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Archive for April, 2011

Carbon Express TORRID 100 Broadhead Review

Carbon Express TORRID 100 Broadhead

Carbon Express TORRID 100 Broadhead

Review Status:

The TORRID Broadhead was reviewed by a master Outdoorsman


What do you think of Carbon Express’s® TORRID™ Broadhead? Do you like them? Have you found them to be dull as Arren did? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment below.

Get it now Carbon Express TORRID 100 Broadhead

(4/29/11) The review for the TORRID 100 Broadhead was left for us by Arren D. Thanks Arren for the review. You’re becoming a regular around here.

Outdoorsman Review:

Initial thoughts/Design:
This broadhead can be found for around $25 online for a package of 3. The heads are 1.5″ cutting diameter and are three bladed with a large cutting head to open wound. The blades are held in place by a rubber band, so can be shot out of high speed bows. They open much like Grim Reaper style broadheads, the flesh will pull the blades back upon entrance. The broadhead is well built and the ferrule is painted black, which in theory should reduce drag both in the air and in meat.

Sharpness:
One word, DULL! In the package of 3 I received 2 broadheads that I would NEVER use on a deer because they are so dull. The last of the broadheads was not very sharp but noticeably sharper than the first two.

Accuracy:
The broadhead hit within 1 inch of field point zero every time I shot it. So they are VERY accurate.

Overall thoughts:
While this broadhead will not take the place of my Grim Reaper, Bloodrunner 2, or Rage 2; it will become my turkey broadhead of choice. The large blade on the front should easily penetrate a turkey which should stop any sort of deflection. I would give this broadhead a 3/5 because a dull blade does not belong on a broadhead. If Carbon Express can remedy this, the Torrid could become a GREAT whitetailbroadhead of choice. With sharp blades I could easily give this a 4.5/5 because the price is right for deer hunters. My only concern would be if you accidentally hit the shoulder, the front tip could bend back and not penetrate well.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the TORRID 100 Broadhead:

  • Field point accuracy and dependable blade retention system
  • Large cutting diameter with bone crushing lead blade for maximum penetration
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum ferrule
  • Weight: 100 grain
  • Cutting Diameter: 1 1/2 inch
  • Blade thickness: .031 inch

Doinker Dish 12″ Stabilizer Review

Doinker Dish 12 inch Stabilizer

Doinker Dish 12 inch Stabilizer

Review Status:

The Doinker D.I.S.H. was reviewed by a master Outdoorsman


If you are using Doinker’s® D.I.S.H. line of stabilizers then let us know what you think of it by leaving a comment below.

Doinker DISH 12″


(4/26/11) The review for the Doinker D.I.S.H was left for us by Arren D. Thanks Arren for another very useful review. I have a Doinker 6 inch DISH with some unique spike weights made by a friend of mine. See picture below. If you are interested in these weights then take a look at xaddictarchery’s spiked stabilizer weights.

XAddict Spike Weights on Doinker Dish

My Doinker with XAddict Archery's Spiked Weights

Outdoorsman Review:

Look: The Doinker D.I.S.H. has the look of a B Stinger on steroids. The DISH has a rubberized tip that has all the weight and in my case is in all black. They have made the rod appear as carbon, which really brings it all together. It comes with a quick disconnect and what appears to be an “A Bomb” in the middle of the DISH to absorb the shot.

Initial impression: This thing is HEAVY. It is actually heavier than my 12 oz B Stinger. I am guessing somewhere around 14 oz. The build quality appears quite solid, as when tightened next to the quick disconnect it does not move at all.

Shooting: The DISH holds nice on target. I like the many places you can put your weights to adjust for your shooting style. The DISH also absorbs much more of the shot than does the B Stinger.

Overall: I would have to give the DISH a 4.5/5 stars. The only reason to take off a half star is the price. While it is making Doinker money, it hurts us consumers that love quality but hate the price. I have finally found something that will replace the B Stinger on my hunting bow.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Doinker D.I.S.H:

The Doinker Dish (Distal, Interrupted, Stabilizer, Hub) Stabilizer is an all-new concept in stabilizer utility and performance. The super-sized Hub acts like a Doinker on steroids as it champions bow torque, noise, vibration and shock. The Patent Pending Hub employs Doinker’s proprietary Interrupted Transfer Polymer and is the most effective Doinker they have ever constructed.

Adding to this stabilizers unique concept is its 4.5-inch flexible, variable weight disk that uses Doinker’s proprietary STACK Weights to weight the forward end. By putting the weight at the distil end of the stabilizer, shooters are able to aim steadier and make the most of a stabilizer’s two main functions: stabilization prior to the shot, and dampening after the arrow is released.

The 12″ Doinker Dish is unique in its design that it comes standard at 14 oz, can be lowered to 9.2 ounce, and with the purchase of additional Dish Stacker Weights can be made as heavy as 2 pounds 14 ounces! A complimentary quick disconnect allows you to effortlessly mount and dismount the D.I.S.H Stabilizer for easy transport and travel.

VanHandle Death Grip Bow Grip Review

(5.0) based on 1 reviews

VanHandle Death Grip

VanHandle Death Grip Bow Grip

Review Status:

The Death Grip bow grip was reviewed by a master Outdoorsman


Are using VanHandle’s Death Grip bow grip to eliminate torque? If you are; let us know what you think of it by leaving a comment below. Personally; I’m not sure if I’d pay money to eliminate torque while shooting. I just rest my fingertips on the front of the riser just in front of the grip and it prevents me from grabbing the grip after taking a shot. Just my 2 cents.

(4/20/11) The review for the Death Grip was left for us by Joshua F. from Danvers, Illonois. Thanks Joshua for the review. I guess that I’d need to try one before being convinced.

Outdoorsman Review:

I purchased a Bowtech Assassin 2011 Black Ops in March. I had the bow for about 2 weeks and put 60 arrows through it a day to attempt to break it in. After the 2 weeks I was dead set on returning it. I stopped at a Deer Classic Show and was sold on the “Death Grip”.

I installed in on my bow in about 20 minutes, the instructions were clear and were also on the website for further reference. I couldn’t actually test it for 24 hours due to an adhesive curing. The next day I popped on the grip to the bearings (part of it’s action) and fired a few arrows. I almost dropped the bow in amazement. I went from pulling groupings low left 4-6″, to dead center. Out of 10 arrows right away I killed the nocks and vanes on 6 of them. I thought it was a fluke so I shot the next 7 days in different locations and weather just to see if it was all in my head. I constantly had the same results. It was the best $100 investment for my bow I could ever have made.

They do not make the grip for every bow, but they are trying to stay on top of the most popular ones. If they don’t have it listed I would recommend calling or emailing. VanHandle also loves to hear success stories. I now have been in a few local competitions and after seeing my results it has generated some more sales for them. It’s more than just a good product, it’s a great asset!!

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Death Grip:

  • The only 100% torque free grip available
  • Internal rubber dampening for silent shock free operation
  • Gives the archer previously unheard of consistency
  • Wear heavy gloves and clothing with no effect on arrow flight
  • 5 stainless steel sealed ball bearings
  • All stainless steel hardware, 6061 aluminum
  • Comfortable instead of thin and cold
  • Shoot with more confidence
  • Easy installation
  • Faster target acquisition (Not sure how a grip affects this?)
  • Set your sight and forget it
  • Simplifies bow tuning
  • Consistent paper tears
  • Improved broadhead flight

Woody Sport Size Zip Hunting Boots

Woody Sport Size Zip Hunting Boots

Review Status:

The Sport Side Zip hunting boots were reviewed by a master Outdoorsman


You got Muck’s Woody Sport® Side Zip hunting boots? If you do. Let us know what you think of them by leaving a comment below.

Muck Boots – Woody Sport Side Zip Boots

(4/15/11) The review for the Woody Sport Side Zip hunting boots was left by Tom F. from Clifton Park, New York. Thanks Tom for another great review.

Outdoorsman Review:

After replacing my field and Stream water proof rubber hunting boots every year or so due to the cracking plastic from wear and storage I decided to try a new brand. I bought a pair of Muck Boots Woody sport side zip. After many months of wearing through snow, water, woods, and brush these boots show no sign of wear. I love them.

The sole and support provides for ample comfort for long hikes. They are warm in cold weather and breath well in the spring warmth. I have nothing but good things to say about these boots. The best part of these boots is the side zipper. This allows for you to slip the boot on over warm socks and pants without needing help from from your hunting buddy. All while still remaining completely waterproof. These boots are great for cold weather hunting or for spring 3D shooting where the ground is wet.

The quality and comfort of these boots are great. A++++. great boots.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Woody Sport Side Zip boots:

The Woody Sport® Side Zip Hunting Boot features a wide-tooth zipper for a firmer fit and quick on/off. It is 100% waterproof and has a Breatable Airmesh™ lining. This boot is 16″ tall with the New Mossy Oak Break-Up® camo pattern. It has a 10mm kick rim for hands-free removal and stretch-fit topline binding to snug the calf and keep the warmth in and the cold out. It is has a CR flex-foam bootie with four-way stretch nylon. It is lightweight, flexible and buoyant.

Comfort range 70F to -20F.

NAP Spitfire Maxx Broadhead Review

NAP Spitfire Maxx Broadhead

NAP Spitfire Maxx Broadhead

Review Status:

The Spitfire Maxx broadheads were reviewed by a master Outdoorsman


Have you shot NAP’s Spitfire Maxx™ broadheads? How do you like them? Do they open when they need to? Are they a quality mechanical broadhead? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

NAP Spitfire Maxx Broadheads – 3 Pack


(4/14/11) The review for NAP’s Spitfire Maxx broadheads was left for us by Erik U. from Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Thanks for your review Erik.

Outdoorsman Review:

I was always apprehensive about switching to a mechanical broadhead from a fixed blade. After much research I decided to try the NAP Spitfire line of broadheads due to the lack of bad reviews and how it has been a staple in the mechanical broadhead world for so long. I did want to go with a large cut so i opted for the Maxx.

These broadheads are no joke! I shot 5 deer and a bear with these heads this year and every wound and bloodtrail was unbelievable. They fly true and require very little tuning (if any). They completely devastate the flesh / bone they come in contact with, and they are very durable. I only had one head have a blade bend this year and it was due to a shoulder shot… and the buck only went 40 yards.

I highly recommend these heads to anyone.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Spitfire Maxx™:

  • Available weight – 100 grain
  • Cutting diameter – 1-3/4 inches

The Spitfire Maxx will open NOMATTER WHAT

The design of the Spitfire GUARANTEES that they will open, at any shot angle. Even closed the Spitfire blade is already partially open, so it has to continue to open when the target touches the blades. They WILL slam shut after passing thru a target and hitting the dirt. There will be a little dent in the aluminum ferrule where the back of the blade rests when the head is in the full open position. In the 12 years that this head has been on the market, we have not had a SINGLE failure of the Spitfire not opening.

High Angled Shots are NO PROBLEM with the Spitfire

A lot has been talked about recently about the angled shot capability of mechanical heads. The Spitfire broadhead handles these types of shots with ease. Blades will ALWAYS deploy properly on high angle shots. Remember, not much beyond a 45 degree angled should be attempted with a bow regardless of whether it’s a fixed blade or mechanical.

The Microgrooves really work

NAP’s patented microgroove ferrules channel the air over the ferrule for better flight. More importantly, they slide thru and penetrate bone much better that standard ferrules.

It doesn’t take a lot of energy to open this broadhead

A lot a people talk about how much energy mechanicals need to open. The Spitfire will open with less than a pound of energy. The pressure you feel when you open the head by hand is not the same pressure that occurs when the head is flying fast. This being said, we recommend that anyone shooting ANY of our broadheads, mechanical or fixed blade, have at least 45 pounds of kinetic energy and have excellent arrow flight to get the best chance at a pass thru.

ReadHead Bone-Dry Waterproof Hunting Boots

ReadHead Bone-Dry Waterproof Hunting Boots

Review Status:

The RedHead Bone Dry hunting boots were reviewed by a master Outdoorsman


Are you hunting in RedHead’s® Trailblazer Bone-Dry® waterproof hunting boots? If you have a pair of these boots then let us know if you like them by leaving a comment below.

(4/12/11) The review for the Trailblazer boots was left by me; Doug Snyder,  from the Southern California area. Don’t worry. I’m not eligible for the monthly giveaway as I’m  associated with OutdoorsmanReview. I just have a few new items that I’d like to review for everyone.

OutdoorsmanReview:

Let me start out by saying that I wear boots just about every day. I usually wear work boots and I beat them into the ground before I buy new ones. My decision to purchase the Trailblazer boots was based on the fact that not one pair of my work boots are waterproof and I thought that I needed some waterproof boots for a 3D archery shoot that our club was hosting back in March. All reports pointed to rain.

I was originally looking for waterproof work boots because (to me) camo hunting boots are ugly. I can stand other camo garb but for some reason I have a block on camo boots. After searching high and low for a pair of size 15 Caterpillar waterproof work boots I was left standing in BassPro. Not a bad place to be actually.

My options and time were/was running out. The only pair of large boots (size 14) that BP had was the Trailblazer Bone-Dry boot. I thought that I needed a 15 but after trying on the size 14 I thought they would work. This turned out to be a good decision as walking up and down rough terrain tends to make your feet slide around in oversized boots.

I made a quick decision that I would try these boots. At the time they were on sale for $69.97. This also was a factor in buying these boots as the list price was $99.99. Here is what I think about the Trailblazer boots by RedHead.

Waterproof-ness (If this is a word)

It turns out that the rain that we were expecting during our club’s shoot didn’t show up until after the shoot. This was good for the club but bad because I really wanted to test how water proof these boots were. I didn’t have to wait too long because last weekend it snowed about 4″ at our home range. By the time my son and I got to the range the sun was already melting the snow. This gave me the perfect opportunity to put these boots to the test. After an hour of walking through the slush, mud, and puddles I had formed an opinion about how waterproof the Trailblazers are. They kept my feet completely dry. Not one bit of water leaked through. I was impressed as I’ve had other boots that claimed to be waterproof but didn’t live up to the claim.

The one thing that I did notice was that they didn’t keep my feet completely warm. If you want toasty feet then I suggest that you wear a pair of wool socks. These boots are not insulated.

Comfort

I’ve had some good boots and bad boots when it comes to comfort. The Trailblazers rank up in the more comfortable range. They are a very light boot, cushion my feet pretty well, and (because they’re 6″ boots) they don’t bother my ankles as long as I don’t tie them too tight. I spent all day in these boots this last Sunday at another 3D shoot. 42 targets and my feet still felt great.

Conclusion

At $99.99 these are good light weight, waterproof hunting boots. At $69.97 they are great boots. The only complaint that I have about these boots is that RedHead could have made the tongue just a bit longer. When you tie the laces to the top they pop over the top of the tongue unless you purposely tie them below the top of the tongue. Not a huge problem and I’ve had this problem with other boots. All in all the Trailblazer is a pretty good boot.

Manufacturer’s Specs for the Bone-Dry hunting boot:

  • Waterproof full-grain leather upper
  • Bone-Dry 100% waterproof/windproof lining – GUARANTEED!
  • Moisture wicking Cambrelle lining
  • Poliyou cushioning footbed – breathable and odor absorbing
  • Lightweight EVA cushioned camo midsole
  • RedHead molded durable rubber hunting outsole
  • Non-insulated