Bear Method Review
from $550
Pros
- Good speed
- Simple draw length adjustment
- Very economical
Cons
- Slide type cable slide
- Only two color options
Video
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Editors' review
If any archer is looking for more speed for their dollar they need to definitely take a look at the Bear Method. As the engineers at Bear continue to make strides, like they have for a while now, this bow is no exception. Bear continues to inch nearer to the top end of the archery industry although they are not quite yet worthy of that title. This company puts a lot of emphasis on their consumer reviews and ratings. This is something they are taking to heart as it shows in their product line and customer service. The Method has great speed for being so comfortable for the shooter.
Finish
The only color options available on the Method are Realtree APG and Shadow (black). Shadow is mean looking and seems to be more of a flat finish along with the camo option. Both of the finishes seem to be durable without any signs of chipping or blemishing. It would be nice for consumers to have more of a selection of colors to choose from, but it is more limited the further down the Bear line.Riser/Limbs
This bow measures 33" axel to axel with its riser and limb combination. The all new riser is real good looking with gentle edges and curves. As normal for Bear it has integrated Dual Arc String Suppressors that have a great look along with being very affective. The Method sports the Max Pre-Load Quad Limbs as do the more expensive Motive bows by Bear. These limbs are connected to the riser with the Zero Tolerance Limb Pockets. There is an interference fit created with the limb pockets with the limb, boot, and pocket that eliminates any limb movement in the pocket. These limb pockets play a large role in dampening vibration. The bow has a 6.75" brace height between the limbs and riser. It has a smooth draw that is quiet and powerful at the release.Grip
There are two options for the grip on the Method. A rubber grip that wraps around the riser is soft and comfortable with a large Bear emblem stretching across it. It has a thick feel compared to the side panel grip option that is underneath it. Hands will stay warmer with the rubber option in cold hunting weather. The design of both grip options feel well balanced without any noticeable hand torque.String Suppressers
The Method has the Dual Arc String Suppressors integrated into the riser that Bear has become known for. These suppressors enable this bow to be nearly shock free and it is also quiet at the shot. The string to suppressor contact really dampens the vibration and sound. The thick rubber boots on the suppressors are what soften the contact. They are not adjustable like some of the higher end Bear bows.Eccentric System
The Synchronized Hybrid Cam System is all new for Bear, and the Method comes equipped with it. It has impressive speed. The new H13 dual cams have rotating modules that make it a cinch to change the draw length and without the use of a bow press. The draw length can be adjusted from 26.5" to 31" in .5" increments. The H13 cams create a smooth, even draw without a big lump to pull over like most of the speed bows on the market. The Method comes in 50, 60, and 70 lb. weights. The awesome speed on this bow comes with a generous brace height of 6.75". The IBO is 340 fps.Draw Cycle/Shoot Ability
The draw on this bow is very fluent for the speed it produces. It is flat throughout the draw cycle. This bow has an equalized feeling while in the hand and hardly budges at the shot. The backwall feels solid without any cushy feeling. The Method has a comfortable valley that will give you room to ease off enough and still be able to feel at ease without the worry of the string jumping back. A stabilizer helps almost any bow with and shock and noise, but this bow still feels balanced without one. Vibration is not an issue what so ever due to the dual string suppressors. It has a slide type roller guard that doesn't compare to the 4x4 on the higher end bows by Bear, but still does well.Silencing Package
The Method is a nice and quiet bow. The Dual Arc String Suppressors are mostly responsible for this along with making it nearly shock and vibration free. The dual string suppressors from Bear are still doing the job that they were intended for when they were first produced. There are no additional silencers added to the string of this bow and there are none needed.Comparisons
| Bow | Bear Method | Bear Motive 7 |
| Version | 2014 | 2014 |
| Picture |  |  |
| Brace Height | 6.75 " | 7 " |
| AtA Length | 33 " | 32 " |
| Draw Length | 26.5 " - 31 " | 26.5 " - 31 " |
| Draw Weight | 40 lbs - 70 lbs | 40 lbs - 70 lbs |
| IBO Speed | 340 fps | 340 fps |
| Weight | 4.0 lbs | 4.0 lbs |
| Let-Off | 75% | 75% |
| Where to buy Best prices online | ||
| compare more bows | ||
The higher priced Motive 7 from Bear is quite similar to the Method except for a difference in the risers. They have the same IBO of 340 fps. The Method's brace height is only .25" shorter than the Motive 7's. Their weights are the same and the Method is 1" longer ATA. While the Method does not have quite as many of the smaller luxuries as the Bear Motive 7, like the roller guard and the adjustable string suppressors, it is a great value for the money. It still shares many of the characteristics of the higher end Motives and has amazing speed at an amazing price. The Method's MSRP is only $649.99 which is an incredible $250 less than the Motive 7. This is a great value for what this bow brings to the table and far more in line than the pricey Motives.