#2 on this list
Grizzly Recurve
Bear Archery
The Bear Grizzly stands as a testament to enduring design and value. Essentially unchanged since 1964, this 58-inch one-piece recurve is for the archer who wants an honest, dependable hunting bow without breaking the bank. It's an ideal choice for new traditional archers due to its accessibility and forgiving nature, but also respected by seasoned bowhunters for its proven capability in the field. The Grizzly's compact length makes it maneuverable in dense timber or from a treestand, appealing to those hunting in tighter spots. Construction is straightforward and effective: a maple riser provides a solid foundation, while the fiberglass-faced maple limbs offer good speed and durability. Bear's manufacturing consistency means you get a reliable bow right out of the box. While the 58-inch length can feel a bit short for archers with very long draw lengths (typically over 29 inches), leading to some 'stack' or finger pinch, for average to shorter draws, it’s a comfortable and efficient shooter. It’s remarkably quiet for a production bow, a hallmark of the one-piece design, and its relatively light mass weight makes it easy to carry all day. The Grizzly punches well above its price point. **Highlights** * Exceptional value, offering top-tier performance at a modest price. * Compact 58-inch length is excellent for tight hunting scenarios. * Durable maple riser and fiberglass-faced maple limbs ensure longevity. * Classic, time-tested design with proven hunting success. * Light mass weight makes it comfortable for extended carrying. **Watch-outs** * Shorter length can lead to finger pinch and stack for long draw lengths. * Factory grip is functional but may not be anatomically perfect for everyone. * Aesthetics are utilitarian; less refined than custom bows.
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#3 on this list
Kodiak Recurve (1959 Reissue)
Bear Archery
The 1959 Kodiak Reissue isn't just a bow; it's a piece of archery history brought back to life. This 60-inch one-piece recurve is for the collector who wants to shoot, the traditionalist who admires classic lines, and the hunter who seeks a connection to the golden age of bowhunting. It perfectly captures the aesthetics and performance that made the original 1959 Kodiak legendary. Its beauty is undeniable, featuring an I-beam riser of shedua and purpleheart, woods that contribute not just to its stunning looks but also to its stability and mass weight. Shooting the '59 Reissue is a smooth experience. The 60-inch length provides a forgiving draw and good cast, suitable for a wide range of archers. The green-glass backed limbs, characteristic of the era, offer a pleasing contrast to the rich riser woods. While it's a factory-built bow, it carries the feel and finish of something more bespoke. Its performance in the field is exactly what you'd expect: quiet, stable, and accurate. It's a bow that encourages slow, deliberate shooting and appreciation. The primary trade-off is its premium price point compared to other production bows, reflecting the quality of materials and the faithful reproduction of a classic design. **Highlights** * Faithful reproduction of the iconic 1959 Kodiak design and performance. * Stunning I-beam riser crafted from shedua and purpleheart woods. * Smooth 60-inch draw length accommodates most archers comfortably. * Quiet and stable shot, characteristic of well-designed one-piece recurves. * Offers a strong connection to traditional bowhunting heritage. **Watch-outs** * Higher price point than other production Bear models. * Collector's item aesthetics may deter those seeking a purely utilitarian bow. * Limited availability compared to standard production models.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Grizzly Recurve | Kodiak Recurve (1959 Reissue) |
|---|---|---|
| Bow Type | One-Piece Recurve | One-piece Recurve |
| Length | 58 inches AMO | — |
| Riser Material | Maple | — |
| Limb Material | Maple core, fiberglass faced | — |
| Handedness | Right or Left | — |
| Availability | New & Used | — |
| Model Year | — | 1959 Reissue |
| Overall Length | — | 60 inches |
| Riser Materials | — | Shedua, Purpleheart |
| Limb Finish | — | Green glass backing |
| Hand Orientation | — | Right or Left Hand |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Grizzly Recurve
- Exceptional value for a field-proven hunting bow
- Extremely durable, built to withstand hard use
- Compact length excellent for dense cover and treestands
- Inherently quiet and stable shot due to one-piece design
- Timeless design with a deep heritage in traditional archery
- Shorter length can cause finger pinch for long draw lengths
- Factory grip may not suit all archers without modification
- Less refined aesthetics compared to custom bows
- Not easily disassembled for travel or limb swaps
Kodiak Recurve (1959 Reissue)
- Authentic reproduction of an iconic design
- Stunning aesthetics with shedua and purpleheart riser
- Smooth, stable, and quiet shooting experience
- Forgiving 60-inch length suits many archers
- Heirloom quality and durable construction
- Premium price point for a production bow
- Fixed draw weight, no limb swaps
- Longer length can make travel challenging
- Not the fastest recurve on the market
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