Is the Bear Cruzer G2 the Best Beginner Compound Bow? Full Review & Hunting Tips
When it comes to beginner compound bows, the Bear Cruzer G2 stands out as one of the most versatile, user-friendly, and reliable options available on the market. Designed by Bear Archery, one of America’s oldest and most respected bow companies, the Bear Cruzer G2 is a bow that truly grows with the archer — from a young novice to a more experienced hunter.
Whether you’re starting your hunting journey or buying a first bow for a young shooter, the Bear Cruzer G2 offers a perfect balance of power, ease of use, and modern features that make learning and improving much easier. In this comprehensive review, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Bear Cruzer G2: its design, performance, adjustability, and why it’s widely considered the best beginner compound bow for deer hunting and target shooting.
History of the Bear Cruzer G2
The Bear Cruzer G2 is the successor to the original Bear Cruzer, which made waves for being one of the first adjustable compound bows designed specifically with beginners in mind. Bear Archery’s mission with the Cruzer line has always been to create a bow that can be easily drawn by young or inexperienced shooters, while still offering enough power and precision for serious hunting.
Since the original launch, Bear Archery has refined the design, improving the components and ergonomics, which culminated in the Bear Cruzer G2 model. This bow maintains the ease of use and adaptability but adds smoother cams, better string technology, and more user-friendly adjustability.
Key Features of the Bear Cruzer G2
1. Adjustable Draw Weight and Length
One of the biggest selling points of the Bear Cruzer G2 is its highly adjustable nature. The draw weight ranges from 5 to 70 pounds, while the draw length can be adjusted from 12 to 30 inches. This wide range means that the bow is suitable for kids, teens, and adults, making it a true “grow-with-you” bow.
This adjustability allows beginners to start at a comfortable draw weight and length and increase as their strength and skill improve. Many compound bows require professional tuning or complex adjustments, but the Bear Cruzer G2 allows easy user adjustments without needing to visit a pro shop.
2. Smooth and Quiet Cam System
The Bear Cruzer G2 uses a modern cam system designed for smooth draw cycles and reduced noise. This makes it an excellent choice for hunting, as the bow won’t spook game animals. Smooth draw cycles also help new archers develop proper form and confidence.
3. Lightweight and Durable Construction
Weighing just about 3.6 pounds, the Bear Cruzer G2 is light enough to carry in the field all day without fatigue. Despite its lightweight design, it boasts a solid and durable build with an aluminum riser and quality limbs, ensuring it can withstand regular use and the rigors of hunting.
4. Compact and Comfortable Design
The bow’s compact size and ergonomic grip help improve accuracy and comfort. The riser is designed to reduce hand shock and vibration, which is crucial for beginners learning how to shoot consistently.
5. Versatile Accessories Compatibility
The Bear Cruzer G2 is compatible with many aftermarket accessories like stabilizers, sights, quivers, and arrow rests. This allows users to customize their bow as they gain experience.
Performance and Accuracy
Accuracy is a vital factor when considering the Bear Cruzer G2 for hunting. Despite being a beginner bow, it delivers excellent precision due to its quality components and ease of tuning. The bow shoots arrows at speeds up to 310 feet per second depending on the setup, which is more than sufficient for deer hunting within typical ranges.
The bow’s let-off percentage (the reduction in holding weight at full draw) is around 80%, which reduces strain on the shooter and helps maintain a steady aim before release. This is especially beneficial for novice archers who may struggle to hold at full draw for long periods.
Ease of Use for Beginners
The Bear Cruzer G2 is tailored for beginners in multiple ways:
- Simple Adjustments: Changing draw length and weight is quick and straightforward.
- Low Starting Draw Weight: Beginners can start with as little as 5 pounds, allowing kids and new shooters to build strength gradually.
- User-Friendly Accessories: It comes ready to use with a sight, arrow rest, and quiver, so new users don’t need to invest immediately in extras.
- Training-Friendly: The bow’s forgiving design helps new archers develop good habits and accuracy early.
Hunting with the Bear Cruzer G2
The Bear Cruzer G2 is a great choice for deer hunting. Its combination of power, speed, and accuracy is well-suited to ethical hunting practices. It allows new hunters to grow into the draw weight needed for effective shots while also being light enough to carry during long hunts.
Many hunters report excellent performance in the field with the Bear Cruzer G2, noting its quiet operation and consistent shooting. It’s also legal for hunting in most states where compound bows are permitted, so it’s a practical option for novice bowhunters.
Comparison with Other Beginner Compound Bows
When compared to other beginner bows, such as the Diamond Archery Infinite Edge or the PSE Stinger, the Bear Cruzer G2 often comes out on top for its wider adjustability and smoother shooting experience. Its reputation as a product from a trusted bow maker adds to its appeal.
Maintenance and Longevity
Maintaining the Bear Cruzer G2 is simple:
- Regular string waxing to prolong the life of the string.
- Inspecting cams and limbs for wear or damage.
- Tightening screws and accessories periodically.
Because of its robust build, many users find the Bear Cruzer G2 reliable for years with proper care.
Pros and Cons of the Bear Cruzer G2
Pros:
- Wide range of draw weight and length adjustments
- Smooth, quiet shooting
- Lightweight and durable
- Great for all ages and sizes
- Ready-to-shoot out of the box
- Good value for the price
Cons:
- Not as fast as high-end hunting bows (but sufficient for beginners)
- May require some tuning for optimal performance as the user grows
Tips for Getting Started with the Bear Cruzer G2
- Start at a Low Draw Weight: Begin with the lowest draw weight to learn proper form and technique.
- Practice Regularly: Consistent shooting will improve accuracy and muscle memory.
- Use the Bow’s Adjustability: Gradually increase the draw weight and length as you gain strength.
- Invest in a Quality Arrow Rest and Sight: Though it comes with basic accessories, upgrading these can boost performance.
- Take Safety Seriously: Always use proper safety gear and practice in a controlled environment.
FAQ
Q1: What is the maximum draw weight of the Bear Cruzer G2?
A: The Bear Cruzer G2’s draw weight is adjustable from 5 to 70 pounds, making it versatile for both kids and adults.
Q2: Can the Bear Cruzer G2 be used for deer hunting?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for deer hunting, especially for beginners and those new to bowhunting.
Q3: How long is the draw length adjustable on the Bear Cruzer G2?
A: The draw length is adjustable between 12 and 30 inches, which accommodates a wide range of shooters.
Q4: Is the Bear Cruzer G2 suitable for children?
A: Yes, it’s designed to be accessible for younger shooters with its low starting draw weight.
Q5: Does the Bear Cruzer G2 come with accessories?
A: Yes, it typically includes a sight, arrow rest, quiver, and peep sight, making it ready to shoot out of the box.
Q6: How fast do arrows shoot from the Bear Cruzer G2?
A: Arrows can reach speeds up to approximately 310 feet per second, depending on the setup.
Q7: Is the Bear Cruzer G2 easy to adjust without professional help?
A: Yes, the bow is designed for easy user adjustments without the need for specialized tools.
Q8: What is the weight of the Bear Cruzer G2?
A: It weighs about 3.6 pounds, making it lightweight and easy to carry.
Q9: How does the Bear Cruzer G2 compare to the original Bear Cruzer?
A: The G2 is an upgraded version with smoother cams, better ergonomics, and improved components while retaining the beginner-friendly design.
Q10: What maintenance is required for the Bear Cruzer G2?
A: Regular string waxing, checking for loose screws, and inspecting limbs and cams for damage are all recommended.
Conclusion
The Bear Cruzer G2 is more than just a beginner compound bow—it’s a long-term companion for anyone starting their archery or hunting journey. With its wide adjustability, ease of use, and solid performance, it offers unbeatable value and reliability. Whether you’re introducing a young shooter to the sport or taking your first steps into bowhunting yourself, the Bear Cruzer G2 is arguably the best beginner compound bow you can choose.
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