Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 Review

First Impressions of Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517

As a seasoned outdoorsman with over a decade immersed in the world of tactical and hunting gear, I’ve seen countless bows come and go. When the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 crossed my path, I was intrigued. The promise of Bear Archery’s renowned quality combined with a “Ready-To-Hunt” package at an accessible price point certainly piqued my interest.

My introduction to archery was a baptism by fire, attempting to stalk mule deer in the unforgiving Wyoming backcountry with a hand-me-down compound bow that was ill-suited to my draw length. I longed for a bow that offered adjustability and ease of use. The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 immediately stood out for its impressive adjustability in both draw length and draw weight.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the fit and finish of the bow. The black color is sleek and understated. The included accessories, while not top-of-the-line, appeared to be of decent quality and well-matched to the bow.

Compared to other entry-level RTH (Ready-To-Hunt) packages I’ve handled, like the Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 and the PSE Stinger Max, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 seemed to offer a better balance of features and affordability. The Diamond Edge SB-1 boasts even more adjustability but felt slightly less robust in hand. The PSE Stinger Max is another budget-friendly option but lacks the Picatinny rail sight mount that I appreciated on the Species XT.

Initially, I was excited to get this bow out into the field. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. Could this package deliver on its promise of performance and value?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 was at my local archery range. I wanted to get a feel for the bow in a controlled environment before taking it into the woods. The weather was typical for early spring: cool and breezy, with occasional gusts of wind.

Setting up the bow was straightforward, thanks to the pre-installed accessories. I spent some time adjusting the draw length and draw weight to my preference. The single-cam system felt smooth and relatively easy to draw, even at the higher weight settings. The IMS V-Biscuit rest, while basic, provided consistent arrow support.

The Picatinny-mounted 4-pin sight proved easy to sight in. After about an hour of practice, I was consistently grouping arrows within a 6-inch circle at 30 yards. The bow felt well-balanced and comfortable to hold. There were no immediately apparent issues.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 has continued to perform admirably. I’ve taken it on several scouting trips in preparation for the upcoming deer season. I have also spent countless hours at the range refining my shooting technique.

The bow has held up well to the rigors of the outdoors. I have encountered rain, mud, and the occasional bump against trees. The finish has proven to be durable, with no noticeable scratches or wear marks. The string shows minimal fraying.

Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the bow after each use and apply a small amount of string wax to maintain its performance. The bow is relatively easy to disassemble and reassemble for more thorough cleaning, if necessary.

Compared to my previous bow, a high-end model from a few years ago, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 doesn’t offer quite the same level of refinement or raw power. It is however significantly easier to adjust. For the price, it’s an impressive package.

Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517

Specifications

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 boasts a number of features that make it a compelling option for beginner to intermediate archers.

• Draw Weight: Available in two options: 45-60 lbs or 55-70 lbs. This allows archers to select a draw weight that suits their strength and experience level.
• Draw Length: Adjustable from 23.5″ to 30.5″. This wide range of adjustment makes the bow suitable for archers of various sizes.
• Let-Off: 80%. This high let-off reduces the holding weight at full draw, making it easier to hold steady and aim for extended periods.
• Axle-to-Axle Length: 30″. This shorter axle-to-axle length makes the bow more maneuverable in tight hunting situations.
• Brace Height: 6.75″. This brace height balances forgiveness and speed.
• IBO Speed: Up to 320 feet per second. This speed provides ample kinetic energy for hunting various game animals.
• Single-Cam System: A smooth-drawing single-cam system. It delivers consistent accuracy.
• RTH Package: Includes IMS V-Biscuit rest, Picatinny-mounted 4-pin sight, 5-arrow quiver, stabilizer, peep sight, and wrist sling. This ready-to-hunt package provides everything an archer needs to get started.
• Color: Black.
• Hand: Right Hand.
• Manufacturer: Bear Archery.

These specifications translate to a bow that is both forgiving and capable. The adjustable draw length and weight make it easy to customize the bow to fit individual archers. The high let-off and relatively short axle-to-axle length make it comfortable to shoot and easy to maneuver in the field.

Performance & Functionality

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 performs its job well. It delivers consistent accuracy, reasonable speed, and comfortable handling. The single-cam system is smooth and relatively quiet, minimizing vibration and noise.

The strengths of this bow lie in its adjustability, ease of use, and value for money. The weaknesses are the included accessories, which are functional but not particularly high-end.

Overall, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 meets expectations for a bow in its price range. It provides a solid foundation for beginner and intermediate archers to develop their skills and enjoy the sport.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 features a well-designed and ergonomic riser. It is comfortable to hold and easy to grip. The bow is relatively lightweight, which reduces fatigue during extended shooting sessions.

The finish is durable and aesthetically pleasing. The overall build quality is solid. It is not the most refined bow on the market, but it is well-constructed and feels like it will last. The user-friendly design makes it easy to adjust the draw length and weight. The bow requires minimal setup.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, I expect the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 to last for many years with proper care and maintenance. The materials used in its construction appear to be of good quality, and the finish is durable.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and string waxing are the only necessary tasks. The bow is also relatively easy to repair. Replacement parts are readily available.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 comes with a comprehensive set of accessories. They include an IMS V-Biscuit rest, a Picatinny-mounted 4-pin sight, a 5-arrow quiver, a stabilizer, a peep sight, and a wrist sling.

The Picatinny rail sight mount is a particularly welcome feature, allowing for easy upgrades to higher-quality sights. The stabilizer helps to reduce vibration and noise, while the peep sight and wrist sling enhance accuracy and comfort.

The bow is also compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. This includes sights, rests, quivers, and stabilizers from other brands. The ability to customize the bow to individual preferences is a significant advantage.

Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517

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Who Should Buy Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517?

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 is perfect for beginner to intermediate archers who are looking for a reliable, adjustable, and affordable bow package. It is also a good option for hunters who need a maneuverable and easy-to-shoot bow for tight hunting situations.

Those who should skip this product are experienced archers. These archers who demand the highest levels of performance and customization should look at higher-end models.

Must-have accessories or modifications include a higher-quality arrow rest, a more precise sight, and potentially a custom string.

Conclusion on Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 is a well-rounded and versatile bow package that offers excellent value for money. It is adjustable, easy to use, and reasonably accurate. The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 is a great starting point for aspiring archers.

The price is certainly justified. It provides a complete setup for beginners and a solid platform for experienced archers to build upon.

I would personally recommend the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable bow package. It is a great way to get started in archery. It offers a rewarding experience for years to come. If you’re looking for a bow that balances performance, affordability, and ease of use, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502517 is definitely worth considering. Grab one today and experience the thrill of archery for yourself!