First Impressions of Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236 promises a lot: a ready-to-hunt compound bow that blends speed, adjustability, and a full suite of accessories. For someone like me, who’s spent years guiding new hunters and fine-tuning their gear, the appeal is clear. A reliable, easy-to-set-up bow can make or break a beginner’s experience, and I’m always on the lookout for options that streamline the process.
I needed a reliable, adjustable bow to recommend to new hunters taking my course. Many struggle with the initial setup and tuning of their equipment, leading to frustration and potentially hindering their hunting success. I hoped the Gamekeeper RTH Package would offer a user-friendly solution.
The Gamekeeper arrived securely packaged. My first impression was positive, noting the Bottomland camo finish which is a proven pattern for blending into a variety of environments. The weight felt balanced, and the included accessories seemed reasonably high-quality for a ready-to-hunt package.
Compared to a Diamond Archery Edge SB-1 or a PSE Stinger Max, the Bear Archery Gamekeeper seemed to prioritize ease of use and adjustability over top-end speed. The Diamond Edge SB-1 offers similar adjustability, while the PSE Stinger Max might edge it out slightly in performance, but the Gamekeeper’s complete package with Trophy Ridge accessories made it stand out for beginners. I ultimately chose the Gamekeeper for its reputation for smooth draw and its complete set of accessories.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The advertised adjustability and included accessories of the Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236 suggested a great value for beginners. I was eager to see how it would perform in the field and how easy it would be to set up for different shooters.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Bear Archery Gamekeeper at my local archery range and then on a simulated hunt in a wooded area. I wanted to assess its performance in both controlled and more realistic hunting conditions. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, ideal conditions for archery.
The Gamekeeper’s performance was impressive for a bow in this price range. It delivered consistent shots, and the draw cycle felt surprisingly smooth. Setting up the included Trophy Ridge sight was straightforward.
It took a little tweaking to get the draw length perfectly dialed in for each shooter who tested the bow. The draw length adjustment mechanism is relatively easy to use, but fine-tuning requires patience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Bear Archery Gamekeeper has proven to be a reliable performer. There are no signs of wear or tear beyond some minor cosmetic scratches on the limbs from handling in the woods. The string is holding up well, and the cams are still running smoothly.
Cleaning and maintaining the Gamekeeper is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use and occasional lubrication of the cams are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Compared to some higher-end bows I’ve used, the Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236 doesn’t have the same level of vibration dampening. However, for its intended purpose as an entry-level hunting bow, it performs admirably. It’s certainly a step up from some of the older, less refined bows I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236
Specifications
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236 features a 30″ axle-to-axle length, contributing to its maneuverability in tight hunting scenarios. Its 6.5″ brace height makes it forgiving, reducing the impact of minor form imperfections on accuracy. This is crucial for beginner archers still developing their technique.
It offers two adjustable peak draw weight options: 45-60 lbs and 55-70 lbs. This adjustability makes it suitable for a wide range of shooters with varying strength levels. The draw length range is 27″ to 32″, further enhancing its versatility.
The Gamekeeper boasts a speed of up to 330 FPS. This provides ample kinetic energy for ethical harvesting of game animals. Its 80% let-off allows for comfortable holding at full draw. This is important for maintaining steady aim during extended waits.
The RTH (Ready-to-Hunt) Package includes a Trophy Ridge 4-Pin Sight, offering reliable aiming points at various distances. The Trophy Ridge Whisker Biscuit V arrow rest provides secure arrow containment and quiet arrow launch. The Trophy Ridge 5-Arrow Quiver keeps arrows readily accessible during the hunt. These included accessories significantly reduce the initial investment required to get started.
A Trophy Ridge Stabilizer & Sling helps to reduce vibration and improve balance. The Peep Sight & D-Loop complete the package, providing precise anchor points for consistent shooting. It comes in a Bottomland camo finish, which aids in concealment in natural environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236 performs its job admirably as an entry-level hunting bow. It’s accurate enough for ethical hunting at reasonable distances, reliable in various weather conditions, and relatively easy to use.
Its strengths lie in its adjustability, smooth draw cycle, and complete accessory package. The weakness is the lack of advanced vibration dampening found in higher-end bows.
The Gamekeeper meets expectations for a ready-to-hunt bow in this price range. It provides a solid foundation for beginners to develop their archery skills and experience the thrill of the hunt.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236 is good for its price point. The materials used are durable and the weight is well-balanced.
It’s comfortable to hold and shoot, and the grip is ergonomically designed. The user-friendly design minimizes the learning curve for new archers.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236 should last for many years. Regular string waxing and occasional inspection of the limbs and cams are essential for maintaining its longevity.
It’s relatively easy to maintain and repair. Replacement parts are readily available if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper comes with a comprehensive set of accessories. These include a Trophy Ridge 4-Pin Sight, Whisker Biscuit V arrow rest, 5-Arrow Quiver, Stabilizer & Sling, Peep Sight & D-Loop.
Customization options are available for those who want to upgrade certain components. The sight, arrow rest, and stabilizer can all be replaced with higher-end models. The Gamekeeper is compatible with most standard accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236
Pros
- Easy to set up and adjust. Perfect for beginners who need a ready-to-hunt bow without a lot of technical hassle.
- Smooth draw cycle. This makes it more comfortable to shoot for extended periods, reducing fatigue and improving accuracy.
- Complete accessory package. Includes everything needed to start hunting immediately, saving time and money.
- Adjustable draw weight and length. This accommodates a wide range of shooters and allows the bow to grow with the archer as their strength and technique improve.
- Durable construction. Built to withstand the rigors of hunting in various conditions.
Cons
- Lacks advanced vibration dampening found in higher-end bows. This might be noticeable to experienced archers.
- The included accessories, while functional, are not top-of-the-line. Some users may eventually want to upgrade.
Who Should Buy Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236?
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236 is perfect for beginner hunters who want a reliable, easy-to-use, and complete bow package. It is also well-suited for intermediate archers looking for an affordable and adjustable hunting bow.
Experienced archers who demand the highest levels of performance and customization might want to consider a higher-end bow. Also, those who prefer a specific brand of accessories might prefer to purchase a bare bow and build their own custom setup.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality arrow puller, as removing arrows from targets can be difficult with higher draw weights. Consider upgrading the stabilizer for better vibration dampening over time.
Conclusion on Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236
The Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236 is a solid choice for beginner and intermediate hunters seeking a complete and adjustable bow package. It offers a great balance of performance, ease of use, and affordability.
The price of $649.99 is justified considering the included accessories and the overall quality of the bow. It represents an excellent value for those looking to get into archery hunting without breaking the bank.
I would definitely recommend the Bear Archery Gamekeeper RTH Package BEA2236 to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use hunting bow. If you’re ready to take your first shot, the Gamekeeper is a great place to start!