Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 Review

First Impressions of Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 promises a blend of performance and affordability in a ready-to-hunt package. From Bear Archery, a trusted name in archery, this bow aims to deliver a smooth and accurate shooting experience for a wide range of archers. The adjustable draw length and weight, combined with included accessories, make it an appealing option for both beginners and experienced hunters looking for a reliable setup.

I needed a new bow that could adapt to both target practice and deer hunting in the dense woods of Pennsylvania. The Species XT caught my eye because of its adjustability and the promise of a complete package.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the bow’s solid feel and the completeness of the package. The TrueTimber Strata Camo pattern is aesthetically pleasing, and the components felt well-made, especially considering the price point.

Compared to the Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 and the PSE Stinger Max, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 seemed to offer a better balance of features and value. The Diamond Edge SB-1 felt a bit too basic, while the PSE Stinger Max lacked the same level of included accessories.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism – the bow looked promising, but the proof would be in the shooting. The comprehensive Ready-To-Hunt package was definitely exciting, suggesting minimal setup would be required.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 at my local archery range, focusing on initial setup and sighting in the included accessories. I also took it out to my hunting property to simulate hunting conditions.

The bow performed admirably in both sunny and slightly drizzly conditions. The grip remained secure even with damp hands, and the sight picture was clear.

The bow was easy to adjust to my draw length, although I did need a bow press for the weight adjustment. The IMS V-Biscuit rest felt solid, and the 4-pin sight was relatively easy to zero in.

Initially, I noticed a slight vibration after the shot, but this was easily remedied with a better stabilizer than the one included. The included peep sight also needed some adjustment to align properly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 has proven to be a reliable and accurate bow. The serving on the string shows minimal wear, and the cams are still smooth.

The camo finish has held up well against scrapes and bumps in the woods, with only minor blemishes appearing after several hunting trips. Cleaning involves wiping down the bow with a damp cloth and applying a light coat of bow wax to the string every few weeks.

Compared to my older Mathews Z7, the Species XT isn’t quite as refined, but it delivers comparable accuracy at a fraction of the price. It definitely exceeds expectations for a bow in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522

Specifications

• The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 boasts a draw weight adjustable from either 45-60 lbs or 55-70 lbs, offering versatility for different archers. This adjustability is critical for growing archers or those with varying strength levels.

• It features a draw length range of 23.5″-30.5″, accommodating a wide range of body types. This ensures a comfortable and efficient shooting posture, which is crucial for accuracy.

• The 80 percent let-off allows archers to hold the bow at full draw with less strain, improving shot stability. This higher let-off is beneficial during long waits in the stand.

• The 30″ axle-to-axle length strikes a balance between stability and maneuverability in tight hunting situations. This length makes it manageable in tree stands and ground blinds.

• A 6.75″ brace height contributes to forgiveness and accuracy, even with slight form imperfections. A larger brace height often translates to more forgiving shot release.

• The bow achieves speeds of up to 320 feet per second (FPS), providing ample kinetic energy for ethical harvests. This speed ensures sufficient power for downrange accuracy and penetration.

Performance & Functionality

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 performs its job admirably, providing a consistent and accurate shooting experience. The single-cam system is smooth and relatively quiet, making it suitable for hunting.

The bow’s strengths lie in its adjustability, ease of use, and complete package. The included accessories are functional, although some may benefit from upgrades. A weakness is the slight vibration at the shot, which a better stabilizer easily fixes.

The bow meets expectations for a ready-to-hunt package in its price range and exceeds them in terms of adjustability and forgiveness. The bow also features IMS rest and Picatinny sight mounting locations, which allow for easy customization of the rest and sight.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 is built with a focus on functionality and affordability. The materials used are durable, but not the highest-end available.

The bow feels comfortable in hand, with a well-designed grip that promotes consistent hand placement. The learning curve is minimal, especially for those familiar with compound bows. The TrueTimber Strata Camo blends well in most hunting environments.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 should last for many seasons. Regular waxing of the string and cables, along with occasional inspection for wear, will maximize its lifespan.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward, requiring only basic tools and supplies. Replacing the string and cables is a task best left to a professional, but other maintenance can be done at home.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 includes a comprehensive set of accessories:

• IMS V-Biscuit rest: A reliable, full-containment arrow rest.
• Picatinny-mounted 4-pin sight: Functional and easy to adjust for different ranges.
• 5 arrow quiver: Convenient for carrying arrows in the field.
• Stabilizer: Helps reduce vibration and improve balance (though an upgrade is recommended).
• Peep sight: Aids in consistent aiming.
• Wrist sling: Provides added security and comfort.

The bow is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including different rests, sights, stabilizers, and quivers. The Picatinny rail mount makes adding various sights and accessories easy.

Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522

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Who Should Buy Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522?

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 is perfect for beginner to intermediate archers and hunters seeking an affordable, adjustable, and complete setup. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to get into archery without breaking the bank.

Those who prioritize top-of-the-line performance and the quietest possible shot should consider a higher-end bow. Also, those who want to customize their bow extensively from the outset might prefer to build a setup from scratch.

A better stabilizer and higher-quality arrows are must-have modifications to maximize the bow’s potential. A quality release aid will also improve accuracy and consistency.

Conclusion on Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522

The Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 delivers on its promise of providing an affordable and accessible entry point into the world of archery and hunting. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end bows, its adjustability, complete package, and smooth shooting experience make it an excellent value.

The price is definitely justified, considering the included accessories and the bow’s overall performance. It provides a solid foundation for archers to develop their skills and pursue their passion.

I would definitely recommend the Bear Archery Species XT RTH Bow Package 1502522 to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable bow. Get yours today and experience the thrill of archery!