Editors' review
Bear Archery has a strong lineup for budget-conscious hunters, and the 2025 Gamekeeper continues that tradition through a collaboration with Mossy Oak Gamekeepers. This mid-range compound bow is designed for versatility and value, available only as a ready-to-hunt (RTH) package. The Gamekeeper measures 30 inches axle-to-axle with an IBO rating of 330 feet per second and a forgiving 6.5-inch brace height. Draw lengths range from 27 to 32 inches, with peak draw weights of 45-60 or 55-70 pounds and an 80% let-off on its hybrid cam system. At around 4.2 pounds bare bow (6.4 pounds fully equipped), it's lightweight and maneuverable for treestand or ground blind hunting. The $649 MSRP positions it as an accessible entry in the mid-price market, though some may find it a step up from true budget bows. The package includes a Trophy Ridge sight, whisker biscuit rest, 5-arrow quiver, stabilizer, sling, peep sight, and D-loop-all in matching Mossy Oak Bottomlands. Bear also bundles a 90-day OnX Elite membership for added hunting utility. Compared to previous models like the Paradigm, the Gamekeeper offers a shorter axle-to-axle for better handling while maintaining long draw compatibility. Drawbacks include the lack of bare bow sales and potential string angle issues for very long draws, but that's expected in a compact design. Overall, the Gamekeeper shoots smoothly and quietly for its price, making it a solid choice for new or value-driven archers. Bear continues to refine affordable bows, and this collaboration delivers a reliable hunting rig in an exciting era for archery.
Finish
The Gamekeeper's finish is exclusively Mossy Oak Bottomlands camo, a collaboration that gives it a rugged, immersive look perfect for woodland hunting. The camo covers the riser, limbs, quiver, and accessories seamlessly, creating a fully matched setup straight from the factory. Bear's finishes hold up well in the field, with durable coatings that resist scratches and fading. Unlike some bows with premium upcharges for patterns, the Gamekeeper includes this popular camo at no extra cost, which is a smart move in 2025. However, the single finish option limits customization-there's no black, stone, or other colors available. For hunters wanting a coordinated look, matching Mossy Oak gear is easy to find, enhancing the overall aesthetic without additional expense.
Riser
The 2025 Bear Gamekeeper features a redesigned riser with integrated mounts, drawing from recent advancements in Bear's lineup. This setup includes a Picatinny rail for sights and an integrated rest mount compatible with QAD-style rests, bringing high-end features to a mid-price bow. The riser provides stability in a compact 30-inch axle-to-axle frame, with the 6.5-inch brace height adding forgiveness and speed. Bear incorporates limb dampeners and a string stop for vibration control, keeping the bow lightweight at about 4.2 pounds bare. Standard mounting holes remain for non-integrated accessories, offering flexibility. The integrated design reduces clutter and aligns components for better accuracy, a nice touch for hunters upgrading from basic setups. Overall, this riser balances strength, weight, and integration effectively for everyday archery.
Grip
Bear sticks with its standard slimline grip on the Gamekeeper, a proven design that sits comfortably in the hand with a flatback feel. The synthetic material provides a secure hold without being overly aggressive, suitable for extended shooting sessions. It's thin and ergonomic, promoting consistent torque-free shots. For those preferring adjustments, the grip is removable, allowing for side plates or tape modifications to personalize the feel. While not as customizable as some modular grips on premium bows, it meets the needs of most hunters effectively. The slim profile complements the bow's compact nature, making it easy to handle in tight spaces like treestands.
Limbs
The Gamekeeper uses split limbs with a wide stance for stability, paired with Bear's zero-tolerance pocket system for precise alignment. Draw weights adjust in 15-pound ranges (45-60 or 55-70 pounds) via limb bolts, with clear markings for easy home adjustments. The limbs incorporate dampeners to minimize noise and vibration post-shot, contributing to the bow's quiet performance. Bear's roller guard system protects cables and enhances draw smoothness, a feature typically seen on higher-end models. This setup manages the hybrid cams efficiently, delivering consistent power without excess shock. For added utility, the bow includes a 90-day OnX subscription, tying into the Gamekeepers lifestyle focus. Overall, the limbs provide reliable performance in a lightweight package.
Eccentric System
The Gamekeeper employs a hybrid cam system, similar to Bear's DHC cams, offering smooth operation with 80% let-off. Draw lengths adjust from 27 to 32 inches in half-inch increments via modules-no press required-making it accessible for home tuning. Peak weights are module-specific, with clear labels for draw length, weight, and stops. The IBO speed hits 330 feet per second, impressive for a mid-range bow, providing ample power for hunting. In its debut year, this system builds on proven tech from models like the Paradigm, allowing weight changes without new limbs. Backing out bolts drops weight by up to 15 pounds while keeping draw length consistent. This eccentric setup is user-friendly and performant, ideal for hunters seeking adjustability without complexity.
Draw Cycle/Shootability
The Gamekeeper's draw cycle is typical of a midline dual cam bow: it builds steadily to peak weight with a smooth rollover, holding solidly on cable stops at the back wall. It's not the softest draw compared to flagships, but it's manageable and consistent, with no harsh humps. At full draw, the bow aims steadily, aided by the integrated setup and slim grip. Post-shot, vibration is minimal, and noise registers around 87.7 dB-quiet for hunting, especially with heavier arrows. Real-world speeds (e.g., 310 fps with 350-grain arrows at 29 inches/70 pounds) confirm its capability. For longer draws, the string angle feels comfortable due to the larger cams, though very tall archers might notice slight pinch. Overall, it's a shooter that feels reliable and forgiving for the price.
Usage Scenarios
The 2025 Bear Gamekeeper is tailored for whitetail hunters in treestands or blinds, where its compact 30-inch frame shines. The Mossy Oak collaboration suits woodland environments, and the RTH package gets newcomers hunting quickly. It's versatile for 3D shoots or casual target practice, but competitive archers may prefer longer bows. The junior version, based on the Royale platform, mirrors the design for youth or smaller hunters, fostering family matching setups. This bow excels in budget-conscious scenarios, offering solid performance without excess frills.
Summary
Bear Archery has nailed the mid-range market with the Gamekeeper, refining affordable tech through smart collaborations. Subtle yearly improvements add up, creating a bow that's more than the sum of its parts. The hybrid cams, integrated mounts, and versatile adjustments make it a standout for value hunters, though the RTH-only format and single finish may deter some. At $649, it's a worthwhile investment for those entering archery or seeking a reliable backup. The Gamekeeper proves you don't need flagship prices for effective hunting, making it a top pick for 2025 budget bows.
