Review: 2016 Bear Archery BR33

Bear Archery works hard to meet the needs of its customers, so when bowhunters spoke up and asked for a smoother version of its fast hybrid cam, the company listened.

That brings us to the 2016 Bear BR33, which is packed with features and technologies from top to bottom. This includes the Max Pre Load Quad Limbs, HingeGuard cable containment system, dual adjustable string suppressors, EAZ Hybrid cam system and much more.

EAZ Does It!

Bear engineers were focused like a laser on creating an eccentric system that combined the smooth draw of a single cam and the hard-hitting power of a hybrid cam. The result was modified track designs and the all-new EAZ Hybrid cam system.

Bear advertises the all-new BR33 at 330 fps IBO on a 7-inch brace height and 80-percent system letoff. IBO speeds are recorded with the bow set to a 30-inch draw and 70-pound draw weight, while shooting a 350-grain arrow.

No bow press is needed to adjust Bear's DrawDial system, which features rotating modules that are moved to specific draw lengths and locked down. Modules offer a range from 27-32 inches, capturing the lion's share of all male bowhunters.

Cable draw stops on both cams are located in holes that match up with the draw length. Optional limb stops are offered for each cam for those shooters who prefer an extra solid back wall.

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Loaded Up

Bear's Max Pre Load Quad Limbs serve to generate the BR33's power while using a past-parallel position to tame noise and vibration. Limbs are made of Gordon glass and feature a machined belly profile designed to distribute stress across the entire limb, allowing increased stored energy.

Limbs are matched into sets based on deflection values and available in 45-60-pound and 55- 70-pound draw-weight options.

The new aluminum CrossLock limb pocket system pivots during draw-weight adjustment for maximum control. Limbs are also laterally controlled by the pocket sidewalls and between-the-limb spacers. The overall pocket is designed to provide strength and support throughout the shot cycle, especially where high-stress points are expected. The system also incorporates a SonicBond vibration dampener.

Command Central

A large number of the BR33's features and components are directly tied into the riser, which is relatively long as compared to the bow's 33€‰1„4-inch axle-to-axle length.

Bear's near net forging process requires little post-production work to ready the aluminum platform for use. Standard Realtree Xtra Green is film dipped, while solid finishes such as Shadow (black), Olive and Sand are powder coated. Each end of the riser is broad, back to front, to provide a platform for the large limb pocket while also adding strength, stiffness and stability.

Bear's signature dual-position SonicStop string suppression system not only gives the company instant brand recognition but offsets the weight of accessories while quickly taming string oscillation at the shot. Bear's HingeGuard has a cable-containment block attached to an aluminum mounting arm that is hinged off angle using a steel axle and Turcite bushings to control the motion and position of the cables throughout the shot cycle.

The goal, of course, is reduced torque while providing adequate clearance for passing vanes. Also designed to reduce torque is the BR33's injection-molded ABS plastic VersaGrip, which features a narrower throat and a soft, warm rubber overmold for comfort on cold days afield.

The Experience

The BR33 is a solid all-around bow that holds tight to the target and is fun to shoot. By adding a quality stabilizer, I was able to knock down the majority of low-level vibration and small jump at the shot.

Cold-weather archers will love the warmth and comfort of the VersaGrip. It should also be noted that this bow tuned easily and quickly for excellent arrow flight.