In the vibrant world of archery, it is rare to find a blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and affordability that truly stands out.
In this review, we will delve into the Pezicco, a handmade recurve bow that pays homage to the Mongolian horse longbow design while striking a balance with the budget of the modern archer.
Priced at a modest $65, the Pezicco promises an intriguing mix of historical authenticity and practical functionality.
We will be exploring the key aspects that define the Pezicco, including its craftsmanship, performance, aesthetic appeal, and value for money.
Our assessment will also include a hands-on user experience, touching on the bow's comfort level, ease of use, and suitability for different archery styles and skill levels.
Whether you're a seasoned archer seeking to diversify your collection, a beginner looking for a starter bow, or simply an enthusiast eager to delve into the history-rich world of traditional archery, this review aims to provide an in-depth understanding of what the Pezicco has to offer.
Strap in, pull back your metaphorical bowstring, and let's set off on this journey together.
Specifications:
- Brace height: 16-18cm
- Draw length: 28″
- Security draw length: 31″
- Draw weight options: 30/35/40/45/50 lbs
- Net weight: 500g
- Bow length (varies with draw weight): 141cm/55.51″ (30 lbs) to 128cm/50.39″ (50 lbs)
- String length (varies with draw weight): 122cm/48.03″ (30 lbs) to 126cm/49.61″ (50 lbs)
- 14-strand string
- String loop size: 8.5cm
Features:
- No arrow rest on the riser: This feature makes the bow adaptable to both left and right-handed archers.
- Composition: The modern Mongolian bow is constructed of wood and fiberglass sheets, ensuring both strength and flexibility. The riser and siyahs (the tips of the bow) are made of hard wood, while the limbs are made of fiberglass sheets.
- Leather Wrapped Riser: The riser is leather wrapped, adding a touch of traditional style and providing a comfortable grip.
- Traditional Mongolian Bow: This bow is designed in the Mongolian style, offering a simple and easy shooting experience. It is a reflection of the bows used in Mongolia's history, with influences from the Manchu Qing bows.
- Draw Release: The typical draw release of this bow is the traditional thumb ring, using a leather or metal thumb ring.
Package Includes:
- 1 Recurve bow with bowstring. The bow is often strung with a black cord during transportation to protect the bow shape, which should be replaced with the included real bowstring.
Please note that the actual draw weight may have a +/- 2-3 lbs difference from the stated weight.
My Personal Experience
As an avid hunter, my first experience with the Pezicco was in the bracing chill of an early morning hunt.
The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon, casting the forest in hues of gold and deep shadows.
I remember pulling the Pezicco from its case, the leather-wrapped riser cold against my fingers.
There was a certain raw, authentic appeal to it that was undeniable, reminiscent of the timeless traditions of Mongolian horseback archery.
The bow was lighter than I had expected, weighing in at just 500 grams.
This was a welcome feature during long treks through the woods, reducing the strain on my arm and allowing for swift, unencumbered movement.
The balance was just right – the sturdy hardwood riser providing the necessary counterweight to the flexible fiberglass limbs.
The draw weight of my Pezicco is 45 lbs, a sweet spot for hunting medium-sized game.
I remember the first draw: the bowstring firm against my fingertips, the limbs bending into a perfect arc.
The bow offered a smooth, consistent draw, the traditional thumb ring method adding a unique touch to the experience.
There was a certain thrill to the simplicity and purity of using such a traditional method, adding a layer of connection between me, the bow, and the wild.
The Pezicco was also versatile in its design.
The absence of an arrow rest on the riser meant I could use it comfortably, regardless of whether I was left or right-handed.
This was a welcome feature on a hunt, allowing for flexibility depending on the situation and the target's position.
One particular hunt stands out in my memory.
I had been tracking a white-tailed deer for the better part of the morning, the animal alert and wary.
Finally, I found myself positioned downwind, hidden in the foliage.
The deer was a mere 30 yards away, oblivious to my presence.
I slowly drew the Pezicco, the bowstring singing softly under the tension.
I held my breath, aimed, and released.
The arrow flew true, the 45 lbs of draw weight providing sufficient force to ensure a clean, ethical shot.
The deer barely had a moment to react before it was down.
As I approached my quarry, I remember feeling a sense of profound respect – for the animal, for the hunt, and for the age-old tradition of archery that the Pezicco so beautifully embodied.
In the months since, the Pezicco has become a constant companion on my hunting trips.
It has proven its worth time and again, its consistent performance and sturdy build standing up to the rigors of hunting in the wild.
Despite its modest price tag, the Pezicco is a true testament to the blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern functionality, a hidden gem in the world of archery.
Price and Value for Money
Priced at just $65, the Pezicco offers remarkable value for money.
This is especially noteworthy considering the bow's quality, performance, and the attention to detail in its construction.
It's not often that one comes across a product that so effectively marries affordability with craftsmanship and functionality.
In the world of archery equipment, prices can vary significantly.
High-end traditional bows can run into several hundreds of dollars, and even basic recurve bows can cost upwards of $100.
The Pezicco, however, proves that quality does not always have to come with a steep price tag.
Despite its modest pricing, the bow does not compromise on essential features or performance.
The solid construction, using a blend of hardwood and fiberglass, ensures durability and longevity.
The various draw weight options cater to a range of archers, from beginners to experienced hunters, and the absence of an arrow rest on the riser adds versatility for both left and right-handed users.
Additionally, the traditional Mongolian design and leather-wrapped riser add an aesthetic appeal that often comes with a premium in other bows.
These features make the Pezicco not just a tool for hunting or target practice, but also a piece of art that pays homage to the rich history of archery.
The Pezicco is more than just a bow; it is an investment into the age-old tradition of archery, a piece of history that you can hold in your hands.
Considering its price point, the bow offers exceptional value, proving that you don't need to break the bank to own a piece of archery history that performs as well as it looks.
The Drawbacks
While the Pezicco is undoubtedly a great bow, no product is without its drawbacks.
One aspect that some archers might find lacking is the absence of an arrow rest.
While this does make the bow adaptable for both left and right-handed users, it can also make it a bit more challenging for beginners who are still getting used to balancing the arrow during the draw.
On a personal note, I remember an incident during one of my early experiences with the Pezicco.
I was out in the field for a practice session.
Aiming for a target about 30 yards away, I nocked an arrow and drew the bowstring back.
However, due to the lack of an arrow rest, the arrow slipped slightly from its position.
I had to take a moment to readjust, which, in a hunting situation, could mean the difference between a successful shot and a missed opportunity.
Additionally, while the traditional thumb ring draw release adds an authentic touch, it can be somewhat unfamiliar to those accustomed to the three-finger draw commonly used in Western archery.
There's a bit of a learning curve involved, but with practice, it becomes second nature.
It's important to note, though, that these are relatively minor issues and do not significantly detract from the overall quality and performance of the Pezicco.
In fact, for those willing to adapt and learn, these unique features can even enhance the archery experience, adding a touch of historical authenticity to the sport.
Should You Buy? Concluding the Review
In conclusion, the Pezicco Traditional Archery Hunting Handmade Recurve Bow Mongolian Horse Longbow offers an intriguing blend of history, functionality, and affordability.
With its sturdy construction, smooth performance, and adaptability for both left and right-handed archers, the Pezicco presents a compelling choice for anyone interested in traditional archery or hunting.
The bow's minor drawbacks, such as the lack of an arrow rest and the traditional thumb ring draw release, do present a bit of a learning curve, particularly for beginners.
However, these features also add to the bow's authenticity and charm, providing a unique experience that can enrich your archery journey.
With time and practice, these initially challenging aspects become second nature, and in turn, contribute to enhancing your skills as an archer.
Moreover, considering the quality of craftsmanship and performance it delivers, the Pezicco's price point of $65 offers exceptional value for money.
Whether you're a seasoned archer looking to add a touch of tradition to your collection, a beginner seeking a reliable and affordable bow, or a hunter in need of a lightweight and versatile tool, the Pezicco is well worth considering.
In a market saturated with high-tech, high-cost bows, the Pezicco stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional archery.
It's a bow that not only serves its purpose but does so with a nod to history, taking you back to the roots of the sport.
For its price, its performance, and the unique experience it offers, the Pezicco gets a hearty recommendation.
Should you buy the Pezicco? If you appreciate the blend of tradition and functionality, and are open to a unique archery experience that harks back to the days of Mongolian horse archers, then the answer is a resounding yes.
