#9 on this list
G62 Recurve
Bear Archery
The Bear Archery G62 Recurve is a compelling one-piece option that revives the classic early Grizzly silhouette but stretches it out to a more accommodating 62 inches. This additional length is a significant advantage for archers with draw lengths pushing past 28 inches, as it significantly reduces limb stack and provides a smoother, more comfortable draw cycle than shorter bows like the standard 58-inch Grizzly. It’s Bear’s answer for the longer-draw traditional archer who prefers the simplicity and stability of a one-piece design. Construction is typical Bear Archery quality for its price point: solid, functional, and attractive. The riser often features a clean, two-tone wood lamination, giving it a classic look. The fiberglass and wood core limbs are durable and provide consistent performance. The grip is well-formed and comfortable for most hand sizes, promoting a repeatable hand position that's key for accuracy. This bow feels substantial in the hand, contributing to a stable shot, but isn't overly heavy. The G62 hits a sweet spot: it offers the traditional feel and aesthetics of a Bear one-piece, but with enhanced shootability for a broader range of archers. It’s a workhorse hunting bow, equally at home in the field or on the 3D course. For the archer who loves the idea of a classic Bear one-piece but needs that extra length for a smoother draw and better performance, the G62 is a clear winner, providing a comfortable and reliable platform without the need for modularity.
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#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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Specs side by side
| Spec | G62 Recurve | Fred Bear Take Down |
|---|---|---|
| Bow Type | Traditional Recurve (One-piece) | Takedown Recurve |
| Overall Length | 62 inches | — |
| Typical Draw Weights | 30-55 lbs | 30-65 lbs (often higher) |
| Ideal Draw Lengths | 28 inches and up | — |
| Riser Material | Laminated Wood | — |
| Limb Core | Wood, Fiberglass | — |
| Riser System | — | Modular A or B riser |
| Takedown | — | Quick, Spring-loaded |
| Overall Lengths | — | 56-64 inches (riser/limb dependent) |
| Grip | — | 1969 Heel-Horn |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
G62 Recurve
- Exceptionally smooth draw cycle for longer draw lengths
- Stable and forgiving to shoot, aids in accuracy
- Durable, proven construction built for years of use
- Classic aesthetics with modern shootability
- Solid value for a field-ready traditional hunting bow
- Fixed draw weight, no limb interchangeability
- One-piece design is less compact for transport
- Not ideal for very short draw lengths (under 27 inches)
- Not the fastest recurve available, focuses on smooth consistency
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
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.