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Bear Archery Species vs Cruzer G2 - this one takes the lead!

It’s actually a really close match up with these two impressive bows from Bear Archery. An interesting analogy is in the picture with these two options: the Cruzer G2, a small bow, offers nice customization options and is recommended for beginners - it’s just that it seems to be slow for its size. The Species, on the other hand, offers good firepower with the unfortunate property of it being rather heavy for novices.

It’s like two opposite ends of the spectrum! Yet, if considering all the pros and cons of each, the Bear Archery Cruzer G2 does win this math by a really thin margin. This is because this compound bow offers a nice set of advantages that the Species wouldn’t be capable of providing. The versatile option of adjusting the draw weight in a really wide window is a great advantage for different kinds of shooters. Additionally, being user-friendly does open up more opportunities for shooters of all levels to properly learn how to hunt.

The Bear Archery Species is also a great choice - this cannot be denied considering its powerhouse potential. Again, it’s a really close and exciting comparison seeing how both bows can offer benefits for different sorts of hunters!

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Best Adult Compound Bow
Best Compact Compound Bow
Preview
Title
Bear Archery Species
Bear Archery Cruzer G2
Problems
  • No arrows
  • Heavy
  • No arrows
  • Slower than expected
Upsides
  • Easy to adjust
  • Excellent accuracy
  • Durable construction
  • Impressive Velocity
  • Great for novices too
  • Good construction
  • Great accuracy
  • Versatile
  • Easy to adjust
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Best Adult Compound Bow
Preview
Title
Bear Archery Species
Con
  • No arrows
  • Heavy
Pro
  • Easy to adjust
  • Excellent accuracy
  • Durable construction
  • Impressive Velocity
Link
Check Price!

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Best Compact Compound Bow
Preview
Title
Bear Archery Cruzer G2
Con
  • No arrows
  • Slower than expected
Pro
  • Great for novices too
  • Good construction
  • Great accuracy
  • Versatile
  • Easy to adjust
Link
Check Price!

Bear Archery Species vs Cruzer G2

Let’s compare specs - which bow makes it on top in the Bear Archery Species vs Cruzer G2 match up?

Bear Archery Species

Pros:

Powerful compound bow Easy to adjust Good accuracy Tough construction Excellent velocity Comes with warranty

Cons:

No arrows Not meant for beginners

Cruzer G2

Pros:

Compact design Good accuracy Promotes customization Easy to adjust Durable construction Comes with warranty Beginner-friendly

Cons:

No arrows Slow shooting speed

Bear Archery Species Review

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A powerhouse compound bow option, the Bear Archery Species can bring in the force needed during hunts. The impressive durability of this compound bow makes it a natural choice if hunters are facing hostile conditions. The nice balance of power and accuracy also makes this a recommended bow when facing against bigger and tougher targets. The slight issues of the bow being heavy and having no ready arrows with it are both subjective - still, it would be nice to get an option that considers these equally important problems as well! The specs:

  • Brace Height: 6.75"
  • Let Off: 80%
  • Axle-to-Axle: 31"
  • Draw Length: 23" - 30"
  • Draw Weight: 55 - 70 lbs.
  • Velocity: 320 ft/second
  • Weight: 4 lbs.
  • Hand Orientation: available for both left hand and right orientations

Bear Archery Species Details

Bows from Bear Archery are known not only for their strength, but for their ease of use as well. In fact, most of the bows from this manufacturer can very well be used by pro hunters as the primary gear against tough prey. Let us take a look on how the Bear Archery Species excels in offering these hunting essentials.

Ease of Assembly

As mentioned, the Bear Archery Species ease of use boils down to its assembly. The simple process of setting up the arrow rest, nocking point, and accessories is done in a smooth and easy manner. As a single cam system, adjustments are fairly easy as well (more about this will be discussed below).

Riser and Grip Details

The Bear Archery Species riser is made out of durable aluminum. This type of construction gives hunters the confidence and peace of mind that this bow can withstand drawing tension. The riser's toughness also offers excellent stability, increasing the chances to have more accurate shots. More importantly, the Bear Archery Species integrates an innovative alignment system. This lock down system focuses on pinpoint riser to pocket limb connectivity, protecting the limbs and offering a more stable balance when drawing the bow as well. Unique to the manufacturers, this prime archery enhancement is one of reasons why seasoned hunters go for this bow. The bow's grip is excellent as well. Bear Archery is known for this subtle yet efficient way of making use of grips that reduce hand torque - again, offering better shooting stability.

Limbs and Cams Details

Another reason to get the Bear Archery Species is its excellent limbs. Integrating EnduraFiber limb, max weight can easily be adjusted without messing up alignment and stability. Combined with the mentioned lock down pocket system, the limbs are protected from potential heavy tension when drawing the bow.  Of course, the single cam system also offers easy adjustments, since a bow press isn't required when setting the bow up. The only disadvantage of using this type of cam system is the possibility of nock travel - a single cam system, versus a dual cam orientation, may be inaccurate in this aspect.

Draw Weight Adjustment

With draw weight adjustable from 55 to 70 lbs., the Bear Archery Species is clearly meant for adult or pro hunters. The let-off of 80% does offer some compensation with this heavy tension, retaining some much-needed control when drawing the bow. And the actual draw weight adjustment process on this compound bow is also done in an easy manner: all you need is a hex wrench to set your preferred draw weight.  As a quick reminder, increasing peak draw weight means a clockwise turn; the opposite for reducing it. Also, adjustment has to be balanced - any adjustments you've made on a limb must also be done on the other.

Draw Length Adjustment

Changing the draw length is easy with the Species.

Changing the draw length is easy with the Species.

A key factor when setting up the Bear Archery Species is that a bow press isn't needed when making key adjustments. This rings true when adjusting the draw length. The 23" - 30" length setup does provide more than enough options to try the best and most comfortable orientation when adjusting the cams. Of course, the single cam setup does suffer in terms of adjustment options - the dual cam system offers more. Draw length adjustment in a single cam system is still fairly easy, though. The basics of adjusting this bow's draw length follow these steps:

  1. Remove the socket head cap screws from the module unit.
  2. Rotate the module to the preferred draw length.
  3. Use the tick marks for the draw length.
  4. Replace screws and put the socket head cap back on.

Take note as well that draw length adjustments can also be done in 1/2" increments.

Construction and Durability

The Bear Archery Species retains the trusted and reliable craftsmanship that the manufacturer is known for. The decision to integrate aluminum as a primary material in the riser makes this compound bow both durable and lightweight, good when hunting in hostile conditions. Additionally, the integration of excellent archery tech, such as the EnduraFiber and the lock down pocket system assures shooters that this bow will not break apart when it’s needed the most.

Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks

Marksmanship is a prime factor that the Bear Archery Species prioritizes. With the many archery enhancements and actual construction pointing towards accuracy, pro hunters can make the most out of this option. Additionally, the high velocity of 320 fps is a powerhouse rating when faring against tough targets. 

Noise Level Information

The Bear Archery Species also integrates some really nice silencing enhancements. These add-ons may not totally reduce the sound generated by the compound bow, but it's still a welcome development to have these on the bow. The Shockwaves limb dampeners do help in reducing both vibration and sound, great in promoting silent and stable shots.

Practical Hunting Usage

The Bear Archery Species is a fine example of a compound bow that has everything a veteran hunter is looking for. The high velocity and the heavy tension are manageable and can be put to the test by pro shooters, which can prove to be handy when dealing with difficult situations or tricky targets. However, beginners lose out with this option. Even with the simple and easy setup process, this compound bow isn’t exactly what novice hunters need.

Bear Archery Species Accessory Check

These are the accessories that come packed with this compound bow (note these may depend on the seller too):

  • Whisker Biscuit Arrow Rest
  • Trophy Ridge Sight (4-Pin)
  • Peep Sight
  • Arrow Quiver (able to hold up to 5)
  • Nock Loop

Miscellaneous Information on the Bear Archery Species

Here is an essential tidbit to help you learn more about this bow:

Arrow Compatibility

Given its high draw weight and durability, this bow can be used with all sorts of arrows. However, the Bear Archery Species doesn’t come with any arrows at all. A minor issue, but most hunters would have appreciated having some ready ammo to shoot with when getting this bow!

Why the Bear Archery Species is Recommended

Check out these reasons to go for this option:

High Power

With a high 320 fps velocity, you can’t go wrong in choosing this bow when going up against tough prey.

Trusted Manufacturer

Made locally, Bear Archery knows exactly what hunters want and need.

Issues that May Need to be Addressed in the Bear Archery Species

Have these in mind when choosing this compound bow:

Not Meant for Beginners

A minor issue, yet equally important for novices. Even though this bow has some really nice enhancements to make use of during hunts, only pro shooters can maximize the actual setup. Beginners lose out of enjoying the full potential of this bow, primarily because of the heavy and tough setup.

Arrow Issue

Another minor issue is that no arrows come packed with the bow! 

Cruzer G2 Review

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If you prefer shorter bows, then the Cruzer G2 may just be the perfect compound bow for you. Offering excellent adjustability and customization options, setting this bow up is a breeze. Additionally, the short bow design allows for better shooting opportunities when out in the field. Also, this bow is not only easy to assemble and adjust - its overall setup is that even beginners can use it to its full potential as well. The lack of speed may just be a bother among seasoned hunters. And of course, not all hunters do prefer short bows!

  • Brace Height: 6.55"
  • Let Off: 70%
  • Axle-to-Axle: 30"
  • Draw Length: 12" - 30"
  • Draw Weight: 5 - 70 lbs.
  • Velocity: 315 ft/second
  • Weight: 3.6 lbs.
  • Hand Orientation: available for both left hand and right orientations

Cruzer G2 Details

Facing up against the Bear Archery Species is another recommended bow from the manufacturer - the Cruzer G2. Which option will offer more benefits? Bear cruzer G2 vs Bear Species - let us see if the Cruzer G2 can deliver:

Ease of Assembly

Considering that this bow is from the same manufacturer, the Cruzer G2 also enjoys the same convenience of it being easy to assemble. An additional edge it does have over the Bear Archery Species is that it’s shorter, which can make setting it up faster and easier in the right hands!

Riser and Grip Details

Compact and modular - these are the key properties of  the Cruzer G2. And that just means that this bow needs to be both lightweight and tough. The riser is made out of machined aluminum, which offers a great balance of strength and flexibility. Hand torque is also reduced with the Cruzer G2’s grip’s bare design

Limbs and Cams Details

The Cruzer G2 integrates an innovative pre-loaded limb configuration. This setup allows the overall construction of this bow to be more flexible, without losing out on stability. The quad limbs system also allows for better accuracy. Also, EnduraFiber tech has been integrated, offering stability on each shot. The dual cam system that this bow integrates means that more adjustment options are available. Additionally, better nock travel is assured with this orientation. Customization is another key factor that makes this compound bow a recommended option for hunters - and it’s all thanks to the dual cam system!

Draw Weight Adjustment

Unlike the Bear Archery Species, the Cruzer G2 offers a more versatile take on peak draw weight adjustment. At an impressive draw weight window from 5 to 70 lbs., a shooter can choose a setup that will best address all sorts of specific hunting situations. But why would you want to decrease draw weight? Aside from getting a weight variable that will best suit your needs, a lower draw weight value may also offer reduced tension on the bow. And the lesser the tension generated, the more one can preserve the Cruzer G2's overall integrity. Bear Archery also made sure that draw weight adjustment is easy with the Cruzer G2 - all it takes is some simple tweaks on the limb bolts.

Draw Length Adjustment

Draw length change is simple with the Cruzer G2 too.

Draw length change is simple with the Cruzer G2 too.

Bear Archery bows are made to be adjusted with ease. And just like the Species, the Bear Archery Cruzer G2 doesn't even need to use a bow press for it to adjust its draw length. Additionally, this compound bow does come with three adjustment modules - experiment with different setups to get one that you'd be comfortable with in the wild!

Construction and Durability

Tha machined aluminum construction does make this compact bow a tough yet reliable choice. It may be short, but the additional flexibility and customization both offer excellent stability to make it a durable option during hunts.

Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks

The 310 fps does offer some really nice firepower to have during hunts. A certified pocket rocket, the Cruzer G2 can hold a lot of surprises considering its size. However, given the way it is constructed and the cam’s design, pro hunters may find this bow slower than others in the market. You may have the force needed to take down all sorts of targets ethically. But the lack of speed may be a turnoff for some veteran shooters.

Noise Level Information

Similar to the Bear Archery Species, the Cruzer G2 is also outfitted with excellent sound and vibration dampeners. Aside from noise reduction enhancements, this compound bow's cam is also designed to reduce shock - great when shooting down targets!

Practical Hunting Usage

Small but deadly. Hunters who prefer shorter bows are in for a treat with the Cruzer G2. This compact bow does the job for shooters planning to shoot from tight or cramped spots. The only noticeable issue is the lack of speed. But other hunting variables (such as firepower and customization) still does make this a good choice.

Cruzer G2 Accessory Check

Check out this compound bow’s accessories:

  • Pin Sight
  • Whisker Biscuit Arrow Rest 
  • Arrow Quiver (able to hold up to 5)
  • Stabilizer 
  • Sling 
  • Nock Loop 
  • Peep Sight

Miscellaneous Information on the Cruzer G2

Find out more about this compound bow below:

Versatile Usage

Considering its size, the Cruzer G2 is also a good choice for bowfishing. Please do remember to set up a bowfishing rig if you do decide to go use this compound bow for this purpose.

Beginner Friendly

Unlike the Bear Archery Species, novice shooters can bring out the full potential out of the Cruzer G2. This all boils down to the bow's size and setup!

Why the Cruzer G2 is Recommended

Here are the factors that makes this compound bow an excellent hunting choice:

More than Meets the Eye

It may be small, but the Cruzer G2 is capable of dishing out impressive damage. 

Compact Design

Hunters in favor of using shorter bows can delight from using this bow. The modular design makes the Cruzer G2 a good choice when shooting behind blinds.

Excellent Hunting Company

As mentioned, Bear Archery is a hunting brand you can rely on.

Issues that May Need to be Addressed in the Cruzer G2

Some potential problems that you may need to ponder on when going for this compound bow choice:

Speed Issue

The lack of speed may not be apparent among novices. But for pro shooters, this may prove to be a major issue, especially when making tough shooting decisions when out in the wild!

No Arrows (Again!)

Similar to the Bear Archery Species, the Cruzer G2 also does not come packed with arrows!

Read More

Some helpful links for you to learn about the bows above!

  • This Bear Archery manual is a great resource in learning how to maximize your bow.
  • The Suburban Outdoorsman gives his two cents on the Cruzer G2.

This interesting Reddit thread mentioned how reliable the Bear Archery Species is.

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