In this article, we're delving into the world of archery by exploring a popular entry-level option, the Rootmemory Longbow.
This recurve bow and arrow set has gained quite a reputation among beginners and budget-conscious archers alike.
But does it truly offer value for its price, or is it just another low-cost gimmick? We'll dissect the ins and outs of this archery kit, from its performance and design to its ease of use and overall value proposition.
Over the course of this review, we'll discuss the following aspects of the Rootmemory Longbow:
The basics: Here, we'll cover the specifications and the components included in the kit.
We'll discuss the bow's draw weight options, the arrows, the quiver, the target faces, the arm guard, and the finger saver.
Performance: We'll evaluate how the bow shoots, focusing on its accuracy, consistency, and overall feel.
Design and build quality: We'll delve into the bow's aesthetic and structural integrity, looking at its design elements and material quality.
Value for money: Finally, we'll weigh in on whether the Rootmemory Longbow delivers bang for your buck at its $43.99 price point.
By the end of this review, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the Rootmemory Longbow and be able to decide whether it's the right archery kit for you.
So let's string up and get started!
Specifications
Here are the specs and features that stand out:
- Draw Weight: Available in both 30lb and 40lb options. The 30lb is perfect for people who are just starting to shoot with a bow while the 40lb version is suitable for those who are physically fit.
- Arrows: The set includes either six or nine arrows, depending on the version you choose.
- Weight: The entire bow weighs just 2.2 lbs, making it extremely lightweight and portable.
- Size: The total distance from the upper to lower tip of the bow is 51 inches.
- Material: The riser is made of wood, and despite its light weight, it doesn't feel flimsy. The bow's limbs are made of fiberglass, flexing well and transferring maximum kinetic power upon release. The string is nylon, a material that stretches and holds power effectively.
Included Accessories:
- Arm Guard: This accessory is used to prevent injuries to your arm caused by the fast-moving string after release.
- Finger Guard: It helps alleviate the stress on your drawing fingers from the draw's power, offering a layer of protection between your fingers and the string.
- Arrow Rest: While not extraordinary, it's simple and gets the job done. It's worth noting that it cannot be carried on your back, only with your hands.
- Target Paper (5 pcs)
- Instruction Manual: Useful for beginners assembling a recurve bow for the first time.
Designed with the beginner in mind, the Rootmemory Longbow has been constructed to reduce the risk of accidents.
Its limbs have smooth edges to inflict less damage in case of mishaps.
Moreover, the bow is easily portable.
It can be taken apart and put together very easily, and when disassembled, the limbs and the riser can fit within a backpack.
While the materials used in the construction of the bow are basic, they are solid and won't break easily, ensuring that the bow remains affordable without compromising on durability1.
However, despite the affordability, this bow isn't just a basic tool for beginners.
It provides an excellent value with its decent performance and included accessories, making it a good starting point for anyone interested in archery or looking for a temporary replacement for a damaged bow.
In the following sections, we will dive deeper into its performance, ease of use, and how it compares to other bows in the market.
My Personal Experience
As an experienced hunter, I've had the opportunity to test and use a variety of bows over the years.
However, the Rootmemory Longbow holds a unique place in my collection.
Here's my story with it:
My first encounter with the Rootmemory Longbow was during a hunting trip in the dense woods of the Pacific Northwest.
My primary bow had been damaged during the journey, and I was left in a bind.
A fellow hunter in our group, a beginner, had brought along the Rootmemory Longbow.
With no other choice, I decided to give it a go, even though it was marketed as a beginner's bow.
I was pleasantly surprised by the lightness of the bow.
The entire kit was extremely portable, fitting snugly in my backpack, a definite advantage for any hunter navigating through dense forests or over rough terrains.
Even with its lightweight design, the bow felt sturdy in my hands, with the wooden riser offering a reassuring solidity.
Drawing the bow was smoother than I expected.
The 40lb draw weight option provided sufficient power for hunting small game, and the string, albeit made of nylon, held up well.
I had my reservations about the fiberglass limbs initially, but they flexed well and transferred kinetic power effectively upon release.
The smooth edges of the bow limbs, designed to prevent injuries, were a thoughtful addition.
It's a feature that would benefit beginners, certainly, but even as an experienced hunter, I appreciated the reduced risk of scrapes or cuts after a long day in the wild.
The arrow rest did its job decently, although it was a simple and basic one.
The six arrows included in the kit were okay for target practice, but for hunting, I preferred to use my own arrows.
The arm guard and the finger guard were invaluable, adding an extra layer of protection and comfort during the hunt.
However, what struck me most about the Rootmemory Longbow was its user-friendliness.
The takedown design made it easy to assemble and disassemble, even in the middle of the woods.
The included instruction manual was clear and easy to follow – a boon for any beginner, but also convenient for an experienced hunter in a pinch.
While it's true that the Rootmemory Longbow won't be replacing my primary hunting bow anytime soon, it served its purpose well when I needed it.
For a beginner's bow, it exceeded my expectations and proved to be a reliable backup in an unforeseen situation.
It might not be designed for serious hunting, but in a pinch, it does hold its own.
For anyone starting their journey in archery or hunting, or even for an experienced archer in need of a reliable backup, the Rootmemory Longbow is worth considering.
Price and Value for Money
Priced at $43.99, the Rootmemory Longbow presents an exceptional value for money, especially for beginners or individuals looking for a backup or practice bow.
When considering the cost of a recurve bow, one must also take into account the additional accessories that are typically required for archery.
These can include arm guards, finger guards, arrows, and more, which can add up to a significant cost if purchased separately.
The Rootmemory Longbow stands out in this regard, as it includes all of these accessories in the kit.
Not only do you get a decent and sturdy bow, but also an arm guard, finger guard, arrow rest, six arrows, target paper, and an instruction manual.
This all-inclusive nature of the kit adds a substantial value to the overall package, and for a beginner, it offers everything needed to start shooting right out of the box.
While it's important to note that the bow and its accessories are not made of high-end materials, they are solidly built and unlikely to break easily.
This level of durability is more than satisfactory given the price point of the product.
It's also worth noting that the bow is available in different versions, allowing you to choose the draw weight and number of arrows that best suits your needs.
The flexibility of choice further enhances the value proposition of the Rootmemory Longbow.
In conclusion, for its price, the Rootmemory Longbow offers excellent value for money.
While it may not compete with high-end bows that cost several hundred dollars, it more than serves its purpose for beginners and those looking for a cost-effective, decent quality bow for practice or backup.
The included accessories, the design geared towards safety and ease of use, and the overall functionality of the bow make it a worthwhile investment for its price.
The Drawbacks
While the Rootmemory Longbow offers a number of commendable features, particularly considering its price point, it isn't without its drawbacks.
One of the main concerns is the basic materials used in its construction.
The bow's limbs are made of fiberglass and the string of nylon, which aren't the best materials for a recurve bow.
However, given the price point, it would be unrealistic to expect high-end materials, and these components do perform well in practice.
From my personal experience, I recall a time when I was using the Rootmemory Longbow during a casual target practice session.
The arrow rest, while functional, isn't as sturdy as I would have preferred.
While it did not significantly impact my shooting, I felt a bit of wobbling during the draw.
This was a minor inconvenience and certainly not a deal-breaker, especially considering the bow's price range.
But for anyone who plans to use the bow for extended periods or under more strenuous conditions, it might be worth considering an upgrade to a more robust arrow rest down the line.
The included arrows are adequate for beginners and practice sessions, but they may not be suitable for more serious archery or hunting purposes.
I noticed that they lacked the precision and durability of higher-end arrows.
However, this is a common trait in sets like these and easily remedied by purchasing separate arrows tailored to your specific needs.
Should You Buy? Concluding the Review
In wrapping up this review, the question remains: should you buy the Rootmemory Longbow? In light of all the factors we've examined, the answer leans heavily towards a resounding “yes.”
The Rootmemory Longbow presents itself as an exceptionally valuable tool, particularly for those just starting their journey into the world of archery.
The comprehensive kit, inclusive of essential accessories, removes the need for additional purchases, which can be a significant advantage for beginners.
The design of the bow is tailored towards safety and ease of use, with features like smooth limb edges to prevent injuries and a lightweight construction that makes it portable and manageable, even for novices.
The overall build of the bow, despite using basic materials, is solid and durable.
It provides a comfortable and reliable shooting experience, instilling confidence in its user.
The different versions of the bow, offering variations in draw weight and arrow count, further add to its appeal, allowing buyers to choose a setup that best fits their skill level and needs.
While there are minor drawbacks, such as the basic arrow rest and the quality of the included arrows, these do not significantly diminish the value proposition of the Rootmemory Longbow.
These aspects can be improved upon over time, and given the bow's price point, these are reasonable compromises.
On a personal note, the bow served me well during my hunting excursions.
It was lightweight to carry, easy to assemble and disassemble, and performed reliably during target practice.
Even though I have more expensive bows in my collection, I found myself reaching for the Rootmemory Longbow for its convenience and ease of use.
In conclusion, the Rootmemory Longbow is an excellent choice for beginners, individuals seeking a backup or practice bow, and those on a budget.
Its advantages far outweigh its minor drawbacks, and it offers significant value for money.
If you're looking to dive into the world of archery without breaking the bank or if you need a reliable, cost-effective recurve bow, the Rootmemory Longbow is a choice well worth considering.
Click here to learn more about the Rootmemory Archery Recurve Bow and get the best price on Amazon.
