First Impressions of Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 promises a blend of speed, forgiveness, and convenience for archers of various skill levels. Marketed by Bear Archery as a ready-to-hunt (RTH) package, it aims to provide a complete setup that’s ready for the field right out of the box. This eliminates the hassle of piecing together individual components.
For years, I’ve assembled my bows piece-by-piece, meticulously selecting each component for optimal performance. I was intrigued by the Paradigm RTH package’s all-in-one concept and wanted to see if it could truly deliver on its promise of performance and convenience without sacrificing quality. My curiosity stemmed from a desire to recommend a reliable and accessible option for archers looking for a hassle-free entry into the sport.
Unboxing the Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 revealed a well-organized collection of components. The bow itself felt solid, with a comfortable grip and a balanced weight distribution. The included accessories, featuring Trophy Ridge components, appeared to be of decent quality, though not quite the premium level I’m accustomed to with my custom builds.
I considered the PSE Stinger Max and Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro as alternatives, both popular entry-level bows. I opted for the Paradigm RTH due to its advertised speed and the inclusion of Trophy Ridge accessories, a brand known for its reliability and performance. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the “ready-to-hunt” nature wouldn’t compromise the performance I expect from my archery equipment.
My initial impression was a mix of excitement and slight reservation. The convenience of the package was undeniable, but I was eager to see how it would perform in the field compared to my finely-tuned custom bows. I anticipated a solid, reliable performer, though I was unsure if it could match the precision and responsiveness of my higher-end setups.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 at my local archery range, followed by a weekend hunting trip in the foothills of the Rockies. The weather during the range session was ideal, while the hunting trip brought moderate wind and light rain.
The bow was surprisingly easy to get used to, even with my years of experience with different setups. After a few minor adjustments to the sight and draw length, I was consistently hitting the target at 40 yards. I did notice some slight vibration after the shot, but nothing overly concerning for a bow in this price range.
On the hunting trip, I appreciated the bow’s manageable weight and the comfortable grip while navigating through the terrain. The weather didn’t seem to affect the bow’s performance, although I made sure to wipe it down after each session to prevent any moisture damage. I experienced no major issues during the first use, instilling confidence in the bow’s reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 has proven to be a dependable performer. The finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after being exposed to the elements.
Regular cleaning and lubrication of the cams and axles have kept the bow functioning smoothly. Compared to some of my previous bows, the Paradigm requires less frequent maintenance, making it an attractive option for busy archers. While it doesn’t outperform my high-end custom bow in terms of pure speed and accuracy, it definitely holds its own and offers a significantly more convenient package.
Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172
Specifications
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 boasts a 33-inch axle-to-axle length and a 6.5-inch brace height, contributing to its forgiving nature. It features a DHC cam system that propels arrows at speeds up to 333 FPS with an 80% let-off.
The specifications of the Paradigm RTH are designed to provide a balance between speed, accuracy, and forgiveness. The 33-inch axle-to-axle length enhances stability during the draw and release. The 6.5-inch brace height makes the bow more forgiving of minor inconsistencies in form. The DHC cam system delivers impressive speeds while maintaining a smooth draw cycle, and the 80% let-off allows for a comfortable hold at full draw, reducing fatigue during extended hunting sessions.
Performance & Functionality
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 performs admirably, delivering consistent accuracy and reliable operation. The bow is relatively quiet, thanks to the in-riser dampeners and KillerWave limb dampeners.
The bow’s strengths lie in its ease of use and forgiveness. Its main weakness is the included stabilizer, which could be upgraded for better vibration dampening. It meets expectations as a solid, reliable hunting bow, although it might not satisfy archers seeking top-tier performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 features a well-balanced design and a comfortable grip. The bow feels solid and well-built.
The Paradigm RTH is relatively user-friendly, even for beginners. The draw cycle is smooth, and the grip is comfortable, promoting consistent shooting form. There’s a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the draw length and sight, but the included instructions are clear and concise.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 appears to be built to last, with durable materials and a robust construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
The bow is relatively easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the cams, axles, and strings are essential. Replacing the strings and cables every few years will help maintain peak performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 comes with a comprehensive set of accessories. These include a Trophy Ridge integrated 4-pin sight, IMS Whisker Biscuit V, 5-Spot quiver, stabilizer, peep sight, and D-loop.
While the included accessories are functional and reliable, there’s plenty of room for customization. The sight can be upgraded for a higher-quality model with micro-adjustments. The stabilizer can be swapped out for a more effective vibration dampener. The bow is compatible with most standard accessories, allowing archers to personalize their setup according to their preferences.
Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172
Pros
- The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 is ready to hunt right out of the box, eliminating the need to purchase individual components separately.
- The DHC cam system delivers speeds up to 333 FPS, providing ample power for hunting various game species.
- The 80% let-off allows for a comfortable hold at full draw, reducing fatigue during extended hunting sessions.
- The included Trophy Ridge accessories are reliable and functional.
- The 33-inch axle-to-axle length and 6.5-inch brace height provide a forgiving platform, suitable for archers of various skill levels.
Cons
- The included stabilizer could be upgraded for better vibration dampening.
- The overall performance, while solid, doesn’t quite match the level of higher-end custom bows.
Who Should Buy Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172?
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 is perfect for beginner to intermediate archers looking for a complete and ready-to-hunt setup. It’s also well-suited for hunters seeking a reliable and affordable bow that delivers consistent performance.
Archers looking for top-of-the-line speed, accuracy, and customization options should skip this product. They should invest in a higher-end bow and select individual components to meet their specific needs. A must-have modification would be to replace the stabilizer with a higher-quality version for improved vibration dampening.
Conclusion on Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2172 offers a compelling value proposition for archers seeking a convenient and reliable ready-to-hunt setup. Its solid performance, forgiving nature, and comprehensive accessory package make it an attractive option for beginners and experienced hunters alike.
At $629.99, the price is justified, considering the complete package and the reputable Bear Archery brand. I would definitely recommend it to archers looking for an affordable and hassle-free entry into the sport. The Paradigm RTH is a solid performer that’s ready to hit the field right out of the box.