First Impressions of Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass
The Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass longbow promises a blend of classic design and modern performance, a combination that immediately piqued my interest as a traditional archery enthusiast. With over a decade of experience handling various bows in diverse outdoor scenarios, I was eager to see how this offering from Bear Archery would stack up against the competition. I’ve always appreciated the simplicity and elegance of a well-crafted longbow, and the Montana’s flame bamboo and clear glass construction hinted at both aesthetic appeal and functional prowess.
My journey to acquire this bow began with a desire for a reliable and aesthetically pleasing longbow for both target practice and potential hunting applications. I was looking for a bow that not only performed well but also evoked a sense of nostalgia and connection to traditional archery. After researching various options, including models from other reputable manufacturers like Martin and Samick, the Bear Montana stood out due to its reputation for smooth draw, craftsmanship, and the unique flame bamboo design.
Unboxing the Bear Montana was a pleasant experience. The bow’s visual appeal was immediately evident, with the flame bamboo limbs exhibiting a striking grain pattern beneath the clear glass. The black phenolic riser felt solid and comfortable in hand, and the leather grip exuded a sense of quality. My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation, eager to test the bow’s performance in the field.
Compared to a similar priced Samick Red Stag, the Bear Montana felt lighter and more refined. The Martin Bamboo Viper had a similar aesthetic but the draw felt stiffer compared to the Bear Montana. This ultimately influenced my decision to opt for the Bear Montana. First impressions are important, and the Bear Montana definitely delivered a sense of anticipation and excitement.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass took place at my local archery range, followed by a few sessions in a controlled woodland environment. The range provided a stable platform for assessing accuracy and draw smoothness, while the woodland setting allowed me to evaluate its handling and maneuverability in a more realistic hunting scenario. The bow performed admirably in both locations.
The Bear Montana handled well in varying weather conditions, with its performance remaining consistent whether the humidity was high or the sun was blazing. Using the bow in the light rain didn’t impact the grip, which was a pleasant surprise. I found the draw to be smooth and consistent, even at my draw length of 28 inches, with no noticeable stacking or finger pinch.
The learning curve for the Bear Montana was minimal, likely because I already had experience with longbows. Its forgiving nature and smooth draw made it relatively easy to pick up and shoot accurately even after a period of inactivity. The bow was very forgiving.
One minor issue after the first range session was a slight loosening of the string silencers, but this was easily remedied with a quick adjustment. The leather grip showed some initial signs of wear, but this was expected and actually added to the bow’s character.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass has proven to be a reliable and durable companion. I have been consistently using the bow every weekend. The Bear Montana shows very little signs of wear.
The flame bamboo and clear glass limbs have held up remarkably well, with no signs of delamination or cracking despite repeated use in varying weather conditions. The leather grip has softened slightly with use, becoming even more comfortable and conforming to my hand. Maintenance has been relatively straightforward.
Cleaning the bow involves simply wiping down the limbs and riser with a soft cloth after each use, and occasionally applying a leather conditioner to the grip. Compared to my previous longbow, a vintage Ben Pearson, the Bear Montana offers a significantly smoother and more consistent shooting experience. The Bear Montana outperforms many bows in its price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass
Specifications
The Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass boasts a 64-inch length, making it suitable for archers with draw lengths ranging from 26 to 30 inches. The flame bamboo limbs, laminated with clear fiberglass, provide a blend of visual appeal and durability, while the black phenolic riser offers a solid and stable platform. The bow features a leather arrow rest and a supple leather grip for enhanced comfort and control.
The included Dynaflight 97 Flemish Twist string contributes to the bow’s smooth and quiet performance. Layered limb tips with fiberglass ensure compatibility with modern high-performance strings and provide added durability. This bow is designed for adult traditional archery, requiring a degree of skill and experience to master. The craftsmanship and materials used directly influence the bow’s performance and longevity.
These specifications are significant because they contribute to the Bear Montana’s overall performance and user experience. The length and draw weight options allow archers to find a bow that fits their individual needs and shooting style. The materials used in the limbs and riser ensure durability and stability, while the leather grip and arrow rest enhance comfort and control.
Performance & Functionality
The Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass performs exceptionally well in its intended role as a traditional longbow. Its smooth draw, forgiving nature, and inherent accuracy make it a pleasure to shoot for both target practice and hunting scenarios. The bow feels comfortable in hand.
The Bear Montana’s strengths lie in its smooth draw, forgiving nature, and aesthetically pleasing design. One potential weakness is the lack of modern accessories, such as sight mounts or stabilizer bushings, which may limit its appeal to some archers. This bow delivers the classic longbow experience with a touch of modern refinement.
The Bear Montana largely exceeds expectations, delivering a shooting experience that is both enjoyable and rewarding. The draw is smooth, the release is clean, and the arrow flies true.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass features a classic longbow design with a focus on simplicity and functionality. The flame bamboo limbs and clear glass lamination create a visually appealing aesthetic, while the black phenolic riser provides a stark contrast and a solid foundation. The leather grip is comfortable and ergonomic, conforming to the hand for a secure and controlled hold.
The bow is relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry and maneuver in the field. While the Bear Montana is user-friendly for experienced archers, it may require some practice and familiarization for beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass is built to last, with high-quality materials and solid construction throughout. The flame bamboo limbs and clear glass lamination are resistant to wear and tear, while the black phenolic riser can withstand years of use. Proper care and maintenance will ensure that the Bear Montana lasts for many years.
Maintenance is relatively straightforward, involving simply wiping down the limbs and riser with a soft cloth after each use and occasionally applying a leather conditioner to the grip. The bow requires minimal repair, and replacement parts are readily available from Bear Archery.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass comes with a Dynaflight 97 Flemish Twist string and a leather arrow rest. Customization options are limited due to the bow’s traditional design, but archers can personalize it with aftermarket string silencers, arrow rests, and quivers. The bow is compatible with most traditional archery accessories from other brands, such as arrows, armguards, and finger tabs.
Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass
Pros
- Smooth draw and forgiving nature make it ideal for both target practice and hunting.
- The flame bamboo and clear glass construction provides a visually appealing and unique aesthetic.
- The leather grip is comfortable and ergonomic, enhancing control and reducing hand fatigue.
- Dynaflight 97 Flemish Twist string contributes to quiet and efficient performance.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
Cons
- Limited customization options compared to modern compound bows.
- Requires a degree of skill and experience to shoot accurately.
Who Should Buy Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass?
The Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass is perfect for traditional archery enthusiasts, hunters seeking a classic and reliable bow, and archers who appreciate the beauty and simplicity of a well-crafted longbow. It is well-suited for individuals who enjoy the challenge of traditional archery and are willing to invest the time and effort to master its techniques. This is an excellent choice for both beginners and experts of archery.
Those seeking a highly customizable bow with modern features such as sights and stabilizers should skip this product. Individuals who prefer the convenience and power of a compound bow may also find the Bear Montana lacking. The perfect accessory would be a high-quality leather quiver.
Conclusion on Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass
The Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass is a remarkable longbow that seamlessly blends classic design with modern performance. Its smooth draw, forgiving nature, and aesthetically pleasing design make it a joy to shoot and a worthwhile investment for traditional archery enthusiasts. The price of $559.99 is justified given the bow’s quality craftsmanship, durable materials, and exceptional performance.
I would highly recommend the Bear Montana to anyone seeking a reliable, aesthetically pleasing, and high-performing traditional longbow. If you are looking for a bow that combines tradition, performance, and craftsmanship, the Bear Archery Bear Montana w/Flame Bamboo & Clear Glass is an excellent choice. Experience the timeless appeal of traditional archery.