Mathews Monster Wake Review

In a market that has just about every possible configuration and application covered, Mathews found a way to create something unique.

The McPherson Series Monster Wake is built on a super sturdy Geo Grid Lock riser, spans 35 inches between the axles and delivers arrows downrange at speeds up to 352 fps with a 5-inch brace height and 85-percent letoff.

The perimeter-weighted Dyad AVS cams and Reverse Assist Roller Guard are designed to produce a smooth draw, while Mathews' signature harmonic stabilizers work to tame the shot.

It's Your Cake — Eat It!

Mathews has created a cam system that lets you have your cake and eat it too. The speed is undeniable, and the draw is something you will have to experience for yourself to get the full effect. The smooth draw is good for at least a couple reasons.

First, it's easier on your shoulder. And second, it's more enjoyable to shoot, which translates into a better overall shooting experience.

Now, the question is how exactly did they do it? It's all centered on the DYAD AVS (Advanced Vectoring System) cam system. AVS technology rolls the force vector from one side of the axle to the other during the draw cycle, which coupled with the inner and outer cable wheels, increases stored energy and letoff in a smooth action.

Also, in terminating the end of each cable to the opposite cam, they effectively force the system to work in sync, which allows for some auto correction of system imbalances. That translates into dependability and fewer tuning hassles.

Dual perimeter weights in the form of strategically placed metal inertia disks are advertised to reduce post-shot vibration and generate additional speed. When the bow is fired, the limbs move in one direction while the disks move in the opposite direction to counteract the force.

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The DYAD AVS cam system produces 85-percent letoff and offers draw lengths from 25-30 inches, in half-inch increments, through a series of modules.

For the Greater Grid

Most are now familiar with the grid design of a Mathews' riser, as it has been around since the Z7 model that goes back five years. This particular version of the Geo Grid Lock riser has two distinct sections — one just above the sight window and one directly below the steel stabilizer mounting insert, where it branches out and then back together, leaving a space between them approximately 2.75 inches long and .625-inch wide.

This creates an overall wider platform. While Mathews does not disclose the purpose behind this new design, I think it is safe to say it increases strength and stability in these specific locations and thereby improves overall rigidity. Less flex equates to a better shooting platform.

The downside to the Monster Wake's beefier midsection and 35-inch axle-to-axle length is a heavier mass weight, which comes in at more than five pounds.

Mathews' unique Reverse Assist Roller Guard wraps the cables around the archer-side of the rollers rather than on the front side like many other systems. As a result, the friction and torque on the cables is reduced for a smoother draw and better shootability. An integral grip with a single wood inlay is designed to produce a neutral wrist position.

Impressions

There are few bows that produce speeds in this range along with a draw this smooth. Some will shy away from the 5-inch brace height, but I noticed no great disadvantages while shooting the bow.

At more than five pounds, the bow is heavy — at least by today's standards. There are certainly applications that minimize the impact of mass weight, and in those instances the Monster Wake will be right at home. Very little kick or shock can be felt at the shot, so the bow is quiet as you might expect.

The integral grip is one of my favorite Mathews grips to date, and the Monster Wake has one of the highest dynamic efficiency ratings I have ever seen in decades of bow testing.

Specifications

Manufacturer: Mathews, 608-269-2728

Model: Monster Wake

Cam System: Perimeter Weighted Dyad AVS

Weight: 5.38 pounds (advertised); 5.25 pounds (as tested)

Brace Height: 5 inches

Axle-To-Axle length: 35 inches

Letoff: 85 percent

Draw Weights: 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 pounds peak

Draw Lengths: 25-30 inches, in half-inch increments, modular

Riser: Geo Grid Lock

Limbs: Split

String: Zebra Trophy X, 67.25 inches

Cables: Zebra Trophy X, 33.5 inches + yokes

Grip: Integral Grip with wood inlay

Finish: Black

Advertised IBO Speed: Up to 352 fps

Suggested Retail Price: $1,699

Comments: Smooth, fast and strong as a tank.