Cabela’s BlackOut Epic Compound Bow Review

In a crazy twist of fate this winter, I found myself working as an archery tech at Cabela’s for a brief eight-week stint, an experience I detailed in my blog post “I Accidentally Got a Job at Cabela’s and Lasted a Total of 8 Weeks”.

While my time there was short-lived, it offered me the opportunity to get up close and personal with Cabela’s BlackOut Archery line. I have always been an Elite Archery and a Hoyt kind of gal, so the Blackout series had never been on my radar. I was pretty impressed with the quality of the budget priced line, we sold tons of them while I was there, and the different models provided options for everyone.

If you’re in the market for a bow that won’t break the bank, the Cabela’s BlackOut Epic X2 Compound Bow, manufactured by Bear Archery, is a solid option. Retailing at $599, this bow offers features and specifications that cater to both seasoned archers and those new to the sport.

Technical Specifications

• Axle-to-Axle Length: 32 inches
• Brace Height: 6.25 inches
• Draw Weight Range: 45-60 lbs, 55-70 lbs
• Draw Length Range: 26-30 inches
• IBO Speed: Up to 340 fps
• Mass Weight: 4.2 lbs
• Let-Off: 75%
• Cam System: Hybrid Cam System

Performance and Features:

Speed and Power: The BlackOut Epic’s ability to shoot arrows at speeds up to 340 FPS is particularly beneficial for hunters. This speed compared to 300 FPS won’t show too much of a difference at 30 yards (about 2″) but would impact the drop at say 50 yards (approx 6-8″ depending on arrow specs). So it’s a pretty fast bow.

Adjustability: A really nice features of this bow is its wide range of adjustability. With a draw length that can be adjusted from 26 to 30.5 inches and a draw weight range from 55 to 70 lbs, it accommodates a variety of archers, from older youths to adults. Adjusting the draw length is straightforward and can be done without a bow press by simply removing the draw stop and adjusting the cam to the desired setting. This ease of customization ensures that the bow can be perfectly tuned to each individual shooter’s needs. The bow’s 75% let-off ensures that archers can hold their draw comfortably without excessive strain, making it easier to aim and shoot accurately.

Build Quality: Manufactured by Bear Archery, the BlackOut Epic boasts high-quality craftsmanship. The aluminum riser is both lightweight and durable, providing a solid foundation that can withstand a ton of use. The split-limb design adds to the bow’s durability while also helping to reduce vibration and noise upon release, which is critical for stealth in hunting scenarios.

Cam System: The hybrid cam system offers a smooth draw cycle and consistent performance. This advanced cam system enhances the bow’s efficiency, ensuring that each shot is as powerful and accurate as possible.

Ergonomics: Comfort is another area where the BlackOut Epic excels. The grip is designed to fit comfortably in the hand, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. This ergonomic design, combined with the bow’s balanced weight distribution, makes it easier to maintain a steady aim.

Finish Options: Aesthetic appeal is not forgotten, with the BlackOut Epic available in various finishes, including TrueTimber VSX and black. These options allow hunters to choose a finish that best matches their hunting environment or personal preference. It also comes standard with Trophy Ridge Volt 5-Pin sight, 5-arrow quiver, Whisker Biscuit arrow rest, 6″ stabilizer and sling, TruPeep, and D loop.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High IBO speed of up to 340 fps.
• Adjustable draw weight and length.
• Smooth and consistent draw cycle.
• Durable construction with quality materials.
• Vibration dampening for improved shooting comfort.

Cons:

• Slightly heavier at 4.2 lbs compared to some other models in the market.
• The price point of $599 might be on the higher side for beginners.

Final Thoughts:

The Cabela’s BlackOut Epic Compound Bow offers a comprehensive package of speed, power, adjustability, and build quality. At $599, it provides excellent value for money, especially considering the reputation and reliability of Bear Archery, the manufacturer behind this bow. Whether you’re a seasoned archer or just starting, the BlackOut Epic is designed to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

If you’re looking for a compound bow that combines performance with affordability, the BlackOut Epic is definitely worth considering. Its robust feature set and high-quality construction make it a standout choice in the mid-range compound bow market.

In addition to the Epic review in this post, I’ve written reviews for the Distinct, Faze, and Intrigue models as well. Stay tuned to see which ones we bought and for who!