First Impressions of Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package
The Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package promises versatility and adjustability for archers of all skill levels. Marketed as a bow that grows with the user, it claims a wide draw length and draw weight range without needing a bow press. As someone who’s seen countless bows come and go over the years, I’m intrigued to see if it lives up to the hype.
I was looking for a bow to recommend to beginners and young archers. Many entry-level bows lack the adjustability needed as the archer grows in strength and skill. The Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package seemed to offer a solution to this problem.
Unboxing the Legit RTH Package, the first thing I noticed was its weight, or rather, its lack thereof. The bow feels surprisingly light at just 3.6 lbs, which is excellent for beginners. The Predator Camo finish looks good, and the included Trophy Ridge accessories seemed decent enough for a ready-to-hunt (RTH) package.
Compared to other beginner-friendly bows like the Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 or the PSE Stinger Max, the Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package stands out due to its wider adjustability range. The Diamond and PSE bows require modules for draw length adjustments. The tool-less adjustability of the Legit RTH Package is a major selling point.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The bow feels well-made for its price point, and the adjustability is a huge plus. I was eager to get it to the range and see how it performs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package to my local archery range for its initial test. I set the draw weight to 40 lbs and the draw length to 28 inches, a comfortable setting for me. The range was mostly dry, with a slight breeze.
Drawing the bow felt smooth and consistent. I appreciated the generous let-off. The included Trophy Ridge sight was easy to adjust, and I quickly dialed in my 20-yard pin. However, the stabilizer felt a little cheap and did little to dampen vibrations after the shot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. I’ve shot hundreds of arrows through it. I’ve even taken it out on a few scouting trips in the woods.
The Predator Camo finish has held up well, with no noticeable scratches or wear marks. The string and cables are showing slight fraying, which is normal after extended use. However, I recommend waxing them regularly. The bow is easy to clean with a damp cloth.
Compared to some of the higher-end bows I’ve used, the Legit RTH Package obviously doesn’t offer the same level of performance or refinement. However, for a bow in its price range, it performs admirably. It provides an excellent entry point into archery.
Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package
Specifications
The Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package boasts some impressive specifications, considering its target audience and price point.
- Axle-to-axle: 30″: This compact axle-to-axle length makes it maneuverable in tight hunting situations and easier for smaller-framed archers to handle.
- Brace height: 6″: The 6-inch brace height offers a good balance of speed and forgiveness, making it more forgiving for beginners who might have inconsistent form.
- Let off: 75 percent: The 75% let-off allows archers to hold at full draw with less strain, improving accuracy and consistency.
- Adjustable draw length: 14″-30″ and draw weight: 10-70 lbs: This is the defining feature of the Legit, offering unmatched adjustability for archers of all sizes and skill levels.
- Achieves speeds of 315 FPS: While not the fastest bow on the market, 315 FPS is more than adequate for hunting and target shooting.
These specifications matter because they provide a versatile platform for archers to learn and grow. The wide adjustability range ensures that the bow can be tailored to fit a variety of archers, from young beginners to experienced adults.
Performance & Functionality
The Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package performs admirably for a bow in its class. Its primary strength lies in its user-friendly adjustability and smooth draw cycle.
Accuracy is decent, although experienced archers may find it less forgiving than higher-end bows. The included Trophy Ridge accessories function adequately but could be upgraded for improved performance. The stabilizer, in particular, feels inadequate.
The Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package meets expectations for a beginner-friendly, highly adjustable bow. However, more experienced archers may find its performance lacking compared to flagship models.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package features a simple and functional design. Its lightweight construction makes it comfortable to hold and shoot for extended periods.
The grip is comfortable and provides a secure hold, even in wet conditions. The bow is easy to adjust and operate. No specialized tools or bow presses are needed.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package appears to be reasonably durable. The Predator Camo finish is resistant to scratches and wear.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular waxing of the string and cables is recommended. Overall, the bow should last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package comes with a comprehensive set of Trophy Ridge accessories, including:
- 4-pin sight: A basic but functional sight that allows for multiple distance settings.
- Quiver: A lightweight quiver that securely holds arrows.
- Stabilizer: A small stabilizer that helps to dampen vibrations (but could be improved).
- V-Biscuit: A simple arrow rest that provides reliable arrow support.
- No-tie peep sight & D loop: Essential components for accurate shooting.
The Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. Archers can upgrade the sight, rest, stabilizer, and other components to improve performance and personalize their setup.
Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package
Pros
- Exceptional adjustability: Draw length from 14″ to 30″ and draw weight from 10 to 70 lbs caters to a wide range of archers.
- Lightweight and maneuverable: Weighing only 3.6 lbs makes it ideal for beginners and hunters in tight spaces.
- Ready-to-hunt package: Comes with all the necessary accessories to start shooting immediately.
- Smooth draw cycle: The dual cam system ensures a smooth and comfortable draw.
- Affordable price point: Offers excellent value for money compared to other adjustable bows.
Cons
- Stabilizer is basic and could be improved.
- Included accessories are entry-level and may need upgrading for serious archers.
Who Should Buy Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package?
The Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package is perfect for:
- Beginner archers looking for an adjustable bow that can grow with them.
- Youth archers who need a lightweight and easy-to-handle bow.
- Hunters who want a compact and maneuverable bow for tight hunting situations.
Who should skip this product?
- Experienced archers who demand top-tier performance and customization options.
- Archers who prefer a heavier, more stable bow.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A higher-quality stabilizer for improved vibration dampening.
- An upgraded sight for increased accuracy and range.
Conclusion on Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package
The Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package is an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate archers seeking a versatile and adjustable bow. Its defining feature is its impressive draw length and draw weight adjustability, allowing it to adapt to archers of all sizes and skill levels. While the included accessories are basic, they provide a solid foundation for getting started.
At $419.99, the Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package offers excellent value for money. Its adjustability and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to get into archery.
I would personally recommend the Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package to anyone looking for a beginner-friendly, highly adjustable bow. It’s a solid performer that provides a great entry point into the world of archery. So, grab your arrows, head to the range, and experience the thrill of archery with the Bear Archery Fred Legit RTH Package.