Hoyt Razortec
11-05-2002, 02:10 PM
#1
Boone & Crockett
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Lehigh County PA USA
Posts: 12,157
Hoyt Razortec
As with just about any of the bow “reviews” that I attempt to do I have the most difficult time deciding on how to start it. As everyone is aware at this point my most recent bow purchase is the 2003 model Hoyt Razortec. The model in question is equipped with Hoyt’s XT2000 limbs and new Cam and a Half eccentric system. In an effort to fully familiarize this Hoyt bow to everyone I am going to break the bow down into components in order to make the report simpler to read. If you already are familiar with past Hoyt components then please feel free to skip to another section.
The Riser
Hoyt utilizes their trademark “TEC” (Total Engineering Concept) riser on each of the bows in their 2003 lineup. This riser design is in a bridge support structure type shape. Its goal is to provide a structurally stronger riser while yet being able to reduce mass weight, noise and dissipate vibration. The actual technical/engineering explanation is beyond my skills to understand or elaborate on but I can assure you that it does perform as advertised. Hoyt originally started implementing this design back in 1996 with their Alphatec bow. Since then at least one or two bows in their lineup have always featured the TEC riser structure.
Hoyt also utilizes a dual side plate grip design on all of their bows. The riser itself serves as part of the grip but is insulated with a small cloth pad to keep your hand warmer on cold days. Each side plate is constructed of wood and fits comfortably into a precut slot on each side of the grip area. The overall circumference of the grip seems to have been reduced this year as the grip feel smaller, and notably more comfortable, in my hand.
The Limbs
The Razortec is equipped with Hoyt’s XT2000 limbs. The XT2000 limbs are multilayer, laminated, carbon/glass limbs. The edges of the limbs are left unpainted as to expose a visual representation of their composition. Though the XT2000 limbs appear to be straight limbs they are actually recurve (prebent) limbs that straighten when pressure is applied during construction of the bow. This design helps store and release more energy evenly throughout the limb (uniform stress distribution) thus creating faster arrow speeds.
The XT2000 limbs originally were 15.5 inches in length but Hoyt redesigned them to a 14-inch length for the 2002 production year. The same 14-inch XT2000 limbs continue to be utilized on all of Hoyt’s “top of the line” bows. Each XT2000 limb is a full ¾ inches wide. That coupled with a ¾ inch space between limbs results in a full width of 2.25 inches. This provides excellent torsional and lateral stability…. in other words…the limbs greatly resist bending to the left or to the right. This helps to improve accuracy and consistency.
The Limb pockets
Hoyt has also reintroduced the dual locking limb pocket system on most of their high end hunting bows. It had been more a specialty order in past years. Both of the limb pockets and the bow’s cam system are all covered in a bronze finish, which Hoyt refers to as autumn brown.
Cable Guard Rod and Slide
Hoyt is again utilizing a carbon cable guard rod on all of their hunting bows. It appears to me to be shorter this year than on previous models but that may be the result of the individual riser designs found on the different TEC bows.
The cable slide is a new design for Hoyt this year and features the typical offset style found on most cable slides currently on the market. It appears to be somewhat of an upgrade compared to previous years’ designs. There also appears to be a current trend towards immediately changing out the factory cable guard slides for other Teflon or silicon coated models as they tend to be quieter and tend to promote less cable wear. Hoyt does not mention what their cable slide is constructed of so I would assume some form of plastic or polycarbonate material.
The Eccentric system
Hoyt totally revamped their choice of eccentric systems this year. In previous years Hoyt offered a good selection of both single and dual cam designs. Now Hoyt only offers two cam systems. Neither is a traditional single or dual cam. Hoyt’s Cam and a Half system is more of a hybrid design, which utilizes some characteristics of both styles of cams. The Cam and a Half’s closest relative is the Darton CPS system.
The Cam and a Half utilizes a rotating draw length adjustment module similar to both the Command Cams Plus and the Versacam. A bow press is not required to adjust the draw length and each module covers a draw length range of roughly 2.5 inches. Most bows typically found in pro shops cover the 27.5 to 30 inch range, which would represent what most archers utilize.
The Cam and a half system is available in two different percentage of let off choices…..65% and 75%. To obtain the different percentages different draw length adjustment modules must be utilized. Both modules cover the same draw length range but under different percentages of let off.
Some advantages to the Cam and a half design include:
- not having to worry about synchronization issues associated with the traditional dual cam system.
- a low level of noise and vibration typically associated with traditional single cam systems
- level nock travel provided both eccentrics are correctly timed. There are timing marks on both eccentrics that easily allow anyone with access to a bow press to adjust each eccentric to its proper rotational position.
- a solid back wall at full draw and more forgiveness than what is typically associated with round idler wheel single cam designs.
Hoyt has also introduced sealed stainless steel ball bearings in both the top and bottom cams. This is done to provide less friction and requires no additional lubrication. The timing marks on both eccentrics allow the archer to monitor any rotational movement due to string creep. Speaking of strings, Hoyt is continuing to use Brownell’s D75 string material on their bows but several representatives have commented that they are utilizing somewhat of a new process in creating the strings. No further information was offered. The Diamondback braided serving material is also still being used as well.
Odds and Ends
- Also new for this year is the Realtree High Definition Hardwoods Green camo pattern. Previous years’ models were adorned with either Mossy Oak Forest Floor or Mossy Oak Shadow branch designs.
- The customary Sims Stealth split limbsavers and new Kevlar reinforced Sims String Leeches are also factory installed on the bow prior to shipping.
- The Razortec is available in peak draw weights that range from 40 to 80 pounds and draw lengths that range from 24 to 31 inches.
General Commentary:
After seeing the pictures and description of the new Hoyt lineup this year I was very excited and seemed particularly attracted to the Razortec model specifically. The Razortec has all of the characteristics that I find favorable in a good all around hunting bow. The bow’s dimensions are as follows:
- 33 inch axle to axle length
- 7 3/8th inch brace height
- 3.75 lb mass weight
- 310 fps listed IBO speed
These specifications are very close to the 2000 Hoyt Havoc XT2000 Redline that I was very fond of. So, I had some very high expectations when I ordered the bow. Let me just state at this point that I have not been disappointed.
Upon receiving the bow I inspected it thoroughly. The paint scheme definitely prints much better on the bow than previous years’ choices and seems to be standing up well, so far, to the typical abuse associated with my bowhunting endeavors. I will say that there are a few spots on the bow where it looks as though the paint scheme didn’t take very well but this seems to be particular to my specific bow as I did not see these same imperfections on the other models that are in stock at the local pro shop.
I must admit that the bow just looks “pretty” overall. The combination of the new highly realistic camo pattern coupled with the “autumn brown” eccentrics and limb pockets not only make the bow look classy but also blend in rather well out in the woods. This particular combination is very similar to what can be found on the Fred Bear Epic Extreme though there appears to be slightly more attention to detail found on the Razortec.
Something else I happen to notice is that the position of the serial number has been moved from opposite the sight window on the riser to inside one of the limb pockets….on the butt end of the riser. There also appears to be another manufacturing number located in the opposite limb pocket.
The bow balances very well in my hand though I found it to fall back towards me when there aren’t any accessories on the bow. With a full set of accessories and a properly balanced stabilizer setup the bow sits relatively level in my hand both prior to and during the shooting process. The Razortec both feels and appears very solid in design. I could not discern any gaps in between the spacers, cams and limbs nor in and around the limb pocket area. Everything seems to fit together flawlessly.
Shooting the bow
I shot the Razortec bare bow initially with just an arrow rest and the proper string accessories installed. With my particular setup (which will be described later) the bow had no vibration during the shot and was extremely quiet overall. There was some noticeable “funky” recoil though. In reference to the word “funky” the bow did not seem to “kick up” as is typical with most traditional single cam designs nor did it have the same reaction that is typically found on a dual cam bow. The bow seemed to want to jump slightly sideways during the shot but they may have been the result of my torquing the grip slightly during the shot. I attempted to change my grip position several times but the recoil persisted. This leads me to believe that it is more the result of the new cams system than anything else.
This “recoil” was not excessive and disappeared once I fully set up the bow and rough tuned it initially. I would like to believe that the proper combination of balance…i.e. accessories… was the reason for the disappearance. I experimented with several of the different stabilizer combinations that I have at home until I found one that seemed to not only balance the bow but also add to the noise and vibration reducing characteristics that the bow already possessed. As you can tell in the overall picture I provided I ended up with the short mount Sims Enhancer 2000 coupled with the NAP Shockblocker 500. Other accessories currently installed on the bow include the Toxonics Solotrak sight, Shurz a Peep peep sight, wrist sling, Golden Key Futura Golden Premier arrow rest, Sims cable dampener, a single brass nockset and a rubber eliminator button. This is what I would term my “normal hunting setup”.
Comparisons with the Versacam
At this point I think a comparison between this bow and both the Havoctec and Cybertec that I owned last year is in order. With my particular setup I could not tell any difference in terms of noise or vibration between the new Cam and a half system and last year’s Versacam. Both cam systems have a rather stiff draw force curve and a very solid back wall and both cams have an inner cam draw length adjustment module.
But that is pretty much where the similarities end. The Cam and a Half has a draw length adjustment module on both eccentrics. Each module has a series of preset holes, which are labeled “A” through “F”. The module on each eccentric needs to be on the same letter in order for the bow to operate efficiently. I have not tried to set the modules on different letters to see what would occur so I cannot comment on it as this point. Also, unlike the Versacam there is no simple percentage of let off adjustment on the cams themselves but, as I mentioned earlier, you can change the percentage of let off by purchasing a separate set of rotating draw length adjustment modules.
Speed testing results
I fully set up the Razortec in terms of accessories, loaded the string up with my usual assortment of knick-knacks…peep sight, etc…. and set the bow to a 70 lb draw weight with a 30 inch draw length. Speaking of draw length, the “F” setting corresponds with a the 30 inch draw length setting according to the draw length range listed on the bow’s label. Using the AMO method of determining draw length I found that the “F” setting provided an exact 30 inch draw length if not a hair below.
I then proceeded to shoot arrows in 3 shot groups, 4 times through the chronograph. Two distinctively different weight arrows were utilized…. a 365 grain Carbon Express 300 and a 430 grain Beman ICS Hunter 340.
The 430-grain Beman shot between 277-278 fps repeatedly. This is my hunting arrow, which generates roughly 73 ft. lbs of KE.
The 365-grain Carbon Express shot between 299-300 fps repeatedly. This arrow was once used in my 3D setup but I no longer use them except for testing purposes.
As some of you may remember the speed that the Beman was attaining is very similar to what I was getting with some of my previous bows. The key difference being that I normally set my hunting bows at a 65 lb draw weight and a 31-inch draw length. The Cam and a Half has a smoother transition both initially into the draw force curve and then into the valley itself. Because of this it felt much easier for me to pull a heavier draw weight than on most of the bows I have previously owned.
But, I digress. Most of the my bows usually generate around 275 fps of arrow speed with a 420 grain arrow shot at a 65 lb draw weight and a 31 inch draw length. Now, if I were to make the appropriate adjustments for the differences in setups then what we have is a bow putting out roughly 272 fps with the same setup as I have on the Razortec. The Razortec is generating roughly 6 more fps with this weight arrow (430 grains) when compared to some of the perimeter weighted style single cams that I have owned in the last year….Fred Bear Epic Extreme, Hoyt Havoctec, Parker Ultralite 31, etc….
If the same type of figures could be applied to the Carbon Express 300 then you will see the gap widen even further. With the same CE 300 on the Havoctec Versa last year I was getting roughly 289-290 fps. Making the appropriate adjustments for draw length and draw weight that would result in an arrow speed of approximately 287 fps. I am getting approximately 10 fps more with the new Cam and a half system (299-300 fps).
Those are some significant numbers in my book.
Final Thoughts
Just as it is difficult for me to start one of these reviews it is also difficult for me to finish it. I thoroughly enjoy shooting the Razortec and find not only its specifications but also its shooting characteristics to be very appealing to me. If I were to make some form of suggestion in terms of adjustments on it for the 2004 production year then it would be to offer it with the Spiral Cam and a Half for starters. Hoyt has always been known for it varieties of equipment options..ie…multiple limb and cam choices for any given riser configuration. This seems to have been reduced somewhat for the 2003 model year. Not surprisingly though as I am sure it is more cost effective to have fewer options. The fact that the Razortec is also geared to be a hunting bow would seem to have influenced the specific choice of limbs and cams. In other words the XT2000 limbs are Hoyt’s shortest and most popular limbs coupled with the standard Cam and a Half system which is not only more adjustable than the Spiral Cam but is also more “user-friendly” in terms of the draw cycle and percentage of let off.
Getting back to my original suggestion, I would like to see the Razortec (or some similarly named bow) have a listed (and attainable) IBO speed of roughly 315-320 fps coupled with a brace height that is approximately a half to three quarters of an inch longer than the current model. This, in my opinion, would make the Razortec the “perfect” hunting bow. Being capable of generating this much energy with such a large brace height would make the bow extremely appealing to bowhunters across the country.
As for an overall synopsis of my experience…..if you are looking for a bow with a top-notch design and extreme quality components then the Razortec should get more than a cursory glance on the rack. Pick it up…hold it….feel the slim, comfortable grip. Then take the bow out for a spin. Shoot it and feel the lack of noticeable vibration…the quietness of the shot…and the overall lack of significant recoil. Then, check the chronograph, because it will be shooting faster than 99% of the bows out there in its class with a much smoother draw cycle.
(This thread will remain in the technical forum for a set period of time and will then be moved to the Bowhunting Gear forum)
Disclaimer- So as not to run into problems like last year....these are the opinions of the original poster only. These are not the opinions of Huntingnet.com
Edited by - PABowhntr on 11/12/2002 06:44:58
The Riser
Hoyt utilizes their trademark “TEC” (Total Engineering Concept) riser on each of the bows in their 2003 lineup. This riser design is in a bridge support structure type shape. Its goal is to provide a structurally stronger riser while yet being able to reduce mass weight, noise and dissipate vibration. The actual technical/engineering explanation is beyond my skills to understand or elaborate on but I can assure you that it does perform as advertised. Hoyt originally started implementing this design back in 1996 with their Alphatec bow. Since then at least one or two bows in their lineup have always featured the TEC riser structure.
Hoyt also utilizes a dual side plate grip design on all of their bows. The riser itself serves as part of the grip but is insulated with a small cloth pad to keep your hand warmer on cold days. Each side plate is constructed of wood and fits comfortably into a precut slot on each side of the grip area. The overall circumference of the grip seems to have been reduced this year as the grip feel smaller, and notably more comfortable, in my hand.
The Limbs
The Razortec is equipped with Hoyt’s XT2000 limbs. The XT2000 limbs are multilayer, laminated, carbon/glass limbs. The edges of the limbs are left unpainted as to expose a visual representation of their composition. Though the XT2000 limbs appear to be straight limbs they are actually recurve (prebent) limbs that straighten when pressure is applied during construction of the bow. This design helps store and release more energy evenly throughout the limb (uniform stress distribution) thus creating faster arrow speeds.
The XT2000 limbs originally were 15.5 inches in length but Hoyt redesigned them to a 14-inch length for the 2002 production year. The same 14-inch XT2000 limbs continue to be utilized on all of Hoyt’s “top of the line” bows. Each XT2000 limb is a full ¾ inches wide. That coupled with a ¾ inch space between limbs results in a full width of 2.25 inches. This provides excellent torsional and lateral stability…. in other words…the limbs greatly resist bending to the left or to the right. This helps to improve accuracy and consistency.
The Limb pockets
Hoyt has also reintroduced the dual locking limb pocket system on most of their high end hunting bows. It had been more a specialty order in past years. Both of the limb pockets and the bow’s cam system are all covered in a bronze finish, which Hoyt refers to as autumn brown.
Cable Guard Rod and Slide
Hoyt is again utilizing a carbon cable guard rod on all of their hunting bows. It appears to me to be shorter this year than on previous models but that may be the result of the individual riser designs found on the different TEC bows.
The cable slide is a new design for Hoyt this year and features the typical offset style found on most cable slides currently on the market. It appears to be somewhat of an upgrade compared to previous years’ designs. There also appears to be a current trend towards immediately changing out the factory cable guard slides for other Teflon or silicon coated models as they tend to be quieter and tend to promote less cable wear. Hoyt does not mention what their cable slide is constructed of so I would assume some form of plastic or polycarbonate material.
The Eccentric system
Hoyt totally revamped their choice of eccentric systems this year. In previous years Hoyt offered a good selection of both single and dual cam designs. Now Hoyt only offers two cam systems. Neither is a traditional single or dual cam. Hoyt’s Cam and a Half system is more of a hybrid design, which utilizes some characteristics of both styles of cams. The Cam and a Half’s closest relative is the Darton CPS system.
The Cam and a Half utilizes a rotating draw length adjustment module similar to both the Command Cams Plus and the Versacam. A bow press is not required to adjust the draw length and each module covers a draw length range of roughly 2.5 inches. Most bows typically found in pro shops cover the 27.5 to 30 inch range, which would represent what most archers utilize.
The Cam and a half system is available in two different percentage of let off choices…..65% and 75%. To obtain the different percentages different draw length adjustment modules must be utilized. Both modules cover the same draw length range but under different percentages of let off.
Some advantages to the Cam and a half design include:
- not having to worry about synchronization issues associated with the traditional dual cam system.
- a low level of noise and vibration typically associated with traditional single cam systems
- level nock travel provided both eccentrics are correctly timed. There are timing marks on both eccentrics that easily allow anyone with access to a bow press to adjust each eccentric to its proper rotational position.
- a solid back wall at full draw and more forgiveness than what is typically associated with round idler wheel single cam designs.
Hoyt has also introduced sealed stainless steel ball bearings in both the top and bottom cams. This is done to provide less friction and requires no additional lubrication. The timing marks on both eccentrics allow the archer to monitor any rotational movement due to string creep. Speaking of strings, Hoyt is continuing to use Brownell’s D75 string material on their bows but several representatives have commented that they are utilizing somewhat of a new process in creating the strings. No further information was offered. The Diamondback braided serving material is also still being used as well.
Odds and Ends
- Also new for this year is the Realtree High Definition Hardwoods Green camo pattern. Previous years’ models were adorned with either Mossy Oak Forest Floor or Mossy Oak Shadow branch designs.
- The customary Sims Stealth split limbsavers and new Kevlar reinforced Sims String Leeches are also factory installed on the bow prior to shipping.
- The Razortec is available in peak draw weights that range from 40 to 80 pounds and draw lengths that range from 24 to 31 inches.
General Commentary:
After seeing the pictures and description of the new Hoyt lineup this year I was very excited and seemed particularly attracted to the Razortec model specifically. The Razortec has all of the characteristics that I find favorable in a good all around hunting bow. The bow’s dimensions are as follows:
- 33 inch axle to axle length
- 7 3/8th inch brace height
- 3.75 lb mass weight
- 310 fps listed IBO speed
These specifications are very close to the 2000 Hoyt Havoc XT2000 Redline that I was very fond of. So, I had some very high expectations when I ordered the bow. Let me just state at this point that I have not been disappointed.
Upon receiving the bow I inspected it thoroughly. The paint scheme definitely prints much better on the bow than previous years’ choices and seems to be standing up well, so far, to the typical abuse associated with my bowhunting endeavors. I will say that there are a few spots on the bow where it looks as though the paint scheme didn’t take very well but this seems to be particular to my specific bow as I did not see these same imperfections on the other models that are in stock at the local pro shop.
I must admit that the bow just looks “pretty” overall. The combination of the new highly realistic camo pattern coupled with the “autumn brown” eccentrics and limb pockets not only make the bow look classy but also blend in rather well out in the woods. This particular combination is very similar to what can be found on the Fred Bear Epic Extreme though there appears to be slightly more attention to detail found on the Razortec.
Something else I happen to notice is that the position of the serial number has been moved from opposite the sight window on the riser to inside one of the limb pockets….on the butt end of the riser. There also appears to be another manufacturing number located in the opposite limb pocket.
The bow balances very well in my hand though I found it to fall back towards me when there aren’t any accessories on the bow. With a full set of accessories and a properly balanced stabilizer setup the bow sits relatively level in my hand both prior to and during the shooting process. The Razortec both feels and appears very solid in design. I could not discern any gaps in between the spacers, cams and limbs nor in and around the limb pocket area. Everything seems to fit together flawlessly.
Shooting the bow
I shot the Razortec bare bow initially with just an arrow rest and the proper string accessories installed. With my particular setup (which will be described later) the bow had no vibration during the shot and was extremely quiet overall. There was some noticeable “funky” recoil though. In reference to the word “funky” the bow did not seem to “kick up” as is typical with most traditional single cam designs nor did it have the same reaction that is typically found on a dual cam bow. The bow seemed to want to jump slightly sideways during the shot but they may have been the result of my torquing the grip slightly during the shot. I attempted to change my grip position several times but the recoil persisted. This leads me to believe that it is more the result of the new cams system than anything else.
This “recoil” was not excessive and disappeared once I fully set up the bow and rough tuned it initially. I would like to believe that the proper combination of balance…i.e. accessories… was the reason for the disappearance. I experimented with several of the different stabilizer combinations that I have at home until I found one that seemed to not only balance the bow but also add to the noise and vibration reducing characteristics that the bow already possessed. As you can tell in the overall picture I provided I ended up with the short mount Sims Enhancer 2000 coupled with the NAP Shockblocker 500. Other accessories currently installed on the bow include the Toxonics Solotrak sight, Shurz a Peep peep sight, wrist sling, Golden Key Futura Golden Premier arrow rest, Sims cable dampener, a single brass nockset and a rubber eliminator button. This is what I would term my “normal hunting setup”.
Comparisons with the Versacam
At this point I think a comparison between this bow and both the Havoctec and Cybertec that I owned last year is in order. With my particular setup I could not tell any difference in terms of noise or vibration between the new Cam and a half system and last year’s Versacam. Both cam systems have a rather stiff draw force curve and a very solid back wall and both cams have an inner cam draw length adjustment module.
But that is pretty much where the similarities end. The Cam and a Half has a draw length adjustment module on both eccentrics. Each module has a series of preset holes, which are labeled “A” through “F”. The module on each eccentric needs to be on the same letter in order for the bow to operate efficiently. I have not tried to set the modules on different letters to see what would occur so I cannot comment on it as this point. Also, unlike the Versacam there is no simple percentage of let off adjustment on the cams themselves but, as I mentioned earlier, you can change the percentage of let off by purchasing a separate set of rotating draw length adjustment modules.
Speed testing results
I fully set up the Razortec in terms of accessories, loaded the string up with my usual assortment of knick-knacks…peep sight, etc…. and set the bow to a 70 lb draw weight with a 30 inch draw length. Speaking of draw length, the “F” setting corresponds with a the 30 inch draw length setting according to the draw length range listed on the bow’s label. Using the AMO method of determining draw length I found that the “F” setting provided an exact 30 inch draw length if not a hair below.
I then proceeded to shoot arrows in 3 shot groups, 4 times through the chronograph. Two distinctively different weight arrows were utilized…. a 365 grain Carbon Express 300 and a 430 grain Beman ICS Hunter 340.
The 430-grain Beman shot between 277-278 fps repeatedly. This is my hunting arrow, which generates roughly 73 ft. lbs of KE.
The 365-grain Carbon Express shot between 299-300 fps repeatedly. This arrow was once used in my 3D setup but I no longer use them except for testing purposes.
As some of you may remember the speed that the Beman was attaining is very similar to what I was getting with some of my previous bows. The key difference being that I normally set my hunting bows at a 65 lb draw weight and a 31-inch draw length. The Cam and a Half has a smoother transition both initially into the draw force curve and then into the valley itself. Because of this it felt much easier for me to pull a heavier draw weight than on most of the bows I have previously owned.
But, I digress. Most of the my bows usually generate around 275 fps of arrow speed with a 420 grain arrow shot at a 65 lb draw weight and a 31 inch draw length. Now, if I were to make the appropriate adjustments for the differences in setups then what we have is a bow putting out roughly 272 fps with the same setup as I have on the Razortec. The Razortec is generating roughly 6 more fps with this weight arrow (430 grains) when compared to some of the perimeter weighted style single cams that I have owned in the last year….Fred Bear Epic Extreme, Hoyt Havoctec, Parker Ultralite 31, etc….
If the same type of figures could be applied to the Carbon Express 300 then you will see the gap widen even further. With the same CE 300 on the Havoctec Versa last year I was getting roughly 289-290 fps. Making the appropriate adjustments for draw length and draw weight that would result in an arrow speed of approximately 287 fps. I am getting approximately 10 fps more with the new Cam and a half system (299-300 fps).
Those are some significant numbers in my book.
Final Thoughts
Just as it is difficult for me to start one of these reviews it is also difficult for me to finish it. I thoroughly enjoy shooting the Razortec and find not only its specifications but also its shooting characteristics to be very appealing to me. If I were to make some form of suggestion in terms of adjustments on it for the 2004 production year then it would be to offer it with the Spiral Cam and a Half for starters. Hoyt has always been known for it varieties of equipment options..ie…multiple limb and cam choices for any given riser configuration. This seems to have been reduced somewhat for the 2003 model year. Not surprisingly though as I am sure it is more cost effective to have fewer options. The fact that the Razortec is also geared to be a hunting bow would seem to have influenced the specific choice of limbs and cams. In other words the XT2000 limbs are Hoyt’s shortest and most popular limbs coupled with the standard Cam and a Half system which is not only more adjustable than the Spiral Cam but is also more “user-friendly” in terms of the draw cycle and percentage of let off.
Getting back to my original suggestion, I would like to see the Razortec (or some similarly named bow) have a listed (and attainable) IBO speed of roughly 315-320 fps coupled with a brace height that is approximately a half to three quarters of an inch longer than the current model. This, in my opinion, would make the Razortec the “perfect” hunting bow. Being capable of generating this much energy with such a large brace height would make the bow extremely appealing to bowhunters across the country.
As for an overall synopsis of my experience…..if you are looking for a bow with a top-notch design and extreme quality components then the Razortec should get more than a cursory glance on the rack. Pick it up…hold it….feel the slim, comfortable grip. Then take the bow out for a spin. Shoot it and feel the lack of noticeable vibration…the quietness of the shot…and the overall lack of significant recoil. Then, check the chronograph, because it will be shooting faster than 99% of the bows out there in its class with a much smoother draw cycle.
(This thread will remain in the technical forum for a set period of time and will then be moved to the Bowhunting Gear forum)
Disclaimer- So as not to run into problems like last year....these are the opinions of the original poster only. These are not the opinions of Huntingnet.com
Edited by - PABowhntr on 11/12/2002 06:44:58
11-05-2002, 02:36 PM
#2
Nontypical Buck
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location:
Posts: 2,994
RE: Hoyt Razortec
Very nice review Frank, and some great pics to boot! I think it's a great looking bow, and if I was gonna go Hoyt, it'd be the one I would look into first.
Have you shot the Darton CPS before? How does the draw cycle of it compare to the 1 1/2 cam Hoyt?
You going to hold onto this one for awhile, or are you itching to move on to something else ?
Have you shot the Darton CPS before? How does the draw cycle of it compare to the 1 1/2 cam Hoyt?
You going to hold onto this one for awhile, or are you itching to move on to something else ?
11-05-2002, 02:48 PM
#3
Nontypical Buck
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: NW Ohio USA
Posts: 1,532
RE: Hoyt Razortec
Nice review Frank. Well written and very interesting. I can't wait to get to a shop that carries Hoyt's so I can shoot them myself...
I have one question though...Do you hunt with bare prongs on your Golden Premier?
Oh and another question...Do you work for SVL?...LOL... Just kidding...I know it's all good stuff...
I have one question though...Do you hunt with bare prongs on your Golden Premier?
Oh and another question...Do you work for SVL?...LOL... Just kidding...I know it's all good stuff...
11-05-2002, 02:55 PM
#4
Boone & Crockett
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Lehigh County PA USA
Posts: 12,157
RE: Hoyt Razortec
Rangeball,
I felt the draw cycle was very similar to what I remember of the Darton CPS system. I have not handled or shot a Darton in about 6 or 7 months though so I will leave it to Len or one of the other folks with more access to both bows to comment.
I plan on keeping a Razortec in my arsenal for some time. This is the closest I have come to exactly what I find appealing in a hunting bow. Though, I do plan on getting my hands on a few other 2003 model bows when they become available.
BS,
This oughta be good... I look forward to hearing your opinion of the new Hoyts when you get a hold of one. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
Yes, I do hunt with a bare pronged Golden Premier. I have never had a problem with deer spooking because of my drawing the arrow over bare prongs.
No, I don't work for SVL but I did stay at a Holiday Inn last night...<img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>
I felt the draw cycle was very similar to what I remember of the Darton CPS system. I have not handled or shot a Darton in about 6 or 7 months though so I will leave it to Len or one of the other folks with more access to both bows to comment.
I plan on keeping a Razortec in my arsenal for some time. This is the closest I have come to exactly what I find appealing in a hunting bow. Though, I do plan on getting my hands on a few other 2003 model bows when they become available.
BS,
This oughta be good...
I look forward to hearing your opinion of the new Hoyts when you get a hold of one. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.Yes, I do hunt with a bare pronged Golden Premier. I have never had a problem with deer spooking because of my drawing the arrow over bare prongs.
No, I don't work for SVL but I did stay at a Holiday Inn last night...<img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>
11-05-2002, 03:11 PM
#5
Nontypical Buck
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location:
Posts: 2,994
RE: Hoyt Razortec
Frank, do you feel the simms enhancer you use with your NAP shockblocker adds any value over just the NAP alone? I'm curious, as I also use the NAP, but would have no qualms against adding the simms if it would be a noticeable improvement.
Same question with the simms cable dampener. Is it a good value?
Same question with the simms cable dampener. Is it a good value?
11-05-2002, 03:51 PM
#6
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Mountain View Ca USA
Posts: 105
RE: Hoyt Razortec
Frank,
very well done. I'll have a chance to shot the Razortec when I visit with Len later this week. Should be real interesting since I've been a diehard Darton Maverick shooter for 5 years. I'll throw in my .02 on the comparision between the two next week. I'll even try and be objective. <img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>
very well done. I'll have a chance to shot the Razortec when I visit with Len later this week. Should be real interesting since I've been a diehard Darton Maverick shooter for 5 years. I'll throw in my .02 on the comparision between the two next week. I'll even try and be objective. <img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>
11-05-2002, 03:58 PM
#7
Boone & Crockett
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Lehigh County PA USA
Posts: 12,157
RE: Hoyt Razortec
Rangeball,
I would have a difficult time determining whether the Enhancer 2000 does add any benefit to the Shockblocer on the Razortec in particular since I added it because of the balance issue more so than any added noise/vibration reducing benefit...though I am sure it does help to some extent.
I had used the NAP Shockblocker 500 on the Epic Extreme that I had prior to this and found it to be more than adequate in terms of both noise and vibration reduction. Basically what I am saying is that it really depends on the bow you are going to put it on. If we are talking about something that generates noticeably more energy with a non-energy dissipating riser/limb design then I would think it would make a noticeable difference.
The first time I tried the Sims cable dampener was on the original Havoc Redline. I found that it decreased the noise level to even more of a dull "thud" than just the limbsavers themselves. I have been putting them on every bow I have owned ever since.
Roland,
Thanks. I would really be interested to hear your comparison between the two bows. Len has been noticeably quiet since posting some of his initial findings with some of the new Hoyt bows. I wonder what his current impressions are.
I would have a difficult time determining whether the Enhancer 2000 does add any benefit to the Shockblocer on the Razortec in particular since I added it because of the balance issue more so than any added noise/vibration reducing benefit...though I am sure it does help to some extent.
I had used the NAP Shockblocker 500 on the Epic Extreme that I had prior to this and found it to be more than adequate in terms of both noise and vibration reduction. Basically what I am saying is that it really depends on the bow you are going to put it on. If we are talking about something that generates noticeably more energy with a non-energy dissipating riser/limb design then I would think it would make a noticeable difference.
The first time I tried the Sims cable dampener was on the original Havoc Redline. I found that it decreased the noise level to even more of a dull "thud" than just the limbsavers themselves. I have been putting them on every bow I have owned ever since.
Roland,
Thanks. I would really be interested to hear your comparison between the two bows. Len has been noticeably quiet since posting some of his initial findings with some of the new Hoyt bows. I wonder what his current impressions are.
11-05-2002, 04:14 PM
#8
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Mountain View Ca USA
Posts: 105
RE: Hoyt Razortec
Frank,
Len and I have spoke about the new Hoyt's. He really hasn't had much to say, other than for me try them when I'm back there later this week. If I know Len, he'll do a complete test which will take a month or so, until then he won't say much. Len never jumps the gun and touts something until he's test it. One of the reasons why I listen when he gives an opinion.
I hoping to shoot the new Browning also, looks like a real interesting set up.
Edited by - Roland from Calif. on 11/05/2002 17:34:23
Len and I have spoke about the new Hoyt's. He really hasn't had much to say, other than for me try them when I'm back there later this week. If I know Len, he'll do a complete test which will take a month or so, until then he won't say much. Len never jumps the gun and touts something until he's test it. One of the reasons why I listen when he gives an opinion.
I hoping to shoot the new Browning also, looks like a real interesting set up.
Edited by - Roland from Calif. on 11/05/2002 17:34:23
11-05-2002, 04:17 PM
#9
Nontypical Buck
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: NW Ohio USA
Posts: 1,532
RE: Hoyt Razortec
<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote<font size=1 face='Verdana, Arial, Helvetica' id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>
BS,
This oughta be good... I look forward to hearing your opinion of the new Hoyts when you get a hold of one. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote></font id=quote><font face='Verdana, Arial, Helvetica' size=2 id=quote>
Yeeshh, Whats that supposed to mean?...I've never disliked Hoyt's. I shot them for several years...
<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote><font size=1 face='Verdana, Arial, Helvetica' id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>
No, I don't work for SVL but I did stay at a Holiday Inn last night...<img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>
<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote></font id=quote><font face='Verdana, Arial, Helvetica' size=2 id=quote>
<font size=4>ROFLMAO</font id=size4>
BS,
This oughta be good...
I look forward to hearing your opinion of the new Hoyts when you get a hold of one. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote></font id=quote><font face='Verdana, Arial, Helvetica' size=2 id=quote>Yeeshh, Whats that supposed to mean?...I've never disliked Hoyt's. I shot them for several years...
<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote><font size=1 face='Verdana, Arial, Helvetica' id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>
No, I don't work for SVL but I did stay at a Holiday Inn last night...<img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>
<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote></font id=quote><font face='Verdana, Arial, Helvetica' size=2 id=quote>
<font size=4>ROFLMAO</font id=size4>
11-05-2002, 04:24 PM
#10
Boone & Crockett
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Lehigh County PA USA
Posts: 12,157
RE: Hoyt Razortec
Roland,
Yes, I would agree with your description of Len.
Pat,
It doesn't mean anything derogatory other than it will be interesting to possibly hear some praise about another brand of bow coming from a guy who goes by the handle of "Bowtech Shooter"....<img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>
I am glad you liked my second comment. I do have one or two good moments of humor a year....<img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>
Yes, I would agree with your description of Len.
Pat,
It doesn't mean anything derogatory other than it will be interesting to possibly hear some praise about another brand of bow coming from a guy who goes by the handle of "Bowtech Shooter"....<img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>
I am glad you liked my second comment. I do have one or two good moments of humor a year....<img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>