Portable Press

If you're on a backcountry elk hunt, heading to the local pro shop to replace a broken string or busted peep sight simply isn't an option. In such situations, you better have a portable press in camp -- or pray someone else does! The Ratchet-Loc Bow Press from Ram Products is an easy-to-use item that will allow you to conduct emergency repairs in the field or basic adjustments at home.

This press features two metal frame pieces that slide over the bow limbs/cams and a ratcheting strap that relieves string pressure. The durable frame is CNC machined from aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum, weighs 2.5 pounds and fits into a storage case measuring 10 inches high and three inches wide. Jerry Thompson, owner of Ram Products, said the Ratchet-Loc Bow Press fits virtually all compound bows on the market, including those with parallel limbs.

However, he said there have been issues with a few of the newest, split-limb models -- most notably the Bowtech Admiral, PSE X-Force models and Bear Truth 2. Ram Products offers a spacer kit for bows that have limbs/cam housings wider than 2€‰1„2 inches.

I tested the press on a Martin Bengal and setup was a snap. I literally had the press attached and string pressure released in less than two minutes. Although it's worth a phone call to confirm compatibility with your bow model, the Ratchet-Loc Bow Press is a quality product that could save your hunt.

Contact: Ram Products, P.O. Box 9405, Moscow, ID 83843; 800-882-1588; www.ram-products.com

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