Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow Review

First Impressions of Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow

The Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow promises a lot: smooth draw, impressive let-off, and a complete ready-to-hunt package at an attractive price point. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the archery and tactical gear world, I’m always a bit skeptical of “do-it-all” packages, but the Species EV caught my eye with its updated single-cam design and the promise of increased adjustability. I hoped to find a reliable and versatile bow that would serve well for both seasoned archers looking for a backup and newcomers eager to enter the sport.

I was looking for a bow that offered both adjustability for my growing son and performance suitable for my hunts. My old compound bow, while dependable, lacked the smooth draw cycle I now craved after a shoulder injury. Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the bow’s lightweight feel. At just 3.8 lbs, it felt significantly lighter than some of its competitors in the ready-to-hunt category. The included Trophy Ridge accessories looked reasonably well-made, and the overall fit and finish of the bow seemed solid for the price.

I considered the Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 and the PSE Stinger Max, both popular bows in this price range. The Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow stood out because of its higher let-off (80%) and greater draw length adjustability (23.5″ – 30.5″). My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to get it to the range and see if it lived up to the hype.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow was my backyard range, set up for distances from 20 to 50 yards. I wanted to get a feel for the draw cycle and how the bow handled at various distances. The weather was cooperative, a crisp autumn day with minimal wind.

The Species EV proved surprisingly smooth during the draw cycle, especially considering it’s a single-cam bow. It was noticeably easier on my shoulder than my older dual-cam bow. The let-off felt generous, allowing me to hold at full draw for extended periods without significant strain. Initially, the Trophy Ridge sight required some adjustment to get dialed in, but once sighted, it proved adequate. I experienced no immediate issues, though I noticed a slight vibration after the shot.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve taken it out on several practice sessions at the range and even had the chance to use it during a recent deer hunt (though I didn’t get a shot). The KillerWave limb dampeners seem to be helping to reduce some of the vibration I originally felt, and I’ve added some aftermarket string silencers which made a big difference.

So far, the bow has held up well. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scratches on the riser. Cleaning and maintaining the bow is straightforward. Regular waxing of the string and a quick wipe-down of the limbs keep it in good working order. While I haven’t taken down any game yet, it did perform more reliably and with much less shoulder strain, than the bow it replaced.

Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow

Specifications

The Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow comes packed with features designed for both beginner and experienced archers. Its key specifications include a draw length adjustable from 23.5 to 30.5 inches, offering exceptional versatility for archers of different sizes. The brace height is 6.75 inches, contributing to the bow’s forgiveness and stability.

The Species EV boasts an arrow speed of up to 320 FPS, providing sufficient power for ethical hunting shots. It features either 45-60lb or 55-70lb limb options, catering to a range of draw weights. The bow’s axle-to-axle length is 30 inches. Weighing in at only 3.8 lbs.

Performance & Functionality

The Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow performs admirably for its price point. Its accuracy is sufficient for both target practice and hunting scenarios. The draw cycle is smooth and consistent, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods.

The bow’s strengths lie in its adjustability and ease of use. The generous let-off allows for steady aiming and reduces fatigue. Its weaknesses include the basic Trophy Ridge accessories, which while functional, could be upgraded for enhanced performance. The Species EV meets expectations as a reliable and versatile ready-to-hunt bow.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow features a compact and lightweight design. The riser is well-balanced, making the bow comfortable to hold and shoot. The grip is ergonomic and provides a secure hold.

The bow’s user-friendly design makes it suitable for archers of all skill levels. The draw length and weight adjustments are easy to make. There’s minimal learning curve involved in getting the bow set up and shooting accurately.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow appears to be built to last. The limbs and riser are made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of regular use. With proper care and maintenance, the bow should provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the bow is simple. Regular waxing of the string and occasional cleaning of the cams and limbs are all that’s required. Replacement strings and cables are readily available, ensuring the bow can be easily repaired if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow comes as a Ready-to-Hunt (RTH) package, including a Trophy Ridge 4-pin sight, Whisker Biscuit V arrow rest, 6-inch stabilizer, wrist sling, lightweight 5-Spot quiver, D-loop, and peep sight. While the included accessories are functional, they are basic and can be upgraded for improved performance.

The bow is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. Popular upgrades include higher-quality sights, arrow rests, and stabilizers. Its compatibility with other brands’ accessories allows archers to customize the bow to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow?

The Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow is perfect for beginner to intermediate archers looking for an affordable and versatile ready-to-hunt package. It is also a great fit for growing teenagers and adults with changing strength levels. Hunters on a budget or those seeking a reliable backup bow will also appreciate its value.

Experienced archers seeking top-tier performance may want to skip this product in favor of more expensive, high-end bows. Those who prioritize premium accessories out-of-the-box may also be disappointed. A must-have modification is a quality set of string silencers or limb dampeners to further reduce vibration.

Conclusion on Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow

The Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow delivers impressive value for its price. Its smooth draw cycle, adjustability, and lightweight design make it a joy to shoot. While the included accessories are basic, the bow’s overall performance and versatility are undeniable.

At a price of $429.99, the Species EV represents an excellent value proposition. It provides a complete ready-to-hunt package without breaking the bank. I would personally recommend the Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow to anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, and versatile compound bow.

If you’re ready to get into archery or need a dependable hunting bow that won’t empty your wallet, the Bear Archery Species EV RTH Bow is a great place to start. Take aim, draw back, and experience the thrill of archery with the Species EV.