Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 Review

First Impressions of Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 is marketed as a next-generation single-cam bow, promising both performance and reliability. Bear Archery aims to provide a complete ready-to-hunt setup with this package, making it appealing to both beginners and experienced archers looking for convenience. The adjustable draw length and weight, along with the included accessories, suggested versatility right out of the box.

Having spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I was looking for a reliable and adaptable bow to recommend to my clients. Many struggle with choosing individual components, so a ready-to-hunt package seemed like an ideal solution.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the sleek Mossy Oak Camo finish and the apparent quality of the included accessories. The bow felt well-balanced in hand, and the single-cam system appeared robust. Compared to other similarly priced packages, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 seemed to offer a more complete set of features, promising a better user experience.

I was cautiously optimistic. Complete packages sometimes cut corners on component quality, but initial inspection suggests Bear Archery has delivered a solid offering.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 at my local archery range, simulating various hunting scenarios from tree stand shots to ground-level target practice. I shot both the 55-70 lb and 45-60 lb draw weight configurations, observing performance at various distances.

The bow performed admirably in dry conditions. Draw cycle felt smooth, and the let-off was noticeable, allowing for stable aiming. There were no immediate issues in the first few hours.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 continues to perform well, exhibiting solid reliability. I’ve taken it on multiple scouting trips, exposing it to varied weather conditions, including light rain and dusty trails.

The camo finish shows minimal signs of wear, and the string remains in good condition with proper waxing. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the cam. Compared to my previous experiences with budget-friendly bows, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and consistent performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508

Specifications

• Draw Weight: Available in 45-60 lbs or 55-70 lbs. This adjustable range caters to a wide spectrum of archers, from beginners to experienced hunters who prefer a specific draw weight.
• Draw Length: Adjustable from 23.5″-30.5″. This extensive range ensures a comfortable fit for nearly any archer, promoting proper form and accuracy.
• Let-Off: 80 percent. This significant let-off allows archers to hold the draw for extended periods with minimal effort, crucial for accurate aiming during hunting.
• Axle-to-Axle Length: 30″. This compact length enhances maneuverability, especially beneficial in tight hunting environments like tree stands or ground blinds.
• Brace Height: 6.75″. A shorter brace height generally translates to increased speed, while a longer one often contributes to greater forgiveness.
• Speed: Up to 320 feet per second. This velocity is sufficient for ethical hunting of various game animals at reasonable distances.
• Package Includes: IMS V-Biscuit rest, Picatinny-mounted 4 pin sight, 5 arrow quiver, stabilizer, peep sight, and wrist sling. The inclusion of these accessories makes the bow truly ready-to-hunt, saving time and money compared to purchasing them separately.

These specifications collectively indicate a bow designed for versatility, ease of use, and sufficient performance for hunting and target practice.

Performance & Functionality

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 performs its job as an entry-level to mid-tier hunting bow commendably. Accuracy is consistent at typical hunting ranges (20-40 yards), and the single-cam system is reliable.

A strength is its adjustability, allowing users to dial in their preferred draw length and weight with relative ease. A weakness is that the included accessories, while functional, are not top-of-the-line and might eventually warrant upgrading.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 boasts a well-balanced design. Its weight is manageable for most archers, and the grip is comfortable. The Mossy Oak Camo finish enhances its aesthetic appeal.

The bow is relatively user-friendly, with intuitive adjustments and a straightforward setup. Some beginners might benefit from watching tutorial videos or seeking guidance from a local archery shop.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my testing, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 appears built to last, with a durable riser and quality string. Regular maintenance, including string waxing and occasional cleaning, should ensure years of reliable use.

Repairs should be relatively simple, as Bear Archery is a reputable brand with readily available replacement parts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 comes standard with an IMS V-Biscuit rest, a Picatinny-mounted 4-pin sight, a 5-arrow quiver, a stabilizer, a peep sight, and a wrist sling. These accessories provide a complete shooting setup right out of the box.

The Picatinny rail system allows for easy customization with aftermarket sights and other accessories. The bow is also compatible with various arrow rests, stabilizers, and quivers from other brands, offering ample opportunities for personalization.

Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508

Who Should Buy Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508?

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 is perfect for beginner to intermediate archers seeking a complete, adjustable, and reliable hunting bow. It’s also a good choice for experienced archers who want a convenient and affordable backup bow.

Those seeking top-of-the-line performance or requiring specialized features (e.g., for competitive archery) should skip this product. A must-have accessory is a high-quality arrow release, as the included wrist sling, while functional, might not provide the precision needed for consistent accuracy.

Conclusion on Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 offers an impressive combination of performance, adjustability, and value. Its complete ready-to-hunt package and smooth-drawing single-cam system make it an excellent choice for archers of various skill levels.

The price is definitely justified, given the included accessories and overall build quality. I would personally recommend this bow to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile hunting setup without breaking the bank.

Ready to take your archery game to the next level? Consider the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502508 – you won’t be disappointed.