First Impressions of Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180 promises a blend of speed, forgiveness, and a ready-to-hunt setup. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the archery and tactical gear world, I’m always keen to see how manufacturers balance performance with accessibility. The Paradigm RTH, from Bear Archery, caught my eye due to its advertised 333 FPS speed and the inclusion of Trophy Ridge accessories.
I was looking for a bow that could serve as a reliable hunting companion and a solid platform for honing my skills. The “Ready to Hunt” promise was appealing, as it suggested minimal setup and immediate usability, a significant advantage for archers eager to get into the field.
Unboxing the Paradigm RTH, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel. The Strata camo finish is well-applied and the bow has a reassuring weight without feeling cumbersome. Compared to similar packages from Diamond Archery and PSE, the Paradigm seemed to offer a slightly more robust build and a more comprehensive accessory package right out of the box. This was the deciding factor for me, along with the reputation of Bear Archery for producing reliable bows.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Paradigm RTH appeared to be a well-designed, feature-rich package, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype once I got it onto the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180 was my local archery range. I tested it at distances ranging from 20 to 50 yards. The weather was typical for early fall: crisp, slightly damp, and with a light breeze.
The bow felt remarkably smooth during the draw cycle, even at the upper end of the draw weight adjustment. The Trophy Ridge Whisker Biscuit V arrow rest performed flawlessly, providing consistent arrow flight. After a few adjustments to the sight, I was grouping arrows within a 4-inch circle at 30 yards, which is impressive for a bow straight out of the box.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180 has proven to be a reliable performer. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the bow’s finish or components. The strings are holding up well, showing minimal fraying.
Maintaining the Paradigm RTH is straightforward. Regular waxing of the string and cables keeps everything running smoothly. Compared to my previous bow, a Hoyt Powermax, the Paradigm feels more forgiving and requires less fine-tuning to maintain accuracy. It outperforms the Hoyt in terms of stability and overall shooting experience, justifying my decision to upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180
Specifications
- The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180 features a 33-inch axle-to-axle length. This length provides a good balance between stability and maneuverability, making it suitable for both hunting in treestands and shooting from the ground.
- It also boasts a 6.5-inch brace height, which is generous and contributes to the bow’s forgiving nature, minimizing the impact of minor form errors on arrow flight. This is a huge benefit for archers of all experience levels.
- The bow has an adjustable draw length from 27-32 inches, in half-inch increments, and a draw weight range of 55-70 lbs. This wide range of adjustability makes the Paradigm suitable for a variety of archers with different physical builds and strength levels.
- The DHC cam system is a key feature, enabling speeds up to 333 FPS with an 80% let-off. This high speed translates to flatter arrow trajectories and increased kinetic energy, while the high let-off makes it easier to hold at full draw for extended periods.
Performance & Functionality
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180 performs admirably, delivering consistent accuracy and reliable power. The combination of the DHC cam system and the forgiving brace height inspires confidence.
While the advertised 333 FPS is achievable, it requires optimal conditions, including a lighter arrow and maximum draw weight. However, even with a hunting-weight arrow and a draw weight of 65 lbs, the Paradigm generates impressive speed and kinetic energy.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Paradigm RTH is commendable. The materials used feel durable, and the bow’s weight is well-balanced.
The grip is comfortable and allows for a consistent hand placement. There is a slight learning curve associated with tuning the sight and getting comfortable with the draw cycle, but the bow is generally user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Paradigm RTH is built to last. The limb pockets are robust, and the overall construction feels solid.
Regular string waxing and occasional lubrication of the cams are all that’s needed to keep the bow in top condition. This ease of maintenance adds to the appeal of the Paradigm.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180 comes with a comprehensive set of Trophy Ridge accessories, including a 4-pin sight, Whisker Biscuit V arrow rest, 5-Spot quiver, stabilizer, peep sight, and D-loop.
While the included accessories are functional, many archers may eventually choose to upgrade certain components, such as the sight or stabilizer. The Paradigm RTH is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, allowing for extensive customization.
Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180
Pros
- Ready-to-hunt package: The Paradigm RTH comes with everything you need to start shooting immediately.
- Forgiving brace height: The 6.5-inch brace height minimizes the impact of form errors.
- Adjustable draw length and weight: Accommodates a wide range of archers.
- Smooth draw cycle: The DHC cam system provides a comfortable and consistent draw.
- Solid build quality: The bow feels durable and well-made.
Cons
- The included accessories, while functional, may not be top-of-the-line for experienced archers.
- Achieving the advertised 333 FPS requires optimal conditions and lighter arrows.
Who Should Buy Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180?
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180 is perfect for beginner to intermediate hunters looking for a complete and reliable setup. It is also suitable for target archers who want a forgiving and adjustable bow.
Those seeking a bow with top-tier accessories right out of the box might want to explore other options. Consider upgrading the stabilizer for enhanced balance and vibration dampening.
Conclusion on Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180
The Bear Archery Paradigm RTH Package BEA2180 offers excellent value for its price. It delivers a smooth shooting experience, reliable performance, and a comprehensive accessory package.
The asking price of $629.99 is justified considering the features and the included accessories. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a versatile and ready-to-hunt bow.
If you’re ready to elevate your archery game and experience the thrill of the hunt with a bow that delivers on its promises, the Paradigm RTH is a solid choice. Head to your local archery shop and give it a try!