#1 in Recurve & TraditionalBear Archery Super Kodiak Recurve Bow
by Bear Archery
The Bear Archery Super Kodiak remains a benchmark traditional recurve, blending Fred Bear's original design philosophy with refined hardwood craftsmanship.
- Classic hardwood craftsmanship
- Smooth quiet draw
- Takedown portability
- Draw Weight Range30-65 lbs
- Bow Length60 inches
- Riser MaterialRock maple, cocobolo, ebony hardwoods
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What you need to know
The Bear Archery Super Kodiak Recurve Bow stands as one of the most iconic offerings in traditional archery, a direct descendant of Fred Bear's original design philosophy that has captivated hunters and target shooters since its introduction. This takedown recurve features a rich, hand-finished hardwood riser typically crafted from a combination of maple, cocobolo, or bubinga, paired with limbs that combine maple and fiberglass laminations for a blend of strength, smoothness, and durability. The bow's silhouette pays homage to classic mid-century recurve design, with a graceful limb curvature that stores and releases energy efficiently, delivering a smooth draw cycle and stable, quiet shot that traditional archers prize above all else.
Built as a three-piece takedown model, the Super Kodiak allows shooters to easily disassemble the bow for transport or storage while maintaining the tight, consistent fit between limbs and riser that ensures accuracy shot after shot. It's typically available in draw weights ranging from around 30 to 65 pounds, accommodating everyone from newer traditional shooters to seasoned bowhunters pursuing big game. The bow's handle is ergonomically shaped for a natural, comfortable grip, encouraging proper hand placement and a torque-free release, while the working recurve limbs contribute to a forgiving draw that doesn't stack harshly at full draw length, a common concern with lesser-designed recurves.
Whether used for stump shooting, target archery, 3D competitions, or traditional bowhunting, the Super Kodiak delivers the kind of tactile connection to the shot that compound bows simply cannot replicate. Its finish is typically a glossy, furniture-grade lacquer that not only protects the wood core but showcases the natural grain patterns, making each bow feel like a functional piece of craftsmanship rather than mass-produced sporting equipment. Accessories like Flemish twist strings, leather-wrapped grips, and brass length-of-pull plates further reflect the attention to detail that has kept the Super Kodiak in continuous production and high demand among purists who value heritage, performance, and the simple, honest mechanics of a well-made recurve bow.
Key features
- 01Three-piece takedown design for easy transport
- 02Rock maple, cocobolo, and ebony hardwood riser
- 03Semi-hardwood limb cores with clear glass overlay
- 04Traditional one-piece limb bolts for solid connection
- 05Molded-in arrow shelf with leather rest option
- 06Fast Flight capable string groove
- 07Sleek hip-and-shoulder limb tip design
Technical specs
| Draw Weight Range | 30-65 lbs |
|---|---|
| Bow Length | 60 inches |
| Riser Material | Rock maple, cocobolo, ebony hardwoods |
| Limb Construction | Semi-hardwood core with glass overlay |
| Brace Height | 7.75 inches |
| Category | Recurve Bow |
| Brand | Bear Archery |
| Owner rating | 4.7 / 5 from 1,804 reviews |
How it scored
- Accuracy9.4
- Build quality9.4
- Ease of tuning8.9
- Value9.8
The good and the not-so-good
What we like
- Beautiful hardwood grain and craftsmanship
- Smooth, quiet draw for a traditional recurve
- Accurate and forgiving shooting characteristics
- Takedown design travels well in a compact case
- Wide range of draw weights available
- Holds classic Bear Archery collector value
Watch out for
- Heavier than modern takedown recurves
- No integrated stabilizer or sight mounting holes
- Premium price compared to entry-level recurves
- Limited weight adjustability once purchased
Should you buy it?
The Bear Archery Super Kodiak remains a benchmark traditional recurve, blending Fred Bear's original design philosophy with refined hardwood craftsmanship. It's an excellent choice for traditional archers who value smooth draws, accuracy, and heirloom-quality construction over modern accessories.
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