#8 on this list
Kodiak Recurve (Reissue)
Bear Archery
The Bear Archery Kodiak Recurve (Reissue) is more than just a bow; it's a piece of living history, a faithful reissue of the iconic 1959 Kodiak. This isn't a modern interpretation, but a true-to-form reproduction, complete with the distinctive shedua and purpleheart riser and classic green glass limbs. For collectors and purists, it's a chance to own and shoot a legendary design without hunting down a fragile, original vintage model. What's impressive is that despite its collector-grade appeal, this bow is built to be shot hard. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the seamless laminations to the deep, rich finish. The combination of woods in the riser is visually striking, giving the bow a timeless elegance. Performance-wise, the 1959 Kodiak design is a proven winner. It's a smooth-drawing recurve, typically around 60 inches, with a comfortable grip that helps promote consistent shooting. It handles well and delivers an arrow with authority, proving that classic designs still hold their own against modern counterparts. This bow appeals strongly to those who appreciate the aesthetic and historical significance of traditional archery equipment. It's an investment in heritage, but also a fully functional and capable hunting or target bow. While it lacks the modularity of takedowns, its singular beauty and performance make it a cherished possession. It's for the archer who wants to connect with the golden age of traditional archery and own a piece of that legacy they can actively shoot and enjoy.
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#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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Specs side by side
| Spec | Kodiak Recurve (Reissue) | G62 Recurve |
|---|---|---|
| Bow Type | One-piece Recurve | Traditional Recurve (One-piece) |
| Riser Materials | Shedua, Purpleheart | — |
| Limb Materials | Maple, Green Fiberglass | — |
| Bow Length | Typically 60 inches | — |
| Draw Weights | 30-60 lbs (in 5 lb increments) | — |
| Draw Smoothness | Excellent | — |
| Overall Length | — | 62 inches |
| Typical Draw Weights | — | 30-55 lbs |
| Ideal Draw Lengths | — | 28 inches and up |
| Riser Material | — | Laminated Wood |
| Limb Core | — | Wood, Fiberglass |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Kodiak Recurve (Reissue)
- Faithful reproduction of an iconic design
- Exceptional build quality and aesthetic appeal
- Smooth drawing and forgiving shootability
- Excellent grip for consistent hand placement
- Durable and reliable for field use
- Fixed draw weight, no room for growth
- Higher price point than many entry-level bows
- One-piece design limits transport options
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
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