First Impressions of Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset
The Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset bracket promises to be a simple yet effective solution for archers struggling with limited windage adjustment. As someone who’s spent over a decade fine-tuning bows for various disciplines, from hunting whitetails in dense forests to competing in 3D archery tournaments, I’m always eager to test products claiming to solve common aiming issues. This offset bracket, made by Axcel, seemed like a practical answer to bows with narrow sight windows, offering the potential for increased windage adjustability.
My own compound bow, a trusty companion for years, has always presented a slight windage challenge, especially when shooting longer distances or in crosswinds. Opening the package, my first thought was about the simplicity of the design; it’s a no-frills solution, and simplicity often translates to reliability in the field.
Comparing it to other windage adjustment solutions I’ve used, like adjustable sight bars with limited offset, the Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset stood out due to its direct integration with the BridgeLock system. This promised a cleaner setup and potentially a more solid connection, minimizing vibration and maintaining consistent sight alignment. While some archers might consider adjustable dovetail mounts, the BridgeLock system is a more streamlined approach for newer bows.
Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic. The concept is sound, but the real test would be how well it performs under real-world conditions and whether it introduces any unwanted flex or play.
Real-World Testing: Putting Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset at my local archery range, both indoors and outdoors. I set up my compound bow, equipped with an ArmorTech Lite sight, and installed the offset bracket between the sight head and the extension bar, as instructed. The initial indoor session involved shooting at 20 and 30 yards to establish a baseline, then moving the sight windage both left and right utilizing the bracket.
The first few shots revealed a slightly different feel to the bow’s balance, but nothing drastic. I then moved outdoors, shooting at 40, 50, and 60 yards, intentionally introducing crosswinds into the equation. What immediately became apparent was the increased windage adjustability; I was able to compensate for the wind drift much more effectively than before, keeping my arrows consistently in the target.
The only slight issue I noticed during the first session was a minor creaking sound after several shots at longer distances. I quickly tightened the mounting screws and the sound disappeared.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset has held up surprisingly well. I’ve shot in varying conditions, from sunny days to light rain, and the bracket has remained securely in place. There are no signs of significant wear and tear; the black finish remains intact, and there’s no indication of corrosion.
Maintenance is simple; I periodically check the mounting screws to ensure they are properly tightened. I wipe the bracket down with a clean cloth after each shooting session to remove any dirt or moisture.
Compared to previous offset solutions, the Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset has proven to be more reliable and less prone to shifting or loosening. Its solid construction and seamless integration with the BridgeLock system provide a noticeable improvement in stability and consistency.
Breaking Down the Features of Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset
Specifications
The Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset is designed specifically to shift the sight windage left or right. It mounts between the sight head and the extension bar. The offset bracket is compatible with the Achieve XP, AccuHunter, AccuTouch, ArmorTech Lite, and Landslyde sight models.
This Axcel bracket comes in a black color. Its purpose is to allow for greater windage adjustment, particularly beneficial for bows with narrow sight windows. These specifications are important because they directly address the issue of limited windage adjustment in archery sights, offering a simple and effective solution for archers needing more lateral movement.
Performance & Functionality
The Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset performs its job admirably. It provides a noticeable increase in windage adjustability, enabling archers to fine-tune their sight settings for various shooting conditions. The added windage is especially helpful in windy conditions or when shooting at longer distances.
The main strength of this product lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. However, a minor weakness could be the potential for screws to loosen over time, requiring periodic checks and tightening. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations, providing a valuable enhancement to the ArmorTech Lite and compatible sight models.
Design & Ergonomics
The Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset features a straightforward and functional design. The bracket is constructed from durable materials, providing a solid and stable connection between the sight head and the extension bar. The overall weight is minimal, ensuring it does not significantly affect the bow’s balance.
The design is very user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or skills for installation. There is no learning curve associated with this product; it is a simple bolt-on solution.
Durability & Maintenance
The Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset is built to last. The materials used are resistant to wear and corrosion, ensuring long-term reliability. As mentioned, maintenance primarily involves periodically checking and tightening the mounting screws, ensuring a secure and stable connection.
With proper care, this bracket should last for many years of use, making it a worthwhile investment for archers seeking to improve their windage adjustability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset does not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary screws and washers for installation. Since it’s a bracket designed to work with Axcel’s sights and BridgeLock system, customization is limited to adjusting the position of the bracket to achieve the desired windage offset. The Axcel products are known for ease of customization.
The bracket is compatible with a range of Axcel sight models, including the Achieve XP, AccuHunter, AccuTouch, ArmorTech Lite, and Landslyde. This compatibility allows archers to easily integrate the offset bracket into their existing sight setup.
Pros and Cons of Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset
Pros
- Increased Windage Adjustability: Provides a significant improvement in windage range, especially beneficial for bows with narrow sight windows.
- Simple Installation: Easy to install with basic tools and requires no specialized knowledge.
- Durable Construction: Built from robust materials, ensuring long-term reliability and resistance to wear and tear.
- BridgeLock Compatibility: Seamlessly integrates with Axcel’s BridgeLock system, providing a secure and stable connection.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Offers a practical and affordable way to address windage adjustment issues.
Cons
- Potential for Screw Loosening: Requires periodic checking and tightening of the mounting screws.
- Limited Customization: Offers limited customization options beyond adjusting the offset position.
Who Should Buy Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset?
The Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset is perfect for archers experiencing limitations in windage adjustment, especially those using bows with narrow sight windows. It’s also a great option for competitive shooters needing to fine-tune their sight settings for various shooting conditions. Hunters facing challenging wind conditions would also greatly benefit.
This product might not be necessary for archers who already have ample windage adjustment with their current setup or those using sights with built-in offset features.
A must-have modification, if any, would be using thread locker on the mounting screws to prevent loosening over time, especially for archers who shoot frequently.
Conclusion on Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset
The Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for archers needing more windage adjustability. Its durable construction, easy installation, and seamless integration with the BridgeLock system make it a valuable addition to any archer’s setup. The bracket directly enhances your shooting.
At $29.53, the price is more than justified, considering the improvement in aiming accuracy and overall shooting experience.
I would definitely recommend the Axcel ArmorTech Lite BridgeLock Windage Offset to any archer struggling with limited windage. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in your shooting performance. Upgrade your bow today.