WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ Review

The WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ Made a Bold First Impression

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of bow cases. Protecting your investment and ensuring safe transport is paramount, and a quality case is non-negotiable. The WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/, specifically the BOWPACK 2019+ VEIL ALPINE model, piqued my interest with its promise of a blend of protection and portability, all wrapped in the visually striking Veil Alpine camo pattern.

I was searching for a case that offered substantial protection without the bulk and weight of a hard case, a common dilemma for bowhunters who often traverse challenging terrain. The promise of a “soft case” that still delivers on security and ease of carry was what led me to consider this Wicked Ridge offering.

My first impression upon receiving the WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ was positive. The Veil Alpine camo is undeniably attractive, and the material felt durable and well-stitched. It felt lighter than I anticipated, which is a welcome change from lugging around heavier, more cumbersome cases.

I’ve previously used the Plano Bow Guard AW2 hard case and a generic soft case from a big-box retailer. The Plano offered superior protection but was bulky, while the generic soft case was lightweight but lacked crucial padding. I chose the WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ hoping to find a happy medium.

My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism, typical of soft cases. Can it really protect my bow as well as a hard case, especially during air travel or rough handling? Only time and testing will tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ was transporting my Wicked Ridge Invader 400 to a local archery range. The range is outdoors and prone to unpredictable weather, providing a decent initial test.

The case performed admirably, keeping my bow protected from light rain and the ever-present dust. The bow fit snugly inside, and the external pockets were useful for storing my quiver and a few small tools. I did not need excessive time to familiarize myself with packing the bow.

After my first use, I didn’t encounter any significant issues. It was a straightforward, no-frills experience which is exactly what I expect from a bow case.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including a hunting trip with some bumpy ATV rides, the WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ has proven to be surprisingly durable. There are no signs of tearing or seam separation.

The Veil Alpine camo shows minimal wear, even after being dragged through some brush. Cleaning is simple; a damp cloth easily removes dirt and mud. I would note the zippers can struggle with debris.

Compared to my previous soft case, the WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ offers significantly better protection and durability. It’s not quite on par with a hard case for absolute impact resistance, but the added portability and lighter weight are considerable advantages for most hunting scenarios.

Breaking Down the Features of WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/

Specifications

The WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ features the BOWPACK 2019+ VEIL ALPINE design. It is specifically designed to fit crossbows. It utilizes durable, weather-resistant fabric, likely a reinforced nylon or polyester blend, though the exact material isn’t explicitly stated. The case is equipped with heavy-duty zippers and reinforced stitching at stress points.

The case incorporates internal padding for enhanced protection, though the thickness and density of the padding aren’t specified. It also features external pockets for storing accessories such as arrows, quivers, and tools. These specifications are important as they directly influence the case’s ability to protect the crossbow and its accessories from damage during transport and storage, as well as its overall longevity.

Performance & Functionality

The WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ performs its primary job – protecting the crossbow – quite well. The padding provides a decent level of cushioning against impacts, and the weather-resistant fabric keeps out rain and dust. The external pockets are useful for organizing accessories, though they could benefit from more robust closures.

One slight weakness is the lack of internal straps or dividers to further secure the crossbow and prevent movement within the case. Adding these would enhance protection and reduce the risk of damage during transport. It definitely exceeds expectations for a soft case in terms of durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid, with durable materials and reinforced stitching. The case is surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to carry for extended periods. The handles are comfortable and well-placed.

The design is user-friendly, with a large main compartment that allows for easy loading and unloading of the crossbow. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my testing, the WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ appears to be built to last. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the stitching is robust.

Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Regular zipper lubrication is recommended to ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ comes with a few accessory pockets, but no included accessories. It is not really customizable in the traditional sense.

The internal dimensions are designed to accommodate most crossbows, but aftermarket internal padding or dividers can be added for a customized fit. It’s compatible with most universal accessory pouches that can be attached to the exterior using MOLLE straps (if the case is modified to include MOLLE webbing).

Pros and Cons of WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/

Who Should Buy WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/?

The WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ is perfect for crossbow hunters who need a lightweight and durable case for transporting their bow to and from the field. It’s also a good option for archers who want a soft case that offers more protection than a basic model.

Those who require maximum protection for air travel or extremely rough handling should probably stick with a hard case.

A must-have modification would be adding internal straps or dividers to better secure the crossbow inside the case.

Conclusion on WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/

The WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ is a solid choice for crossbow hunters seeking a balance between protection and portability. While it may not offer the same level of impact resistance as a hard case, its lightweight design, durable construction, and useful accessory pockets make it a practical option for most hunting scenarios.

At $119.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and construction.

I would recommend it to fellow hunters who need a reliable and easy-to-carry bow case. If you are in the market for a soft case offering adequate protection without breaking the bank or your back, give the WICKED RIDGE AMBUSH SOFT CASE/ a serious look. Happy hunting!