Last Chance Pin Kit Review

First Impressions of Last Chance Pin Kit

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless innovations aimed at simplifying archery maintenance. When I first heard about the Last Chance Pin Kit, I was intrigued by its promise to easily adapt existing LCA bow presses to accommodate the ever-widening limbs of modern compound bows. Last Chance has a solid reputation in the archery world, and this kit seemed like a practical solution for a common problem, potentially saving archers from needing to invest in completely new press systems.

My archery shop was facing increasing challenges with fitting the latest flagship bows from various manufacturers. The narrower pins on our existing LCA press, while perfectly adequate for older models, were becoming a limiting factor. I debated between purchasing a new press or trying an upgrade kit. Ultimately, the Last Chance Pin Kit offered a more economical and less disruptive solution.

Unboxing the kit, I was immediately impressed by the apparent quality of the components. The steel pins felt robust, and the inclusion of a dedicated pin pusher suggested Last Chance had considered the practicalities of installation. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – a well-made product with the potential to solve a real problem, but the proof would be in the execution. This kit seemed far more practical than struggling with makeshift solutions or risking damage to expensive bows.

Compared to completely new bow press systems from Last Chance or other brands like Pro Shop Archery, the Last Chance Pin Kit represents a significant cost saving. Other upgrade options involved fabricating custom blocks, which can be time-consuming and require specialized skills. I chose this kit for its ease of installation and its promise of compatibility with a wide range of bows.

My first impression was positive, but also tinged with a bit of anxiety. Would the installation process be as straightforward as advertised? Would the wider pins truly provide the necessary clearance for the latest bows? I was excited about the potential to upgrade my existing equipment, but also mindful of the risk of damaging the press or, worse, a bow during the process.


Real-World Testing: Putting Last Chance Pin Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Last Chance Pin Kit in my shop, utilizing our existing LCA green bow press. The instructional video provided by Last Chance made the process relatively smooth, even though removing the old pins required a bit of force using the included pin pusher. The installation was completed within about 30 minutes.

The kit was immediately put to the test with a 2024 Mathews bow, notorious for its wider limb design. In the past, we had to use shims and workarounds to press these bows safely. With the Last Chance Pin Kit installed, the bow fit securely and comfortably within the press.

There were no initial issues after installation. The wider pins provided ample clearance, and the bow limbs rested securely against the new surface. The first press and adjustment of the new Mathews bow were seamless.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Last Chance Pin Kit has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my shop. The wider pins have allowed us to service a wider range of bows without the need for makeshift solutions or the risk of damaging limbs. It has allowed us to work on Prime, Elite, Bear, Hoyt, and PSE bows with far more confidence and ease.

The pins themselves show no signs of wear and tear. The steel construction appears to be durable, and the spring steel plates remain securely fastened. I clean the pins periodically with a dry cloth to remove any accumulated dirt or grime.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning. Compared to the constant adjustments and modifications we had to make before, the Last Chance Pin Kit has significantly improved our efficiency. It has more than met my expectations, offering a practical and cost-effective solution to a common problem.

Breaking Down the Features of Last Chance Pin Kit

Specifications

  • The Last Chance Pin Kit includes two 3″ steel pins, which are wider than the original 2.5″ pins on many LCA bow presses. The increased width is crucial for accommodating newer bows with wider limbs.
  • Also included are two 3″ spring steel plates and two spring steel mounting screws, ensuring secure attachment of the pins to the press. These provide necessary flex and support during the pressing process.
  • A pin pusher is included for easy removal of the old pins and installation of the new ones. This tool simplifies what could otherwise be a challenging task.
  • The color of the kit is black, maintaining a consistent aesthetic with most LCA bow presses. This ensures a professional and integrated look.

These specifications are critical because they directly address the issue of compatibility with wider limb bows. The wider pins provide the necessary clearance, while the steel construction ensures durability and reliability under pressure. The inclusion of the pin pusher streamlines the installation process, minimizing downtime and potential for damage.

Performance & Functionality

The Last Chance Pin Kit performs its intended function flawlessly: it allows LCA bow presses to safely and securely accommodate wider-limbed compound bows. The wider base provides more stability and reduces the risk of limb slippage during pressing.
The kit’s strengths lie in its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s a straightforward solution that addresses a specific problem without introducing unnecessary complexity. There’s little room for improvement beyond perhaps offering different pin coating options for enhanced grip.

The kit has exceeded my expectations. It has allowed us to service a wider range of bows with greater ease and confidence.

Design & Ergonomics

The Last Chance Pin Kit is designed with functionality and durability in mind. The steel pins are robust and well-machined, providing a solid and reliable platform for pressing bows.
The kit is user-friendly, with a straightforward installation process that requires minimal technical expertise. The pin pusher simplifies the task of removing and installing the pins, while the spring steel plates provide necessary support and flexibility.

Durability & Maintenance

The Last Chance Pin Kit is built to last. The steel pins are resistant to wear and tear, and the spring steel plates are designed to withstand repeated use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and grime. The kit’s robust construction ensures years of reliable performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Last Chance Pin Kit comes with all the necessary hardware for installation, including the pins, spring steel plates, screws, and pin pusher.
There are no additional customization options offered directly by Last Chance for this kit. However, the kit is compatible with existing LCA bow presses, allowing users to continue using their preferred accessories and modifications.

Pros and Cons of Last Chance Pin Kit

Pros

  • Significantly increases the compatibility of LCA bow presses with wider limb compound bows.
  • Simple and straightforward installation process.
  • Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
  • Cost-effective solution compared to purchasing a new bow press.
  • Includes a dedicated pin pusher for easy installation.

Cons

  • Requires an existing LCA green or Pack-N-Go bow press (or similar LCA model).
  • Removal of old pins can require significant force.


Who Should Buy Last Chance Pin Kit?

Perfect for: Archery shops, pro shops, and serious archers who already own an LCA green or Pack-N-Go bow press and need to service newer, wider-limbed bows.
Who should skip this product? Individuals who do not already own a compatible LCA bow press, or those who primarily work on older bows with narrower limbs.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Not necessarily, but having a good set of Allen wrenches and possibly a rubber mallet can aid in the installation process.

Conclusion on Last Chance Pin Kit

The Last Chance Pin Kit is a well-designed and highly effective solution for a common problem in the archery world. The wider pins allow LCA bow presses to accommodate the ever-increasing limb widths of modern compound bows, saving users from needing to invest in completely new press systems. The Last Chance name and reputation for quality further solidify this product’s value.

The price of $91.79 is justified, considering the cost savings compared to purchasing a new bow press. The kit’s durable construction and ease of installation make it a worthwhile investment for any archery shop or serious archer.

I would absolutely recommend the Last Chance Pin Kit to anyone who owns a compatible LCA bow press and needs to service newer, wider-limbed bows. It’s a practical, cost-effective, and reliable solution that will save time, money, and frustration. Upgrade your bow press today and experience the difference!

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