Recently, Bowtech announced four new bows. I received the Solution SD, a bow specifically designed for short-draw archers, to test and review. My review follows.
From Bowtech
“Performance Without Compromise - Optimized for draw lengths of 23.5 inches to 28.5 inches, the new Solution SD features the dead silence, dead-in-hand feel, and deadly accuracy of our DeadLock Cam System. Its modern riser design and DeadLock cams give you a buttery-smooth draw and transfer more energy to your arrows with even more nock-splitting precision than you’ve ever experienced. Built just for you. Because, the ultimate shooting experience isn’t one size fits all.”
Built on and backed by the Bowtech DeadLock Cam System platform, the Solution SD promises “Performance Without Compromise.” This is a bold statement to make for a bow designed for short-draw archers. Let’s face it, the challenge of retaining performance while downsizing is difficult. However, after putting the Solution SD to the test over several days, I can affirm Bowtech’s promise.
Out of the Box
Removing the bow from the box, I made two immediate conclusions. First, the bow is exceptionally lightweight and maneuverable. Second — albeit not the only color available — the black satin riser coupled with the white limb lettering and red on the DeadLock Cam System is an aesthetically pleasing combination. Overall, the Solution SD’s fit and finish are stellar.
Setup
To begin, I mounted and leveled a Whisker Biscuit rest and then tied on a D-loop. Next, I bolted on a Rocky Mountain 3-pin Driver Dovetail Mount sight, as well as a short Octane stabilizer. My hope was to make the Solution SD feel and perform like a hunting bow, which I achieved. Following Bowtech’s guidelines, I set the draw weight to 65 pounds and draw length to 28 inches. (Note: I usually shoot a 27 ½-inch draw length, so you may find you need an extra half-inch with this bow.)
Lastly, from my vast collection, I found an arrow that long enough to handle my draw setting, as well as appropriately spined. The chosen 28-inch Carbon Express Maxima BLU RZ350 weighed in at 371-grains.
Results
Using my Block range target, I started by firing a few arrows to get a feel for the bow’s idiosyncrasies. Once I was comfortable with the setup — about five arrows — I grabbed my chronograph to check speed. I fired a set of three arrows, which had an average speed of 281 fps. Performing a quick calculation in my head provided a positive response; however, I wanted to check the performance with an online calculator.
Assuming I added about 15 grains to the string (D-loop and original nocking point that I kept), the 281 fps was the perfect equivalency for my personal setup of 28-inch draw length and 65-pound draw weight. Kudos to Bowtech on their published speed!
The Solution SD efficiently creates energy. At 281 fps, a 371-grain arrow produces approximately 65 foot-pounds of kinetic energy (KE) and 0.46 slug-feet/second of momentum (M) at release. This is more than ample energy — however, you choose to measure it — to take any North American game species at an ethical distance. Still, speed isn’t the only variable or reason to buy a bow.
I don’t proclaim to be an expert at reading draw curves or feeling every idiosyncrasy along the draw cycle. All I have is a comparison to other bows I’ve drawn. In my opinion, the Solution SD draws like a flagship bow. The draw cycle is smooth. It settles nicely into a back wall at full draw, not wanting to spring forward without warning. I say go to your local pro shop and shoot it; I bet you will like its overall smoothness.
Diverse Audience
The Solution SD is, as mentioned, a lightweight and maneuverable bow. Therefore, it is a perfect choice for spot-and-stalk bowhunters, as well as bowhunters that prefer to wait in a hide -- treestand or ground blind. It’s also a likely candidate for the growing teen hunter since the bow adjusts to grow with them. It’s size and weight are ideal for every short-draw archer, male or female.
Final Thoughts
I am impressed with and looking forward to testing the Solution SD in more detail over the next few days.
Below are the Solutions SD’s specs and featured technologies.
AXLE-TO-AXLE: 30 inches
WEIGHT: 3.9 pounds
BRACE HEIGHT: 7 inches
PUBLISHED SPEED: 323 fps
DRAW LENGTH: 23 ½ - 28 ½ inches adjustable in 1/2-inch increments
DRAW WEIGHT: 50, 60 and 70
FINISHES: Several available
MSRP: $1199.99
CONTACT: www.bowtecharchery.com
DeadLock Cams: The quickest and simplest way to achieve perfect arrow flight and repeatable accuracy but engineered for the hunter with a shorter draw. Featuring Powershift Technology
DeadLock Pockets: Deadlock limb pockets lock every component in the entire bow structure as one for the most rigid, accuracy-producing platform possible.
Deadlock Cable Containment: The reduced torque translates to added forgiveness and dramatically enhanced shot-to-shot accuracy.
Clutch Performance Grip: The most comfortable modular grips on the market are engineered to reduce torque while increasing comfort. Our low-profile Clutch grip comes standard. The Clutch Control grip is available for purchase separately. Both grips are available in 4 popular colors.
Orbit Dampener: Multi-positioning to offset accessory weight, while absorbing unwanted vibration.
