In the diverse world of archery, every bow has its own unique charm, and the Fox Custom RH 62″ Longbow by Ragim Archery, affectionately referred to as the “FOX,” is no exception.
Priced at $208.31, this piece of craftsmanship isn't just an instrument for target practice or hunting, but a testament to the age-old tradition of bow making.
In this review, we will delve into the aesthetics, performance, and value of the FOX, exploring what sets it apart from its competition.
We'll discuss its design and construction, the comfort and ease of use it offers to the archer, and the bang-for-buck factor.
By the end of our journey, you'll have a well-rounded understanding of whether the FOX is the right choice for your archery needs.
So, draw back your curiosity as we aim to hit the bullseye of information on this intriguing longbow.
Stay tuned.
Specifications
- Length: 62 inches
- Available Draw Weights: 20-50 lbs (in increments of 5 lbs)
- Riser: Walnut
- Tips: Simple
- Grip: Locator grip
- Advised String: Dacron
- Advised Brace Height: 7 – 7.5 inches
- Warranty: 2 years.
Notably, the FOX comes with a variety of accessories included in the purchase:
- Dacron string
- Shelf rest
- Plate rest
- Nock ring
The 62-inch length of the FOX makes it suitable for a wide range of archers, accommodating various heights and draw lengths.
This feature, coupled with the range of available draw weights from 20-50 lbs, allows the FOX to be a versatile option for both beginners and more experienced archers.
One of the FOX's standout features is its walnut riser.
Walnut is known for its strength and durability, and it also lends the bow an elegant and traditional aesthetic.
The simple tips of the bow make it straightforward and easy to string, particularly for beginners.
Furthermore, the locator grip aids in consistent hand placement, which is essential for achieving accurate and repeatable shots.
The FOX is advised to use a Dacron string, which is included with the bow.
Dacron is a type of polyester that is known for its durability and elasticity, making it a great choice for bowstrings.
Additionally, an advised brace height of 7 – 7.5 inches provides an optimal balance of power and smoothness in the shot.
Lastly, the FOX comes with a 2-year warranty, offering buyers the assurance and peace of mind that the manufacturer stands behind the quality of their product.
The included shelf rest and plate rest provide archers with options for how they prefer to shoot, and the nock ring is a handy tool for consistent arrow placement.
These accessories, along with the features and specs of the FOX, come together to create a longbow that offers excellent value for its price point.
My Personal Experience
I remember the first time I took the FOX out for a hunting trip.
The autumn leaves were falling, and the forest was alive with the sounds of nature preparing for the long winter ahead.
I had been using a different bow for years, but something about the FOX – its elegance and simplicity – drew me in, and I decided to give it a go.
The first thing I noticed was its weight, or rather the lack of it.
Despite its robust design, the FOX felt surprisingly light in my hand.
This made a significant difference when I was trekking through the woods, moving silently from one spot to another.
The walnut riser felt cool and firm in my grip, providing a comforting steadiness even as my heart pounded with the thrill of the hunt.
When the moment came, and a deer moved into my line of sight, the FOX really shone.
Drawing the bow was a smooth experience, the Dacron string sliding effortlessly across the walnut riser.
The draw weight felt just right – not too heavy, but with enough resistance to remind me of the power I was about to unleash.
The locator grip was a feature I didn't know I needed until I had it.
It enabled a comfortable and consistent hand placement, which became particularly crucial during those moments of intense focus.
The grip was subtly contoured to my hand, allowing for a relaxed yet firm hold that didn't tire me out even after several hours.
Releasing the arrow, I was struck by the quiet efficiency of the FOX.
The bowstring gave off a soft whisper rather than the sharp twang I was used to with my old bow.
It was as if the FOX was designed to blend seamlessly with the silence of the forest.
But what impressed me most was the accuracy.
The arrow flew straight and true, hitting the target with pinpoint precision.
It was an invigorating feeling, a testament to not just my skills as a hunter but also to the exceptional craftsmanship of the FOX.
After that first hunt, the FOX has become my go-to bow for all my hunting trips.
Its elegance, performance, and comfort make it a joy to use, and I look forward to many more successful hunts with it in the future.
Whether you're a novice hunter or a seasoned veteran, the FOX is a longbow that won't disappoint.
Price and Value for Money
Priced at $208.31, the FOX falls into the mid-range category for traditional longbows.
When evaluating its value for money, it's important to consider not just the price tag, but also the quality, performance, and features it offers.
The FOX is a longbow crafted with a level of detail and precision that is usually found in higher-end models.
The walnut riser, simple tips, and locator grip are all features that contribute to its overall performance and durability.
Additionally, the range of available draw weights and the 62-inch length make it a versatile option for archers of various skill levels and physical attributes.
Moreover, the FOX comes with a set of accessories such as a Dacron string, shelf rest, plate rest, and nock ring.
These are not just add-ons, but essential components that enhance your archery experience and could cost a fair bit if purchased separately.
When it comes to performance, the FOX does not disappoint.
As I have shared from my personal hunting experience, it provides a smooth draw, accurate shooting, and a level of comfort that allows for extended periods of use.
The FOX is also backed by a 2-year warranty, reflecting the manufacturer's confidence in their product and offering you peace of mind.
Taking all these factors into account, it's clear that the FOX offers excellent value for money.
It's not the cheapest longbow on the market, but its blend of quality, performance, and features make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about archery, whether for target practice, competition, or hunting.
The Drawbacks
No product is perfect, and while the FOX has plenty to offer, there are a couple of minor drawbacks that are worth mentioning.
One of the first things I noticed was that the simple tips, while easy to string, did not have reinforced nocks for a fast-flight string.
While the Dacron string provided is durable and works well, some archers, particularly those at an advanced level, might prefer using a fast-flight string for improved performance.
Another point to consider is the grip.
While I personally found the locator grip to be comfortable and helpful for consistent hand placement, it does have a slightly unique shape.
This might take a bit of getting used to, especially if you're transitioning from a bow with a different style of grip.
I recall a hunting trip when the uniqueness of the grip became apparent.
It was a chilly morning, and my hands, stiff from the cold, struggled initially to get comfortable with the contour of the grip.
I had to take a few practice draws to get used to it.
However, once I did, it was smooth sailing, and I ended up appreciating the locator grip even more for the control it offered.
So, while these points are worth considering, they are minor issues in the grand scheme of things.
Neither detracts significantly from the overall performance of the FOX, and they certainly don't outweigh the many strengths of this longbow.
Should You Buy? Concluding the Review
Should you buy the FOX? The answer, in my opinion, is a resounding yes.
The FOX is a well-crafted longbow that strikes an excellent balance between tradition and modern features.
Its 62-inch length and available draw weights of 20-50 lbs make it a versatile choice for archers of all skill levels.
The walnut riser and locator grip add to both its aesthetic appeal and its functionality, enhancing the overall user experience.
On the performance front, the FOX stands tall.
The smoothness of the draw, the accuracy of the shots, and the comfort of the grip contribute to an archery experience that is both enjoyable and efficient.
Its value really shines through when you're out in the field, whether you're targeting a bullseye or stalking game.
The personal hunting experiences I've shared reflect the FOX's reliable and exceptional performance in real-world conditions.
The included accessories – the Dacron string, shelf rest, plate rest, and nock ring – are the cherries on top of an already impressive package.
Not only do they add to the FOX's functionality, but they also enhance its value for money.
Yes, there are a couple of minor drawbacks – the lack of reinforced nocks for a fast-flight string and the unique shape of the grip.
However, these are small considerations compared to the many strengths of the FOX.
The grip, while unique, offers a level of control that is appreciable once you get used to it.
And the simple tips, although not compatible with fast-flight strings, are user-friendly, especially for beginners.
At a price of $208.31, the FOX offers excellent value for money.
It's a mid-range longbow that delivers high-end performance, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone passionate about archery.
In conclusion, the FOX by Ragim Archery is a remarkable blend of tradition, quality, and performance.
Whether you're a beginner looking for a reliable longbow to start your archery journey, or a seasoned archer seeking a new companion for your hunting trips, the FOX is a choice that you're unlikely to regret.
It's a bow that not only meets expectations but exceeds them, making every shot an experience to remember.
