The October Mountain Products, also known as OMP, has been present in the market only for quite a short time. Since its opening in 2007, their bow manufacturing is indeed fresh to everyone’s eyes. But, what has lead to its fame is that even for that short time, October Mountain Products have already become one of the most known recurve bow producers in North America.
If up to this time you are still worried on trying their products, here is a little fact: the OPM was founded by Kinsey’s Inc. with the intent to provide recurve bows as well as accessories and tools to give everyone a better archery experience.
In the year 1949, Kinsey’s is one of the top distributors of outdoor hunting products. Hence, despite being newly opened, the OPM can already be considered as reputable in the industry.
The October Mountain Products, when it comes to recurve bows, are appropriate to users of all levels – from beginners, intermediate, to professionals. If you are a beginner, you could always go with the inexpensive ones as these can be used for practices. However, you have to ensure that this is still in good quality to ensure your safety in the game.
If you are a professional, on the other hand, going with high-end models can be a better option for you. You already know the rules and methods of the game that make it easier to execute. Nevertheless, with OMP, both beginners and professional products are ensured to provide an advanced target shooting and hunting experience.
Although a new face in the crowd, the OMP has already built a good reputation in the hunting and archery industry. They also provide a few products to ensure that these products will be given enough effort and quality. Take the time to read this article, and you are sure to find the perfect OMP recurves for your purpose and budget.
All About October Mountain Products
The October Mountain is highly specialized in recurve bows. Hence, when you read through all the OMP recurve reviews, you will find out that the bows tend to have some common characteristics. First is that all OMP’s newly designed recurve bows are takedown bows. Meaning, they are made for easy transport as well as for convenient storage.
Secondly, all recurve bows are made with pre-drilled inserts for the needed and optional accessories. These accessories will be used in case you want to customize the bows based on your needs. Apart from that, all bows are made with light to medium weight to ensure that it is very comfortable to hold even for a long time. It also contains gorgeous craftsmanship despite being a little noisy without a silencer. Its beautiful physical appearance is evenly matched with high accuracy.
Although the OMP has still a limited product range today, it is still assured that they cover every bow from youth to serious ones. Overall, the company formerly manufactures 4 recurve bows namely: the Mountaineer 2.0, the Explorer 2.0, Adventure 2.0, and the Smoky Mountain Hunter.
Along with these products, accessories, bow cases and hip quivers, strings, arm guards, finger tabs, and a lot more is included in the package. Now, the OMP has newly introduced recurve bows not only for target practice and hunting but also for bow fish hunting.
Reviews of the Best OMP Recurve Bows
Let’s look at a few of the latest recurve bows that OMP has to offer.
October Mountain Night Ridge ILF Recurve Bow
The all-new Night Ridge by October Mountain Product now features an aluminum riser with a set of short limbs. This is mainly helpful to bring out the performance and durability demands of today’s bow needs. This takedown bow also contains a threaded sight and a stabilizer as well as 2 rest or cushion buttons. All of these are necessary to give you an accurate shooting during a game.
Further, this recurve bow contains a wooden grip, a 19” riser and short limbs, adaptable to 62″ and 64″ with long limbs, which are used to improve response and speed. It is made up of 35” to 50” draw weight and 60” recurve bow. For the additional accessory, it is also comprised of a professional hunter arrow rest designed for right-handed people.
With the desire to give it an appealing look, it also goes with 2 different colors. One is in camouflage and the other is in black. Generally, what seems to be the highlight of Night Ridge is its aluminum riser made for above-average performance and appeal. Those seeking out for a high level hunting recurve bow should also consider buying this ILF.
The ILF stands for “International Limb Fitting”. It is a system that refers to the limbs being mounted into risers. Basically, if a riser is described as ILF, that means it is compatible with any ILF limb. Hence, considering this, the ILF features is what can be the top feature of October Mountain Product Night Ridge ILF Recurve Bow.
Performance
It is very accurate and easy to use. It is also helpful in bringing out the performance and durability demands of today’s bow needs.
Weight & Sound
It is made up of 19” riser and short limbs, adaptable to 62″ and 64″ with long limbs, for response and speed. It is made up of 35” to 50” draw weight and 60” recurve bow. It also produces a nice smooth sound when firing.
Comfort
The bow is merely designed for right-handed people. Meaning, this cannot be used if you are left-handed as it can just give you hand cramps.
Affordability
Generally, the bow is quite pricey. However, its features are just reasonable for its price given that this product is specially designed with an ILF fitting. Meaning, buying this product will not give you a hard time replacing its limbs.
Pros & Cons
- Specially designed with ILF fittings
- Very accurate and easy to use
- Slim lightweight design
- Somewhat pricey
- Only available for right-handed orientation currently
This is a great recurve bow and well worth it for its overall construct. You can never have the same hand cramps you get with a heavy bow unless you are a left-handed person. At the same time, the bow has a well-made ILF fitting that makes it easier for you to upgrade limbs. The only downside of buying this one is it’s a bit pricey. But, in general, it is ensured that the October Mountain Product Night Ridge ILF Recurve Bow will bring out the performance and durability demands to your bow.
October Mountain Adventure 2.0 Recurve Bow
This model of recurve bow is best known for its available design both for left and right hand. It also comes in 4 lengths ranging from 48” to 68”. The model comes with a riser, limbs, a Dacron bowstring, a sight, a brass brushing to serve as a stabilizer, and a factory-installed Berger button.
Further, the October Mountain Adventure 2.0 Recurve Bow does not contain a draw weight that is useful for hunting. This can only fit well with target practice or shooting as well as recreational archery. Although you can still customize this bow for hunting purposes, it still requires you to change a lot of parts. Also, there could be some fully furnished bows in the market that will better provide you convenience.
Now, you would ask, is this bow is suitable for beginners? Absolutely! It contains the features you wish to have when you are still starting with the sport. Its limbs are replaceable that will allow you to change depending on your target. It also contains factory-installed bushings that you can install a stabilizer, a sight or a Berger button. Although these accessories are optional, applying those would still give you a better experience.
Choosing arrows for the October Mountain Adventure 2.0 come down to a combination of your own personal preferences including the length of the draw and the draw weight. Commonly, the product is great to come with 400-grain arrows and field tips. If you do not favor this type of arrows, you can still check other arrows that you better prefer.
This bow also comes in a weight of 3.5 pounds. As you add on accessories, the weight will definitely increase. In this case, the October Mountain Adventure 2.0 recurve bow might not be the right bow for hours of target shooting. At the same time, it creates a loud sound that will not be applicable for hunting in the woods. But if you are using it for fun, your children will definitely love the shooting sounds.
Performance
Easy to use once you get the hang of how it works. This recreational bow is an excellent choice for backyard shooting. It may not be fit for competition shooting or bow hunting, but it works out just for having fun.
Weight & Sound
The bow weighs 3.5 pounds, while the draw weighs 20 to 34 pounds. As you add on accessories, the weight will definitely increase. The bow also creates a loud sound that will not be applicable for hunting in the woods. But if you are using it for fun, your children will definitely love the shooting sounds.
Comfort Level
As mentioned, it is quite heavy to be used for long hours. Hence, this can only be used for target practices or shooting at home or field. This cannot be comfortable to be used in hunting and shooting in woods.
Affordability
The price of the October Mountain Adventure 2.0 recurve bow is definitely a great deal for beginners
Pros & Cons
- Great beginner’s bow for target shooting at a great price
- Interchangeable limbs and availability of longer limb set
- Inexpensive introduction to archery
- No instruction booklet
- No arrow rest out of the bow
- Not suitable for hunting
The October Mountain Adventure 2.0 Recurve fits well with target practice or shooting as well as recreational archery. Although you can still customize this bow for hunting purposes, it still requires you to change a lot of parts. Also, there could be some fully furnished bows in the market that will better provide you convenience. Generally, this product can be a great deal for beginners.
October Mountain Smoky Mountain Hunter Recurve Bow
This October Mountain Product Smoky Mountain Right Hand Recurve Bow is known for being nicely constructed that can be easily stored and transported. This is a 62” bow that has draw weights ranging from 35# to 55#, with 5 pounds increments. It is also packaged with Dacron bowstrings, a riser, and a set of limbs.
During testing, this product has already shown a very powerful performance. Its draw weight can hit for at least 35 yards, and a more powerful draw weight will open up farther ranges and more game possibilities. Apart from that, this recurve bow tends to be very accurate even without a sight or stabilizer. For just a low cost, the OMP Smoky Mountain Hunter recurve bow already plays fair with its expensive counterparts in both power and accuracy.
The bow also performs a very light sound when shooting. It draws out a very smooth yield and a little vibration, making the bow an absolute favorite for target shooting. Although this is not the smallest recurve bow, it is still lightweight enough to let you hold for long hours. Its hit even becomes quieter when you add a whisker biscuit to the strings.
Generally, the OMP Smoky Mountain Hunter is a delight to shoot and hold. It is very lightweight and ergonomic, allowing both hunters and target shooters to carry it for long hours without hand cramping. Accordingly, some users say it can be carried around for 6 to 7 hours without feeling it at all.
Performance
It is applicable to use both for target shooting and hunting. It also possesses a lightweight design and great ergonomics. Above all, its accuracy and far range shooting for its low price is the best part.
Weight & Sound
This product is not the smallest recurve in its class, but it still features a lightweight style with just less than 3 pounds. The Smoky Mountain Hunter also contains a very smooth and quiet release.
Comfort Level
As mentioned, this model contains a lightweight design. Meaning, it allows both hunters and target shooters to carry it for long hours without hand cramping. Accordingly, some users say it can be carried around for 6 to 7 hours without feeling it at all.
Affordability
With all of its advanced features, you will not believe that this product is very affordable. It is very cheap given that it can also be used both for hunting and target shooting purposes.
Pros & Cons
- Simple and easy to use
- Compact, very easy to transport and store
- Very light with great ergonomics
- Can be used for both hunting and target shooting
- Rather large
This October Mountain Product Smoky Mountain Right Hand Recurve Bow is known for having a nice and lightweight construction that can be easily stored and transported. At the same time, it contains a very impressive performance both in accuracy and power. It is also applicable to use both for target shooting and hunting. With all of its advanced features, you will not believe that this product also comes at a low price.
October Mountain Fin-Finder Sand Shark Recurve Bow
The October Mountain Product Fin-Finder Sand Shark Recurve Bow is another type of “Take-Down” recurve that is widely used in bow fishing. Its bow length is 62” 3 pieces “Take-Down” design with a draw weight of 35 pounds. It is also made from the laminated purple heart and maple woods that make it so durable. For its advanced feature, it is also finished with water-resistant satin construction.
Along with the bow, the package goes with a heavy-duty sight, a stabilizer, and threaded plunger bushings. These bushings are installed to withstand dirt and harsh environment. Its limbs are also made from high-rise aluminum all hand-selected. It also goes with the Dacron string that is described as fast-flight. The entire bow, in general, is also built to tackle tough outdoors and weather conditions.
Offering a low mass-weight, the October Mountain Product Fin-Finder Sand Shark Recurve Bow provides superior performance and a super smooth draw. Its “Take-Down” features also have the ability to be broken- down in seconds.
Performance
The October Mountain Product Fin-Finder Sand Shark Recurve Bow provides superior performance in bow fishing adventure. It is also tested durable which is designed to tackle tough outdoors and weather conditions.
Weight & Sound
Its bow length is 62” 3 pieces “Take-Down” design with a draw weight of 35 pounds. Generally, this product is made with a heavier style as they believe it will increase its durability.
Comfort Level
All October Mountain Product Fin-Finder Sand Shark Recurve Bow are designed for left-handed people. Meaning, it could give you a little discomfort when you use it with your right hand.
Affordability
With its capability to withstand extreme environmental conditions, you will not believe that this product is very affordable. It is also considered one of the cheapest bows for fishing.
Pros & Cons
- Very affordable
- Can withstand the tough environment
- Water-resistant
- Rather heavy
- Designed for left-handed people
The October Mountain Product Fin-Finder Sand Shark Recurve Bow is definitely a good buy if you are up for bow fishing. It is indeed proven durable even in harsh environment. Offering a low mass-weight, this product provides superior performance and a super-smooth draw. Its “Take-Down” features also has the ability to be broken- down in seconds, and is sure to be a fit for any bow fishing adventure!
October Mountain Explorer 2.0 Recurve Bow
The OMP Explorer 2.0 is known as a bow for intermediate hunters to be used primarily for recreational archery as well as target shooting. Each package of this bow includes: this OMP Explorer 2.0 takedown recurve bow itself with a riser and a set of limbs, a Dacron bowstring, a Warranty card, and a manual.
Given that all the needed parts are already packed with the item, it is now so easy and quick to assemble. All you have to do is attach all the parts. Apart from that, the bow contains factory-installed bushings in case you want to add up accessories like a sight, plunger, or stabilizer. As per its draw weights, it usually ranges from 20# to 40# that makes it fit for anyone between 7 to 15 years old especially girls.
Upgrading the draw weight is also easy. You just need to replace the limbs and not change or move the entire bow. Typically, the OMP Explorer 2.0 is able to reach 25 to 50 yards with a very accurate shoot even without any accessories added to it. If you are thinking about using this bow for hunting, it could work if you only plan on hunting squirrels, raccoons, and groundhogs. However, if you plan to hunt deer quietly and efficiently with this bow, it will not work great. While this product intends for intermediate level archers, it is certainly still fit for beginning shooters or archers.
Further, the Explorer 2.0 is also very comfortable to grip as its slim and light. At the same time, the bow itself is lightweight and sturdy that will never give you hand cramps even for hours of shooting. As mentioned by one user, her hands were completely free of calluses or sore spots even before hours of holding and firing. It is definitely a beauty just by holding it.
However, the product was not designed to be quiet. So expect it to be pretty loud but not as loud as many bows. You still need to install string or Whisker silencers to silence out the sound a bit especially during hunting. If you are wondering why this is recommended for hunting even though it is really designed for intermediate levels, here is the answer: the Explorer 2.0 also works great for small game hunting because of its accuracy, power, and lightweight.
Performance
Although it is really designed for intermediate and beginner levels, the October Mountain Product Explorer 2.0 also works great for small game squirrel hunting because of its accuracy, power, and lightweight design.
Weight & Sound
The bow weighs less than 3 pounds, while the draw weight is 20 to 40 pounds. Generally, the entire bow is lightweight and sturdy enough to not give you hand cramps even for hours of shooting. As mentioned by one user, her hands were completely free of calluses or sore spots even before hours of holding and firing.
Comfort Level
A very good price for a very good product as well. This is mostly applicable given that it can work great at the beginner’s level and for all small game hunters.
Affordability
The Explorer 2.0 is also very comfortable to grip as it is very slim and light. You can play along with it even for long hours without experiencing hand cramps.
Pros & Cons
- Easy takedown design for storage and transport
- Good bow for intermediate archers
- Durable lamination and reinforced limb tips
- Not very quiet; recommend whisker silencers
- Draw weights aren’t heavy enough for hunting
In general, the October Mountain Products Explorer 2.0 Recurve Bow is great for beginning archers and intermediate archers who are mostly interested in recreational and target shooting. It will give you hours of fun and will teach you some of the basic techniques and methods necessary in the sport.
Choosing the Right Recurve Bow
Recurve bows are commonly known as one solid piece bow. However, for competition-use, a different type of recurve bow, also called as “Take-Down” bow, is more commonly used. In contrary to the common one-piece bow, the “Take-Down” can be divided into three parts: the riser, and the 2 limbs.
The riser is made of metal, wood, or carbon, while the limbs are made of wood, carbon, fiberglass, and other materials. In purchasing the right recurve bow, there are lots of preliminaries you have to do. This involves identifying your purpose, the features you want to see, its weight and length, and so on. To guide you to the right recurve bow, here is a checklist of what you should consider.
What Do You Want to Use it For?
Recurve bows are commonly known as one solid piece bow. However, for competition-use, a different type of recurve bow, also called as “Take-Down” bow, is more commonly used. In contrary to the common one-piece bow, the “Take-Down” can be divided into three parts: the riser, and the 2 limbs. The riser is made of metal, wood, or carbon, while the limbs are made of wood, carbon, fiberglass, and other materials.
In purchasing the right recurve bow, there are lots of preliminaries you have to do. This involves identifying your purpose, the features you want to see, its weight and length, and so on. To guide you to the right recurve bow, here is a checklist of what you should consider.
Do You Need a Take-Down Recurve?
A “Take-Down” recurve bow has a feature of having the two limbs of the recurve be separated from its riser. As some recurve bow does not have this one, you should first decide if you want a “Take-Down” or not. There are three reasons why you would want to get a “Take-Down” recurve bow than a “One-Piece”.
First, “Take-Down” recurve bows are very convenient to store and transport. This is primarily because the limbs can be removed from its riser and can fit well into a small bag. If you also want convenience on carrying and storing your bows, then going for a “Take-Down” can be the best option.
Second, repair and replacement are easier for a “Take-Down” recurve bow. If anything gets broken by accident, you just have to remove the broken part and send it for repair. If you prefer to just replace it, you can also just take it and reinstall the new one. This is very convenient as you do not have to bring the entire bow whenever you want a part to be fixed or replaced.
Lastly, a “Take-Down” bow is great for beginners as it has an adjustable draw weight. The draw weight is determined by how stiff the construction of the limbs is. If you first purchase a 30# draw weight, you can upgrade it to 40# by simply buying a new set of limbs with a 40# draw weight. After which, replace the current limbs with the new one. There is no need for you to purchase a new bow!
How Heavy Should The Bow Be?
In target practice, anything below 30 to 40 draw weight can already work for you. You do not need a very powerful one as your only goal is to penetrate the cardboard or foam of your bull’s eye.
But, go for a recurve bow that has a draw weight of a minimum of 40 pounds when hunting. This can work well for a small game like turkey or rabbit hunting with about 30 to 35 pounds. If you are going for a larger game like deer and elk hunting, you will be needing 40 pounds and above draw weight bow.
Apart from the draw weight, the entire weight of the bow is also important to consider. Given that you will be needing to hold the recurve bow for quite a long period of shooting, you should always go with the one that you are capable of carrying. If you are a beginner, solid recurves that weigh anywhere between 2 to 3.5 pounds can be safe for you. If this is your first-ever bow and still uncertain about the right weight you should choose, then going with a recurve of 3 pounds below can work great for you.
How Long Should The Recurve Be?
When choosing the right length for your recurve bow, choose the one that is at least twice as long as the draw length. If your bow’s draw length is 25”, you should go with 54” to 62”. For 27” draw length, choose a bow of 54” to 62”, while for 29” draw length, choose a bow of 64” to 66”. Basically, the longer your bow is the more accurate it gets.
In finding your draw length, there are simple steps you can follow. First, extend your arms and have someone measure these from the tip of your middle finger in your left hand to the other tip of your middle finger to the right hand.
After which, divide the number you got by 2.5 to get your draw length. When choosing the arrows, you will also need to add 1-2 inches to the number you got to know the right length of arrows for you. For a more complete sizing, you can just check any size guide online.
Do You Want Accessories on Your Recurve?
One more thing to consider when buying your own recurve bow is whether you want to attach a sight and other accessories to it. Some recurve bows are made with pre-drilled brass inserts for the accessories. These accessories will be used in case you want to customize the bows based on your needs.
Many archers prefer not to use any sort of accessories or sights. This is because they prefer the pure string and stick experience better. However, even if your bow’s riser is not drilled for accessories, you can still add or design a simple peep sight to be attached to the string of your bow. You can also add some glue-on arrow rest.
What Other Accessories Do I Need To Get Started?
In addition to your bow, you might want to get extra accessories before you go shooting. Some are required to have, while some are just optional. To get you started, some of the accessories that might help you are the Rests, Vibration Reducers, Sights, Recurve Strings. For better accuracy, you can add Bow Stringers and Shooting Aids. Check out our
If you want an advanced experience on safety, you can choose Arm Guards, Kickstands and Gear, and Arrow Pullers. Other accessories also include Bowstring Wax and Lube, Release Rope and String Silencers, Vibration Reducers and String Accessories, Peep Sights and Peep Tubing, Crossbow Accessories and Crossbow, Strings and Cables, Bow Squares and Batteries, Hex Wrenches and Scales, True-Center 2.0 Laser Aligner and Versa-Cradle Bow Vise.
Why Do You Have to Keep Cost Down With Your First Bow?
Most beginner archers start with low cost and simple recurve bows. Hence, if you are also a beginner, we suggest that you do the same. Why? It is because affordable recurves are still low maintenance and will definitely the best device to teach you the basics of the sport. After some time and mastery, you can now transition to a more advanced bow and begin competing.
What to Look Out for When Buying A Bow?
In buying a bow that fits your needs, check the one that matches your eye dominance. The eye dominance is important to consider for you to aim your recurve bow. To do this, create a triangle with your index fingers and thumbs. After which, center an object for at least 15 feet away while closing your left eye.
If the object remains in the center of your formed triangle, you are right-eye dominant. If the object then moves out of the center, you are left-eye dominant. Most people choose their bow based on their dominant eye rather than their dominant hand.
At the same time, it should be matched to your preferred draw length as mentioned above. Further, provided that the riser and the limbs are the most important parts of the bow, here are the things you have to consider with these parts.
For the riser, be sure that it features a very comfortable grip. At the same time, it should also give out a reduced vibration during string fire or release. All of the bows that are considered efficient have these two qualities. Additionally, your risers should include brass bushings in order to install additional accessories like additional stabilizers and bow sights. Further, the material in your riser should be a hardwood or aluminum – both of which are very durable and lightweight.
The limbs, on the other hand, should include a fiberglass material. This fiberglass makes the limbs more resistant from bending and breaking even for a long time. All limbs made with fiberglass also come top above others.
Lastly, choose the one that is durable enough to sustain the archer’s increasing ability for the first 6-12 months of shooting.
Conclusion
Given the individual reviews of the above October Mountain Products, specifically, their recurve bows, you can now get a larger picture of the right bow to choose. Whether you are in the beginner’s level, intermediate level, or professional hunters level, you can now choose any of the above products.
In our opinion, all the products reviewed above are all the best in their features. It only varies depending on the price you can pay. Concluding all this, it only shows that buying a recurve bow is never a complicated thing. You just have to go through the process of being meticulous and PATIENT! We also hope that we helped you in giving out a truthful review for each product. We always try to show the OMP product review posts as an opportunity to give more information to readers about archery and hunting. So hopefully, you’ll find those sections helpful. Good luck, and happy shooting!
If you didn’t like any of the bows we’ve reviewed here, maybe you would like to see our review article of the Best Recurve Bows!
