October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand Review

The October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand Made a Bold First Impression

For years, I’ve trusted compound bows for their accuracy and power. But there’s a certain primal draw to the recurve, a whisper of history calling me back to simpler times. That’s why I decided to take a closer look at the October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand, a bow promising both accessibility and performance at an enticing price point.

I needed a reliable, take-down recurve bow that wouldn’t break the bank, suitable for both target practice and potentially small game hunting. I wanted something with a classic feel but modern construction. The promise of a lightweight magnesium riser and a pre-installed arrow rest intrigued me.

The box arrived, and my initial reaction was positive. The Realtree EXCAPE camo finish looked sharp, and the pieces felt solid in hand. Compared to some cheaper, entry-level bows I’ve seen, the October Mountain Ascent seemed to have a higher level of fit and finish. I considered the Samick Sage and the Southwest Archery Spyder as alternatives, but the October Mountain‘s combination of price, features, and aesthetic appeal ultimately won me over.

My first impression? Pleasantly surprised. I was anticipating a basic, no-frills experience, but the October Mountain Ascent seemed to offer more than that. There was a potential for real performance hidden beneath the camouflage.

Real-World Testing: Putting October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand was at my local archery range. I set up targets at 20 yards to start, focusing on getting a feel for the draw and release. The 40 lb draw weight felt manageable, even after a long hiatus from recurve shooting.

Despite being a sunny day, there was a light breeze which tested my form a bit. The grip felt comfortable and secure, though I did notice a slight vibration in the riser after each shot. I had no major issues with the bow itself, but my rusty technique definitely needed work!

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the October Mountain Ascent has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. I’ve taken it out to a few backyard practice sessions and even used it on a scouting trip through the woods. The Realtree EXCAPE camo blends in remarkably well.

So far, there are no signs of significant wear and tear. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is all it takes to keep it clean. Compared to my experience with some cheaper bows that developed limb twist or delamination, the October Mountain Ascent feels substantially more durable. It definitely outperforms those entry-level bows I previously owned when I first started archery.

Breaking Down the Features of October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand

Specifications

• 58-inch overall length: This length provides a good balance between maneuverability and stability, especially for those with a draw length around 28 inches.
• 40 lb draw weight: This is a good starting point for adults, offering enough power for target shooting and small game hunting while remaining manageable for beginners.
• One-piece magnesium riser: Magnesium is lightweight and strong, contributing to a comfortable shooting experience and long-term durability.
• Realtree EXCAPE camo finish: This provides effective concealment in a variety of hunting environments.
• Built-in limb pockets: These ensure a secure and stable connection between the limbs and the riser, enhancing accuracy and reducing vibration.
• Machine-threaded sight and rest mounting locations: This allows for easy customization with aftermarket accessories.
• Includes pre-installed arrow rest: This is a convenient feature for beginners, eliminating the need to purchase and install a rest separately.
• Includes flathead socketcap limb bolts: These provide secure limb attachment.
• Includes toolless limb bolts: Easy to take down without specialized tools, making the bow portable and convenient for storage.
• Includes Flemish string: This high-quality string contributes to smooth and consistent performance.

Performance & Functionality

The October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand performs admirably for its price point. Accuracy is consistent at reasonable distances (20-30 yards). The draw cycle is smooth, without any noticeable stacking.

The pre-installed arrow rest is a nice touch, though I eventually upgraded to a more adjustable model to fine-tune my arrow flight. The slight vibration in the riser is noticeable, but not overly distracting. Overall, it exceeds my expectations for a bow in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Realtree EXCAPE camo finish is well-applied and aesthetically pleasing. The magnesium riser is surprisingly lightweight. The grip is comfortable and fits well in the hand, even during extended shooting sessions.

While there’s a slight learning curve associated with any recurve bow, the October Mountain Ascent is relatively user-friendly. Taking the bow down for transport is simple and fast with the toolless limb bolts.

Durability & Maintenance

The magnesium riser and well-constructed limbs suggest good long-term durability. After several weeks of use, there are no signs of damage or wear. Maintenance is straightforward: keep the string waxed and the bow clean.

I expect the October Mountain Ascent to last for years with proper care. I would recommend replacing the factory string with a custom string if you’re looking for peak performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand features threaded inserts for attaching sights, quivers, and stabilizers. The industry-standard mounting points mean that you can readily use accessories from October Mountain Products or other brands, allowing for a personalized setup.

I added a simple pin sight to improve my accuracy at longer distances. The possibilities are endless. The ability to customize the bow to my specific needs is a major advantage.

Pros and Cons of October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand

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Who Should Buy October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand?

The October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand is perfect for beginning and intermediate archers looking for an affordable and reliable take-down recurve bow. It’s also well-suited for small game hunters who value portability and concealment. Anyone interested in traditional archery without a large initial investment will appreciate this bow.

This bow might not be ideal for experienced archers seeking top-of-the-line performance. Those who require a higher draw weight for larger game may also want to consider other options. A must-have accessory is a good quality arm guard.

Conclusion on October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand

The October Mountain Ascent Recurve Bow Realtree EXCAPE 58 in. 40 lb. Right Hand is a solid performer that offers excellent value for the money. For $133.99, you get a durable, accurate, and customizable bow that’s perfect for both target practice and small game hunting.

I believe the price is definitely justified. It’s an excellent entry point into the world of recurve archery.

Yes, I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quality recurve bow on a budget. Pick up the October Mountain Ascent, head to the range, and experience the satisfying simplicity of traditional archery for yourself!

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