#10 on this list
Fred Bear Take Down
Bear Archery
The Bear Archery Fred Bear Take Down is a unique and incredibly versatile bow, distinct from most other takedowns. Its defining feature is its quick, three-piece construction, which disassembles rapidly via a robust spring-loaded system at the limb-riser junction. This makes it perhaps the most packable hunting recurve on the market, ideal for travel, backcountry hunts, or stowing in a tight spot. It also features the iconic 1969 heel-horn grip, a classic design that many traditional archers find exceptionally comfortable and repeatable. What truly sets it apart is its modularity beyond just limb swapping. The Fred Bear Take Down offers different riser lengths (A or B) that can be paired with different limb lengths to achieve various overall bow lengths, from compact 56-inch bows to smoother-drawing 64-inch setups. This allows for a high degree of customization to fit individual archer preferences and hunting scenarios. You can have a short, nimble bow for ground blinds, and swap to longer limbs for open-country stalking, all on the same riser system. Limbs are available in a wide range of draw weights, often up to 65 or 70 pounds. While it’s a premium price, the ability to pack it down small and change bow configurations makes it invaluable for the serious hunter who travels or faces varied conditions. It’s a blend of classic design and practical innovation, perfect for the archer who values portability and adaptability above all else. This isn't just a bow; it's a system for the dedicated and mobile traditional hunter.
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#1 on this list
Sage Takedown Recurve
Samick
The Samick Sage isn't just a good first recurve; it's the benchmark by which all entry-level bows are judged. It’s a 62-inch takedown, meaning the limbs detach from the riser, making it easy to transport and, more importantly, easy to upgrade. You can start with a lighter draw weight, say 25 pounds, and as your form develops and strength builds, simply buy heavier limbs (available up to 60 pounds) and swap them onto the same riser. This saves you from buying a whole new bow, making it incredibly economical for the long haul. Performance is surprisingly good for the price point. The riser is sturdy, if a bit plain, and the limbs offer a reasonably smooth draw out to about 29 inches. Tuning is straightforward, and it's a very forgiving bow to learn on. It’s not a show pony, but it’s a workhorse. For someone dipping their toes into traditional archery, or even a seasoned compound shooter looking for a reliable backup or practice bow, the Sage delivers. Construction is basic but effective: laminated wood riser, fiberglass and wood core limbs. It comes drilled for a stabilizer, quiver, and plunger, so accessorizing is easy. The grip is comfortable for most hand sizes, though it lacks the refined feel of pricier bows. It’s not going to win any beauty contests, but it will consistently throw an arrow where you’re looking, which is what matters when you’re learning or just need a reliable tool.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Fred Bear Take Down | Sage Takedown Recurve |
|---|---|---|
| Bow Type | Takedown Recurve | Takedown Recurve |
| Riser System | Modular A or B riser | — |
| Takedown | Quick, Spring-loaded | — |
| Typical Draw Weights | 30-65 lbs (often higher) | — |
| Overall Lengths | 56-64 inches (riser/limb dependent) | — |
| Grip | 1969 Heel-Horn | — |
| Bow Length | — | 62 inches |
| Riser Material | — | Laminated Wood |
| Limb Material | — | Wood Core, Fiberglass |
| Draw Weights | — | 20-60 lbs (in 5 lb increments) |
| Hand Orientation | — | Right or Left Hand |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Fred Bear Take Down
- Unmatched portability with quick, robust 3-piece takedown system
- Highly modular: configurable with different risers & limbs for various lengths
- Legendary design and proven field performance for serious hunters
- Smooth draw and quiet shot, especially with longer limb configurations
- Exceptional durability and build quality; a multi-generational bow
- Premium price point, not an entry-level option
- Proprietary limb system not interchangeable with other brands
- Iconic heel-horn grip may not suit all archers' preferences
Sage Takedown Recurve
- Exceptional value for money, a true bang-for-buck champion
- Takedown design allows for easy storage, transport, and limb weight upgrades
- Very forgiving and stable, excellent for learning fundamental skills
- Wide range of limb weights available, from 20 to 60 pounds
- Accessory bushings for stabilizer, quiver, and plunger
- Durable laminated wood riser and fiberglass/wood limbs
- Utilitarian aesthetic, not a 'show bow'
- Stock string is functional but can be upgraded for better performance
- Grip is comfortable but lacks the refined feel of premium bows
- Not the fastest bow on the market, modest arrow speeds
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.