PSE Archery Oryx Longbow Review: Should You Buy?

In the realm of archery, the quest for a perfect blend of tradition and modernity is an ongoing journey, and it is in this very journey that we discover gems like the PSE ARCHERY Oryx Longbow.

Priced at $249.99, the Oryx is an intriguing entry in the archery market that deserves a comprehensive examination.

In this review, we'll delve into the nuances of the Oryx, exploring its features, functionality, and value proposition. 

We'll assess its design aesthetics, the materials used, and the craftsmanship involved. 

Furthermore, we'll evaluate its performance in the field, gauging factors such as draw weight range, accuracy, comfort, and overall shooting experience.

We'll also consider the Oryx from a beginner's perspective, discussing its ease-of-use, as well as how well it caters to more experienced archers seeking a new challenge or a reliable standby. 

In addition, we'll take a look at how it stacks up against other longbows in its price range.

Our goal is to provide you with a well-rounded perspective on the Oryx, giving you all the information you need to decide if this longbow is the right fit for your archery journey. 

Whether you're a seasoned archer or a newcomer to the sport, we invite you to join us as we explore the ins and outs of the PSE ARCHERY Oryx Longbow. 

Buckle up; it's time to let the Oryx take flight.

Specifications

The Oryx is a remarkable longbow that offers a broad array of features and specifications designed to meet the needs of every archer, from beginners to experienced shooters. Here are some of the key specifications:

  • Crafted from selected woods
  • Available in Left and Right Hand
  • Length: 68″
  • Brace height: 7½- 7³⁄₄”
  • Weights @ 28” draw
  • Part # 42200(R/L)68(40, 45, 50,55)​.

Some of the special features of the Oryx include its suitability for various categories of archers, including beginners, pre-teens, and adult shooters. 

The bow is designed to deliver great accuracy and speed, alongside fine curves that aid in pointing long-distance targets. 

Everything an archer might need for a thrilling hunting experience is incorporated in the Oryx.

Furthermore, the Oryx bow is crafted from a variety of materials and sturdy woods, creating a fantastic wooden longbow. 

It is the perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that the bow not only looks good but also performs excellently. 

This archery bow is sure to fit your needs at an affordable price.

The package includes some useful accessories such as a horsehair rest and a longbow case, further enhancing the value proposition of the Oryx bow. 

These included accessories provide added convenience and value, making the Oryx a comprehensive package for any archer​.

In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the Oryx's performance, comfort, and value for money, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what this bow has to offer.

My Personal Experience

As a seasoned hunter, I have had the privilege of trying out a variety of bows over the years, each with their unique strengths and weaknesses. 

However, my experience with the PSE ARCHERY Oryx Longbow, or the Oryx as we'll refer to it, truly stands out.

I still remember the day I unboxed the Oryx. 

The first thing that caught my eye was the craftsmanship. 

The blend of various sturdy woods gave it a rustic, yet elegant look that spoke of its quality. 

But, as every hunter knows, the proof is in the performance.

The first time I took the Oryx out for a field test, I was heading into a dense woodland area, a favorite haunt of mine for deer. 

The Oryx was lighter than my previous longbow, a feature I appreciated as I trekked deeper into the woods. 

It was comfortable to carry, even with my hunting gear, and I could tell it was built to withstand the rigors of the hunt.

Drawing the bow was a smooth experience. 

The bowstring slid back easily, and the draw weight was perfect for my strength level. 

I could feel the power coiled within the bow, ready to launch my arrow with speed and precision. 

The horsehair rest that came with the bow was a pleasant surprise, providing a soft cradle for my arrows and reducing friction during release.

As I spotted a deer grazing in a clearing, I took a moment to appreciate the Oryx's fine curves, designed to help point long-distance targets. 

Slowly and quietly, I raised the bow, took aim, and released the string. 

The arrow flew straight and true, hitting the target with pinpoint accuracy. 

The deer barely had a moment to react before it was down. 

It was a clean, humane kill, a testimony to the Oryx's impressive accuracy and speed.

But perhaps one of the most memorable aspects of using the Oryx was the comfort it offered. 

The grip was ergonomically designed, reducing strain on my hand even after hours of use. 

This comfort, combined with its performance, made the Oryx a joy to use during my hunting expeditions.

After several hunting trips with the Oryx, I can confidently say that it delivers a thrilling hunting experience. 

It blends traditional aesthetics with modern performance, offering great accuracy, speed, and comfort, all at an affordable price. 

The Oryx isn't just a longbow; it's a reliable hunting companion.

Price and Value for Money

Priced at $249.99, the Oryx finds itself in a competitive bracket within the archery market. 

However, when it comes to value for money, the Oryx delivers exceptionally well.

The first aspect to consider is the craftsmanship and materials used. 

The Oryx is crafted from selected, sturdy woods, promising durability and longevity. 

This isn't a bow that will wear down easily, even with frequent use. 

It's a long-term investment that's designed to stand the test of time.

The included accessories – a horsehair rest and a longbow case – add additional value to the package. 

The horsehair rest offers a smooth, low-friction platform for your arrows, which enhances the bow's performance. 

The longbow case provides a safe and convenient way to transport and store the bow, protecting your investment.

When it comes to performance, the Oryx is no slouch either. 

Its ability to deliver great speed and accuracy, even at long distances, is impressive. 

Its design ensures a comfortable grip and smooth draw, making it a pleasure to use in the field.

One of the standout features of the Oryx is its versatility. 

It caters to a wide range of archers – from beginners and pre-teens to adult shooters. 

This means that as you improve your skills, the Oryx will continue to be a reliable bow that grows with you, offering a challenge and the tools to meet it.

When all these factors are considered, it's clear that the Oryx offers excellent value for its price. 

While there may be cheaper bows available, the Oryx's blend of quality, performance, and versatility makes it a worthwhile investment for any archer – whether you're just starting out in the sport or looking to upgrade to a reliable, high-performing bow.

What are people saying?

Sean C, an experienced archer, highly recommends the Oryx. 

He notes that it's a “great bow for the money” and has a smooth draw that allows for long shooting sessions. 

He appreciates the aesthetic design of the bow and mentions that it feels good in the hand. 

Having shot about 100 arrows with it, he finds it a pleasure to use. 

He also notes that the Oryx has held up well after daily use for three months and performs well with 500 spine carbon arrows for his 26.5” draw length. 

He adds that he wouldn't hesitate to try another PSE traditional bow.

An Amazon customer, who bought the Oryx as their first bow, found the setup a bit challenging as a beginner. 

However, they found that a “how-to” guide made the process easy and highly recommends the Oryx for first-timers. 

This highlights the Oryx's beginner-friendly nature, despite the initial learning curve involved in the setup.

These positive reviews showcase the Oryx's value for money, smooth shooting experience, and suitability for both experienced archers and beginners. 

It's clear that the Oryx has left a positive impression on its users, and continues to deliver on its promise of quality, performance, and durability.

The Drawbacks

Despite the many strengths of the Oryx, it's important to mention a few minor drawbacks that users might encounter, and I've had a personal experience that illustrates one of these.

While the Oryx is generally comfortable to handle and shoot, I remember one hunting trip where I had been out in the field for an extended period. 

I noticed that the grip, while ergonomically designed, started to feel a little harsh on my hand after several hours of continuous use. 

This is by no means a deal-breaker and can be easily remedied with some form of grip wrap or glove if you plan on using the bow for long periods at a time.

Another potential drawback, especially for beginners, is the initial setup of the bow. 

As one user mentioned, stringing the bow for the first time can be a bit challenging if you're new to archery. 

However, with the help of a “how-to” guide or instructional video, this hurdle can be easily overcome.

Lastly, it's worth noting that the Oryx may not be the best fit for those with shoulder issues, particularly at higher draw weights. 

One user suggested opting for a lighter weight if you struggle with shoulder problems, as his wife found it difficult to draw the bow fully despite being fit and active.

Remember, no product is perfect, and the Oryx is no exception. 

However, these minor drawbacks do little to overshadow the overall performance, quality, and value that the Oryx brings to the table. 

It's a matter of knowing your needs, preferences, and physical capabilities, and adapting your equipment accordingly.

Should You Buy? Concluding the Review

After thoroughly examining the Oryx, it's clear that this bow offers a compelling mix of quality, performance, and value. 

But the question remains: should you buy it?

If you're a beginner or an intermediate archer looking for a longbow that combines traditional aesthetics with modern performance, the Oryx is a fantastic choice. 

Its design makes it suitable for a wide range of archers, from pre-teens to adults. 

The smooth draw and impressive accuracy provide a satisfying shooting experience, while the sturdy wood construction ensures durability.

The inclusion of a horsehair rest and a longbow case is a thoughtful touch, adding convenience and value to the package. 

The Oryx also stands out for its affordability, offering a high-quality experience without breaking the bank.

The few minor drawbacks, such as the initial setup challenge for beginners and the potential discomfort during extended use, are easily manageable. 

These do not significantly impact the overall positive experience provided by the Oryx.

As a hunter who has personally used this bow, I can attest to its performance and quality. 

It has been a reliable companion on several of my hunting trips, delivering consistency and performance when it matters most.

In conclusion, the Oryx longbow delivers a powerful blend of quality, performance, and affordability. 

Whether you're a novice in the world of archery or an experienced archer looking for a reliable bow, the Oryx is well worth considering. 

It's a bow that not only meets expectations but often exceeds them, providing a satisfying and enjoyable archery experience.

So, should you buy the Oryx? Based on its impressive features, positive user experiences, and excellent value for money, the answer is a resounding yes. 

The Oryx is a purchase you're unlikely to regret, and a bow that's likely to enhance your archery or hunting experience.

Click here to learn more about the PSE Archery Oryx Longbow  and get the best price on Amazon.