First Impressions of Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest
The Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest promises to be a game-changer for archers seeking consistent arrow flight and reliable containment. Marketed as a cable-activated, drop-away rest with a full arrow lockup, this rest piqued my interest due to its promise of easy setup and tuning. I was eager to see if Trophy Taker could deliver on those claims and provide a truly X-Treme level of performance.
I was seeking a rest that would completely eliminate arrow drop interference and maintain consistent arrow placement, regardless of the draw cycle. My previous rest, while functional, sometimes exhibited slight inconsistencies, especially in less-than-ideal weather conditions. The promise of a full arrow lockup containment ring intrigued me, as security of the arrow is important when stalking game in thick brush.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust metal construction of the Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest. It felt solid and well-built, not at all flimsy like some of the other rests I’ve handled in this price range. The rubberized containment ring gave a reassuringly tactile impression, and the loading gate seemed intuitively designed.
Compared to a Ripcord Code Red and a QAD UltraRest HDX, the Trophy Taker stood out due to its simpler design and the promise of no bow press installation. While the Ripcord and QAD are known for their reliability, they can sometimes be a bit finicky to set up, and I hoped the Trophy Taker would offer a more straightforward experience. I chose the Trophy Taker primarily for its ease of installation and its full arrow containment, something I valued for hunting from treestands or ground blinds.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The build quality seemed excellent, and the design appeared well-thought-out. I was excited to get it installed and see how it performed in the field, but also a little skeptical about whether the “no bow press needed” claim would hold true.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest at my local archery range, setting it up on my Mathews Traverse. The initial installation was surprisingly straightforward, and the “no bow press needed” claim proved accurate, saving me a trip to the archery shop. Adjusting the windage and elevation was simple, allowing me to quickly dial in my initial groups at 20 yards.
The rest performed flawlessly in dry conditions, providing clean and consistent arrow flight. The containment ring kept the arrow securely in place, even when I intentionally canted the bow. I even tested it in a light rain shower, and the rest continued to function without any noticeable change in performance.
The ease of use was immediately apparent; I didn’t need much of a learning curve to get comfortable with the Trophy Taker. One pleasant surprise was how quiet the rest was during the draw cycle, a crucial factor for hunting situations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve used it in various weather conditions, from the heat of summer to the early frosts of fall, and it has consistently delivered accurate and dependable performance. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, with the rubberized containment ring still in excellent condition.
Maintaining the rest has been easy, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Compared to my previous rests, the Trophy Taker requires less frequent adjustments and has held its zero exceptionally well. It has consistently outperformed my expectations, providing confidence in my setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest
Specifications
The Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest is a cable-activated drop-away arrow rest designed for precision and ease of use. It features a full arrow lockup containment ring, ensuring the arrow remains secure throughout the draw cycle. The rest is fully adjustable for windage and elevation, allowing for precise tuning.
According to Trophy Taker, it’s available in black, designed for right-handed archers and boasts precision metal construction, enhancing its durability. These specifications are crucial for achieving consistent arrow flight and accuracy, particularly for hunters and competitive shooters. A well-built arrow rest must be capable of withstanding the rigors of frequent shooting and various environmental conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest excels in its primary function: providing consistent and reliable arrow support. Its accuracy is noteworthy, helping me achieve tight groupings at various distances. The rest’s reliability is excellent, as the drop-away function consistently engages and disengages without fail.
The most significant strength of the Trophy Taker is its full arrow containment. This feature ensures the arrow remains in place, even when moving or drawing the bow at awkward angles. One area for potential improvement is the sensitivity of the activation cable; a slightly more robust mechanism could enhance durability.
Overall, the Trophy Taker meets and even exceeds expectations for a rest in its price range. The full containment is a game-changer for hunting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest boasts a robust design, featuring a metal frame that inspires confidence in its durability. The weight is well-balanced, adding minimal heft to the bow. The rubberized steel ring, coupled with the easy loading gate, makes arrow loading quick and simple, even in low-light conditions.
The design is generally user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustments once properly installed. There is little learning curve associated with operating the rest.
Durability & Maintenance
The metal construction of the Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest suggests a long lifespan, even with frequent use. After several months of use in diverse conditions, there are no signs of significant wear or corrosion. This durability is a key selling point, ensuring that the rest will withstand the rigors of both target practice and hunting expeditions.
Maintaining the rest is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth is usually sufficient, and occasional lubrication of moving parts can help prolong its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest does not come with a vast array of accessories, focusing instead on providing a solid, reliable core product. The main customization options involve adjusting the windage and elevation to match specific arrow setups. While it doesn’t have accessory mounting points for items like dampeners, its sleek design integrates well with most bow configurations.
The rest is generally compatible with standard archery accessories, such as D-loops and arrow rests. There are no proprietary components that limit compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest
Pros
- Full arrow lockup containment ring provides exceptional arrow security, especially valuable in hunting scenarios.
- Easy installation that doesn’t require a bow press saves time and money.
- Durable metal construction ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Simple windage and elevation adjustments make tuning straightforward and precise.
- Quiet operation during the draw cycle is crucial for stealth in hunting situations.
Cons
- Activation cable could be more robust for enhanced durability.
- Limited customization options compared to some higher-end rests.
Who Should Buy Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest?
The Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest is perfect for hunters seeking a reliable and easy-to-install arrow rest with full arrow containment. It’s also an excellent choice for archers who prefer a simpler, more robust design without sacrificing performance. Those who value ease of setup and minimal maintenance will appreciate this rest.
Archers who require extensive customization options or prefer a micro-adjustable rest might want to consider other options. Similarly, archers who prioritize lightweight gear above all else might find the metal construction slightly heavier than composite alternatives. A must-have accessory is a quality set of Allen wrenches for making precise adjustments.
Conclusion on Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest
The Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest is a solid performer that delivers on its promises. Its full arrow containment, easy installation, and durable construction make it an excellent value for the price. The price is justified.
I would personally recommend the Trophy Taker Trophy Taker X-Treme Pro Lockup Rest to any archer looking for a reliable and straightforward arrow rest. If you are looking for a reliable rest, buy it now, and step up your archery game.