Let’s Talk About RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat
Bowfishing is a rapidly growing sport, and the gear is constantly evolving to meet the demands of serious anglers. The RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat aims to provide a more secure and efficient way to mount your reel, promising increased durability and ease of use. RPM Bowfishing promises that it is the solution for bowfishermen needing a reliable reel mount.
I’ve been bowfishing for over a decade, and one of my biggest frustrations has always been reel seats that loosen, wobble, or just outright fail at the most inopportune times. I was looking for a reel seat that could handle the immense strain of pulling in big fish. I was tired of cheap plastic mounts that flexed and cracked.
Upon unboxing the RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat, my initial thought was, “This thing is solid.” The aircraft-grade aluminum construction felt substantial in my hand. It looked and felt far more robust than the polymer reel seats I’m used to. I also appreciated the integrated line puller, a feature I’ve often wished for when dealing with stubborn knots or tangles on the water.
Compared to the standard AMS Retriever Pro reel seat or the Cajun Winch Mount, the RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat stood out due to its vise-like clamping mechanism. Both of those options are perfectly serviceable, but I wanted a mount that truly locked the reel in place. The RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat’s metal construction also promised superior longevity compared to the plastic found in the other mounts.
My first impression was definitely positive. I was excited to see if this reel seat could live up to its promise of enhanced security and durability on the water. This appeared to be a worthwhile upgrade from my current setup, and I looked forward to testing it in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test with the RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat was on a local lake, targeting carp and gar. The conditions were typical for a summer evening: warm, humid, and a bit buggy. I mounted my AMS Pro Retriever reel to the seat and headed out on the water.
The first thing I noticed was how securely the reel felt attached to the bow. There was absolutely no wobble or play, even when drawing back on a heavy test shot. The vise-like grip gave me confidence that my reel wasn’t going anywhere, even when battling a large fish. The integrated line puller also proved useful when I needed to adjust my line tension.
The only issue I encountered was minor: the hex locking nuts required a bit of extra tightening to ensure a completely rock-solid hold. After a few minutes of adjustments, the reel felt bombproof. Overall, the initial experience was a significant improvement over my previous reel seat.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, including rain, mud, and extreme heat, without any noticeable degradation in performance. It still clamps down just as securely as it did on day one.
There are no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scratches. The aircraft-grade aluminum seems virtually impervious to corrosion. It is holding up well despite regular exposure to water and mud.
Maintenance is minimal; I simply rinse it off with fresh water after each use. Occasionally, I’ll apply a bit of lubricant to the hex locking nuts to keep them turning smoothly. Compared to my previous reel seats, which often required frequent tightening and even replacement due to cracking, the RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat has been a revelation. It has performed flawlessly and exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat
Specifications
- Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Construction: The RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat is built from aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring a lightweight yet incredibly durable platform. This material choice guarantees that the seat can withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements without compromising structural integrity.
- Vise-Like Clamping Mechanism: The vise-like clamping mechanism provides a secure and wobble-free mount for your bowfishing reel. This feature eliminates any play between the reel and the bow, resulting in enhanced accuracy and control when shooting.
- Integrated Line Puller: The RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat includes an integrated line puller, simplifying line adjustments and knot tying on the water. This addition is invaluable for quickly addressing line issues, ensuring minimal downtime during your bowfishing sessions.
- Hex Locking Nuts: The hex locking nuts guarantee a tight and secure fit, preventing the reel seat from loosening during use. These nuts provide a robust and reliable connection, offering peace of mind when battling large fish.
- Threaded Accessory Port: The threaded accessory port allows for the attachment of additional accessories, such as lights or cameras. This increases the versatility of your bowfishing setup.
These specifications are important because they directly contribute to the RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat’s performance and longevity. The aluminum construction ensures durability, the vise-like clamp enhances stability, and the integrated line puller adds convenience. These features combine to create a reel seat that is both reliable and user-friendly.
Performance & Functionality
The RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat excels at its primary job: securely mounting a bowfishing reel. Its vise-like grip eliminates wobble and play, ensuring consistent and accurate shots. It increases the feel of control when reeling in larger fish.
The integrated line puller is a standout feature, simplifying line adjustments and knot tying. The main weakness is the hex locking nuts can be a little finicky to tighten. The overall performance meets and exceeds expectations; it provides a level of security and stability unmatched by other reel seats I’ve used.
Design & Ergonomics
The RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat features a streamlined and functional design. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction balances weight and durability, making it comfortable to handle. The integrated line puller is intelligently placed for easy access, and the threaded accessory port offers added versatility.
The design is user-friendly, even for those new to bowfishing. There is no real learning curve other than the initial tightening of the hex locking nuts.
Durability & Maintenance
Thanks to its robust aluminum construction, the RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat is built to last. It will withstand years of use and exposure to harsh elements.
Maintenance is simple; a quick rinse with fresh water is usually all that’s needed. The design is also straightforward, making repairs relatively easy if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat does not come with many accessories but its built-in threaded accessory port provides customization. It will allow you to add lights, cameras, or other essential gear.
It is compatible with most standard bowfishing reels, making it a versatile upgrade for any bowfishing setup. The hex locking nuts can be replaced with aftermarket options if desired, providing further customization possibilities.
Pros and Cons of RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat
Pros
- Superior Security: The vise-like clamping mechanism provides an unmatched level of security, eliminating wobble and play. This ensures consistent and accurate shots.
- Enhanced Durability: The aircraft-grade aluminum construction guarantees long-lasting performance, even in harsh conditions. It is far more resilient than plastic alternatives.
- Integrated Line Puller: The built-in line puller simplifies line adjustments and knot tying, saving time and frustration on the water.
- Accessory Port: The threaded accessory port allows for the addition of lights, cameras, or other gear. This increases the versatility of the bowfishing setup.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple rinsing with fresh water keeps the reel seat in top condition. It minimizes downtime and maximizes the lifespan of the product.
Cons
- Tightening Required: The hex locking nuts may require extra tightening to achieve a completely secure fit.
- Price: At $49.59, it’s more expensive than basic plastic reel seats.
Who Should Buy RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat?
The RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat is perfect for serious bowfishermen who demand reliability and performance. This reel seat is ideal for those targeting large fish in challenging conditions. It provides the security and durability needed to handle the strain of heavy lines and powerful bows.
Beginners looking to invest in quality gear from the start will also appreciate the ease of use and long-lasting construction. Those who prefer lightweight setups or are on a very tight budget might want to consider less expensive options.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality bowfishing reel, such as the AMS Retriever Pro or Muzzy XD Pro. This pairs with the reel seat to maximize performance.
Conclusion on RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat
The RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat is a well-designed and durable upgrade for any bowfishing setup. Its superior security, enhanced durability, and integrated line puller make it a standout product in its category.
The price of $49.59 is justified by the quality of construction and performance. It is worth the investment for serious bowfishermen.
I would definitely recommend the RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat to anyone looking to improve their bowfishing experience. Its reliability and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any angler’s arsenal. Upgrade your bowfishing game today with the RPM Bowfishing Vise Reel Seat – you won’t regret it!