Initial Unboxing/Test: Bear X Speedcomp 1.5-5x32 Ranging IR Crossbow Scope

[DuckHunt]

After looking at the offerings from Hawke and the Tact-100, I decided to pull the trigger on a new scope that has very little information out there. So, this initial review will hopefully resolve that.

The scope is sold by Bear Archery as their Bear X Speedcomp 1.5-5x32 Ranging IR Crossbow Scope. The scope comes with spring-loaded flip-up plastic scope caps and has a 30mm tube. It is supposed to come with rings, but mine didn't which is exactly how the rest of my Monday has gone. But I digress. The model number is ACBS and it is briefly mentioned on the Bear website. Since Hawke has a history of manufacturing scopes that are sold under other brand labels, I wouldn't be surprised if that was the case with this one. No manufacturer information is listed on the scope other than the Bear X logo, though it is plainly labelled made in China.

Here is the box:



I don't know why every scope manufacturer doesn't start off with posting an actual picture of the reticle. Here is this one for your viewing pleasure.


And with red illumination turned a bit too high.

It will also illuminate in green. The rheostat has infinite positions, so you can turn it up just bright enough for your conditions.

It is only slightly longer than a DeadZone, but it appears much larger because of the 30mm tube.


I borrowed the 30mm rings off of my Micro so I could mount this and give it a quick test in the 30mph winds outside. A few shots at 10 yards to get close, then a few more at 20 yards and I was close enough for the conditions. With the speed dial set at roughly my arrow speed, I stepped back to 40 yards and was within a couple inches. Then I stepped back to 60 and was also within a couple inches. Since I was shooting from a kneeling position in crazy winds, I was impressed.

My initial thoughts is that I need to hurry and buy another one for my Micro. The glass is very clear. The only minus I see is also a plus. The precise aiming points are small, which may make them harder to see against a dark background without illumination. But, they are small enough to allow you to aim very precisely. I like that only the aiming points illuminate. Some scopes light up too much in low light and drowned out the background. This scope shouldn't have that issue. I can post more information at a later date once I resolve the ring issue and get some weather more conducive to consistent arrow flight.

DuckHunt

[flightattendant100]

Am betting that this is the scope that Trophy Ridge sold as Speedcomp, as well. Several forum members have those and like them.

[Ferguson Outfitters]

Interesting

[Carnivorous]

The "KEEP FINGERS DOWN" at the bottom of the scope is really annoying! Must have a high priced lawyer calling the shots at Bear! Lol

[robertyb]

I agree it looks like the TR Speedcomp 525 scope. Bear was the supplier for the TR scope line.

[paulaboutform]

Thanks for the review. I'm looking forward to hear your thoughts when you have time to really put it through the paces.

Paul