Bow Review: Bear Moment

Bear's 2017 Moment is loaded with features, including the EAZ Hybrid cam system, Max Preload Quad Limbs, reflex riser with flared ends, Hinge Guard

cable-containment system and dual adjustable string suppressors.

Additionally, Bear's past-parallel positioning of the limbs along with Sonic Series vibration dampeners help tame the shot.

Precision Platform

Bear starts with a near-net aluminum forging process to create the Moment's reflex riser. This results in excellent strength, and a machining process adds precision and a finished base. Each end of the riser flares to a wide stance to accept the large limb pocket while adding strength, stiffness and stability to the platform. Large cutouts along the riser keep mass weight to a minimum while pockets, holes and other smaller cutouts accept quiver attachments, sights, rests, stabilizers, etc.

Bear's Hinge Guard is attached to the rear of the sight window and reaches back toward the cables with a contoured bracket arm. A cable-containment block swivels on a wishbone fixture that rotates on the bracket arm. Together, they create a motion that allows the cables to move toward center at full draw then back out of the way before vanes pass during the shot. This results in less system torque and better overall performance.

One of the Moment's more interesting features is Bear's signature dual-position SonicStop string suppression system. Adjustment options offer the ability to change proximity, relative up and down position and even the contact point and angle of the suppressors in relation to the string. The system offsets the weight of accessories while quickly taming string oscillation at the shot for reduced noise and vibration.

Easy Speed

Bear's goal with the EAZ Hybrid cam system is to provide the highest level of performance while giving the shooter a smooth draw. Engineers optimized the cam tracks and configurations to transition to and from peak weight without any sudden or harsh changes in draw weight while storing enough energy to launch arrows out at an advertised 340 fps. System letoff is 80 percent, with a brace height of 6 inches.

Draw-length adjustment is easy and does not require a bow press. A rotating module with engraved lines and numbers corresponding to specific draw lengths is lined up with an engraved line on the base cam and locked down. Modules offer a draw-length range from 25-30 inches, in half-inch increments. Cable draw stops on both cams are positioned in holes that correlate to the draw length. Optional draw stops that contact the limb are offered, resulting in a more solid back wall feel.

Loaded Limbs

Bear outfits the Moment with its popular Max Preload Quad Limbs, which are made of Gordon Glass and feature a machined custom belly profile designed to distribute stress across the entire limb, allowing increased stored energy. The 11-inch pultruded limbs, matched into sets based on deflection values, are available in 45-60 and 55-70 pound draw-weight options.

Moment limb pockets pivot during draw-weight adjustment for superior control at all draw weights. Pocket sidewalls and between-the-limb spacers provide lateral limb control. The system also incorporates a SonicBond vibration dampener.

The Shooting Experience

The Moment demonstrated good balance at full draw and remained steady after the shot. The draw was firm, but not harsh, with smooth transitions to and from peak. A notable jump in the handle at the shot was followed by low-level vibration, which was nearly eliminated with a quality stabilizer. Shot noise was average. Low mass weight and a short axle-to-axle length make the Moment a highly maneuverable rig.

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