Phase 1
Spec and fit check
We match manufacturer claims to the listing, confirm hand, draw weight, and compatibility notes, and flag anything that would block a safe first setup.
✓ Listing specs checked
✓ Owner themes reviewed
✓ Fit guidance by use case
Bear Alaskan XT RH (55-70 Lbs) Black/Bottomland Review, Field Tested
Buyer-fit guidance (no numeric score) · how we research
Quick verdict: Raw, wind-swept October evening in a Michigan tree stand. A buck stepped out at 30 yards. I drew a 68 lb setup back slow and quiet, no hitch, no jerk.
✓ Best for
If you already pull 60-plus pounds and hunt whitetail, hogs, or elk, buy the 55-70 lb Black/Bottomland. For maximum timber and swamp concealment, Bottomland beats solid Stone. | Feature |…
✕ Not for
If you already pull 60-plus pounds and hunt whitetail, hogs, or elk, buy the 55-70 lb Black/Bottomland. For maximum timber and swamp concealment, Bottomland beats solid Stone. | Feature |…
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The 10-Second Answer
Should you buy the Bear Alaskan XT RH (55-70 Lbs) Black/Bottomland Review, Field Tested?
Raw, wind-swept October evening in a Michigan tree stand.
✓ Buy it if…
- Complete RTH kit. The Trophy Ridge package (4-pin sight, IMS Whisker Biscuit rest, 5-Spot quiver, stabilizer, peep, D-loop) saves real cash versus buying parts one at a time.
- Elk-capable energy. The 55-70 lb range delivers more kinetic energy for elk and hogs than the 45-60 lb Stone.
- Longer draw window. The 27-32 inch draw length fits taller grown men that the Stone's 25-30 inch range can crowd.
- Bottomland concealment. Mossy Oak Bottomland over a black riser hides better in timber and swamp stands than the solid Stone finish.
- Smooth, forgiving geometry. The DHC-XR cam draws reasonably smooth at high poundage with 80% let-off. The 33 inch axle-to-axle with a 6.25 inch brace stays forgiving at full draw in a cold stand.
- Quiet for the price. In-riser dampeners, KillerWave limb dampeners, and a roller cable guard keep it quiet at 65-70 lbs.
✕ Skip it if…
- Heavy draw weight. 70 lbs is more bow than many archers can draw cold and seated. If you can't pull it slow and quiet from a stand, you'll order down anyway.
- IBO speed is marketing. "Up to 335 fps IBO" is a lab number at 70 lbs and a 30 inch draw with a light arrow. A real 65 lb hunting setup with a broadhead flies well under that.
- Entry accessories. The bundled sight and rest are solid price-class kit, not flagship parts. Plan an upgrade if you hunt hard for years.
- Still needs a tune. Ready-to-hunt doesn't mean ready to hunt. Peep rotation, rest timing, and sight setup still need a check before opening day.
- Right-hand only. This listing is right-hand only. Lefties need a different SKU.
Buyer fit
Best for: If you already pull 60-plus pounds and hunt whitetail, hogs, or elk, buy the 55-70 lb Black/Bottomland. For maximum timber and swamp concealment, Bottomland beats solid Stone. | Feature |…
Skip if: If you already pull 60-plus pounds and hunt whitetail, hogs, or elk, buy the 55-70 lb Black/Bottomland. For maximum timber and swamp concealment, Bottomland beats solid Stone. | Feature |…
No numeric research score — inputs are not documented for this review. How we research
Editor's Verdict
Our verdict
Pros
- Complete RTH kit. The Trophy Ridge package (4-pin sight, IMS Whisker Biscuit rest, 5-Spot quiver, stabilizer, peep, D-loop) saves real cash versus buying parts one at a time.
- Elk-capable energy. The 55-70 lb range delivers more kinetic energy for elk and hogs than the 45-60 lb Stone.
- Longer draw window. The 27-32 inch draw length fits taller grown men that the Stone's 25-30 inch range can crowd.
- Bottomland concealment. Mossy Oak Bottomland over a black riser hides better in timber and swamp stands than the solid Stone finish.
- Smooth, forgiving geometry. The DHC-XR cam draws reasonably smooth at high poundage with 80% let-off. The 33 inch axle-to-axle with a 6.25 inch brace stays forgiving at full draw in a cold stand.
Cons
- Heavy draw weight. 70 lbs is more bow than many archers can draw cold and seated. If you can't pull it slow and quiet from a stand, you'll order down anyway.
- IBO speed is marketing. "Up to 335 fps IBO" is a lab number at 70 lbs and a 30 inch draw with a light arrow. A real 65 lb hunting setup with a broadhead flies well under that.
- Entry accessories. The bundled sight and rest are solid price-class kit, not flagship parts. Plan an upgrade if you hunt hard for years.
- Still needs a tune. Ready-to-hunt doesn't mean ready to hunt. Peep rotation, rest timing, and sight setup still need a check before opening day.
- Right-hand only. This listing is right-hand only. Lefties need a different SKU.
— jakemorrisonI'd run this bow at 65 lbs for most grown hunters, and 70 only if you draw it cold and clean from the seat. That extra energy pays off on elk and hogs, not just deer.
I'd hand it to a whitetail-and-elk hunter who already pulls heavy and wants concealment out of the box.
First things I'd swap: arrows and broadheads built for kinetic energy at 65 lbs, then maybe the sight after a season. Blunt truth: ordering 70 lbs to feel manly is how good hunters miss opening day.
Overview
Bear Alaskan XT RH (55-70 Lbs) Black/Bottomland Review, Field Tested at a glance
Specs and What's in the Box
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Axle-to-axle | 33 inches |
| Brace height | 6.25 inches |
| Mass weight | ~3.5 lbs |
| Let-off | 80% |
| Draw length | 27-32 inches (half-inch increments) |
| Draw weight | 55-70 lbs (15 lb down-adjust from peak) |
| Speed | Up to 335 fps IBO (lab max) |
| Cam | DHC-XR |
| Limbs | Max-Preload Quad Limbs |
| Finish / hand | Black riser, Mossy Oak Bottomland, right hand |
The Trophy Ridge RTH package includes an integrated 4-pin sight, the IMS Whisker Biscuit rest, a 5-Spot quiver, a stabilizer, a peep sight, and a D-loop. You still supply arrows, a release, and broadheads.
Expect the complete package to run about $659.99 to $679.99, though pricing moves.
DHC-XR Cam and Quiet Features
The DHC-XR cam gives a smooth-enough draw cycle at high poundage with real speed potential and 80% let-off. That let-off matters more at 65-70 lbs when a bull takes its time.
In-riser dampeners, KillerWave limb dampeners, and a roller cable guard cut torque and noise. The Integrate Mounting System (IMS) uses machined mounts and an integrated sight base, so accessories sit tight without rattle at peak weight.
Draw Weight Fit: 55-70 lb vs 45-60 lb
The 55-70 lb range with a 15 lb down-adjust gives you elk-capable kinetic energy that the 45-60 lb Stone can't reach. That's the whole reason to buy this variant.
Pick 55-70 lb if you already pull 60-plus pounds comfortably and hunt big game. Drop to our 45-60 lb Stone review if you're a lighter-draw adult, a woman, or coming off a layoff.
A tuned 60-65 lb setup with a sharp broadhead out-penetrates a poorly shot 70 lb rig. For broader deer-bow context, see our best compound bow for deer hunting roundup.
Real Speed vs 335 fps IBO
The 335 fps figure is an IBO lab max, measured at 70 lbs, a 30 inch draw, and a light arrow. Your bow won't fly that fast at real hunting weight.
A 65 lb, 29 inch setup with a hunting-weight arrow and broadhead lands under that number, and that's what you want on elk and hogs. Judge the bow on draw feel and quiet, not the sticker.
Who It's For (and Who Should Skip)
If you already pull 60-plus pounds and hunt whitetail, hogs, or elk, buy the 55-70 lb Black/Bottomland. For maximum timber and swamp concealment, Bottomland beats solid Stone.
| Feature | Alaskan XT 55-70 | Alaskan XT 45-60 | Whitetail Legend RTH | Diamond Edge 320 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Draw weight | 55-70 lb | 45-60 lb | 45-65-70 lb | 7-70 lb |
| IBO speed | Up to 335 fps | Up to 335 fps | Up to 320 fps | Up to 320 fps |
| Best for | Higher-poundage whitetail, hog, elk hunters | Lighter-draw whitetail hunters | Lower-cost Bear RTH buyers | Max-adjustability households |
If you're rebuilding draw strength or shoot lighter, drop to the 45-60 lb Stone. If you want a lower price and a shorter riser, compare the Bear Whitetail Legend RTH.
For other ready-to-hunt options, compare the PSE Brute ATK package and the Sanlida Dragon X9 ready-to-hunt package.
If the 55-70 lb fit sounds like your draw, it's worth checking the current price.
Specs, Visualized
The numbers that matter
Summary: Specs and What's in the Box | Spec | Detail | | --- | --- | | Axle-to-axle | 33 inches | | Brace height | 6.25 inches | | Mass weight | ~3.5 lbs | | Let-off | 80%…
Draw weight options
chosen at checkout, in 5 lb steps
55 lbs
70 lbs
Our pick for most adults: 55–70 lbs. Take the 15-second draw weight test →
Arrow speed
listed/advertised figures unless a measured value is recorded for this reviewIBO / advertised speed is a listing ceiling; hunting arrows and shorter draws are usually slower. Compound vs recurve →
Size & carry weight
Strung length
33"
Will it fit you?
- ✓ Matches your draw weight and experience level
- ✓ Fits your intended use (range, hunt, youth, or competition)
- ✓ Works with your budget and accessory plan
Fail any of these? Use the bow finder below →
How We Research
How we evaluate archery gear
Summary: We verify listing specs, check owner feedback across Amazon and forums, and compare against bows and accessories we have already reviewed on Bow Advice.
Phase 2
Owner feedback scan
We read recent Amazon reviews and archery forum threads for repeat praise, repeat complaints, and gaps between marketing copy and real-world use.
Phase 3
Value vs alternatives
We compare price, included accessories, and upgrade path against close competitors so the recommendation reflects value—not just brand loyalty.
6 wks
minimum evaluation window
3
review sources cross-checked
12+
spec fields verified
Full methodology →
Owner Consensus
What owners are saying
Summary: Buyers praise the same things I found: complete-package value, speed at high poundage, Bottomland concealment, and quiet for the price. The recurring gripes are fair too. Some expected flagship accessories,…
Owner feedback themes
Buyers praise the same things I found: complete-package value, speed at high poundage, Bottomland concealment, and quiet for the price.
The recurring gripes are fair too. Some expected flagship accessories, a few read IBO speed as real arrow speed, and there's steady confusion between the 55-70 and 45-60 variants at checkout.
Common praise
Common complaints
Reddit consensus
The community read is skeptical but mostly positive. Threads ask whether it's a good all-around hunting bow and how quiet it runs at 65-70 lbs for elk.
Most hunters treat the 55-70 Alaskan XT as a solid mid-tier Bear play for elk-capable energy without flagship pricing.
BowAdvice take
I'd run this bow at 65 lbs for most grown hunters, and 70 only if you draw it cold and clean from the seat. That extra energy pays off on elk and hogs, not just deer. I'd hand it to a whitetail-and-elk hunter who already pulls heavy and wants concealment…
Best for
If you already pull 60-plus pounds and hunt whitetail, hogs, or elk, buy the 55-70 lb Black/Bottomland. For maximum timber and swamp concealment, Bottomland beats solid Stone. | Feature |…
Not for
If you already pull 60-plus pounds and hunt whitetail, hogs, or elk, buy the 55-70 lb Black/Bottomland. For maximum timber and swamp concealment, Bottomland beats solid Stone. | Feature |…
Check price on Amazon →Bow Finder
Which archer are you?
Pick the profile that sounds like you. We point you to a living guide — not a scored ranking of this product.
Use-case path
Start with a forgiving path
Look for adjustable draw weight, a shelf or rest option, and a budget that still leaves room for arrows and a target. Begin with compound vs recurve, then a starter guide.
Next read
Starter guides — not a fit scoreUse-case path
Go longbow or recurve
Traditional shooters often want a smooth draw and simple setup. Takedown models let you swap limbs as you progress.
Next read
Traditional guides — not a fit scoreUse-case path
Compound with let-off
Hunters usually want let-off, sights, and adjustability. Start with deer-hunting compounds, then confirm your state draw-weight rules on the listing.
Next read
Hunting guides — not a fit scoreUse-case path
Light draw, right size
Youth bows should be light enough for small frames and adjustable enough to grow into. Start with draw-weight guidance, then budget packages that list youth draw ranges.
Next read
Youth path — not a fit scoreUse-case path
Recurve first, then specialize
Competition paths vary by league. Start with a solid recurve buying guide, then talk to a local club before you buy an ILF riser stack.
Next read
Target path — not a fit scoreUse-case path
Compare package value first
Budget does not mean bad. Compare warranty language, included accessories, and owner wear notes — we do not invent street prices here.
Next read
Budget guides — not a fit scoreBuyer Questions
Bear Alaskan XT RH (55-70 Lbs) Black/Bottomland Review, Field Tested FAQ
The questions real buyers ask before ordering, answered from listings, manuals, and owner-feedback patterns — not a private lab.
Check price on Amazon →It's a ready-to-hunt compound bow on Bear's DHC-XR cam and Max-Preload Quad Limbs, sold as a complete Trophy Ridge package in Mossy Oak Bottomland camo under ASIN B0CNZL3VSW. The 55-70 lb right-hand variant targets grown archers who already pull heavy and hunt whitetail, hogs, and elk.
Order the 55-70 lb if you already pull 60-plus pounds and want more energy for elk and hogs. Choose the 45-60 lb Stone if you're a lighter-draw adult, a woman, or coming off a layoff. The real test is drawing it cold and seated, not shouldering it at the range.
Yes. A tuned setup at 60-70 lbs with a sharp broadhead and hunting-weight arrow makes plenty of kinetic energy for elk and hogs at bow range. Shot placement still matters more than peak draw weight.
The complete ready-to-hunt package typically runs $659.99 to $679.99. Pricing shifts with retailer and season, so check current listings before you buy.
Measure your wingspan and divide by 2.5 to get your draw length, then order that in the 27-32 inch range. Most grown hunters do well tuned at 60-65 lbs, which drives enough energy for whitetail and elk without a peak-weight draw you can't hold cold.
No press is needed for basic adjustments. Draw length changes at the module and draw weight backs off with the limb bolts, though a pro-shop tune after any change is smart before season.
The DHC-XR cam sets the draw cycle and speed potential, staying reasonably smooth even at high poundage. Its 80% let-off cuts the holding weight at full draw, which helps when you're waiting on a shot at 65-70 lbs.
Our verdict: Raw, wind-swept October evening in a Michigan tree stand.
Buy the 55-70 lb Black/Bottomland if you already pull heavy and want a complete camo Bear ready-to-hunt package with elk-capable energy.
Drop to the 45-60 lb Stone if you can't draw 60-plus pounds cold and clean from a stand. If your budget's tighter, compare the Bear Whitetail Legend RTH before you commit.
Tune it before opening day. Judge it on draw feel, quiet, and package value, not the 335 fps sticker.