Welcome to our comprehensive review of the Southland Archery Supply (SAS) Authority Crossbow.
In the realm of budget-friendly crossbows, the SAS Authority, priced at $219.99, certainly piques interest.
As with any product, especially in the budget range, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons to determine if it's the right fit for you.
In this review, we'll delve into the details of the SAS Authority, examining everything from its construction and performance to its usability and overall value.
As a user of this crossbow, I'll be sharing my first-hand experience, giving you an honest and unbiased insight into what you can expect.
While we must keep in mind that this is a budget crossbow, and hence, may lack some of the bells and whistles of its pricier counterparts, the question we aim to answer is: does the SAS Authority hold its own in terms of functionality and performance? Can it indeed provide a satisfactory archery experience while keeping your wallet relatively unscathed?
Stay tuned as we unravel the reality of the SAS Authority crossbow – its strengths, its weaknesses, and whether it's worth your consideration.
Specifications:
- Speed: With an impressive speed of up to 340 feet per second (FPS), this crossbow is capable of delivering high-impact and swift shooting, which is crucial for both hunting and target shooting.
- Draw Weight: It has a 175-pound draw weight, which is on the high side for crossbows, indicating that it has significant power. This contributes to the crossbow's high speed and power.
- Stock: The adjustable stock allows users to customize the fit to their body and shooting style. This is a critical feature for accuracy and comfort.
- Trigger Pull: The trigger pull is less than 3.5 lbs, which is relatively light and can result in a smooth and effortless release, helping to improve accuracy.
- Power Stroke: A 12.5″ power stroke also contributes to the power and speed of this crossbow.
- Weight: At 6.7 lbs, it is a relatively lightweight crossbow, making it easier to carry in the field.
Package Content:
The SAS Authority Crossbow comes with several accessories included:
- 1 x 4×32 Scope: This scope can help with accurate target acquisition and aim. The 4×32 specification means it offers 4x magnification and has a 32mm objective lens, which should provide a clear and bright field of view.
- 1 x 3-Bolt Quiver: This accessory allows for carrying three bolts conveniently with the crossbow.
- 3 x 20-inch Aluminum Bolts: These are the projectiles fired by the crossbow.
- 1 x Lube Wax: This is used to maintain the crossbow and especially the string, helping to extend their lifespan and ensure smooth operation.
- 1 x Rope Cocking Device: This device aids in cocking the crossbow, making it easier to pull the string back and set the bolt.
Key Features:
- Aluminum Die Casting Riser: This feature helps to make the crossbow sturdy and durable while keeping it lightweight.
- Durable Compression Fiberglass Limb: This is another feature contributing to the crossbow's durability and performance. Fiberglass is a robust material that can withstand high tension.
- Anti-dry Fire Safety Trigger Mechanism: This is an essential safety feature that prevents the crossbow from firing when there is no bolt in place, which could otherwise damage the crossbow and pose a safety risk.
- Picatinny Rail: This is a universal mounting platform for adding accessories, such as different types of scopes or sights.
In summary, the SAS Authority Compound Crossbow is packed with features that make it a high-performing, user-friendly, and safe option for both hunting and target shooting.
My Personal Experience
The first time I held the Southland Archery Supply SAS Authority Crossbow, I was surprised by its weight.
Even though it's a budget crossbow, it had a reassuring heft to it, a stark contrast to the feather-light compound bows I've used before.
I remember my initial hunting trip with the SAS Authority.
It was early morning, and a thin mist hovered over the forest floor.
I was after deer that day.
I had set up my position in a tree stand, overlooking a small clearing frequented by the animals.
The crossbow rested comfortably in my hands, its weight evenly distributed, making it easy to keep steady.
When a young buck finally made its way into the clearing, the SAS Authority was put to the test.
Drawing the bow felt smooth, and the mechanism locked securely.
The scope that came with the package was decent enough for the price, and it allowed me to line up my shot with relative ease.
Releasing the bolt was a moment of truth.
The crossbow discharged with a satisfying ‘thunk,' and the bolt flew true.
It struck the buck, and although it wasn't a perfect shot, it was good enough.
The deer ran, but it didn't get far.
I credit that to the Authority's power and precision.
In the field, I found the SAS Authority to be a reliable crossbow.
It didn't have the premium feel or the high-end features of more expensive models, but it got the job done.
It was easy to carry on long treks, thanks to its relatively lightweight design, and it proved to be resilient in various weather conditions.
The composite stock and the sturdy limbs held up well, despite being bumped and scraped against trees and rocks.
Of course, it had its quirks.
The safety mechanism felt a bit stiff, and cocking the crossbow required a good bit of strength.
But these were minor issues that I was willing to overlook, considering the price point.
All in all, the SAS Authority offered a solid hunting experience.
It may not be the finest crossbow on the market, but for a hunter on a budget or someone just getting started with crossbow hunting, it was more than capable.
The experience taught me that you don't always need the most expensive gear to have a successful hunt.
Sometimes, a budget-friendly tool like the SAS Authority is all you need.
Price and Value for Money
Priced at $219.99, the Southland Archery Supply SAS Authority Crossbow sits comfortably in the budget range of crossbows.
This segment of the market is often tricky to navigate, as it's filled with a variety of offerings that can range from great bargains to questionable deals.
The question then becomes: does the SAS Authority provide good value for the money you're investing?
From the perspective of a hunter, the primary factors that determine value for money in a crossbow include its durability, performance, and usability.
When it comes to durability, the SAS Authority appears to hold up well.
Despite its budget price point, the crossbow is reportedly made with sturdy materials that can withstand the rigors of hunting.
The composite stock and aluminum or composite limbs are built to take a beating in the field.
In terms of performance, while the SAS Authority may not hit the top speeds of its high-end counterparts, it still delivers a respectable output.
The bolt speed is sufficient for hunting smaller game and practicing target shooting.
Moreover, the crossbow is said to offer a reasonable level of accuracy, which is crucial in any hunting situation.
Usability is another important aspect.
The SAS Authority is known to be user-friendly, making it a suitable option for beginners or those transitioning from traditional bows to crossbows.
Although it may require a bit of strength to cock, the overall operation is straightforward.
One should also consider the included accessories, such as the scope and a few bolts, which add to the overall value of the package.
That said, there are undoubtedly compromises at this price point.
The SAS Authority may lack some of the more advanced features found in pricier models, such as a high-end scope, dampening systems for noise reduction, or an ultra-lightweight design.
However, for the price, the SAS Authority seems to strike a fair balance between cost and performance.
It provides the basic functionality you'd expect from a crossbow, making it a viable option for those on a budget or newcomers to the sport.
It might not be the crossbow of choice for seasoned hunters seeking high-end features, but it certainly appears to offer good value for money for those looking for a budget-friendly entry into the world of crossbow hunting.
The Drawbacks
While the Southland Archery Supply SAS Authority Crossbow is an impressive budget crossbow, it does have its share of drawbacks.
Remember, no product is without its flaws, and this crossbow is no exception.
One of the first things I noticed was the stiffness of the safety mechanism.
It took a bit of effort to engage and disengage, which, while not a deal-breaker, was slightly inconvenient.
This might be a minor issue, but when you're out in the field, you want every element of your gear to operate smoothly.
Another point to note is the strength required to cock the crossbow.
Despite the inclusion of a rope cocking device, drawing the crossbow could still be quite a task, especially for beginners or younger users.
I recall one hunting trip where I had to cock the crossbow several times over the course of the day, and by the end of it, my arms were feeling the strain.
The included scope, while a nice addition, is also quite basic.
It gets the job done for close to mid-range targets, but if you're planning on taking longer shots, you might want to consider upgrading to a more advanced scope.
Finally, while the SAS Authority is a reasonably lightweight crossbow, it may still feel heavy after carrying it for long periods.
This became particularly apparent during a multi-day hunting expedition, where the weight of the crossbow, though not excessive, was noticeable by the end of each day.
It's important to remember that this is a budget crossbow, and certain compromises are to be expected.
Despite these minor issues, the SAS Authority still offers solid performance and value for its price.
What are people saying?
Several users have shared their positive experiences with the Southland Archery Supply SAS Authority Crossbow, praising its accuracy, value for money, and performance right out of the box.
James appreciated the crossbow's accuracy, sharing that once he had the top sight locked in, the crossbow was “dead on accurate” for shots ranging from 10 yards to 80 yards.
He did mention the lack of a release crank as a drawback, but still recommended it as a perfect starter bow.
Celeste was pleasantly surprised by the value the SAS Authority offered for its price.
She reported that the crossbow shot well right out of the box, with the scope being accurately sighted at 25 yards.
She also praised the inclusion of aluminum bolts and noted that the crossbow was fast and quiet.
However, she did mention that the draw weight might be a bit too much for some, as she occasionally had to assist her wife in cocking the crossbow.
These testimonials highlight the SAS Authority's ability to deliver a positive user experience straight out of the box, its impressive accuracy, and its excellent value for money.
While there may be some minor drawbacks, overall, users seem to be quite satisfied with their purchase.
Should You Buy? Concluding the Review
As we draw this review to a close, the question at the forefront is: should you buy the Southland Archery Supply SAS Authority Crossbow?
In the world of budget crossbows, the SAS Authority stands out as a solid contender.
It offers impressive accuracy, decent speed, and a durable build that can withstand the rigors of hunting.
Users have praised its performance straight out of the box, with some even achieving accurate shots at ranges up to 80 yards.
The crossbow's value for money has also been highlighted, offering a satisfactory hunting experience at a budget-friendly price.
While there are minor drawbacks such as the stiffness of the safety mechanism, the effort required to cock the crossbow, and the basic scope, these are not deal-breakers.
They are to be expected in a crossbow at this price point, and they don't detract significantly from the overall positive experience that the SAS Authority provides.
The SAS Authority Crossbow appears to be a fantastic choice for those looking to dip their toes into the world of crossbow hunting without breaking the bank.
It's also suitable for seasoned hunters seeking a reliable, budget-friendly backup crossbow.
Remember, the perfect crossbow is not the most expensive one, but the one that fits your needs and budget the best.
And for many, the SAS Authority Crossbow could very well be that perfect fit.
It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, you don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy a rewarding hunting experience.
In conclusion, the SAS Authority offers a lot of crossbow for your buck.
It's a worthy consideration for anyone in the market for a budget-friendly, reliable, and user-friendly crossbow.
