Let’s Dive into Axion Soul Hunter Sight
The Axion Soul Hunter Sight promises to be a lightweight and compact option for archers, blending essential features with an affordable price. Manufactured by Axion Archery, it aims to provide both novice and experienced shooters with a reliable sighting system without breaking the bank. The allure of a CNC machined aluminum build and integrated features like a rheostat light immediately piqued my interest.
My old sight was bulky and prone to vibration, causing inconsistent shot placements, especially during rapid follow-up shots in the field. I needed a lighter, more streamlined sight that could withstand the rigors of hunting and still provide accuracy when it mattered most. The compact design and claimed durability of the Axion Soul Hunter Sight seemed like a potential solution.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the sight’s diminutive size and feather-light weight. The Axion Soul Hunter Sight‘s CNC machined 6061-T6 aluminum frame felt solid and well-constructed, and the laser-etched adjustments gave it a high-quality aesthetic. The included rheostat light was a welcome addition.
Compared to my previous sight, a bulky, entry-level model from a generic brand, the Axion Soul Hunter Sight felt like a significant upgrade. While I considered a more expensive sight from a premium brand like Spot Hogg, the Axion Soul Hunter Sight‘s price point was too compelling to ignore, especially given my need for a budget-friendly upgrade. I ultimately chose this sight because it offered a balance of quality features, a compact design, and affordability.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Axion Soul Hunter Sight appeared well-made, but I needed to see how it performed in the field before making a final judgment. The promise of a lightweight, accurate, and durable sight was enticing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Axion Soul Hunter Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Axion Soul Hunter Sight was at my local archery range, under controlled conditions. I spent an afternoon dialing in the sight at 20, 30, and 40 yards, taking advantage of the laser-etched windage and elevation adjustments. The weather was sunny and calm, ideal for sighting in a new optic.
The sight performed admirably. The .019 pins were bright and easy to see, and the included rheostat light helped to illuminate them even further. The 2nd axis adjustment allowed for fine-tuning of the sight’s alignment, ensuring accurate shots even on uneven terrain.
The only initial issue was a slight vibration in the sight housing after each shot. I tightened all the mounting screws, which seemed to alleviate the problem somewhat. Overall, I was impressed with the Axion Soul Hunter Sight‘s performance during my first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple trips to the range and a weekend hunting trip, the Axion Soul Hunter Sight has held up remarkably well. The sight has consistently maintained its zero, even after being subjected to bumps and jostles in my archery case. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the sight body itself.
The Axion Soul Hunter Sight requires minimal maintenance. I periodically wipe it down with a clean cloth to remove dust and debris. The fiber optic pins have remained bright and clear, and the rheostat light continues to function flawlessly.
Compared to my previous sight, the Axion Soul Hunter Sight has significantly improved my accuracy and confidence in the field. The lighter weight and more streamlined design make it easier to carry my bow for extended periods, and the bright pins allow for quick and easy target acquisition in various lighting conditions. I would say it has outperformed my expectations for a sight in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Axion Soul Hunter Sight
Specifications
The Axion Soul Hunter Sight boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and appeal:
- CNC Machined 6061-T6 Aluminum: The body of the sight is constructed from high-grade aluminum, offering a balance of strength and lightweight design. This provides excellent durability without adding unnecessary bulk to your bow.
- Laser Etched Adjustment for Windage & Elevation: Precise and easily readable markings allow for accurate adjustments to ensure your shots are on target. This makes the sighting-in process smoother and more efficient.
- 2″ Housing with Glo Ring: The sight housing provides a clear view of your target, while the glo ring enhances visibility in low-light conditions. This improves target acquisition in various lighting scenarios.
- 2nd Axis Adjustment: This feature allows you to fine-tune the sight’s vertical alignment, compensating for cant and ensuring accurate shots on uneven terrain. This is particularly beneficial for hunters who often shoot from elevated positions or on slopes.
- Rheostat Light Included: The adjustable light illuminates the fiber optic pins, making them easier to see in dim light. This feature is crucial for early morning or late evening hunts when ambient light is limited.
- RH or LH Adaptable: The sight can be easily configured for both right-handed and left-handed shooters, providing versatility. This ensures that archers of any handedness can use the sight comfortably and effectively.
- .019 Pins: The fiber optic pins are of a small diameter, providing a clear view of your target without obscuring it. This allows for precise aiming and improved accuracy, especially at longer distances.
- 3 PIN OR 5 PIN: Allows the shooter to choose the correct pin configuration for their setup. This is an excellent feature for archers shooting a variety of distances.
- Weight: Weighing only 6 ounces, the sight is incredibly lightweight and won’t add unnecessary bulk to your bow. This is especially important for hunters who carry their bows for extended periods.
Performance & Functionality
The Axion Soul Hunter Sight performs admirably in its intended role. The sight’s accuracy is excellent, provided it is properly sighted in and adjusted. I was able to consistently hit targets at various distances, even in challenging conditions.
The sight’s strengths lie in its lightweight design, bright pins, and easy-to-use adjustments. The Axion Soul Hunter Sight allows for quick and easy target acquisition and accurate shooting. A minor weakness is a slight vibration in the sight housing, but tightening the screws helps mitigate this issue.
Overall, the Axion Soul Hunter Sight meets my expectations for a sight in this price range. It provides a solid and reliable sighting system without breaking the bank. It has proven to be a dependable performer in both range and hunting environments.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Axion Soul Hunter Sight is impressive, given its price point. The CNC machined aluminum frame feels sturdy and well-made. The sight’s lightweight design makes it comfortable to hold and shoot, even for extended periods.
The sight is relatively user-friendly, although some archers may need to spend some time adjusting the windage, elevation, and 2nd axis to achieve optimal performance. The laser-etched markings and clear instructions make the setup process straightforward. The Axion Soul Hunter Sight offers a streamlined and intuitive design.
Durability & Maintenance
The Axion Soul Hunter Sight appears to be quite durable. After several weeks of use, there are no visible signs of wear and tear. The aluminum frame is resistant to scratches and dings, and the fiber optic pins are well-protected.
The sight requires minimal maintenance. Simply wipe it down with a clean cloth to remove dust and debris. Keep the fiber optics from getting damaged and they will remain bright.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Axion Soul Hunter Sight comes with a rheostat light. There are no included customization options.
It is compatible with standard bow mounting hardware, allowing for easy installation on a wide range of bows. You can adjust the amount of pins on the sight, making it adaptable for shooters needs.
Pros and Cons of Axion Soul Hunter Sight
Pros
- Lightweight and Compact Design: Easy to carry and won’t add unnecessary bulk to your bow.
- Bright Fiber Optic Pins: Provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions.
- Affordable Price: Offers a great value for the money.
- Durable Construction: CNC machined aluminum frame ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Adjust: Laser-etched markings make windage and elevation adjustments straightforward.
Cons
- Slight Vibration: Some users may experience a slight vibration in the sight housing.
- Limited Customization: Lacks advanced customization options found in higher-end sights.
Who Should Buy Axion Soul Hunter Sight?
The Axion Soul Hunter Sight is perfect for:
- Beginner Archers: Provides an affordable and user-friendly introduction to archery sights.
- Budget-Conscious Hunters: Offers a reliable sighting system without breaking the bank.
- Recreational Shooters: Delivers accurate performance for target practice and casual shooting.
- Archers Seeking a Lightweight Option: Ideal for those who prioritize a lightweight and compact design.
Who should skip this product?
- Professional Archers: Those who require advanced features and customization options may want to consider a higher-end sight.
- Archers with Significant Vibration Concerns: Those who are highly sensitive to vibration may find the slight vibration in the sight housing bothersome.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Bow Stabilizer: To further reduce vibration and improve stability.
Conclusion on Axion Soul Hunter Sight
The Axion Soul Hunter Sight is a solid and reliable option for archers seeking a lightweight, accurate, and affordable sighting system. The sight’s CNC machined aluminum frame, bright fiber optic pins, and easy-to-use adjustments make it a compelling choice for beginners, budget-conscious hunters, and recreational shooters alike. While it may lack some of the advanced features found in higher-end sights, the Axion Soul Hunter Sight delivers excellent performance and value for the money.
The price is definitely justified for the quality and features offered. It’s a huge step up from basic sights and a great entry point into the world of more advanced archery equipment.
I would personally recommend the Axion Soul Hunter Sight to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable sighting system. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced hunter on a budget, the Axion Soul Hunter Sight is sure to improve your accuracy and confidence in the field. Upgrade your archery experience today with the Axion Soul Hunter Sight!