Bow input-Returning to bowhunting (Alaskan Pro vs AX2 32)

[MT_Fin]

I have not bow hunted for a number of years but my 16 year old has shown interest as they have been shooting bows in gym class. I was thinking about getting us each a mid-range set up to start out and looks like the Bear Alaskan Pro’s are well regarded in that range. However, I also found a decent deal on a new old stock 2025 Hoyt AX2 32.

Has anyone had experience with either now or have input? Should I be looking at other options?

Any help would be appreciated.

 

[blackveltbowhunter]

Experience with both. The hoyt is a superior product. If they are close to same price no doubt I would do the hoyt. What kind of support do you have for setup? The only caveat might be if competing shops and the bear is at a superior service department. Even then I would likely lean toward the hoyt and travel for help if needed

 

[MT_Fin]

Experience with both. The hoyt is a superior product. If they are close to same price no doubt I would do the hoyt. What kind of support do you have for setup? The only caveat might be if competing shops and the bear is at a superior service department. Even then I would likely lean toward the hoyt and travel for help if needed

There is a full service pro shop in town, but not big enough for competing shops. The Hoyt is a fair amount more than the Bear.

 

[blackveltbowhunter]

Are both bows at the pro shop? Dealer for both?

It really depends on what you want. What you will use and how flexible your budget is. Both bows spec well with good options. The hoyt strings and tuning shims vs spacers along with an overall better build quality, and resale value would put it ahead of the Alaskan for me and worth 3 or 4 hundred more. If more than that, I would likely stick to my budget.

 

[MT_Fin]

Are both bows at the pro shop? Dealer for both?

It really depends on what you want. What you will use and how flexible your budget is. Both bows spec well with good options. The hoyt strings and tuning shims vs spacers along with an overall better build quality, and resale value would put it ahead of the Alaskan for me and worth 3 or 4 hundred more. If more than that, I would likely stick to my budget.

Neither are at the pro shop. Budget is flexible but not wanting a new flagship with top tier everything for $3k level at this point but flexible.

 

[blackveltbowhunter]

If planning to DIY the setups and tuning, then either option is good with the hoyt being overall easier to tune with shims rather than counting thicks and thins and decompressing everything.

If your planning to utilize the service of the shop near you, I would recommend finding out what bows they are dealers for. Then purchase one of the brands they carry even if you choose not buy new or from them. This will help avoid headaches down the road. For instance if you bought the bear and the shop is not a bear dealer, they may not be familiar with the nuances of the tuning system or have as easy of access to the parts or any warranty issues that arise. Same for the hoyt.

Totally get not wanting to fiscally commit to flagship pricing. The good news is the equipment your looking at is very good and will serve you well without the flagship budget commitment. Just plan beyond the initial bow purchase and that can save alot of frustration in the long run.