Doinker Dish 12 inch Stabilizer

Review Status:



If you are using Doinker’s® D.I.S.H. line of stabilizers then let us know what you think of it by leaving a comment below.

Doinker DISH 12″


(4/26/11) The review for the Doinker D.I.S.H was left for us by Arren D. Thanks Arren for another very useful review. I have a Doinker 6 inch DISH with some unique spike weights made by a friend of mine. See picture below. If you are interested in these weights then take a look at xaddictarchery’s spiked stabilizer weights.

My Doinker with XAddict Archery's Spiked Weights

Outdoorsman Review:

Look: The Doinker D.I.S.H. has the look of a B Stinger on steroids. The DISH has a rubberized tip that has all the weight and in my case is in all black. They have made the rod appear as carbon, which really brings it all together. It comes with a quick disconnect and what appears to be an “A Bomb” in the middle of the DISH to absorb the shot.

Initial impression: This thing is HEAVY. It is actually heavier than my 12 oz B Stinger. I am guessing somewhere around 14 oz. The build quality appears quite solid, as when tightened next to the quick disconnect it does not move at all.

Shooting: The DISH holds nice on target. I like the many places you can put your weights to adjust for your shooting style. The DISH also absorbs much more of the shot than does the B Stinger.

Overall: I would have to give the DISH a 4.5/5 stars. The only reason to take off a half star is the price. While it is making Doinker money, it hurts us consumers that love quality but hate the price. I have finally found something that will replace the B Stinger on my hunting bow.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Doinker D.I.S.H:

The Doinker Dish (Distal, Interrupted, Stabilizer, Hub) Stabilizer is an all-new concept in stabilizer utility and performance. The super-sized Hub acts like a Doinker on steroids as it champions bow torque, noise, vibration and shock. The Patent Pending Hub employs Doinker’s proprietary Interrupted Transfer Polymer and is the most effective Doinker they have ever constructed.

Adding to this stabilizers unique concept is its 4.5-inch flexible, variable weight disk that uses Doinker’s proprietary STACK Weights to weight the forward end. By putting the weight at the distil end of the stabilizer, shooters are able to aim steadier and make the most of a stabilizer’s two main functions: stabilization prior to the shot, and dampening after the arrow is released.

The 12″ Doinker Dish is unique in its design that it comes standard at 14 oz, can be lowered to 9.2 ounce, and with the purchase of additional Dish Stacker Weights can be made as heavy as 2 pounds 14 ounces! A complimentary quick disconnect allows you to effortlessly mount and dismount the D.I.S.H Stabilizer for easy transport and travel.

ReadHead Bone-Dry Waterproof Hunting Boots

Review Status:



Are you hunting in RedHead’s® Trailblazer Bone-Dry® waterproof hunting boots? If you have a pair of these boots then let us know if you like them by leaving a comment below.

(4/12/11) The review for the Trailblazer boots was left by me; Doug Snyder,  from the Southern California area. Don’t worry. I’m not eligible for the monthly giveaway as I’m  associated with OutdoorsmanReview. I just have a few new items that I’d like to review for everyone.

OutdoorsmanReview:

Let me start out by saying that I wear boots just about every day. I usually wear work boots and I beat them into the ground before I buy new ones. My decision to purchase the Trailblazer boots was based on the fact that not one pair of my work boots are waterproof and I thought that I needed some waterproof boots for a 3D archery shoot that our club was hosting back in March. All reports pointed to rain.

I was originally looking for waterproof work boots because (to me) camo hunting boots are ugly. I can stand other camo garb but for some reason I have a block on camo boots. After searching high and low for a pair of size 15 Caterpillar waterproof work boots I was left standing in BassPro. Not a bad place to be actually.

My options and time were/was running out. The only pair of large boots (size 14) that BP had was the Trailblazer Bone-Dry boot. I thought that I needed a 15 but after trying on the size 14 I thought they would work. This turned out to be a good decision as walking up and down rough terrain tends to make your feet slide around in oversized boots.

I made a quick decision that I would try these boots. At the time they were on sale for $69.97. This also was a factor in buying these boots as the list price was $99.99. Here is what I think about the Trailblazer boots by RedHead.

Waterproof-ness (If this is a word)

It turns out that the rain that we were expecting during our club’s shoot didn’t show up until after the shoot. This was good for the club but bad because I really wanted to test how water proof these boots were. I didn’t have to wait too long because last weekend it snowed about 4″ at our home range. By the time my son and I got to the range the sun was already melting the snow. This gave me the perfect opportunity to put these boots to the test. After an hour of walking through the slush, mud, and puddles I had formed an opinion about how waterproof the Trailblazers are. They kept my feet completely dry. Not one bit of water leaked through. I was impressed as I’ve had other boots that claimed to be waterproof but didn’t live up to the claim.

The one thing that I did notice was that they didn’t keep my feet completely warm. If you want toasty feet then I suggest that you wear a pair of wool socks. These boots are not insulated.

Comfort

I’ve had some good boots and bad boots when it comes to comfort. The Trailblazers rank up in the more comfortable range. They are a very light boot, cushion my feet pretty well, and (because they’re 6″ boots) they don’t bother my ankles as long as I don’t tie them too tight. I spent all day in these boots this last Sunday at another 3D shoot. 42 targets and my feet still felt great.

Conclusion

At $99.99 these are good light weight, waterproof hunting boots. At $69.97 they are great boots. The only complaint that I have about these boots is that RedHead could have made the tongue just a bit longer. When you tie the laces to the top they pop over the top of the tongue unless you purposely tie them below the top of the tongue. Not a huge problem and I’ve had this problem with other boots. All in all the Trailblazer is a pretty good boot.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Bone-Dry hunting boot:

• Waterproof full-grain leather upper
• Bone-Dry 100% waterproof/windproof lining – GUARANTEED!
• Moisture wicking Cambrelle lining
• Poliyou cushioning footbed – breathable and odor absorbing
• Lightweight EVA cushioned camo midsole
• RedHead molded durable rubber hunting outsole
• Non-insulated

Vortex Raptor 8.5 x 32mm Binoculars

Review Status:



Do you use these binoculars when hunting? Or do you just use them to look at heavenly bodies? Whatever you use them for; let us know what you think of them by leaving a comment below.

Vortex Raptor 8.5 x 32mm Binoculars


(3/30/11) The review for the Vortex Raptor binoculars was left for us by Tom F. from Clifton Park, New York. Thanks for another great review Tom.

Outdoorsman Review:

When choosing binoculars the first thing you need to decide is the application. For my instance the appliction was purely archery. Sighting in and spotting hits on targets, more specificaly finding kill zones and eleven spots on 3D targets. For anyone interested in someday shooting I.B.O 8.5 magnification is the largest allowed. If your uninterested in that you can go as high as you want. However keeping in the I.B.O guidelines I wanted a quality 8.5 magnification binocular that was light and clear.

After hours of research online I found the Vortex Raptors. Vortex Optics has been touted for quality lenses and design at a price lower than the competitors. As I had read reviews for the Raptors and other comparable binoculars such as Alpen, Nikon, or Leoupold; they were very similar. I decided to try the underdog and purchased the Vortex Raptors….. I was not dissapointed.

The vortex raptors came with a comfort neck strap, lense covers, cleaning cloth and case. The craftsmanship seemed excellent and the initial clarity was super. After following the directions to focus the lenses in to my eye, the next step was to try them on 3D which was their original intent. I was pleasantly surprised. With the Vortex Raptors instead of approximating the eleven line I knew exactly where it was. They were clearer and easier to focus than even the 10X magnification binoculars I had before. I shoot 3D with two to three other people. All of them were amazed with clarity and definition of the Vortex Raptors even though the magnification was lower than theirs.

The price is ultimately what sold me on these binoculars. At about $130.00 they are priced much lower than the competitors and as described still deliver a beautiful product. Target from 6 yards all the the way to 40 are clearly seen with extreme precision. The eye relief adjustments are perfect for glasses or not. No more closing one eye to see your target. And with an uncoditional warranty you really cant go wrong with these binoculars. Any problems notify Vortex and they will make it right.

A great product at a great value. Hope this helps anyone intersted in a good 3D binocular.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Vortex Raptor:

• Magnification: 8.5 x
• Objective lens diameter: 32mm
• Eye relief: 14mm
• Exit pupil: 3.8mm
• Linear field of view: 390 feet/1000 yards
• Angular field of view: 7.4 degrees
• Close focus: 15 feet
• Interpupillary distance: 50 – 70 mm
• Height: 4.5 inches
• Width: 5.7 inches
• Weight: 17.3 ounces

Features

• Fully multi-coated lenses – Increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
• Porro Prisms – Valued for a rich depth of field, wide field of view, and three-dimensional image.
• Waterproof – Optics are sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from getting inside the binocular.
• Fogproof - Nitrogen gas purging delivers fogproof, waterproof performance.
• Rubber armor – Provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection.
• Adjustable eyecups – Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
• Center focus wheel – Adjusts the focus of both binocular barrels at the same time.
• Right eye diopter – Adjusts for differences in a user’s eyes. Located on the right eyepiece.

Bohning 5 tube target hip quiver

Review Status:



Have you got the Bohning 5 tube hip quiver? What do you think of it? Let us archers know by leaving a comment below.

Bohning 5 Tube Target Hip Quiver


(3/25/11) And another fine review left for us by Tom F. from Clifton Park, New York. Thanks Tom for your great reviews.

Outdoorsman Review:

I recieved my Bohning target hip quiver in the mail Wednesday night and have used it twice since then. Once shooting indoor Vegas style and once in a small outdoor 3D shoot. I have to say i love it. Its size is perfect. It has enough storage for for releases, wax, arrow lube, even your wallet or a small bottle of water, while still staying compact and not too bulky, like many other hip quivers.

Its material is very durable and even held up when i slipped with my arrow and poked it directly in the side of the quiver. I particularly enjoy the 5 arrow tubes that this comes with. Having more separted tubes allows for arrow seperation. Now if you have an arrow or two that break or are unusable during a shoot or you have one or two particular arrows that fly better, separation is super easy. No more fumbling through two arrow tubes to find the one you want.

I also liked the how the quiver is dropped down and angled on your hip. This to me allowed for easier grabbing of the arrows while also making it more comfortable on my hip and less intrusive to my draw. This quiver comes in multiple colors to let you choose your style. The styling is simple one tone color with a small Bohning logo at the top. It looks sharp.

The weight is minimal making it great for longer 3D shoots where you need to walk longer distances. The best part of this quiver is the price. I was able to purchase mine for only $24.00 on ebay…brand new. I waited until I got in to buy the Bohning belt and im glad i did. I was able to find a matching black military style belt that fit perfectly, at my local army navy. You can wear this on your regular belt, however having a thicker belt helps with comfort and ease of use. Going for the military style belt with the plastic clipping buckle worked great and only cost $8.00 instead of $24.00 for the Bohning. Either way you cant go wrong.

This hip quiver is just what i was looking for, for the range and particularly 3D shooting. The only downfall with this quiver is I dont get to use everday. Great product and I highly recommend.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Bohning hip quiver:

• Five tubes for more capacity!
• Made of durable, lightweight cordura with an embroidered Bohning Archery logo.
• Features five arrow tubes, two zipper pockets, an easy access side pocket and accessory clip.
• Available in black, red, blue, or pink.

Flambeau Deluxe Soft Side Compound Bow Case

Review Status:



Are you using Flambeau’s® Deluxe soft side bow case to carry your bow? If you are then tell us what you think of it by leaving a comment below.


Flambeau Deluxe Soft Side Compound Bow Case

(3/20/11) The review for Flambeau’s Deluxe Soft Side bow case was left for us by Thomas F. from Clifton Park, NY. Thanks Thomas for the review.

Outdoorsman Review:

The Flambeau Deluxe Compound Bow Case 6460BU is an adequate middle of the line soft bow case. I was immediately impressed with the room inside the case and amount of padding. Its styling is sharp and clean while still utilizing a quality material that is both rugged and durable. The case holds up to twelve arrows. However one of the disadvantages of this case is the rubber arrow holders. To place the arrows into the alotted spots at first is frustrating and time consuming. Yet with practice and use it does get easier. Still not the best system I’ve seen.

In the arrow compartment is two zippered pockets. These pockets provide ample room to hold the majority of the archery supplies you will need for the range or hunt. The second larger compartment is for bow storage only. It provides adequate room for almost any size compound bow. However the biggest drawback with this case is the inability to change the strap position to match your bows contour. I found i had to stretch the velcro and fabric through one of the holes in my bow to make it fasten. It is do able with almost any bow, however the fact of having to do it every time is a major disadvantage.

Overall the case is durable, functional, great for the range or short hunts, and at a price between 70 and 90 dollars it is also very affordable. On the other side if you are looking for more versatility and ease of use you may have to look toward the more expensive models.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Soft Side Deluxe:

• Fully padded and lined
• Main Compartment for bow storage
• Secondary compartment holds up to 12 arrows and includes zippered mesh pockets for organization of other accessories

Leupold RX-1000i Rangefinder with TBR and DNA Technology

Review Status:



Have you used Leupold’s® latest and greatest RX-1000i rangefinder while hunting or on your 3D shoots? If you have, tell us what you think by leaving a comment below.




Leupold RX-1000i Rangefinder with TBR & DNA Technology


(3/16/11) The review for the Leupold RX-1000i rangefinder was left for us by Wes H. from Iowa Park, Texas. Thanks Wes for the review.

Outdoorsman Review:

I purchased this rangefinder mostly for bowhunting, but after using it a few times, I wouldn’t go in the field without it. I tried several different brands of rangefinders at a major outdoors store and found this one to be the best choice for the performance/cost. There may be more expensive ones out there, but this one had the best clarity, ease of use, and easiest to read display for me. The red LED’s are adjustable to match the users needs and stand out well in the woods.

I found that the TBR feature works great, ecspecially on the bow settings. It gives the user true distance and adjusted shooting distance depending on the shooting angle. I had used this while practicing 30-50 yard shots from a 14′ stand at an archery range. The RX1000i gave the true and adjusted distance, I put the correct pin for the adjusted distance on target, and WHAM a perfect shot was made.

This rangefinder will always be in the woods with me regardless of bow or gun hunting. I can’t wait to try some long distance shots on the rifle range and try the ballistics TBR.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the RX-1000i Rangefinder:

• True Ballistic Ranging® (TBR) technology accounts for incline, range to target, and your ballistics information.
• Our next generation rangefinder engine with DNA (Digitally eNhanced Accuracy) delivers increased accuracy, speed and range.
• High-performance optics deliver a 3x brighter picture image for accurate ranging in low-light conditions.
• 6x magnification gives you plenty of power, while maintaining a wide field of view to track game on the move.
• Advanced OLED technology is user adjustable to match display intensity for changing light conditions.
• Choose from three different reticles: Plus Point™, Duplex, and Duplex with Plus Point.
• Powered by the readily available CR2 lithium camera battery, the RX-1000i with DNA features a convenient battery power indicator.
• Truly Compact – At 3.8 inches long, 2.8 inches tall, and 7.8 ounces, the RX-1000i with DNA is a powerful tool that fits in your pocket.
• Machined aluminum makes up the tough, weatherproof frame and body.
• Accurate ranging up to 1,000 yards on reflective targets, with measurement readouts in yards or meters.
• Continuous range updates in Scan Mode keep you on target as you track movement or scan an area.
• An intuitive, redesigned Quick Set Menu is easier to use in the field, thanks to on-screen prompts.
• Accessories included: The RX-1000i with DNA comes with a Cordura® holster, battery, lanyard, and complete instructions.

AAE Max Hunter Vanes

Review Status:



Are you using Arizona Archery’s Max Hunter vanes on your arrows? If you are then how are they working for you? Do you like them as much as Al? Tell us by leaving a comment below.


(3/2/11) AAE’s Max Hunter vanes were reviewed by Al Q. from Southern California. Thanks al for the very detailed review of Arizona’s vanes.

Outdoorsman Review:

For the past three months I have been shooting Arizona Archery Enterprises Max Hunter Vanes and I have nothing but good things to say about them. Originally, I was shooting Blazer vanes and while they work great, the Max Hunters work better. For me they worked MUCH better.

In comparison, the Max Hunter is a different design than the Blazer. Ifirst laid eyes on the Max Hunters while watching a hunting show and Icouldn’t help think about how odd I thought they looked. Like they say, I really should never judge a book by its cover. Ever.

First off, you can get the Max Hunters in only one size. The specificsare 2.1″ long, .590″ high, .024 thick and they come in eight colors: Black, Bright Green, Fire Orange, Hot Pink, Purple, Sunset Gold,White, and Yellow.

The vanes themselves are a bit thicker than most, but I feel that this helps correct the arrow in flight much faster. When shooting these in a crosswind the AAE vaned arrows corrected faster than the Blazer vaned arrows and I was more accurate with the AAE vanes. There are other benefits with the vane being thicker than most. I shot more than one arrow through another vane, on more than one occasion. I then took the arrow with an arrow hole through two vanes and shot it at 60yards. I hit pay dirt. Again. Even with holes in the fletching the arrow flew true. (It did have a nice airy, whistling sound, but this was just for the field review). When I did this with the Blazers, my arrows flew erratically and were not consistent.

When fletching, they go on each properly prepared arrow securely and with the AAE glue, they hold extremely well. I never had any fletching tear off when shooting it through mesh. On the other hand, more than once, the Blazers (with their glue) did come off when shot through the mesh.

I hit the range multiple times in the past three months. The AAE MaxHunters corrected faster and my arrow groupings were tighter that the Blazer vaned arrows. Same arrows, same field points, just different fletching. I was more consistent with the Max Hunters and even some of the spectators at the range noticed.

The Max Hunters fly true and are, in my opinion, the best vanes on the market. Let’s put it this way, for the first time ever, Sunday I decided to go out and shoot at 70 yards. So, I adjusted my pin to what I thought was close and shot 5 arrows. I hit the target , but wasn’t as close as I wanted. One adjustment later and I had all five arrows in the paper plate. At 70 yards! For many western hunters that’s not abig deal, but for this guy who has never shot anything over 60 yards,well, this was awesome. It felt great and I will continue to shoot the Max Hunter vanes on any arrow I shoot because I believe in them.

All in all, I give these vanes a 9/10. They are excellent. The only reason I didn’t give them a 10/10 is because they do stick a bit inside some of the fletching jigs because of their thickness. Other than that, they are superb and I’ll back them 100%.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Max Hunter vane:

Not too many technical specs for the Max Hunter vanes but here they are:

• One size: 2.1″ long, .590″ high, .024 thick.
• Eight Colors: Black, Bright Green, Fire Orange, Hot Pink, Purple, Sunset Gold, White, and Yellow.

Are you shooting at night? If you are you’re probably using some sort of lighted nock. Tell others what you think of the Firenock by leaving a comment below.

Lumenok GT1 Lighted Nock


(2/9/11) The review for the Firenock lighted nock (and the awsome comparison between the Firenock, Lumenok, and G5 lighted nocks) was left by Jeff T. Thanks Jeff for the great review.

Outdoorsman Review:

Firenock Lighted Arrow Nock

FIRENOCK vs. LUMENOCK vs. G5

First Impressions:
I ordered all three nocks at the same time from Lancaster Archery. I have never bought a lighted nock system before and have only been using my own homemade version for targets. I was very excited to start the Firenock Challenge and opened the package as soon as it arrived. The first nock on top was the Lumenock, then the G5 with the Firenock on the bottom. Here we go! All three were packaged nicely but were very different. I will say that the Lumenock package did not have as much information listed in comparison to the Firenock, which seemed to have a lot. Right away you could tell that each nock had their own style. I immediately thought that the G5 nock was very long and wondered how durable they would be in travel? The Lumenock is the shortest in length and the Firenock was dead in the middle. The G5 was the heaviest, weighing in at 38 grains and the Lumenock was the lightest. Of course that put Firenock right in the middle. Overall, I was very impressed with all three nocks on first impressions. Each has their own style but everything you need is right there with all of the nocks.

The Challenge:
During the challenge I shot each nock 100 times or until they quit working. At shot 50, I place the nocks in a glass of fresh water for 12 hours. At shot 75, the nocks were placed into a salt bath for 14 hours. Each nock was dried out and shot to see if the battery and wiring had held up.

Installation:
If you are not mechanically inclined, like me, the Firenock can be a bit intimidating but once you read the instructions and look at the diagrams, installation is a snap. It takes about 10 seconds to get the nock together and ready to use. The G5 also comes in two pieces, but is very easy to snap together. The Lumenock is ready to use right out of the package, so this was the easiest of the three. All nocks fit very well in my Gold Tip XT Hunter arrows. I had no problems and did not have to sand or fill space.
Use:
Firenock fits very well on my string. You can see the nock light up as you shoot and watch it all the way down to the target. Once on the target, the light is bright and was visible at 30 yards in the day light. The Firenock lighted every time and stayed lit until I turned it off. Turning the light off is easy once you think about. I found that holding the arrow a bit higher than the 6” recommendation was just easier for me to remember. The light turned off on the first try every time after that small adjustment. The G5 fit well on my string as well. The light is bright and very visible down range. The G5 automatically turns into a flash mode after six seconds and catches the eye nicely. The G5 nock lighted every time until a few shots after the salt water bath. The G5 quit working but was a solid competitor until then. Turning off the light takes 3 hits on a hard surface. There is a rhythm but once you get it down, turning the light off is a snap. The Lumenock also fit well with no problems. The light was the brightest of the three, but it is an orange nock with a red light and the others were red with red light. I don’t know if that affects anything, but I thought is should be mentioned. The Lumenock stopped working after the clean water submersion. I was able to get a few more shots, but it hasn’t worked since the fresh water. Turning off the nock was easy with a wiggle and pull motion. I took all three turkey hunting and although I did not get a shot, it was good to see all three in real use. I had no problems with the Firenock and the G5, however I did notice the Lumenock had turned on several times by its self.

Overall:
Each nock has something to offer but the Lumenock definitely fell short to the Firenock and G5. Lumenock just did not last. The G5 is a nice nock, but did not have the durability. The Firenock was clearly a better made product that you could count on. After 12 hours in fresh water and 14 hours in salt water, Firenock was the only one that continued to work. The parts seem to be high quality and customer service is top notch. For me the Firenock is worth the extra money. I want something that works when I need it. Firenock was the superior product in my test.

*Note: All nocks were shot out of a Mathews DXT, 68#, Athens Accomplice 68# and a youth recurve at 20#.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Firenock:

From the manufacturer:

• No magnet required
• 99.9999% reliable
• Ultra smart “G” switch
• 15 degree, 11,000 LUX focus beam LED
• 24K Gold plated connectors
• 24K Gold plated Titanium wire connector
• Battery and Nock is field changeable
• Matched weight practice nock included
• 17 second auto shutoff target nock for 3D
• 7 to 10 days blinking for signalling
• Saltwater proof with optional adapter
• Models available to fit most archery arrows.

BowTech SWAT Compound Bow

Review Status:



Have you shot the SWAT? Rhyme’s don’t it. If you have shot BowTech’s SWAT then let other archers know what you think of it by leaving a comment below.


(2/9/11) The review for the BowTech SWAT was left for us by Hunter C. Thanks Hunter for the review. By the way. Fitting name.

Outdoorsman Review:

The Bowtech SWAT is like something I have never shot or seen before. With the new style of this super parallel bow it makes each and every shot very nice. The bow comes with a factory hush kit I recommend replacing with sims silencers as well as the limb savers. The string stop is built very well and really dampens the sound down. The strings are also very great for factory strings. I have run nearly 3000 arrows through it and it looks new to this day. The bow also has a invelvet finish on it that makes it feel soft to the touch and warming on those 20 degree mornings in the stand. Something else on this that is like no other is the rotating module. You can basically get any draw from 26″ to 31″ with no press or parts to change, just spin the module and your good to go.

Now onto how it shoots, its pretty simple. Its great, the bow has a great grip that holds nice and is also light. Also the bow has no jump to it at all. The bow is completly “dead in the hand”. The first shot you literally dont know it fired. One downfall is speed though, its not the fastest bow out today but I sacrifice that to gain the amazing shootability of the bow. Overall its a great choice for newbies as well as pro archery shooters.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the SWAT:

• Brace height: 7 1/8 inches
• IBO Speed: 314 – 322 feet per second
• Axle to axle: 34 1/32 inches
• Kinetic energy: 80.6 foot-pounds
• Draw length: 26 – 31 inches
• Adjustable let-off: 65% – 80%
• Draw weight: 50, 60, 70 pounds

Rotating Mod System

Unlike most bows on the market today, BowTech bows do not require a new cam or module to set your draw length. Simply remove the module screws, rotate the module, and re-tighten. At least six inches of draw length adjustment and an infinite draw stop feature is available on most BowTech bows, allowing for custom draw length tuning for yourself or others.

BowTech Factory Strings

BowTech is widely regarded for the best factory strings “out of the box”. The secret is literally in the hands. BowTech strings are handmade in the USA to machine-grade tolerances. The string has exactly the same amount of twist across its entire length. Each individual string is precisely wound to within 1/32″ difference in length and subjected to 450 pounds of tension for 3 times longer than necessary to eliminate creep. No other manufacturer matches this process today. The result is no serving separation, no peep rotation and absolute stability with proper dealer setup.

Available Finishes

The S.W.A.T is available in Realtree Hardwoods Green HD®. The optional Octane accessory package includes an Octane BantamWeight quiver, 7″ stabilizer, Hostage Pro capture rest, 5-pin fiber optic sight, braided wrist sling and metal peep sight.

InVelvet™

You must feel the difference to believe it. The bow is actually soft to the touch, insulates hands from cold winter weather, dampens noise and protects from dings and scratches. Unaffected by common chemicals such as insect repellents or scent sprays, it is the most durable over-coating on the market.

Trophy Taker Smackdown FC Arrow Rest

Review Status:



Are you using Trophy Taker’s™ Smackdown™ FC drop down rest? How do you like this rest? Have you used it while hunting? Is it quiet? Let the rest of us hunters know by leaving your comment below.

Trophy Taker Smackdown FC Arrow Rest – Camo

(1/27/11) The review for the Smackdown FC was left for us by Dan M. from Wisconsin. Thanks Dan for your review of the Smackdown.

Outdoorsman Review:

The Trophy Taker Smackdown FC takes full capture arrow rests to a whole new level. After much research I decided on the Trophy Taker Smackdown FC. The rest is quality constructed out of all metal, no plastic here! The Trophy Taker also has the full capture feature to keep an arrow ready to be drawn at all times.

The installation process was a breeze. The rest can be installed in two ways, either using the included clasp and attaching to your bottom limb, or using the included clamp and attaching to your down cable of your bow. Total install time for me was less than 10 minutes. Had I actually known how simple the setup and installation was, I would have purchased one sooner!

The rest is very quiet with the rubber dampers that are used when the rest drops upon launching an arrow. The arrow guide is covered with nicely fit mole skin and the full capture housing is dipped in rubber coating.

The only downfall I have seen is the size. The rest is quite large. I think it could be just as good if made smaller. Overall, the rest is very user friendly with high quality construction. The price is comparable to what other rests of this style are. In my opinion, it was money well spent!

Manufacturer’s Spec for the Smackdown FC:

• Activation Cord Connects to Lower Limb or Up Cable
• No Cable Tension at Full Draw
• Increased Arrow Support Time, Easily Tunes with Today’s Speed Bows
• Included Limb Attachment Clasp Installs Quickly and Adjusts Easily
• Launcher Pivots On Rock Solid Bearings
• Drop Stop Launcher Silencer Included With Every Rest
• Multiple Broadhead Guard or Containment Ring Options Available as Accessories

The SmackDown™ is designed for attachment to the bottom limb or the upward moving cable. Using the limb or up cable to operate the rest allows the launcher to raise early as the bow is drawn, lifting the arrow long before the broadhead approaches the bow and long before the cams break over into the letoff position. When the bow is shot, the arrow travels along the launcher for nearly the full length of the shaft resulting in increased arrow guidance time. The increased time that the launcher guides the arrow during the shot makes tuning challenging bows much easier. At the last instant, the launcher is pulled down out of the path of the vanes and held firmly in the down position.

As an added bonus, the SmackDown™ promises to be the quickest and easiest rest to set up and tune that Trophy Taker has introduced to date. Be sure to visit your local archery retailer and put the SmackDownTM in action on your hunts this year.