The Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II Rest Black Right Hand Made a Bold First Impression
As a finger shooter with over a decade of experience, I’ve always sought gear that enhances my connection with the bow. The Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II Rest Black Right Hand immediately piqued my interest with its promise of compensating for the unique forces exerted by finger release. Could this be the arrow rest that finally delivers consistently clean, interference-free arrow flight for traditional archers?
For years, I’ve struggled with arrow rests designed primarily for mechanical releases. These rests often lead to inconsistent arrow flight and frustration when using fingers. I needed a rest specifically engineered for finger shooters, one that accounted for the inherent paradox of the arrow’s flex upon release.
Unboxing the Timberdoodle II, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the 6061 T-6 aluminum. The black finish was clean and professional, giving a sense of rugged durability. The pivoting yoke assembly appeared exceptionally well-made, with no discernible play, suggesting a quiet and stable platform for the arrow.
Compared to a basic stick-on rest or a more generic flipper-style rest, the Timberdoodle II seemed significantly more robust and purpose-built. I had considered a springy rest, but its inherent noise during the draw concerned me, particularly for hunting. This Specialty Archery rest felt like a calculated upgrade rather than just another accessory.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The promise of improved arrow flight and the solid construction gave me hope that the Timberdoodle II could be a game-changer for my finger-shooting accuracy. Now, it was time to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II Rest Black Right Hand to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II Rest Black Right Hand at my local archery range, a familiar environment perfect for initial setup and evaluation. The weather was mild and dry, ideal for focusing solely on the rest’s performance. I used my recurve bow, a 50# draw weight model, and a variety of arrow spines to assess the rest’s adjustability.
The initial setup was straightforward, though dialing in the vertical adjustment took some patience to achieve optimal arrow flight. I experimented with both the included Hunter Fin (bottom) and Speed Fin (side) configurations. I noticed the immediate quietness during the draw cycle, thanks in part to the included smoke quiet silencing tape.
After several adjustments, I began to see a noticeable improvement in arrow flight compared to my previous rest. There were fewer erratic wobbles, and the arrows seemed to fly straighter and more consistently. I still had some fine-tuning to do, but the initial results were promising.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II continued to impress. The rest has proven to be remarkably durable, with no signs of wear or loosening of any components. The 6061 T-6 aluminum construction feels incredibly robust.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down with a cloth after each shooting session is all that’s required. The silencing tape has held up well, but I anticipate needing to replace it eventually. It’s a small price to pay for the significant reduction in noise.
Compared to my previous rest, the Timberdoodle II has significantly improved my accuracy and consistency. While I wouldn’t say it magically transformed me into an Olympic archer, it has undoubtedly tightened my groupings and instilled greater confidence in my shots. This rest performs as advertised.
Breaking Down the Features of Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II Rest Black Right Hand
Specifications
- The Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II Rest Black Right Hand is specifically designed for finger shooters using a recurve or longbow. This focus sets it apart from many universal rests.
- It’s constructed from rugged 6061 T-6 aluminum for exceptional durability and lightweight performance. This robust construction ensures the rest can withstand the rigors of regular use.
- The rest features a zero-play pivoting yoke assembly, contributing to extremely quiet and worry-free shooting. This smooth and silent operation is crucial for hunting situations.
- The package includes one Hunter Fin (mounted on the bottom) and one Speed Fin (mounted on the side) for optimized arrow flight with a finger release. These fin options allow for personalized arrow flight tuning.
- It offers over 1” of vertical adjustment, providing ample range to accommodate various arrow diameters and nocking points. This adjustability makes it compatible with a wide range of bows and arrow setups.
- Four strips of smoke quiet silencing tape are included to minimize noise during the draw cycle, crucial for hunting applications. This thoughtful addition demonstrates Specialty Archery’s attention to detail.
Performance & Functionality
The Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II excels in its primary function: providing consistent and interference-free arrow flight for finger shooters. The pivoting yoke design effectively compensates for the forces exerted during a finger release. My arrow groupings tightened noticeably after switching to this rest.
The rest’s adjustability is a significant strength, allowing for precise tuning to match different arrow spines and bow setups. The included fins offer options for fine-tuning arrow flight based on personal preference. One minor weakness is the initial setup, which can require some patience and experimentation.
Overall, the Timberdoodle II meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of improved arrow flight and quiet operation, making it a valuable addition to any finger shooter’s setup.
Design & Ergonomics
The Timberdoodle II boasts a simple yet functional design. The black anodized 6061 T-6 aluminum gives it a professional and durable look. The rest is lightweight, adding minimal weight to the bow.
The rest is easy to install, but fine-tuning the vertical adjustment and fin configuration requires some experimentation. The included instructions are clear and helpful, minimizing the learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The 6061 T-6 aluminum construction ensures that the Timberdoodle II is built to last. I expect it to withstand years of regular use with proper care. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a cloth after each shooting session is sufficient.
The silencing tape will eventually need replacing, but this is an inexpensive and easily sourced item. The overall design is simple and robust, minimizing the risk of any major breakdowns.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II comes with everything needed for basic installation and setup, including the Hunter and Speed fins and silencing tape. While there are no additional proprietary accessories, the rest’s simple design makes it compatible with a wide range of arrow rests accessories.
Aftermarket silencing materials can be used to further dampen any noise. Some users might consider adding small weights to the arrow rest to fine-tune bow balance, though this is a matter of personal preference. The availability of the replacement silencing tape is also important.
Pros and Cons of Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II Rest Black Right Hand
Pros
- Specifically designed for finger shooters, providing optimized arrow flight compared to generic rests.
- Durable 6061 T-6 aluminum construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Zero-play pivoting yoke assembly offers quiet and consistent operation.
- Adjustable vertical height and fin configuration allows for fine-tuning to different arrow spines.
- Easy to install and maintain, even for novice archers.
Cons
- Vertical adjustment can be finicky, requiring patience and experimentation to dial in.
- Silencing tape will eventually need replacing, adding a minor maintenance requirement.
Who Should Buy Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II Rest Black Right Hand?
The Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II Rest Black Right Hand is perfect for traditional archers and finger shooters seeking improved arrow flight and consistency. It’s an excellent choice for hunters who prioritize quiet operation and reliable performance. It’s great for competitive target archers seeking a competitive edge.
This product might not be ideal for archers who primarily use mechanical releases or those seeking a drop-away rest. Beginners who are intimidated by tuning and adjustments might also prefer a simpler, less adjustable rest.
A bow square and arrow spine chart are must-have accessories to ensure proper setup and tuning. Extra silencing tape is also recommended for long-term maintenance.
Conclusion on Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II Rest Black Right Hand
The Specialty Archery Timberdoodle II Rest Black Right Hand is a well-designed and durable arrow rest that delivers on its promise of improved arrow flight for finger shooters. Its quiet operation, adjustable design, and robust construction make it a valuable addition to any traditional archer’s setup. The manufacturer Specialty Archery has created a top-tier product.
At $87.99, the price is justified by the rest’s quality and performance. While the initial setup can require some patience, the results are well worth the effort.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Timberdoodle II to any finger shooter looking to enhance their accuracy and consistency. Upgrade your archery experience today and experience the difference a purpose-built rest can make!