The Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope Made a Bold First Impression
The Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope, crafted by Wicked Ridge, promises a blend of lightweight design and powerful performance, all while being built right here in America. Its narrow profile, multi-line scope, and optional ACUdraw cocking device immediately caught my attention, signaling a crossbow designed for both maneuverability and ease of use.
My aging shoulders, a testament to years spent hauling gear and drawing back bows, have been begging for a more effortless solution. The promise of the Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope‘s built-in ACUdraw, reducing draw weight to a mere 5 lbs, was the siren song that lured me in.
Unboxing the Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope revealed a well-packaged piece of equipment. The crossbow felt surprisingly light at 5.8 lbs, yet solid, thanks to its American craftsmanship. Initially, the multi-line scope appeared simple and functional, not overly complex.
Compared to my older, bulkier crossbow and a friend’s Barnett Whitetail Pro STR, the Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope stood out. Its compact size promised better handling in tight hunting blinds, unlike my unwieldy behemoth. The Barnett, while faster, lacked the ease of use promised by the ACUdraw and the narrow profile of the Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The lightweight design, coupled with the potential of the ACUdraw, sparked a genuine excitement to get this crossbow into the field. I was eager to see if it lived up to its promises of effortless cocking and maneuverable performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope at my local archery range, primarily focusing on sighting in the scope and getting comfortable with the ACUdraw system. The weather was mild, a typical overcast autumn day, perfect for shooting.
The ACUdraw lived up to the hype, making cocking the crossbow incredibly easy. The effort required was minimal, even after repeated shots, something I can’t say about manual cocking devices. The multi-line scope, pre-sighted at 20 yards, was surprisingly accurate right out of the box, needing only minor adjustments.
The only initial issue I encountered was a slight learning curve with the ACUdraw’s cord retraction. I needed a few tries to get the cord to retract smoothly every time, but after that, it was smooth sailing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use at the range and a few scouting trips, the Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope has proven to be a reliable and accurate tool. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
The crossbow requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe down after each use keeps it clean and performing optimally. Comparing it to my previous crossbow, the Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope is significantly easier to handle and requires less physical effort, making it a superior choice for extended hunting sessions.
Breaking Down the Features of Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope
Specifications
- Weight: 5.8 lbs (without accessories). This lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver.
- Speed: 380 FPS. Offering ample speed for ethical hunting at reasonable distances.
- Draw Weight: 180 lbs. While 180lbs can be significant, the optional ACUdraw reduces the effort to a mere 5lbs.
- Width (Axle-to-Axle): 14″ (uncocked) / 9.5″ (cocked). Its narrow profile enhances maneuverability in tight spaces.
- Length: 34.5″ (w/o foot stirrup). This shorter length aids in maneuverability.
- Power Stroke: 13.8″. A moderate power stroke contributes to a balance between speed and draw weight.
- Trigger: 3.5-lb. This provides a crisp, clean break for enhanced accuracy.
- Scope: 4x Multi-Line Scope. Offering multiple aim points out to 50 yards for varying distances.
- Draw Style: Forward Draw. This standard draw style is familiar to most crossbow users.
These specifications translate to a crossbow that’s easy to handle, accurate, and powerful enough for most hunting situations. The ACUdraw, in particular, significantly enhances the overall user experience by reducing the physical strain of cocking.
Performance & Functionality
The Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope excels in accuracy, thanks to its 3.5-lb trigger and pre-sighted scope. Reliability has been consistent throughout testing.
Its strengths lie in its lightweight design, easy cocking with the ACUdraw, and accurate scope. The only minor weakness is the limited range of the multi-line scope (50 yards), which might not be ideal for long-distance shooting, although this crossbow really isn’t designed for that.
The Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope more than meets my expectations, especially concerning ease of use and maneuverability. I’m very happy with the performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope is built with quality materials and feels solid in hand. Its lightweight design enhances comfort during extended use.
It’s remarkably user-friendly, especially with the integrated ACUdraw system. The multi-line scope requires minimal setup, making it easy to get shooting quickly.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on its build quality and materials, the Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope should last for many hunting seasons with proper care. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope package includes:
- ACUdraw Cocking Device (optional)
- Multi-Line Scope
- 3 Match 400 Carbon Arrows
- Quiver
While there are limited customization options directly from Wicked Ridge, the scope can be upgraded to aftermarket optics for improved range and clarity. Standard arrow bolts can be utilized.
Pros and Cons of Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design: Enhances maneuverability in tight hunting locations.
- Effortless cocking with optional ACUdraw: Reduces draw weight to just 5 lbs, perfect for hunters with limited strength.
- Accurate multi-line scope: Pre-sighted at 20 yards for easy setup and reliable accuracy out to 50 yards.
- Built in America: Ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and reliable performance.
- Crisp 3.5-lb trigger: Contributes to consistent and accurate shots.
Cons
- Limited scope range (50 yards): Might not be suitable for hunters needing longer-distance accuracy.
- Basic accessory package: Only includes essential accessories, potentially requiring additional purchases for optimal setup.
Who Should Buy Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope?
The Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope is perfect for hunters seeking a lightweight, maneuverable, and easy-to-cock crossbow. It is ideal for those hunting in ground blinds or tree stands where space is limited.
This product might not be the best choice for hunters who prioritize long-range shooting beyond 50 yards, or who require a more extensive accessory package.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality broadhead for the included arrows. Consider upgrading to higher-quality arrows and potentially a rangefinder for more precise distance measurements.
Conclusion on Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope
The Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope is a well-designed and functional crossbow that delivers on its promises of lightweight maneuverability and effortless cocking, especially with the ACUdraw. Its accuracy and ease of use make it an excellent choice for a wide range of hunters.
At $570.99, the price is justified by the quality of construction, the inclusion of essential accessories, and the significant benefit of the ACUdraw system. I would absolutely recommend the Wicked Commander M1 Acudraw Multi-Line Scope to anyone looking for a reliable, easy-to-use, and maneuverable crossbow. If you value comfort, accuracy, and American-made quality, then this crossbow deserves a spot in your hunting arsenal.