First Impressions of Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package arrives ready to transform any hunter’s season. This offering from Bear Archery promises a potent blend of speed, adjustability, and a complete accessory package at a price point that’s hard to ignore. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype and could truly be a game-changer for both seasoned archers and those new to the sport.
My journey to find the Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package started with a specific need. I needed a bow that was adjustable enough to accommodate different family members, yet powerful enough for ethical whitetail hunting.
Unboxing the Gamekeeper RTH was a pleasant surprise. The Bottomland camo finish was well-applied, giving the bow a rugged, ready-for-the-hunt aesthetic. The included accessories, like the Trophy Ridge sight and quiver, appeared to be of decent quality, adding to the initial excitement.
I considered the Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 and the PSE Stinger Max as alternatives. However, the Gamekeeper’s higher FPS and complete RTH package swayed my decision. First impressions were strong: a well-equipped, adjustable bow with the potential to deliver serious performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package to my local archery range for its maiden voyage. The range offered both indoor and outdoor targets, allowing me to assess its performance in varying light conditions. Initial setup was straightforward, thanks to the pre-installed accessories.
The Gamekeeper performed admirably even in slightly windy conditions outdoors. Adjusting the draw weight and length was simple, and I quickly found a comfortable setting. However, the factory string stop seemed a little too aggressive and caused a slight twang upon release.
After the first few shots, I was impressed with the bow’s stability and forgiveness. There were no immediate issues, although I noticed the Whisker Biscuit V rest showed wear relatively quickly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package continued to impress, but also revealed some minor shortcomings. The Bottomland camo finish proved durable, showing only minor scratches from regular use in the field. Cleaning the bow and accessories was straightforward.
The Trophy Ridge sight held its zero well, but the whisker biscuit wore down noticeably faster than expected, requiring replacement sooner than I would have liked. The peep sight required frequent adjustment to maintain proper alignment. However, despite these minor issues, the Gamekeeper consistently delivered accurate and powerful shots.
Compared to previous bows I’ve owned, the Gamekeeper offers a better balance of adjustability and performance. It doesn’t quite match the precision of a high-end target bow, but it’s a significant upgrade from entry-level options.
Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package
Specifications
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package boasts several impressive specifications. Its 30″ axle-to-axle length provides excellent maneuverability in tight hunting scenarios. The 6.5″ brace height offers a good balance of forgiveness and speed.
The adjustable peak draw weights of 45-60 lbs or 55-70 lbs cater to a wide range of shooters. A draw length range of 27″ to 32″ further enhances its versatility. Achieving speeds up to 330 FPS, the Gamekeeper offers plenty of kinetic energy for ethical harvests.
The bow’s 80 percent let-off ensures a comfortable draw cycle, allowing for steady aim during extended holds. The Gamekeeper is finished in Bottomland camo, providing effective concealment in various hunting environments. These specifications combine to create a highly adaptable and capable hunting bow.
Performance & Functionality
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package excels at delivering consistent accuracy and power. At 50 yards, I was able to maintain tight groupings with proper form and tuning. The bow’s forgiving nature helps minimize the impact of minor shooting errors.
The included Trophy Ridge accessories function adequately, but some components, like the whisker biscuit, require more frequent maintenance. The bow’s adjustability makes it suitable for multiple users and evolving skill levels. However, the aggressive string stop and whisker biscuit wear are areas for potential improvement.
The Gamekeeper largely meets expectations for a mid-range RTH package. Its adjustability and speed are commendable, while the included accessories provide a solid foundation for hunting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package features a well-balanced and ergonomic design. The Bottomland camo finish adds to its appeal and practicality in the field. Its moderate weight makes it comfortable to carry for extended periods.
The grip is comfortable and promotes consistent hand placement. There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the draw weight and length. The bow is intuitive enough for most users.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package appears built to last, with a durable riser and quality string. However, the whisker biscuit requires frequent replacement. The camo finish resists scratches and wear effectively.
Regular cleaning and lubrication of the cams and axles are essential for maintaining optimal performance. Overall, the Gamekeeper offers reasonable durability with manageable maintenance requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package comes with a comprehensive set of accessories. This includes a Trophy Ridge 4-Pin Sight, Trophy Ridge Whisker Biscuit V, Trophy Ridge 5-Arrow Quiver, Trophy Ridge Stabilizer & Sling, and Peep Sight & D-Loop. The bow is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, like upgraded rests, stabilizers, and sights.
The RTH (Ready-to-Hunt) Package provides everything needed to start hunting immediately. The Gamekeeper can be easily customized to suit individual preferences and shooting styles.
Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package
Pros
- Highly adjustable draw weight and length, making it suitable for multiple users and skill levels.
- Excellent value for the price, providing a complete RTH package at a competitive cost.
- Fast and powerful, delivering speeds up to 330 FPS for ethical hunting.
- Forgiving design, minimizing the impact of minor shooting errors.
- Ready-to-Hunt Package includes essential accessories for immediate use.
Cons
- Whisker biscuit wears down relatively quickly, requiring frequent replacement.
- Factory string stop can be aggressive, causing slight string twang.
Who Should Buy Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package?
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package is perfect for entry-level to intermediate hunters seeking an adjustable and affordable bow. It is well-suited for individuals who need a versatile bow that can be shared among family members or adjusted as their skills improve. It’s also ideal for hunters prioritizing a complete RTH package for immediate use in the field.
This bow might not be the best choice for competitive target shooters or those seeking top-of-the-line precision and performance. Those individuals should consider investing in a higher-end target bow.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality replacement arrow rest, such as a drop-away rest. A more durable string stop would also improve the shooting experience.
Conclusion on Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package offers an impressive blend of adjustability, performance, and value. While it has a couple of minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, particularly for hunters on a budget. The price is definitely justified, considering the complete RTH package and the bow’s versatility.
I would personally recommend the Gamekeeper to anyone seeking a reliable and adaptable hunting bow. It’s a solid choice that delivers excellent performance without breaking the bank. Grab your Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package today and experience the thrill of the hunt!