confirmed cam timing and nock height first.

The XTS System is a more efficient method of addressing cam lean and is much easier than it might sound. My own experience in November was proof of how easy this system is. My first arrow out of my Hoyt Alpha AX-3 gave me a right tear. I made two simple adjustments, and my next two arrows were perfect bullet holes. From there, I killed whitetails in Missouri and Ohio, and my lighted nocks highlighted perfect arrow flight to my point of aim.

The only learning curve is determining how much adjustment will ultimately get you a perfect bullet hole. Once that is achieved, you’re on your way to a perfectly tuned bow.

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