Sabilizer

[Eburg fisher]

Looking for thoughts on a stabilizer. I shoot a Quest Primal set at about 62 pounds. I have always shot Simms but I picked up a 10" four rod Doinker based on some advice. I also read an article from some former olympian saying that even for hunting to shoot the longest you can under 12". What are you guys using? I am not sure I am sold on it. Early on it shoots well but I fatigue sooner and my shots really start to wander. I know I should only be shooting one shot while hunting (hopefully!) but I would at like to at least be consistent during my practice sessions. Thoughts?

[Instinct]

I use a 4 or 5 in limbsaver works fine for me. Dont see the point lugging anything bigger than that. Just more weight and get in the way in the field

[mtbiker]

I have a 7" Octane stab on my Athens Ibex with a 1 oz weight on the end.  This setup works for me because it creates the forward/backward balance I'm looking for at full draw.  The result is better aiming.  The stab does provide some vibration reduction on the shot, but that's not why I use it.  That's just a bonus.

The reason why the former Olympian says hunt with the longest under 12" is because the longer the stab the less weight on the end of it you need to balance the bow.  Less weight is less weight you have to hold at full draw and in a hunting situation you may have to hold for much longer than normal to get that good shot.  Also, for hunting anything more than 12" can generally be an issue with getting hung up on bushes, trees, etc.

Read the PDF I attached.  It'll tell you everything you ever wanted to know about bow stabilization.  Also, ask yourself what am I trying to achieve by using a stab --- bow balance, vibration reduction, or both (with one possibly being a priority over the other).

[Todd_ID]

I say shorter is better for hunting because of brush.  Ever try to drag a 30" stabilizer through tag alders?  Me neither, but I'm not about to try.  I tried a 12" one a few years ago, and it was not pretty: shot well, but couldn't get through thick stuff.  Stabilizers on hunting bows are as useful as elevators in outhouses.

[RadSav]

Stabilizers are one of those things where one size definitely does not fit all.  The concept with all is pretty much the same you just need to find one that gives you confidence and comfort.  Myself I am a Sims Modular junkie.  I bought about three of the short ones and one of the 12" long ones.  Each bow and hunting situation I add or subtract extenders and modules.  I try to find the shortest combination that works and feels best with each bow unless I know I will be in a ground blind the whole time like antelope hunting.  Then I go the full 12" as if I were shooting 3-D's.

It's nice to find a couple good shops that will allow you to try different models on their range.  It's also one more good reason to belong to your local club/range as most members are more than happy to let you take a few shots with their stabilizer.  That's how I got hooked on the Sims.

The best field shot I know of is Randy Ulmer.  Very seldom will you see him hunting with one.  And when you do it is usually a very short one.  My point is some great hunters use them and some great hunters don't.  So only you can be the judge as to what you like or do not.  As long as it doesn't rattle or fall apart you will be just fine. 

Remember, you can not buy good form and follow through.  A stabilizer will not fix those issues.  The right one can only help lessen the result of your mistakes and improve your confidence.