Abstract: A portable bow press apparatus and method for compressing an archery compound bow for relieving the tension from the cables and/or the bowstring. The method and apparatus are used for replacement or maintenance purposes of the archery compound bow. The preferred apparatus is mounted to a vehicle receiver hitch for field use and is designed to accommodate all styles of compound bows. Compression is provided to the bow press by any type of standard vehicle jack. The bow press is compartmentalized for stowage purposes.