Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 Review

First Impressions of Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384

The Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 promises to be a simple yet effective solution for dampening noise and vibration in a variety of crossbows. Marketed as compatible with many Barnett, Wicked Ridge, Killer Instinct, and Tenpoint models, the kit includes limb dampeners and stirrup dampeners, aiming to provide a more stealthy and comfortable shooting experience. My initial thought is whether these dampeners truly deliver on reducing noise in the field, a crucial factor for ethical hunting.

My need stemmed from persistent vibration issues with my aging Barnett crossbow. This resulted in inconsistent accuracy and spooked game animals. I was hoping for a cost-effective way to modernize my setup without investing in an entirely new crossbow.

Upon unboxing, the green rubber dampeners felt surprisingly robust. The material seemed durable enough to withstand the stresses of crossbow shooting. However, I was initially skeptical about the stirrup dampeners’ simple slide-on design.

I considered similar dampening kits from LimbSaver and Sims Vibration Laboratory, but the Bow Jax kit’s affordability and claimed compatibility with my crossbow steered my decision. The lower price point made it a less risky experiment. I also liked the idea of dedicated stirrup dampeners, something not always included in other kits.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity of the design and the promise of reduced noise at a budget-friendly price point definitely piqued my interest. Hopefully, the performance lives up to the initial promise.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 at my local archery range. It was a sunny, dry day, ideal for assessing the dampeners’ impact on noise and vibration. I focused on comparing the sound signature of my crossbow before and after installation.

The installation was surprisingly easy, taking only a few minutes. The limb dampeners fit snugly on the 11/16″ limbs, and the stirrup dampeners slid securely onto the stirrup. The difference in noise reduction was immediately noticeable, with a distinct reduction in string vibration and overall sound intensity.

Initially, I did not have issues with the performance of the equipment. After about 10 shots, one of the stirrup dampeners started to slide off. This required me to readjust it after every few shots.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and multiple hunting trips, the Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 has proven to be a mixed bag. The limb dampeners have remained secure and continue to effectively reduce vibration. This has improved the smoothness of each shot.

The stirrup dampeners, however, continue to be a problem. Despite repeated adjustments, they consistently slide off during shooting, especially in colder weather. The stirrup dampeners show signs of wear and tear, with slight cracking around the edges.

While the limb dampeners are a clear upgrade over my crossbow’s stock performance, the unreliable stirrup dampeners detract from the overall experience. In comparison to previous dampening systems I’ve used, the Bow Jax limb dampeners are comparable in performance, but the stirrup dampeners fall short of expectations. It appears they’re an afterthought.

Breaking Down the Features of Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384

Specifications

The Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 includes six limb dampeners and two stirrup dampeners. The limb dampeners are designed to fit limbs measuring 11/16″ in width and can accommodate limb gaps close to 3/4″. The kit is marketed by Bow Jax as being green in color.

These specifications are important because they determine the kit’s compatibility with a wide range of crossbow models. Correct fit ensures optimal vibration reduction and prevents damage to the crossbow limbs. The 11/16″ limb width is a common size, but it’s critical to verify compatibility before purchasing.

Performance & Functionality

The Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 aims to reduce noise and vibration in crossbows, leading to a smoother shooting experience and potentially improved accuracy. The limb dampeners perform admirably, noticeably dampening string oscillation and reducing perceived recoil. The stirrup dampeners, however, fail to provide consistent performance due to their tendency to slip off.

The limb dampeners are a clear strength of the kit, offering tangible improvements in noise reduction and vibration dampening. The weak point is the stirrup dampeners, which are prone to slipping and require constant readjustment. It does not meet expectations due to the stirrup dampeners.

Design & Ergonomics

The limb dampeners feature a six-arm design, intended to maximize surface area for vibration absorption. The rubber material feels dense and durable, suggesting a reasonable lifespan. The stirrup dampeners are a simple slide-on design.

The limb dampeners are relatively easy to install and do not interfere with the crossbow’s handling. The stirrup dampeners’ design lacks any form of securement, making them prone to slippage and detracting from the overall user experience. The absence of any fixing mechanisms is a serious design flaw.

Durability & Maintenance

The limb dampeners appear to be relatively durable and show minimal signs of wear after several weeks of use. They should last for a considerable amount of time. The stirrup dampeners, however, exhibit signs of cracking and degradation, suggesting a shorter lifespan.

The Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 is easy to maintain; the dampeners can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. No special cleaning solutions are required. The stirrup dampeners will likely require more frequent replacement due to their inferior design and material.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 does not include any additional accessories beyond the limb and stirrup dampeners themselves. There are no customization options available. These dampeners are “as is”.

The kit is generally compatible with standard crossbow accessories such as scopes, slings, and quivers. It’s important to ensure that the dampeners do not interfere with the mounting of any accessories. The lack of customization options is disappointing.

Pros and Cons of Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384

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Who Should Buy Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384?

The Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 is perfect for crossbow hunters seeking a budget-friendly way to reduce vibration and noise. It’s also suitable for target shooters who want a smoother and quieter shooting experience, provided they are prepared to address the stirrup dampener issue. Those who are reasonably handy can probably craft a more secure fix for the stirrup stabilizers.

Hunters who require absolutely reliable equipment in demanding conditions should skip this product. If the constant adjustments would be a deal breaker in the field, look for a more robust solution. Serious crossbow hunters will need a system that they can depend on in critical situations.

Consider purchasing additional adhesive or alternative stirrup dampeners for the stirrup dampeners. If you want this set, then you might need to buy more. Some users may also benefit from limb dampener installation tools.

Conclusion on Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384

The Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 offers a mixed bag of results. The limb dampeners provide a noticeable improvement in vibration and noise reduction. They enhance the overall shooting experience. The stirrup dampeners, unfortunately, detract from the kit’s value due to their unreliable design.

At $31.99, the price is justified for the limb dampeners alone, but the inclusion of the poorly designed stirrup dampeners diminishes the overall value proposition. It’s worth the price for the limb dampeners. The stirrup dampeners might be worth it for the right individual.

I would recommend the Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 with reservations. If you are comfortable addressing the stirrup dampener issue or only need limb dampeners, it’s a decent value. For hunters seeking a completely reliable solution out of the box, I’d advise exploring alternative options. Ultimately, the Bow Jax Crossbow Kit 1501384 is a budget-friendly option with potential, but be aware of its limitations.