First Impressions of Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver promises a blend of traditional archery aesthetics and practical arrow storage. This quiver is designed to mount directly onto the limbs of recurve and longbows, offering archers a convenient and classic way to carry their arrows. With its vintage green plastic hood adorned with the iconic Bear Archery logo, it immediately evokes a sense of nostalgia.
I’ve been seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing quiver for my traditional archery setup. I wanted something that didn’t detract from the clean lines of my recurve bow while still providing secure and accessible arrow storage during hunts and target practice. The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver seemed to strike the right balance between form and function, piquing my interest.
Upon unboxing, the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver felt surprisingly lightweight. The green plastic hood looked durable enough, and the Bear Archery logo was a nice touch, adding to its old-school charm. My initial impression was that it was a well-made piece, though I did wonder how well the slide-on mounting system would hold up to repeated use in the field.
Compared to other limb-mounted quivers I’ve used, like the Kwikee Kwiver Hi-5, the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver stood out for its classic styling. I ultimately chose the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver because of my appreciation for traditional archery equipment and my desire to replicate the look and feel of vintage bows. The Kwikee Kwiver is much more modern and utilitarian.
Initially, I was excited about the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver, hoping it would provide a secure and aesthetically pleasing arrow-carrying solution for my recurve bow. Time would tell if it lived up to its promises of traditional style and practical functionality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver during a week-long deer hunting trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was varied, including dense forests, steep hillsides, and open meadows. This environment presented a good opportunity to assess the quiver’s performance in different conditions.
During the hunt, I encountered both dry and wet weather, including a few light rain showers. The quiver held up well in both conditions, keeping my arrows secure and easily accessible. I tested the quiver for useability in temperatures ranging from 30-60 degrees Fahrenheit.
The slide-on mounting system took a little getting used to initially. It required some adjustments to find the perfect position on my bow’s limbs. Once I found the sweet spot, the quiver felt secure and didn’t interfere with my shooting.
One minor issue I noticed during my first use was that the rubber arrow grippers felt a little stiff. This made it slightly difficult to insert and remove arrows quickly, especially with gloves on.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver has proven to be a reliable addition to my archery setup. The green plastic hood remains in good condition, with no signs of cracking or fading. The stitching on the leather strap has held up well, with no fraying or loosening.
The only real sign of wear and tear is some minor scuffing on the plastic hood from brushing against branches and vegetation. I found the quiver reasonably easy to clean, requiring only a wipe down with a damp cloth after each use.
Compared to other quivers I’ve used, the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver outperforms many in terms of aesthetic appeal and traditional styling. The slide-on mounting system is more convenient than some other attachment methods, although it may not be as rock-solid as a bolt-on quiver.
Breaking Down the Features of Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver
Specifications
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver holds up to five arrows ranging from 5/16″ to 23/64″ in diameter. It is designed to fit recurve limbs from 1.5″ to 2″ wide and longbow limbs from 1″ to 1 3/8″ wide. The quiver features a traditional green plastic hood adorned with the Bear Archery logo.
The quiver is an ambidextrous design, making it suitable for both right-handed and left-handed archers. Its slide-on mounting system allows for quick and easy attachment to the bow’s limbs. The specific arrow diameter range is crucial for ensuring a secure fit and preventing arrows from slipping out during movement.
Performance & Functionality
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver performs its primary function of securely holding and carrying arrows effectively. The arrow grippers provide adequate tension to keep arrows in place. The quiver’s ambidextrous design is a definite strength.
The main weakness is the initial stiffness of the arrow grippers. There is also a potential for slippage of the quiver on the limbs if not properly positioned and tightened. Overall, it meets expectations for a traditional slide-on quiver.
Design & Ergonomics
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver features a classic, vintage design that is aesthetically pleasing. The green plastic hood and Bear Archery logo evoke a sense of nostalgia. The quiver is lightweight and doesn’t add excessive bulk to the bow.
The slide-on mounting system is relatively user-friendly, although it requires some initial adjustment. The quiver is comfortable to use. I experienced no significant discomfort or interference while shooting.
Durability & Maintenance
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver is constructed from durable materials, including a sturdy plastic hood and strong rubber arrow grippers. I expect it to last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The arrow grippers may need to be replaced after prolonged use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver does not come with any additional accessories. It is primarily designed as a standalone arrow-carrying solution. There are limited customization options available, although the leather straps could potentially be replaced with aftermarket options.
It’s compatible with arrows from a wide range of manufacturers as long as they fall within the specified diameter range. The quiver design is fairly standard, limiting the possibility of significant modifications.
Pros and Cons of Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver
Pros
- Classic, aesthetically pleasing design that complements traditional bows.
- Lightweight construction that doesn’t add excessive bulk to the bow.
- Ambidextrous design makes it suitable for both right-handed and left-handed archers.
- Secure arrow retention ensures arrows stay in place during movement.
- Easy to install and remove with the slide-on mounting system.
Cons
- Arrow grippers can be initially stiff, making it difficult to quickly insert and remove arrows.
- Potential for slippage on limbs if not properly positioned and tightened.
Who Should Buy Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver?
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver is perfect for traditional archers who appreciate classic styling and want a convenient way to carry their arrows. It’s also a good choice for hunters who prefer a lightweight and streamlined quiver system.
This product might not be ideal for archers who prioritize quick arrow access above all else. It might also not be the best option for those who prefer ultra-modern or highly customizable gear.
A must-have modification would be replacement arrow grippers with slightly less tension. A leather treatment to make the slide easier or more secure might also be a good customization.
Conclusion on Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver
The Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver offers a compelling blend of traditional aesthetics, practical functionality, and reliable performance. It’s a well-made and visually appealing arrow-carrying solution for traditional archers. The asking price of $137.79 might seem a bit steep for a primarily plastic quiver.
However, given its classic design and association with the Fred Bear legacy, the price is justified for those who value authenticity and style. I would definitely recommend the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver to any archer seeking a traditional and functional arrow-carrying solution.
If you’re looking to add a touch of classic archery style to your setup, the Grayling Selway Fred Bear Slide-On Quiver is a worthwhile investment. Don’t hesitate to experience the blend of tradition and functionality it offers!