In the world of archery, the EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow is a game changer, especially for those on a budget.
Retailing at a modest $342.00, this crossbow brings a unique blend of affordability and quality to the table.
As someone who has personally tested and explored the capabilities of this crossbow, I'm excited to share my insights and experiences.
In this review, we'll delve into various facets of the RX Adder, including its build and design, accuracy and performance, ease of use, and value for money.
We'll also consider any potential downsides, allowing you to make an informed decision on whether this could be your next archery companion.
Strap in for an in-depth exploration of this remarkable budget crossbow.
Specs
- Arrow Speed: 270 FPS
- Weight: 5.2 lbs
- Length: 21.5 in
- Draw weight: 130lbs
Features
Compact design: The Adder is extremely compact, making it easy to transport, unlike traditional crossbows which can be bulky and difficult to carry around.
Moreover, the crossbow can be disassembled into its main components in less than a minute without any tools, further enhancing its portability.
Integrated lower lever for easy cocking: This feature allows the Adder to be easily cocked, overcoming one of the challenges usually associated with using a crossbow.
High fire rate due to integrated magazine: The Adder comes with an integrated magazine that can hold five 7.5-inch arrows.
This feature enables the Adder to achieve a high fire rate, with the potential to send all five arrows downrange in less than ten seconds.
High penetration power: The arrows, or bolts, that come with the Adder are equipped with screwed-on field points that can reach 41 joules at 130 pounds tensile weight.
This results in a high penetration power, as demonstrated in tests where the standard field tips penetrated through several layers of clothing, a thick layer of ballistic gel, and even perforated a coconut poured into the gel block.
This penetration power can be further increased by using special High-Penetration “Bodkin” tips, which have razor-sharp edges.
Adjustable and removable tactical rear stock: The Adder features an adjustable and removable rear stock that enhances its compactness when removed.
All-metal red dot sight: The Adder comes with an all-metal red dot sight that can be adjusted vertically and horizontally.
This feature contributes to the accuracy of the crossbow, even at distances up to 55 yards (50 meters).
Night-time usability: The Adder can be loaded and cocked even in complete darkness when purchased with a Tactical Laser Light Module, making it usable at any time of the day.
Package Includes
- 1 x crossbow “Adder” complete with 130-pound throwing arm and magazine
- 15 x 7.5″ carbon arrows
- 1 x string exchange aid
- 1 x rail lube
- 1 x spare string
- 1 x shoulder strap
- 1 x set of throwing arm end caps
- 1 x AR15 stock with buffer piece
- 1 x aluminum red dot sights
- 1 x simple front handle
- 1 x safety glasses
In the next section, we will delve deeper into these features and discuss how they contribute to the overall user experience. Stay tuned!
My Personal Experience
As a hunter, I've found the EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow to be an absolute revelation.
Its array of features, combined with its affordability, has made it a go-to choice in my hunting gear.
One of my most memorable experiences with the RX Adder came during a late evening hunt.
As dusk turned into night, I found myself trailing a particularly elusive white-tail deer.
With most crossbows, this would have marked the end of the day's hunt, as loading and cocking in the dark can be a daunting, if not impossible, task.
However, thanks to the RX Adder's Tactical Laser Light Module, I was able to continue my pursuit well into the night.
Loading and cocking the RX Adder was a breeze, even in the darkness, thanks to its integrated lower lever and automatic self-loading mechanism.
This allowed me to keep my focus on the hunt, instead of struggling with my equipment.
And when the opportunity presented itself, the RX Adder's high fire rate was a game changer.
Within seconds, I was able to send multiple arrows downrange with pinpoint accuracy, a feat that would have been unthinkable with a traditional crossbow.
But perhaps the most impressive feature of the RX Adder is its compact design.
On this particular hunt, I had to navigate dense underbrush and uneven terrain.
The Adder's compact size and light weight, combined with its ability to be disassembled quickly and easily, made it the perfect companion for such challenging conditions.
When it wasn't in use, I simply disassembled it and stowed it away in a small bag, freeing up my hands and reducing the risk of it getting snagged on branches or underbrush.
Moreover, the Adder's high penetration power really came into its own in the field.
Its arrows, equipped with screwed-on field points, proved highly effective at bringing down game, even at longer distances.
In conclusion, the EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow has proven to be an invaluable addition to my hunting gear.
Its combination of innovative features, compact design, and high performance have made it a reliable companion on my hunting trips, regardless of the conditions or time of day.
Price and Value for Money
Priced at $342.00, the EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow represents an impressive value for money proposition.
Its combination of affordability, functionality, and innovation is quite unmatched in the crossbow market.
When considering the cost of a crossbow, one must look beyond the initial purchase price.
The true value of the product comes from its performance, durability, and the features it offers.
From this perspective, the RX Adder truly shines.
The crossbow comes loaded with features that are typically found in higher-priced models.
Its integrated magazine with a high fire rate, easy cocking mechanism, and compact design are just a few examples.
Moreover, its high penetration power and the option for night-time usability with the Tactical Laser Light Module further enhance its value.
The fact that the RX Adder is also extremely durable and well-built adds to its value.
This is a crossbow that is designed to last, ensuring that your initial investment will provide returns over a long period of time.
Another factor to consider is the comprehensive package that comes with the RX Adder.
The package includes not just the crossbow itself, but also 15 carbon arrows, a spare string, safety glasses, and various other accessories that would otherwise need to be purchased separately.
This inclusion further enhances the RX Adder's value proposition.
In terms of performance, the RX Adder does not disappoint.
Its high fire rate and accuracy, even at longer distances, make it an effective tool for hunting or target practice.
This level of performance, combined with its affordability, makes the RX Adder an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned archers alike.
In conclusion, considering its features, performance, durability, and the comprehensive package that comes with it, the EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow offers exceptional value for money.
It's a worthy investment for anyone looking to delve into the world of archery without breaking the bank.
What are people saying?
The EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow has garnered positive reviews from users, who highlight its ease of use, compact size, and versatility.
Rob appreciates the crossbow's compact size and ease of cocking, even for those who may not have been regularly exercising.
He also notes the inclusion of extra spare strings, a loading string, and a red dot scope.
The clarity of the instructions and the ease-of-use of the safety trigger were also highlighted.
He did mention a few areas for potential improvement, such as a better scope and a stronger grip handle rail.
Ted's review highlights the crossbow's versatility and ease of assembly.
He was impressed by how easily it could be shot and sighted in.
He particularly notes the adjustable stock, which allowed even his 10-year-old daughter to use it.
He recommends the RX Adder as a great crossbow for beginners to novices, and he's even planning to purchase another one as a gift.
These reviews illustrate the RX Adder's appeal to a broad range of users, from beginners to experienced archers, further reinforcing its value proposition.
The Drawbacks
While the EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow is a remarkable piece of equipment, it's only fair to mention a few drawbacks that I've encountered in my personal experience with it.
Firstly, the red dot sight, while functional, isn't the highest quality.
It serves its purpose, but it's not as refined as some other sights that I've used on higher-end crossbows.
There was a time during a hunting trip when I found myself wishing for a more sophisticated sight, especially when aiming at longer distances.
Secondly, the grip handle rail feels a bit weak.
Much like Rob mentioned in his review, I found myself handling it with extra care, fearing that it might snap off if handled too roughly.
While this didn't affect the functionality of the crossbow, it was something I was conscious of during use.
Lastly, while the compact design is a major advantage, it might take a little getting used to, especially if you're accustomed to traditional, larger crossbows.
I recall my initial attempts at aiming felt a bit awkward due to the smaller size, but with some practice, I got the hang of it.
It's worth noting, however, that these drawbacks are relatively minor compared to the overall performance and value the RX Adder provides.
And in my view, they don't detract from the crossbow's overall worth.
Should You Buy? Concluding the Review
The EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow is a significant game-changer in the realm of affordable crossbows.
It boasts an array of innovative features that are often found in more expensive models, including an automatic self-loading mechanism, a high fire rate, and a compact, easily transportable design.
Its high penetration power and the ability to use it at night, thanks to the Tactical Laser Light Module, further enhance its functionality.
While it does have a few minor drawbacks, such as a somewhat lower-quality red dot sight and a slightly fragile grip handle rail, these don't significantly detract from its overall performance.
Its benefits far outweigh these minor issues, and with a price tag of $342.00, it offers fantastic value for money.
The positive user reviews we've discussed, coupled with my own personal experience, attest to the RX Adder's worthiness as a reliable and versatile crossbow, suitable for both beginners and seasoned archers alike.
In conclusion, if you're in the market for a budget-friendly crossbow that doesn't skimp on features or performance, the EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow should be at the top of your list.
Its combination of affordability, innovation, and solid performance make it a worthy investment in your archery or hunting gear.
