PSE X-Force Super Short Review

Editors' review

Introduced in 2008, the PSE X-force SS (super short) is a lot of power stuffed into a small package. Looking at this bow, it could be mistaken for a women's/teen bow, but it is actually the perfect rig for stalking or hunting out of a ground blind.

Finish

The SS had four different finishes available during its three year run: Mossy Oak Break-up, Mossy Oak Treestand, Digital Army Camo and Satin Black. Not all were available each year, however each finish is durable and resistant to fading.

Limbs & Riser

The Super Short employs PSE's X-tech limbs. Each limb is individually stressed and preloaded producing the most efficient and reliable limbs on the market. PSE's Pivoting HyperSplit limb pockets secure the X-tech limbs to the 6061-T6 Aluminum riser.

Grip

The bow is equipped with Biomechanically Ergonomic Slim Throat (B.E.S.T) grip. This slender grip promotes consistent hand positioning, decreasing the chance for hand induced torque. This helps shooters make consistent shots. Additionally, the B.E.S.T. grip is quite comfortable for most archers.

Eccentric System

The SS advertised IBO speeds in the 330's during its first two years with the use of the HF hybrid cams and the GX hybrid cams. Year three (2010) introduced a new cam system known as the UF (Ultra Fast) Hybrid Cam System. This new and improved cam system allowed the SS to boast and impressive 348 fps. Though the cam system has changed each year, draw length has remained adjustable without the use of a bow press and maintained 80% let-off with each model.

Draw Cycle/Shootability

The draw cycle on the SS has varied a bit over the years. In 2008 and 2009 it used the HF & GX cams which were said to produce a very smooth draw cycle. However in 2010 PSE installed the UF Hybrid Cam System which has a draw cycle that has been compared to the 2010 Omen, slightly stiff then stacks on the back end before coming to a solid wall. This cam was much more efficient thus utilizing it on the SS was justified, but there have been a few shooters that preferred the previous models due to the draw cycle. While the draw cycle has changed slightly over time this bow remains an accurate shooter through each model, which is surprising to some considering the short axle to axle length.

Silencing Package

The PSE Super Short is equipped with limb tip dampeners which helped make this rig pretty quiet during all three years. The addition of the vibracheck backstop in 2009 really quieted down this bow. Additionally, the bow is quite quiet on release; there is very little noticeable vibration or hand shock. Using a good stabilizer will cancel out what there is.

Hunting Bow

The X-force SS is designed for hunting in a spot and stalk situation or from a ground blind. It is light enough, at 3.6lbs, to carry on the longest hikes and, with an axle to axle length of around 27 inches, short enough to be very maneuverable in any ground blind. Despite this bow's size it remains incredibly accurate.

Good value for money

The economy today forces many of us to pinch our pennies. Thus when we do spend, we want to get the best bang for our buck. The X-force SS is a bow that gives shooters a lot and today you can find great deals on good used models. This rig is made with the best materials PSE has to offer but is often overlooked as a high quality, well-built piece of equipment because of its size.

Summary

The X-force SS is one of the shortest axle to axle length bows ever built. This makes the bow very maneuverable in tight situations. PSE has managed to make this bow compact, yet very accurate, and fast. The bow is made with the, spot and stalk or ground blind, hunter in mind. In general, this rig will be easy to handle and shoot for almost anyone. However, if you have a longer draw length, even at 30", it may become tougher to shoot because of the steep angle of the string at full draw. Shooters in the market for an SS can expect to find good deal at an average price around $500 for a good used model.