Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2158 Review

First Impressions of Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2158

The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2158 promises a blend of speed, comfort, and affordability in a ready-to-hunt setup. Bear Archery aims to deliver a bow that’s accessible to both seasoned archers and those just entering the world of bowhunting. Its adjustable draw length, respectable speed, and inclusion of essential accessories make it an intriguing option for anyone looking to hit the woods or the range.

I was looking for a reliable and versatile bow that could handle both target practice and hunting scenarios. The adjustability was key, as I often have friends of varying sizes joining me on the range and it would be nice to have a bow I can easily customize to them. The “Ready To Hunt” package intrigued me, as the ease of having accessories pre-matched and installed meant less time fussing and more time shooting.

Unboxing the Alaskan XT RTH Package revealed a well-organized set of components. The initial feel of the bow was solid; the finish looked clean and the included accessories appeared to be of decent quality. The weight felt balanced, and the grip was comfortable right out of the box.

I was also considering the Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 and the PSE Stinger Max. I picked the Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package because it seemed to offer a slightly better balance of speed and adjustability for the price. The inclusion of a Trophy Ridge sight also swayed me, as I’ve had good experiences with their products in the past.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to try it out, but also aware that the proof would be in the performance. The promise of a smooth draw cycle and vibration-free experience set my expectations high.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2158 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package was at my local archery range. The range offers both indoor and outdoor lanes, and I focused primarily on the outdoor 30-50 yard targets. The weather was clear and sunny, providing ideal shooting conditions.

I immediately appreciated the smoothness of the draw cycle, much better than cheaper bows I have tested. After a few adjustments to the sight, I was consistently hitting the target at 30 yards. I did notice a slight vibration upon release initially, but after installing the included stabilizer properly, it was minimal.

The only real issue I encountered was with the Whisker Biscuit V arrow rest. It seemed to slightly affect arrow flight at longer distances, causing a minor fishtailing. After fiddling with the alignment, it improved, but it’s something I’ll be keeping an eye on.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Alaskan XT RTH Package has held up admirably. I’ve taken it to the range multiple times a week and even on a weekend bowhunting trip. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the bow itself, though the finish on the stabilizer has a few minor scratches from bumping against branches.

The string shows no signs of fraying, and the cams still operate smoothly. Maintenance is straightforward; I simply wipe down the bow after each use and apply a light coat of string wax every few weeks. This bow seems to be very reliable.

Compared to a previous compound bow I owned, the Alaskan XT is a significant upgrade in terms of smoothness and adjustability. The older bow had a much harsher draw cycle and required specialized tools to adjust the draw length. The Alaskan XT is far more user-friendly.

Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2158

Specifications

• The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2158 features a 33-inch axle-to-axle length, making it maneuverable in tight hunting situations. Its 6.25-inch brace height offers a forgiving platform for consistent arrow flight.
• It boasts an adjustable draw length ranging from 25-30 inches, accommodating a wide range of archers. The draw weight can be adjusted from 45-60 lbs, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hunters.
• The DHC-XR cam system propels arrows at speeds up to 335 FPS, providing ample power for ethical hunting. Its 80% let-off allows for comfortable holding at full draw, reducing fatigue during long waits in the stand.
• The package includes a Trophy Ridge integrated 4-pin sight, providing clear and accurate aiming points. The IMS Whisker Biscuit V arrow rest offers simple and reliable arrow containment.
• A 5-Spot quiver, stabilizer, peep sight, and D-loop are also included, making it a true Ready To Hunt package. Bear Archery also incorporates vibration-dampening technology to reduce noise and hand shock.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the bow’s performance, usability, and suitability for different archers and hunting scenarios. The adjustable draw length and weight allow for a personalized fit, while the speed and let-off contribute to its hunting effectiveness. The included accessories provide everything needed to get started, eliminating the need for separate purchases and installations.

Performance & Functionality

The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package performs admirably in its intended role as a versatile hunting bow. Its accuracy is commendable, consistently grouping arrows within a respectable range at various distances.

The bow’s strengths lie in its smooth draw cycle, adjustability, and the convenience of the Ready To Hunt package. A weakness that I noted was the Whisker Biscuit V’s impact on arrow flight. It will require more testing and fine-tuning.

The Alaskan XT largely meets my expectations, offering a good balance of performance and value. It might not be the fastest or most high-tech bow on the market, but it’s a solid performer for the price.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Alaskan XT is good for its price point. The materials used feel durable, and the overall construction is solid. The bow’s weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to hold and shoot for extended periods.

The grip is ergonomically designed and fits comfortably in the hand. The bow is user-friendly, with straightforward adjustments and a minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package should last for many seasons. The components are made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of hunting and target practice.

Maintenance is relatively simple, involving regular cleaning, string waxing, and occasional checks of the cams and cables. Bear Archery provides clear instructions in the included manual.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Alaskan XT RTH Package comes complete with a Trophy Ridge 4-pin sight, Whisker Biscuit V arrow rest, 5-Spot quiver, stabilizer, peep sight, and D-loop.

The bow is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including different sights, rests, quivers, and stabilizers. Many archers may want to upgrade the Whisker Biscuit to a drop-away rest for improved arrow flight. It should work with stabilizers from brands like Limbsaver and Fuse.

Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2158

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Who Should Buy Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2158?

The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2158 is perfect for beginning to intermediate bowhunters looking for a complete and adjustable setup. It’s also a good choice for recreational archers who want a versatile bow for target practice.

This product may not be ideal for very experienced archers seeking top-of-the-line performance or those who prioritize extreme speed over comfort and forgiveness.

A must-have modification would be a higher-quality drop-away arrow rest for improved accuracy. Many users may also wish to upgrade the stabilizer for increased vibration dampening.

Conclusion on Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2158

The Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package BEA2158 is a solid and versatile bow that offers excellent value for the money. Its smooth draw cycle, adjustability, and Ready To Hunt package make it a great choice for both beginners and experienced archers.

The price is justified by the bow’s performance, features, and included accessories. For the average beginner, the price is absolutely amazing.

I would definitely recommend the Bear Archery Alaskan XT RTH Package to anyone looking for an affordable and capable hunting bow. It’s a great way to get into bowhunting without breaking the bank, so go ahead and give it a shot!