First Impressions of Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver isn’t just a piece of archery equipment; it’s a nod to tradition. Manufactured by Grayling, this quiver evokes a sense of nostalgia with its vintage green plastic hood and the iconic Bear Archery logo. It promises to securely hold up to five arrows while adding a touch of classic style to any traditional bow setup.
For years, I’ve struggled with modern quivers that feel out of place on my recurve bow. I’ve searched for a quiver that blends functionality with a classic aesthetic, something that wouldn’t detract from the traditional archery experience. The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver seemed to be the answer, offering a blend of vintage design and practical arrow carrying capacity.
Unboxing it was like stepping back in time. The green plastic hood felt solid, and the Bear Archery logo was a welcome sight. The build quality seemed decent for a quiver in this price range, though the plastic definitely lacked the premium feel of higher-end materials.
Compared to modern, lightweight quivers from brands like TightSpot or even the more budget-friendly Kwikee Kwiver, the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver feels decidedly old-school. I chose it specifically for its aesthetic, accepting that it might not offer the same level of high-tech performance. The nostalgia factor ultimately swayed my decision, hoping it will bring a feel of authenticity to my traditional archery.
Initially, I was excited. The retro vibe was exactly what I was looking for. However, I also felt a slight apprehension about the plastic construction. Could it really hold up to the rigors of hunting and regular range use?
Real-World Testing: Putting Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver at my local archery range. I wanted to see how it performed in a controlled environment before taking it out into the field. The initial setup was simple, attaching it to the pre-drilled riser mounting threads on my Bear recurve bow.
The range day was sunny and dry, typical for a California afternoon. Drawing arrows from the quiver felt natural, and the tension seemed adequate to keep them secure. I found it easy to access my arrows while aiming.
After the first few rounds, the plastic hood started to show some slight scratches from the arrow fletchings. I was also concerned about the overall security of the arrows during movement. There were no significant issues, but the initial use gave me some things to think about.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver on various hunting trips, I have a better understanding of its durability. While the green plastic hood has accumulated more scratches, it hasn’t cracked or broken, which is a relief. It certainly shows more wear than my modern, synthetic quivers.
The quiver has been exposed to rain, dust, and even a brief snow flurry during my hunting excursions. It held up adequately, although I made sure to wipe it down after each trip to prevent any corrosion on the metal hardware. The plastic doesn’t seem to be affected by the weather.
Cleaning is straightforward, typically just wiping it down with a damp cloth. I have noticed some loosening of the screws over time, requiring occasional tightening. Compared to my experience with more rugged, weather-resistant quivers, the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver requires slightly more attention.
Overall, it performs as expected, given its vintage design and materials. It’s not the most durable quiver I’ve used, but it delivers on the classic aesthetic. It’s the look that really outweighs its practical function.
Breaking Down the Features of Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver
Specifications
- The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver holds up to five arrows. It accommodates arrow diameters ranging from 5/16″ to 23/64″. This allows for use with a variety of traditional arrow sizes.
- It attaches to pre-drilled riser mounting threads. Insert mounting sizes are available in either 10-24 or 1/4-20. This ensures compatibility with most traditional bows that feature standard mounting points.
- The quiver features a traditional green plastic hood. It proudly displays the Bear Archery logo. This is the defining aesthetic feature that appeals to traditional archery enthusiasts.
- It is designed to be ambidextrous. This makes it suitable for both right-handed and left-handed archers. This universal design enhances its appeal.
These specifications highlight the quiver’s focus on traditional archery and ease of use.
Performance & Functionality
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver performs its primary function adequately. It securely holds arrows and allows for relatively easy access during shooting. The tension in the arrow grippers is sufficient to prevent arrows from falling out during normal movement.
However, the plastic hood and overall construction are not as robust as modern quivers. The lack of a more secure locking mechanism for the arrows is a drawback, especially in rugged terrain. I wish it felt a little more secure to keep the arrows in place.
It meets expectations for a vintage-style quiver, offering a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is undeniably classic. The green plastic hood and Bear Archery logo evoke a sense of nostalgia. This is its strongest selling point.
The build quality is acceptable but not exceptional. The plastic construction feels somewhat lightweight. It does lack the premium feel of higher-end quivers.
There is no learning curve. It is straightforward to attach and use. It will be ready to use in minutes.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability is a concern. The plastic hood is prone to scratches, and the overall construction may not withstand heavy use. It’s best suited for casual archers or hunters who prioritize aesthetics over ruggedness.
Maintenance is simple. It can be cleaned with a damp cloth. Regular tightening of the screws is necessary to prevent loosening.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver does not come with any additional accessories. It’s a straightforward quiver with a basic design. There are no built-in attachment points for additional gear.
Customization options are limited. The plastic hood could potentially be painted or modified, but there are no readily available aftermarket parts. It is mostly designed to be used as is.
Pros and Cons of Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver
Pros
- Classic, vintage aesthetic with the iconic Bear Archery logo.
- Ambidextrous design for use by both right-handed and left-handed archers.
- Easy to attach and use.
- Adequate arrow retention for most shooting scenarios.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Plastic hood is prone to scratches and may not be as durable as modern materials.
- Limited customization options.
- No additional accessories included.
Who Should Buy Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver?
Perfect for: Traditional archery enthusiasts who value aesthetics over cutting-edge performance. Casual target shooters and hunters who appreciate a vintage look. Collectors of Bear Archery memorabilia.
Who should skip this product? Serious hunters who require a more rugged and durable quiver. Archers who need extensive customization options or integrated accessory attachments. Anyone looking for high-tech features and lightweight materials.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Consider purchasing replacement screws to ensure a secure fit over time. Adding some moleskin or felt to the inside of the hood can help reduce noise and protect arrow fletchings.
Conclusion on Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Side Mount Quiver is a unique blend of nostalgia and functionality. It offers a classic aesthetic that appeals to traditional archery enthusiasts, but its plastic construction and limited features may not satisfy those seeking a high-performance quiver. It isn’t made to stand up to the newest technology, but instead brings out the historic archery enthusiast.
The price is justified for what it offers. The value proposition lies in its vintage charm rather than its cutting-edge features.
I would recommend it to anyone who prioritizes style and tradition over ultimate durability. This is a quiver that makes a statement. Embrace the classic look and add a touch of nostalgia to your archery experience – just be prepared to handle it with care.