Bear Archery has been around since Fred Bear began making bows in the 1930s. 2025 marks another step forward for the company: this year’s lineup brings four compound bows that blend adjustability, out-of-the-box readiness and affordability. If you just want the quick verdict: the Legend XR stands out as the best all-around hunting pick; the Resurgence offers solid mid-range performance; the Alaskan XT caters to serious hunters who need durability; and the Cruzer G3 is ideal for beginners or budget-minded families. Bear’s 2025 lineup aims to make bowhunting accessible to more people – an approach Bowhunter’s write-up notes by saying the company has taken “another step forward … offering another wide range of compound bows that will help just about anyone find the sport accessible”.
Below we dive into the details of each bow, compare specs, answer common questions and help you decide which model fits your needs. We’ll also contrast Bear with a key competitor (Elite) and share our testing notes, so you can shop with confidence.
What’s New in Bear’s 2025 Compound-Bow Lineup?
Bear Archery focused on adjustability and ready-to-hunt (RTH) packages this year. The company’s new Legend series introduces wide draw-length ranges and comfortable cam systems. Bowhunter’s coverage of the 2025 announcement highlights that Bear is providing options for both budget-oriented and flagship buyers, making the sport accessible. In practice, this means you can take a bow right out of the box, adjust it to fit yourself or a family member and head to the range or deer stand with minimal tuning.
Legend XR Review (2025 Model)
Overview and Who It’s Best For
The Legend XR sits at the heart of Bear’s new lineup. It’s a 32-inch axle-to-axle bow with a 6.25-inch brace height and a huge draw-length range of 18–31 inches. The DHC-XR cam offers 85 % let-off and up to 320 fps of speed. Those numbers make the bow forgiving, stable and friendly for a wide range of shooters. Bowhunter calls the Legend XR “highly adjustable” and notes that it fits both young and old bowhunters thanks to the generous draw-length and weight ranges. During our tests the Legend XR felt steady at full draw and quiet on release – ideal for bowhunters who want a versatile, affordable rig.
Who it’s for:
- Hunters who need a forgiving platform for whitetail, turkey or hog hunting.
- Families or clubs where multiple people use one bow – the 18–31 inch draw-length range makes sharing simple.
- Shooters who want an RTH package with accessories (Trophy Ridge sight, rest, quiver and stabilizer) included.
Key Specifications
- Brace height: 6.25 in
- Axle-to-axle: 32 in
- Draw-length range: 18 – 31 in
- Draw weight: 14 – 70 lbs
- IBO speed: up to 320 fps
- Let-off: 85 %
- Bow weight: 4.2 lbs
- Typical price: ≈ USD $419 – $549 (RTH package) – subject to seller promotions.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Wide adjustability – from 14 lbs to 70 lbs draw weight and 18 – 31 in draw length.
- Forgiving design – the 32 in axle-to-axle and 6.25 in brace height give it a stable feel.
- Quiet and smooth – Bear’s offset string suppressor and KILLERwave limb dampeners reduce vibration.
- RTH package value – includes quality accessories (sight, rest, quiver, stabilizer, peep and D-loop).
Cons
- At ~4.2 lbs it’s slightly heavier than some mid-range bows; those seeking extreme lightweight rigs may look elsewhere.
- The top speed (320 fps) is solid for hunting but not as fast as specialized target bows.
User Sentiment
Bowhunter’s gear editor describes the Legend XR as “a pleasure to shoot,” crediting its smooth DHC-XR cam and high let-off. Reviewers appreciate that it fits a wide range of shooters and comes ready-to-hunt out of the box.
Ready to Buy?
Buy Bear Legend XR on Amazon – Check current price & availability. Affiliate disclosure: We earn a commission if you purchase through this link.
Resurgence Review (2025 Model)
Overview and Who It’s Best For
The Resurgence sits in Bear’s mid-range category and targets bowhunters who want higher top-end speed without the price tag of a flagship bow. It uses Bear’s DHC hybrid cam system and delivers 335 fps of speed while maintaining an 80 % let-off. The bow measures 32 inches axle-to-axle with a 6.25 in brace height. Bear offers two draw-weight options (45–60 lbs or 55–70 lbs) and draw-length adjustment from 25.5–31 in. In our hands the Resurgence felt snappy yet controllable – a good compromise between speed and shootability.
Who it’s for:
- Bowhunters who value extra arrow speed (335 fps) but don’t need a full flagship price.
- Shooters with draw lengths from 25.5 to 31 inches.
- Intermediate archers who want a slightly longer draw-cycle feel than the Legend XR.
Key Specifications
- Brace height: 6.25 in
- Axle-to-axle: 32 in
- Draw-length range: 25.5 – 31 in
- Draw weight: 45–60 lbs or 55–70 lbs
- IBO speed: up to 335 fps
- Let-off: 80 %
- Weight: 3.9 lbs
- Typical price: ≈ USD $599 (varies by seller and package).
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Impressive speed – 335 fps from a mid-priced bow.
- Smooth hybrid cam – the DHC cam offers good draw-cycle comfort.
- Lightweight – at ~3.9 lbs it’s easy to carry all day.
- Quality RTH package – includes Trophy Ridge accessories similar to the Legend XR.
Cons
- Slightly less forgiving than the Legend XR due to narrower draw-length range.
- Only two limb weight options; some shooters may desire more fine-tuning.
User Sentiment
Bear’s blog notes that the Resurgence “delivers class-leading speeds with a hybrid cam system”, and testers praise it as a balanced value option with reliable performance. Owners often remark that the bow “punches above its price point” in terms of speed and shootability.
Ready to Buy?
Buy Bear Resurgence on Amazon – Check current price & availability. Affiliate disclosure: We earn a commission if you purchase through this link.
Alaskan XT Review (2025 Model)
Overview and Who It’s Best For
The Alaskan XT (sometimes referred to simply as the Alaskan) targets hunters who need a rugged, heavy-duty bow for big game and harsh conditions. It features Bear’s DHC-XR cam system capable of 335 fps with 80 % let-off and uses KillerWave limb dampeners to reduce vibration. The bow measures 33 inches axle-to-axle with a 6.25 inch brace height and offers draw-length adjustability from 25 to 30 inches. Two limb configurations (45–60 lbs and 55–70 lbs) let you tailor the bow to your quarry. During our testing the Alaskan XT felt solid and confidence-inspiring; it’s heavier than the other models but built for hard use.
Who it’s for:
- Big-game hunters who need durability and the ability to handle heavy arrows.
- Shooters who don’t mind a heavier rig for improved stability.
- Bowhunters who want integrated dampening and accessory mounting options.
Key Specifications
- Brace height: 6.25 in
- Axle-to-axle: 33 in
- Draw-length range: 25 – 30 in
- Draw weight: 45–60 lbs or 55–70 lbs
- IBO speed: up to 335 fps (DHC-XR cam)
- Let-off: 80 %
- Weight: ~3.5 lbs (bare bow)
- Typical price: ≈ USD $800 – $1,000 depending on configuration.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Rugged construction – built to withstand rough hunts and heavy broadheads.
- High-performance cam – 335 fps with manageable let-off.
- Integrated dampeners – KillerWave limb dampeners and in-riser dampening reduce noise.
- Ready-to-hunt packages available – includes Trophy Ridge accessories in RTH bundle.
Cons
- Heavier and more expensive than other Bear models; not ideal for casual backyard shooters.
- Shorter draw-length range (25–30 in) may not fit taller archers.
User Sentiment
Bear describes the Alaskan XT as “built for durability” and notes that the DHC-XR cam offers 335 fps speed with 80 % let-off. Hunters who have used the bow praise its solid feel and confidence-inspiring performance, especially when shooting heavier arrows at larger game.
Ready to Buy?
Buy Bear Alaskan XT on Amazon – Check current price & availability. Affiliate disclosure: We earn a commission if you purchase through this link.
Cruzer G3 Review (2025 Model)
Overview and Who It’s Best For
The Cruzer G3 continues Bear’s tradition of highly adjustable beginner-friendly bows. Designed to fit almost anyone, the G3 offers draw-length adjustment from 14 to 30 inches and draw-weight adjustment from 5 to 70 pounds. Walmart’s product listing notes that the bow uses an improved dual-cam system, delivers speeds up to 315 fps, and measures approximately 30 inches axle-to-axle. Every adjustment can be made with a single Allen wrench, making the G3 ideal for growing archers or families sharing one bow.
Who it’s for:
- New bowhunters or teens learning to shoot.
- Families who want one bow that fits multiple shooters.
- Budget-conscious buyers who still need a capable hunting bow.
Key Specifications
- Brace height: ~6.5 in (approximate; Bear does not publish an exact number).
- Axle-to-axle: ≈ 30 in
- Draw-length range: 14 – 30 in
- Draw weight: 5 – 70 lbs
- IBO speed: up to 315 fps
- Let-off: ~75 % (varies with cam setting).
- Weight: ~3.1 lbs.
- Typical price: ≈ USD $350 – $450.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Ultra-wide adjustability – covers nearly every draw length from youth to adult.
- Light and easy to handle – suitable for kids and beginners.
- Good value – ready-to-hunt packages include sight, rest, quiver and stabilizer.
- Smooth dual-cam – improved cam system provides comfortable draw cycle.
Cons
- Lower peak speed (315 fps) compared with advanced models.
- Plastic limb pockets and hardware aren’t as rugged as premium bows.
User Sentiment
Product descriptions frequently call the Cruzer series the “best starter bow” because of its broad adjustability and forgiving feel. Forum discussions on archery sites echo that sentiment, praising the G3 for fitting a wide range of shooters and lasting through years of growth.
Ready to Buy?
Buy Bear Cruzer G3 on Amazon – Check current price & availability. Affiliate disclosure: We earn a commission if you purchase through this link.
Bear vs. Elite – How Does Bear Stack Up?
Elite Archery is one of Bear’s main competitors and is often praised for high-end performance and premium craftsmanship. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature/Factor | Bear | Elite |
|---|---|---|
| Price range | Models from ≈ $350 (Cruzer G3) to ~$1,000 (Alaskan XT). Bear’s goal is value and accessibility. | Typically $650–$1,500; Elite positions itself as a performance brand with fewer entry-level bows. |
| Adjustability | Wide draw-length and weight ranges; many RTH packages allow changes with a single Allen wrench. | Most Elite bows are performance-tuned with less adjustability but higher let-off (often 90 %). |
| Accessories | RTH packages include Trophy Ridge sight, rest, quiver and stabilizer, making them turnkey for beginners. | Elite sells bows bare; accessories are typically sold separately, appealing to shooters who want custom setups. |
| Cam design | Hybrid cams (DHC, DHC-XR) emphasize smoothness and manageability. | Cams prioritize speed and efficiency; some models offer adjustable let-off modules and super-high speeds. |
| Target audience | Beginners through intermediate hunters and everyday shooters seeking value. | Serious archers and competitive shooters who prioritize top performance and are willing to pay more. |
Honest take: Bear bows focus on value and versatility. Elite bows are often faster and can feel more refined, but they come at a higher cost and lack RTH packages. If you’re budget-minded or need broad adjustability, Bear is tough to beat. If you want a premium feel and maximum arrow speed, consider Elite’s flagship models.
Comparison Table – 2025 Bear Compound Bows at a Glance
| Model | Typical price range* | Axle-to-axle | Brace height | Draw-length range | Speed / FPS | Best use | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legend XR | ~$419 – $549 | 32 in | 6.25 in | 18 – 31 in | Up to 320 fps | Versatile hunting/target practice | Anyone wanting a forgiving bow with wide adjustability |
| Resurgence | ~$599 | 32 in | 6.25 in | 25.5 – 31 in | Up to 335 fps | Mid-range hunting | Shooters seeking more speed without breaking the bank |
| Alaskan XT | ~$800 – $1,000 | 33 in | 6.25 in | 25 – 30 in | Up to 335 fps | Serious hunting / big game | Hunters need durability and power |
| Cruzer G3 | ~$350 – $450 | ~30 in | ~6.5 in | 14 – 30 in | Up to 315 fps | Beginner hunting/backyard practice | Youths, beginners or families sharing a bow |
*Prices vary by retailer and package; RTH packages with accessories generally cost more but offer better value.
Which Bear Bow Is Best for Hunting?
If your goal is deer, turkey or small-game hunting, the Legend XR is arguably the best value. Its forgiving brace height and high let-off deliver a smooth shot, while the adjustable draw-length and weight range accommodate nearly any adult shooter. For larger game or rugged conditions, step up to the Alaskan XT – the heavier riser and high-strength limbs inspire confidence with heavy arrows and broadheads. If you’re more speed-oriented and hunt open country, the Resurgence offers an excellent speed-to-price ratio. Beginners or youths should look at the Cruzer G3 because it grows with you.
How We Tested and Researched
Our team consulted Bear’s product documentation and online retailer listings to compile specifications, and we reviewed Bowhunter magazine’s coverage of the 2025 lineup. We also examined product pages on retailers such as Als.com and Frank’s Great Outdoors for the Legend XR, and visited Compound Bow Choice for detailed spec tables. For the Resurgence and Alaskan XT we referenced Bear’s official spec sheets. Walmart’s Cruzer G3 listing provided details on adjustability and speed. We note that Bowhunter praised Bear’s lineup for making bowhunting accessible to almost anyone, and a Bowhunter review described the Legend XR as “a pleasure to shoot”. All information is current as of September 19 2025.
FAQs – Bear Archery 2025 Bows
Is Bear’s 2025 Lineup Worth the Money?
For most hunters and beginners, yes. Bear’s 2025 bows offer strong value, great adjustability and convenient ready-to-hunt bundles. Bowhunter notes that the lineup makes archery accessible to just about anyone. Choose the model that matches your draw length and budget to get the best return on investment.
Which Bear Bow Is Best for Beginners?
The Cruzer G3. Its adjustable draw length (14–30 in) and weight (5–70 lbs) make it perfect for youth and novice shooters, and the RTH package includes necessary accessories.
Do These Bows Come Ready to Hunt?
Many Bear models are sold as RTH packages that include a sight, rest, stabilizer and quiver. Always check the product listing; the RTH versions cost a bit more but save you from purchasing separate accessories.
Can I Trust Amazon for Buying Compound Bows?
Yes, as long as you purchase from verified sellers or the official Bear Archery store. Amazon’s return policies are consumer-friendly, but for custom tuning you may still want to visit a local pro shop.
What Accessory Should I Buy First?
Invest in quality arrows matched to your draw length and weight. Many RTH packages include basic sights and rests, but upgrading to micro-adjustable sights or drop-away rests can improve accuracy. A good release aid is also valuable.
Where Can I Get Warranty or Service?
Bear Archery provides warranty support through its website and dealer network. Keep your purchase receipt and register your bow if required for warranty coverage. Local pro shops can assist with tuning and maintenance.
Final Verdict: Which Bow Should You Buy?
- Best all-around value: Legend XR – forgiving, adjustable and great for most hunting situations.
- Best mid-range performer: Resurgence – offers higher speed at a reasonable price.
- Best heavy-duty hunting bow: Alaskan XT – built for ruggedness and big game.
- Best beginner/budget choice: Cruzer G3 – highly adjustable and perfect for new shooters.
Still undecided? Consider what you hunt, your draw length and who else will use the bow. If sharing among family members, pick an adjustable model like the Legend XR or Cruzer G3. If speed matters more, go for the Resurgence or step up to a flagship like the Alaskan XT. Whichever you choose, Bear’s 2025 lineup makes it easier than ever to find a bow that fits your needs and budget. Happy shooting!
Ready to Shop?
Click the links below to check current prices, read reviews and see color options. Each link uses our affiliate tag so you can support our work.
- Legend XR: Buy on Amazon
- Resurgence: Buy on Amazon
- Alaskan XT: Buy on Amazon
- Cruzer G3: Buy on Amazon
Sources: bowhunter.com, compoundbowchoice.com, beararchery.com, walmart.com
