Diamond IceMan

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Many would say that Diamond lives in the shadow of Bowtech. However, after years of producing bows that compete with the best of them, I would have to argue that point. If you look at just their last three offerings — the Black Ice, Marquis and IceMan — you will find a consistent, high-performance bunch.

The IceMan has a set of wicked, past parallel split limbs, new carbon rod string suppression system, no-hassle Roller Guard, Center Pivot riser technology, single-cam system complete with a rotating module that covers draw lengths from 24-30 inches and camo choices to please most everyone.

Center Pivot Technology
Center stage in the performance-enhancing arena is Diamond's Center Pivot Technology (CPT). A CPT riser branches out into what looks something like a "Y" at each end. The front portion extends to meet the limb ends and receives the limb bolt. The rear fixed strut reaches out to support the limb sets approximately halfway along their length with a split, pocket-type fixture -- a separate slot/cup for each individual limb.

The rigid, mid-position support provided by the rear strut reduces overall limb movement during the drawing and shooting cycle, thereby further reducing shock, vibration and noise. CPT equipped bows are designed to reap the benefits of both reflex and deflex geometry risers. Diamond joins the natural benefits of a deflex riser (stability) with the natural benefits of a reflex riser (speed) in an effort to maximize performance. The IceMan generated notably little shock or vibration, and the lack of noise was remarkable.

Cam Adjustability
Dealers and archers alike will be happy to find one of the world's most adjustable cams on the IceMan. A single, rotating module provides draw lengths from 24-30 inches in half-inch increments. Diamond machined a pointer into the cam for positive identification of the exact draw length you are looking for. The overall system generates a letoff between 65 and 80 percent through an adjustable draw stop, which allows the archer to personalize the valley. Cam timing is easily checked with a series of small indentations called timing dots. When timed properly, the down-cable intersects a particular dot.

Limbs and Pockets
IceMan split limbs measure 12 inches long and are fully machined from a billet of Gordon Composite fiberglass. Taking the place of a typical pocket is a small axle-tie and limb bolt. The barrel-shaped, hardened steel axle-tie separates and secures the limb ends. The limb bolt runs through the axle-tie and into the riser. Perhaps the most important limb feature is their position -- past parallel at full draw. Vertical Force Technology (VFT) distributes the force from the shot in equal and opposite directions. The result is reduced shock and vibration at the shot -- again, this was proven in my testing of the IceMan.

All the Extras
Other notable features include an all-new carbon shaft string suppressor, two-piece laminated wood grip, stainless steel stabilizer insert and machined aluminum Roller Guard. Diamond offers the IceMan in a wide selection of finishes, including Realtree Hardwoods HD and Green HD, Realtree AP HD, Realtree Advantage Max-4, Mossy Oak Brush, Camowest Vanish Hybrid, Next FLX Digital and Gore-Tex Optifade camo patterns.

Editor's Note: Our standardized High Grade testing includes the use of the same equipment and test methods. All bows are tested with a draw length of 29 inches and a draw weight of 65 pounds. Speed tests are conducted with two different arrow weights — 375 grains and 425 grains. For more detailed information on the testing parameters, go to www.bowhuntingmag.com and click on "Bow Testing Parameters."

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