First Impressions of Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157
The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 promises a blend of speed, adjustability, and convenience for archers of various skill levels. Marketed as a ready-to-hunt (RTH) package, it includes essential accessories from Trophy Ridge, aiming to provide a complete setup right out of the box. This offering from Bear Archery piqued my interest due to its reputation for delivering reliable and accessible archery equipment.
I’ve spent years tinkering with bows, from traditional recurves to high-end compounds. The Alaskan XT’s adjustable draw length and the inclusion of a DHC-XR cam system intrigued me, promising a versatile bow for both beginners and experienced shooters seeking a reliable hunting companion.
Unboxing the Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 was straightforward. The bow itself felt well-balanced, and the included accessories appeared to be of decent quality. My initial impression was positive, especially considering the price point.
I considered the Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 and the Quest Centec XT before settling on the Alaskan XT. I chose it for its blend of adjustability, speed, and the established reputation of Bear Archery in the hunting community, hoping it would offer a reliable and versatile experience. I was eager to get it to the range and see how it performed.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 seemed well-built and equipped, but the real test would be its performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local archery range, focusing on familiarizing myself with the Alaskan XT’s draw cycle and overall feel. The range offered both indoor and outdoor lanes, allowing me to test the bow in varying light conditions.
The Whisker Biscuit V arrow rest performed adequately, providing consistent arrow launch. However, I found the included Trophy Ridge sight to be somewhat basic. It functioned, but I immediately considered upgrading for finer adjustments.
The draw cycle felt relatively smooth, although it had a noticeable hump towards the end, which I anticipated given the aggressive cam system. Despite this, the 80% let-off made holding at full draw manageable. I did not experience any immediate issues, but the need for sight adjustments was already apparent.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, I took the Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 on a weekend hunting trip. I wanted to see how it would perform in a more demanding environment.
The bow held up surprisingly well to the rigors of the hunt. There were no signs of significant wear and tear after exposure to light rain and varying temperatures.
Cleaning and maintaining the Alaskan XT proved relatively simple. A quick wipe down after each use and occasional lubrication of the cams kept it in good working order. While it’s a decent bow out of the box, it does not outperform my custom rig.
Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157
Specifications
The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 features a 33-inch axle-to-axle length, providing a good balance between maneuverability and stability. Its 6.25-inch brace height contributes to forgiveness, making it more accommodating for less-than-perfect form.
The Alaskan XT offers an adjustable draw length from 25-30 inches, catering to a wide range of archers. It boasts a draw weight range of 55-70 lbs, offering sufficient power for most big game hunting scenarios.
The DHC-XR cam system is designed for speed, pushing arrows up to 335 FPS. This translates to flatter trajectories and increased kinetic energy on impact. An 80% let-off reduces the holding weight at full draw, minimizing fatigue during extended waits in the field.
The package includes a Trophy Ridge integrated 4-pin sight, IMS Whisker Biscuit V, 5-Spot quiver, stabilizer, peep sight, and D-loop. These accessories provide a basic but functional setup for immediate use. In-riser and KillerWave limb dampeners aim to reduce vibration and noise, contributing to a quieter shot. The Roller cable guard is designed to promote smooth draws and enhance cable durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 performs adequately for its intended purpose as an entry-to-mid-level hunting bow. Its accuracy is acceptable, allowing for consistent groupings at reasonable distances.
The included accessories are functional but may require upgrades for more serious archers. The DHC-XR cam system delivers respectable speed, although it can be somewhat unforgiving to inconsistent form. The Alaskan XT meets expectations for a ready-to-hunt package at its price point but leaves room for improvement in certain areas.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 is solid, utilizing durable materials for the riser and limbs. The bow feels well-balanced in hand, and the grip is comfortable for most hand sizes.
The adjustable draw length makes it user-friendly for archers with different physical attributes. The Alaskan XT offers a decent level of comfort, however, there is a slight learning curve with the aggressive cams.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 should last for several seasons of hunting and recreational shooting. The components are reasonably durable, and the finish is resistant to minor scratches and abrasions.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic cleaning and lubrication. The Roller cable guard contributes to cable longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 comes with a Trophy Ridge integrated 4-pin sight, IMS Whisker Biscuit V, 5-Spot quiver, stabilizer, peep sight, and D-loop. These accessories offer a starting point for archers new to the sport.
The Alaskan XT is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including sights, rests, stabilizers, and quivers. Archers can easily customize the bow to their specific preferences and needs. I recommend upgrading the sight for finer adjustments.
Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157
Pros
- Ready-to-hunt package includes essential accessories.
- Adjustable draw length caters to a wide range of archers.
- DHC-XR cam system delivers respectable speed and power.
- 80% let-off reduces holding weight for increased comfort.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for beginners.
Cons
- Included Trophy Ridge sight is basic and may require upgrading.
- Draw cycle can be somewhat aggressive and unforgiving.
- The Whisker Biscuit style arrow rest is not for everyone.
Who Should Buy Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157?
The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 is perfect for beginner to intermediate hunters seeking an affordable and adjustable ready-to-hunt setup. It’s a solid choice for archers who want a bow that can grow with their skills.
Experienced archers looking for top-tier performance and precision should consider higher-end models. Archers prioritizing a super smooth draw cycle may also want to explore alternatives.
A higher quality sight, better stabilizer, and custom arrows are must-have modifications to improve overall performance.
Conclusion on Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157
The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 offers a solid value proposition for archers seeking an affordable and versatile hunting bow. It provides a complete setup with adjustable draw length and a respectable speed.
The price is justified considering the included accessories and overall performance. While the included accessories are adequate, upgrading the sight is highly recommended.
I would recommend the Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2157 to beginner and intermediate hunters. Get yours today and experience the thrill of archery!