Bowtech Admiral

Bowtech's Admiral features a redesigned Center Pivot riser that reaches out to meet the limb sets at the halfway point. A new cable guard is angled toward the centerline of the bow to reduce system torque and the new String Stop goes to work just below the grip. Adjustability is central to the new Binary cam system with a single rotating module that covers the entire draw length range.

Bowtech has become an icon in the archery industry in a relatively short period of time. In terms of technology and performance they are often held up as the standard by which many others are measured--and for good reason. Since their start in 1999 Bowtech has gone head to head with the business's top brands with surprising success. Their bows are highly regarded for their ability to launch an arrow without significant shock, vibration or noise in return.

Bowtech's Admiral is expected to lead the way in 2009 with a newly designed Center Pivot riser, beyond parallel fiberglass limbs, ultra adjustable cam system, redesigned cable guard and String Stop, quick IBO speeds and their popular InVelvet armor coated Realtree Hardwoods camo finish.

Basics
Bowtech's Admiral is built around a redesigned version of their unique Center Pivot Riser Technology. The new configuration uses a fixed strut portion of the main riser structure and reaches out to support the limb sets approximately half way along their length with a split pocket-type feature. Limbs are cradled by a set of plastic liners, which are positioned inside the individual pocket sections and protect the limbs from direct contact with the metal.

Bowtech's goal for the Center Pivot design was to create a cross between a reflex and deflex configuration riser. Why? Typically a deflex riser offers a greater degree of stability where a reflex riser increases power stroke and speed. Bowtech strives to harness the positives from both sides. The center-limb support reduces overall limb movement both vertically and horizontally thereby reducing shock and vibration at the shot. Vertical Force Technology (VFT) weighs in on the fight against shock and vibration by positioning the limbs at or beyond parallel when the bow is at full draw. VFT distributes the force from the shot in equal and opposite directions cancelling out much of the energy leftover after propelling the arrow. My testing indicates that Bowtech has found a key to success in this area because their Center Pivot bows demonstrate an almost undetectable level of either vibration or shock.

Admiral split limbs measure 12 inches in length and are fully machined from a billet of GC-67 continuous, unidirectional "E" fiberglass material. Known for its strength and stiffness GC-67 is an ideal choice for bow limb material. Optimum limb performance is ensured for each rig through a deflection value based matching system. Limbs are available in 40-, 50-, 60-, 70- and 80-pound peak weights.

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New for 2009 is the machined-aluminum cable guard, which protrudes back toward the shooter with the end angling toward the centerline of the bow. The angled section is home to a set of two rollers on which the cables ride. An all-new built-in cable catch prevents the cables from being pulled out of the rollers accidentally. Opposite of and in line with the stainless steel stabilizer insert is Bowtech's new String Stop, which uses a large rubber-like curved block to dampen any excess string movement at the shot.

Versatility and adjustability have risen to new levels with the introduction of Bowtech's new Center Track Binary Cam System. With this system the power cables are anchored to opposite sides of each cam equalizing the tension and keeping the string tracking in the center. A rotating module allows for draw length adjustments from 24 to 30 inches in one half-inch increments without the use of a bow press. This system permits shooters to easily fine-tune their draw length while also eliminating the need for pro-shops to stock cams or modules to meet the needs of their customers. An adjustable draw stop allows for letoff options between 65- and 80-percent.

Editor's Note: Petersen's Bowhunting standardized testing includes the use of the same equipment and test methods. For more detailed information on the testing parameters go to www.bowhuntingmag.com and look for the "bow testing" link.

SPECIFICATIONS
MANUFACTURER:	Bowtech, 90554 Highway 99 N, Eugene, OR 97402; (877) 447-0293; www.bowtecharchery.com
MODEL:	Admiral
ECCENTRIC SYSTEM:	Center Track Binary Cam
DRAW WEIGHTS:	40-, 50-, 60-, and 70-pound peak
DRAW LENGTHS:	24 to 30 inches, one half-inch increments, single rotating module
RISER:	Center Pivot Technology
LIMBS:	12-inch unidirectional "E" Fiberglass
STRING:	452X, Octane Custom
CABLE:	452X, Octane Custom
MASS WEIGHT:	4.1 to 4.2 pounds
LETOFF:	65- to 80-percent
GRIP:	2-piece laminated hardwood, low wrist
BRACE HEIGHT:	7.5 inches
AXLE-TO-AXLE LENGTH:	31 1/16 inches
FINISH:	Realtree HD Green standard with many other choices
ADVERTISED IBO SPEED:	312 to 320 fps
PRICE:	$829
COMMENTS:	Bowtech hits another home run with their new Admiral, which couples good speed with an amazing lack of noise, shock or vibration at the shot.

THE UPSHOT
SPEED/ARROW VELOCITY*	KINETIC ENERGY**	STORED ENERGY***	EFFICIENCY****	DRAW CYCLE
314 fps	76.6 foot-pounds	100.5 foot-pounds	76.3 percent	An easy climb to peak, easy transitions throughout, moderate plateau.
*(Test result) **Product of speed and arrow weight ***Energy supplied to and held by the system ****(K.E. divided by S.E.)