Trad Gang
Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: thetroutguy on December 28, 2006, 06:17:00 PM
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I just ordered a Chek-Mate Hunter II. Since then, I have been trying to read all I can about Chek-Mates and have noticed something. Nobody seems to have ANYTHING bad to say about them. Here are my questions...
For those of you who have shot Chek-Mate bows what do you like about them? What didn't you like? Would you hesitate to order one again? Lastly, why in the world are they so much less expensive than the other custom bows on the market? They are about half the price of Widow's, Blacktails, Bracks, etc. If they are that good, couldn't they still sell at $900.00?
Thoughts?
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My hunter 56 is nice, and I love the little bow. The thing most people dislike about Chek-Mate recurves is the fact that they have a large grip. But I have large hands so it fits me perfect.
One thing I noticed with the Hunter 56 is if I look close I can see sanding marks in the riser. But I'm a woodworker, so I notice stuff like that.
But my son has a Chek-Mate Longhorn Special, and best I can tell it's flawless. It looks better than some 800-900 dollar bows I've seen.
Would I order one again- nope!
Why are they less expensive, only the Chek-Mate folks can answer that.
But I feel they could charge just as much as anyone else if thay wanted.
hnh
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I am assuming that you wouldn't order one again because of the wait? Per our earlier conversations in PM I understand completely.
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I had the very bow you describe, and the only possibly negative thing I can say about it was that it had a rather large grip. It was smooth as butter, and shot very well. I didn't think the finish was bad, it's a hunter type finish, after all, and made to be dull in the woods. I thought mine was a very handsome bow.
I think you'll like your bow.
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The grip is pretty much the only gripe I've heard about (other than the wait). It comes down to two things--Marc (the bowyer) feels a larger grip is harder to torque, and they rather be safe than sorry when working with an all wood riser.
Due to the number of orders, the wait does stay pretty long. We try to give an accurate time frame, but we don't always get it right--there's too many variables and other folks (wood suppliers, glass suppliers, glue, finish, machinery, illness, injury, etc.) that can cause delays. I do my best to mention this to the folks I talk to--I won't guarantee a delivery date because neither I or CM have full control over everything.
As for the price, well....nobody is getting rich at CM, and that isn't their goal. They are making a living doing what they enjoy and supporting the sport they love. Sure, they could charge a lot more (and have often been advised they should), but that's just not the way they operate. They keep overheads costs down in a lot of ways too--zero advertising costs to the company, only four people at the shop, and enough equipment and skill to be very productive. There has been quite a few of them sold over the years by different dealers who had a different name put on them. One story I was told was about a fellow (hasn't been a dealer for CM for quite some time) who was selling the Falcon (forget what he called it--he didn't tell anyone they were CM bows) at a reasonble price, and sold very few. One day, for a reason I can't remember, he jacked the price up--after than, they sold like hotcakes. I've had other bowyers, shop owners, and even customers tell me that the price should be much higher. Hopefully that won't happen though.
Chad
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I have two Chek Mate bows (Hunter I Shedua/Bubinga riser-Black Locust limbs 60" 50lbs@28", Hunter II Maple/Bubinga riser-Elm limbs 58" 52lbs@28") and just ordered my third (Hunter 56 Zebrawood/Walnut riser-Walnut limbs 52lbs@28").
The only, and I mean only complaint I have is that they could have a touch more mass weight. This is purely a personal preference; the next guy probably finds their weight perfect.
Some feel the grip is a bit large. I have medium-large hands, and find the grip comfortable. You can either ask for a smaller grip when you order, or have Marc take some off it if you find it too big when you get your bow.
I have no idea why they are so reasonably priced. My guess is that Marc simply believes in building a great bow at a fair price. I have no doubt Chek Mate could have their dealers charge more. My view of this is "don't complain"!
I guess the only other thing I could comment on is the estimated 4-8 month delivery time on a bow. It really isn't out of line if you look into delivery times for most any custom bow, and considerably less than many.
On the other hand, there are a couple of dealers that carry a decent selection in stock. I'm left handed and located eight Hunter I's and II's, and a single Hunter 56 in stock between four dealers. I bought both my Hunter I & II in stock from Height Archery In Winnipeg and had them delivered in 8 and 10 days, respectively.
Between GM Archery and Height Archery alone, their right hand inventory is so extensive I would have had no problem finding exactly what I wanted in all three bows.
What do I like about my Hunters? They are beautiful, extremely well made, handle like a dream, and flat out shoot great. Because they are so smooth they feel like their draw weight is several pounds lighter than it actually is.
The Hunter II is a bit more forgiving and easier to shoot, but the Hunter I is faster, all else being equal. I've been told the Hunter 56 gives up a touch of speed to the Hunter II, but at 56" is handier and more manueverable. Everything is a trade off, a guy just has to decide what is most important to him.
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I love mine! I bought it from Chad, and the wait was worth it. It shoots like a dream for me. I could see where the grip could be a problem for some, but my hands are large. It's been good to me. The first 3 critters I shot at gave up the ghost. Doubt it will ever leave my stable of bows. Matter of fact, I've sold everything else I own, and now want a Falcon to have as my "fun" bow to bunny hunt with. You'll love your CM. I could have bought a more expensive custom, but after shooting mine, why would I?
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We have 3 Chek-Mates in the family. A 62" Hunter II, A 58" Hunter II, and a Falcon Deluxe. Would I buy another? Definately, even with the wait.
I first heard of Chek-Mate several years ago.Know what scared me off at that time? I couldn't find alot of info on them and the price.As I began questioning other shooters, I was hearing great things about them.When I desided to shop for a new bow I contacted Chad. I wound up ordering 3.
I believe the lack of advertising plays a big part in the price.How ever they are controlling their cost I hope it continues.You will more than likely spend more on the most popular production bows today than you will a Chek-Mate that you may have a choice in riser woods, grip,limb veneers etc.
I can't give you a negative on any of our 3 Chek-mates.I ordered the standard grip and it fits my style of shooting perfectly.The grips are large but arn't a problem even for my wife.As far as mass weight, I ordered a cocobolo riser which is quite noticably heavier than my wifes rosewood and chechen riser.I like the weight. She likes the lack of.
The workmanship on them is super. They shoot as well if not better than any other bow I have been around.
Personally, I am just an average working stiff with a family that is also interested in and loves traditional archery.These bows are affordable to the average guy. Would I buy a more expensive bow? I see no reason to.Rarely do I feel that I got my moneys worth when I make a purchase today. I know I did with these bows.
As far as the wait. If you can find a bow that you are happy with in stock thats wonderful.I would go the ordering route again simply because I enjoyed selecting the materials for MY bow. I was also able to specify my draw weight at my draw length. No comprimising. Did I mention that Marc came within 1# of the specified weights on all 3 bows?If I were going to order, I would do it now. Even with an 8 month wait I would be hunting with it next season.
I have a daughter-in-law and a granddaughter hopefully joining us in the field in the future. I am sure they will be shooting Chek-Mates also.
Relax. Time will pass and your new bow will be in your hands.When it is I am sure you will be pleased with your choice.
Good luck with your new bow.
Ed
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I've owned 4 Chek-mates and still own 3. Hunter 2, Raven and Falcon. Enjoyed a Crusader for a year or two and moved on to other customs.
Chek-mates are a real work horse bow that comes at an extrememly fair price. Are they absolutely perfect for someone ordering a 'custom' ? In my case, no. But that doesn't mean they aren't worth every penny you pay for them ....and more.
You'll hear people say "You can't go wrong with a Chek-mate" and I'd say that statement is extremely true.
If someone is considering heading to a chain store for a Bear or Martin, I try and push them towards a Chek-mate Falcon. They are prettier, perform great and cost less.
I think where the animosity may occur is with people who think they should get a $650 custom bow for $350 and have every little detail made to their dream expectations within a couple months. (Probably not gonna happen)
That said, they are a great bow. I for one am very thankfull there are bow makers like chek-mate out there.
You can't go wrong. :D
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I have owned a couple my self. The shoot great. I hated the fat grip on my Hunter 2. So a rasp, sand paper and a caliper to verify the grip on my Blacktail solved that problem. I have a CM HII with a Norm Johnson grip on it.
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Originally posted by thetroutguy:
I am assuming that you wouldn't order one again because of the wait? Per our earlier conversations in PM I understand completely.
Yep, sorry troutguy, that's what I meant, because of the wait.
I didn't say I wouldn't buy another Chek-Mate, whether new or used. But the only way I reckon I'd order another bow from anyone, is if they guarantee in writing when I will recieve it! LOL!
And, I'm not saying this to attack anyone either, because Chad & Marc and Chek-Mate are great. Just email some of the other bowyers or dealers at midnight and see how many respond within an hour or so.
When I was researching and looking for bows, I emailed I narrowed it down to 4 different bows I wanted. I emailed the 4 dealers, and 2 responded. Chad Weaver responded within minutes, and the other guy responded 2 months later, and tried to convince me to buy a bow 10#'s heavier than I could comfortably handle!
So that's why I chose Chek-Mate, and Chad Weaver.
But I am simply too impatient to wait on a bow 4 months, much less 8 months! LOL!
Sorry for the confusion..............
hnh
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I have the Hunter I and I like the bow alot,so much so I am getting ready to send of an order for a 55# "Atilla".
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Just to set the record straight on something. In no way was I complaining about the cost or the wait. The wait is not out of line for a custom bow, in fact it is less than most. The cost is a great benefit for those of us on a tight budget. I know that I am fortunate to have found a custom bow for the price I paid. I am just surprised that with all the rave reviews and endorsements that they haven't upped the price. Kudo's to Chek-Mate for keeping their cost down and allowing those of us raising a family and trying to make ends meet the opportunity at a custom bow. CM obviously believes in what they do. Not a single penny spent on advertising, yet we all know about them. Speaks volumes if you ask me.
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I had 3 checkmates and in a lack of good judgement I sold one to a archer that just had to have that checkmate bow of mine. It was just a little heavy for me. so I sold it and have kicked myself every day since. I can not find a thing to say about them that is not positive.
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I think a good indicator on how good Chek Mates are is to peruse the Classifieds on the Traditional websites.
There are a ton of Chek Mates out there (I read somewhere that it's estimated Marc has built 10,000 bows in the last 30 or so years). With that in mind how often do you see a Chek Mate up for sale or trade, particularly compared to other bows?
That really struck me when I first started looking into Chek Mates. Folks buy em' and keep em'. That indicates extreme customer satisfaction...
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I think a good indicator on how good Chek Mates are is to peruse the Classifieds on the Traditional websites. I did this when I first started looking into Chek Mates, and it struck me how rarely one was up for sale or trade.
There are a ton of Chek Mates out there (I read somewhere that it's estimated Marc has built 10,000 bows in the last 30 or so years) and it seems the folks that bought them are hanging on to them.
To me, that was an indicator of extreme customer satisfaction with the product. Add me to that list... :thumbsup:
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Thanks for the good word folks. Troutguy, I understand completely and can't fault anyone for not wanting to wait. I'm trying to get a decent inventory built up, but I can't get them fast enough.
Marc has built well over 10,000 bows, but it hasn't taken him 30 years (he's only 38)--he's been with CM for 19 or 20 years now. That's another great thing--Lord willing and there are no disasters, he's going to be around for a long time to come--and he has two kids that will hopefully take up the trade.
Chad
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Chad, not complaining about the wait at all. Just is tough when you are Obsessive/Compulsive like me. LOL.
Is my bow done yet?
How about now?
Now?
Just kidding. :knothead:
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Lol--no problem at all--shoot, I couldn't blame anyone for fussing on me, and I'd just have to take it.
Chad
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This is Jake on BigDog's account...
Between my daughter and I we have 4 Chek-Mate bows and, like everyone here, I've been completely satisfied with the bows and the people around them (another HEARTY thumbs-up :thumbsup: for Chad ... if I ever need another Chek-Mate he's my go-to guy!)
But the thread's about negatives so here are a few (and notice how minor they are...)
1. They're not the fastest bows made. They're 'fast enough', accurate and very stable, but they won't win any chronograph awards - for those who care about such things
2. I can't confirm this officially, but all the CM's I've measured seem to have their weight measured from the THROAT of the grip rather than from the back. They're all spot on if you measure them that way, but they're all a few pounds light if you measure from the back of the bow. No worries if you know this and account for it in your order since Marc does an excellent job of 'hitting weight' on his bows. Then again, I've often argued that throat-to-string is the right way to measure draw because THAT is my draw-- the same draw with a slender longbow as with a paddle-wide old-fashioned target recurve. (but that's a topic for another thread.)
3. The speckle finish is just messy looking (I honestly thought someone had an 'oops' in the spray booth.) A nice, even, matte finish would be better looking and no more shiney.
4. The tips are 'chunky' (but nigh indistructable)
5. The grips are a little hefty (as noted by others)
6. They're made in Canada (bonus for me, but I've noticed that some Americans make a big deal out of that)
Added together this list wouldn't slow me down by a heart-beat from ordering another Chek-Mate.
I have heard it so often, and found it so true, that I have come to believe that Chek-Mate's company motto is:
"You can't go wrong with a Chek-Mate"
Jake
(who doesn't usually post from other people's accounts but wanted to get is 35cents worth in)
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I own a Hunter II and a Crusader bought through G+M Archery (too impatient to have wait for them to be built). My hands are small to medium but as I grip the Hunters large riser, all I do is just touch my the tip of my thumb to the tip of my middle finger and all is secure. It is the only bow I have that I feel totally confident enough with to shoot at longer distances, 30 or 40 yds, at targets, not game. Love the Crusader too. They are well made, great shooters at very reasonable prices and a wonderful way to get into archery.I can't imagine selling them, too much fun! I have other bows that I have enjoyed but then I want something new. It seems to be different with the Chek-Mates so far. :thumbsup:
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I bought a Chek-mate Falcon for my first bow and it has been flawless so far. I haven't fired other bows, so I couldn't comment on comparison. You won't be disappointed.
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I am fairly new to shooting Traditional equipment, and it was my good fortune to purchase a Chek-Mate Hunter II T/D from one of the members of this forum. (At the time, I really didn't know a whole lot about Chek-Mate... I just wanted a good bow.) Compared to the Bear bow that I had been shooting... the Chek-Mate shot like an absolute dream!!!
Since that time... I have been able to shoot a few bows made by P.S.E., Hoyt, and Martin... and my Chek-Mate out performs them all, hands down. (I haven't shot any of the other high end bows like Brac or Blacktail.) One of the Martin bows that I shot was several hundred dollars more than what my particular Chek-Mate Hunter II T/D sells for (brand new) and for the first time... I came to realize what a gem of a bow I was shooting.
The Martin was not as smooth as my Chek-Mate. The Martin had a lot of vibration... and in my opinion... was WAAAAAAAYYYY over priced! I'm not slamming any particular bow manufacturer... but the Chek-Mate really out shined the bow that I would have probably bought... if I hadn't tripped across the Chek-Mate first.
My wife and son tried unstringing my bow one day while I was at work, and they "rolled the top limb". I sent the bow in, and had a new set of limbs within about 2 weeks. The service I received from Chad and Dorothy (I think that is Marc's wife's name,) was absolutely outstanding.
Other than that... I come from many years of shooting compounds... in which I was accustomed to "small" grips. At first... the large grip was a bit uncomfortable... but I got use to it quick, and I really don't think that the Chek-Mate grip is much different than the Bear or Martin bows... its just shaped a little different. (Of course... I'm gonna think EVERY grip is too big!)
Presently... I have a second Chek-Mate on order. The wait hasn't been easy... but then again... there are other bow manufacturers that you must wait at least a year before delivery of the bow. The wait is nothing when you consider what you are buying. I don't have a lot of money to throw around, and live in an area in which I don't have the option of trying out a lot of the better bows on the market. So... when I consider the quality of bow that I am purchasing... I know that when I get it... it will be right... and of exceptional quality. The wait means nothing to me.
Donnie
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Here is a pic of my King's Pawn. one of the prettiest bows I own. Only things that was a bit tough was quieting it down. But after finding the right arrow/brace height/and installing string silencers and bow hushes, it's fine.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v166/BobCo/Riser2.jpg?t=1167500455)
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Love my Falcon.Got it for a backup.Liked it so much sold my other bow.
Good bows.Chad is great to deal with.Give him a call. :thumbsup:
Have a SAFE and happy new year :)
Scott
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I have a Raven I love 47@28 great bow
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I'm not sure if I should have started a new thread, but, I guess it relates:
I just received a used-in-good-shape RH Falcon from a fellow TG'er. I noticed that the top limb is perfect, but the string groove on the bottom limb is NOT quite centered on the limb. When strung (I waited until I bought a stringer), it looks as if the bottom tip is leaning to the left slightly. I was concerned, and thought the limb had been bent, but the string groove itSELF isn't quite centered, so I think it had to come that way from the "factory". Have any of you ever experienced this, and should I think twice about it? I'll try to post some pictures.
I'm new to trad, so am not even good enough to know if it's affecting my shooting; I'm amazed at it's accuracy using instinctive.
As far as the grip - I've got large hands, so I like the size.
Re: Chek-Mate's "affordability": I think this is a smart move on the company's part. Look how many Fred Bear affordable bows have been sold - WAY MORE than any of the "top-of-the-line" bows... perhaps just because he built a solid bow at an affordable price! If Chek-Mate were to jack up the price, then they would have to compete with a slightly different market: all the other $$$ top-of-the-line bowyers. I think they might lose customers.
P.S. What should my brace height be? 7.5"?
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I bought a Crusader this past April while I was away on a contract out of state. I got it from a felolow TG. I also got it very, very reasonable. The first time I shot it, dead on. Love the craftsmanship, the feel of the bow, can't really believe it's that light and fats enough to take anything I go after.
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Jake is correct, CM Hunters aren't the fastest bows out there. I have a LH Fedora 560 TD 62" 53lbs@28", that is faster than either my 52lbs Hunter II or 50lbs Hunter I. I mean way faster. But my Hunters are plenty fast enough.
Bear in mind though that a new Fedora 560 TD costs at least $200-$300 more than a new CM Hunter. For all it's speed and obvious craftsmanship, I shoot my CM's (particularly my Hunter II)better than my Fedora as they just fit my shooting style better.
In fact, I'm going to put my Fedora up on the Classifieds one of these days. Anyone have a LH Hunter II they want to swap? :D
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A couple of things I felt I should clarify....
CM bows aren't the fastest on the market, and aren't built to be. They are built to be forgiving with good speed--however, I don't know of any bows that just run off and leave them in the dust, at least not according to the chrony. I'm averaging 187 fps with my Crusader longbow, shooting a hunting set-up: arrows just under 10 gpp, 14 strand Dyna '97 string, 8+ inches of .025 serving, shot with a glove, silencers on the string.
The draw weight is measured by AMO specs--straight up from the deepest part of the grip, plus 1.75"--pretty much the back of the shelf. CM uses a scale that is calibrated to be within 2# at 200#, or within 1/2# at 50#. I can't say their scale couldn't be off, but the one they use is more accurate and reliable than most.
The textured finish does look like a bad paint job--but that's how it's supposed to look. Don't really care for it myself. They do also offer a smooth satin (non glossy, non reflective) finish that looks better to me.
Dorthy is one of the owners, not Marc's wife. Not sure if she'd laugh, hit you in the mouth, or both over that comment!
Allan, the string should sit centered in the groove. Unstring the bow, and without using any heat just twist it slightly by hand. Go slow and easy. You should be able to get that slight twist out with no problem at all. If not, shoot me an e-mail and I'll see what we can do. Your brace height should run between 7.5" and 8.5". A little tinkering will tell you what the bow likes.
Thanks again to all for your comments, and especially the complements!
Chad
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I've had 2 CMs and love them both. I sold my H2 to fund another project and to pass on to a new trad shooter for him to get started. I almost cried when she left but when I see him shoot it and how well he's doing with it, it brings a smile to my face. I still have my Crusader LB and will have that forever. CMs are the BEST bang for the buck out there and Chad is a helluva guy!
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Chad,
OOOooooopppss!!!!!!! :thumbsup: )
Donnie
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I'll put in my two bits' worth. I own a Chek Mate Hunter Takedown (62" 58#). I purchased it from a firm (Canadian Traditional Archery)located in Alberta, who, I think, are no longer in business. I was deeply, deeply suspicious when they quoted a price for a take down bow because it seemed too good to be true. Plus, I had never heard of Chek Mate. They were not on my list of known big name firms. I asked around and got nothing but positive reviews, so I went ahead and ordered one. I have never regretted it. It is a beautiful bow, fast, and built like a tank. I like non-tank things that are built like a tank. I like the fact that the riser is big and bulky.
Several years later, I started communicating with Chad Weaver who, even though he knew I already had a Chek Mate and therefore would not be making a sale, took the time and trouble to answer a lot of my dumb questions. Later on, I ended up buying a bowstring and a few other odd items, including the DVD "Doin the Twist" (highly recommended) from him.
Chad is a good guy to deal with, is honest and very knowledgeabe about his craft. You can do business with him with complete confidence.
Robert
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I own a Checkmate Hunter 2 53# at 28". I really like the bow. I live pretty close to Mark and the Checkmate shop. This is a quality operation run by good folks. I was lucky because I was able to stop by and have the grip sized for my hand. In my case it really was a custom bow at a great price.
During the late archery season I was fortunate to be able to share a deer camp with Mark and other members of the Traditional Bowhunters of B.C. Mark and Checkmate donated a number of very nice bows that were auctioned and raffled off during the final night of the hunt. As you guys can imagine this was a great time with some quality trad bowhunters. We were all very impressed by the generosity of Mark and Checkmate. As a side note Mark shot a nice buck.
Like I said, quality people and a quality bow.
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What it boils down to is that you simply can't go wrong with a Chek Mate bow.
Sure wished you were carrying the 56" Hunter Chad, I would gladly have ordered it from you...
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Chad, you were absolutely right! Upon further inspection, both string grooves ARE perfectly centered on the limbs, and after some slow, firm twisting, it's perfect! --Took me all of ten minutes to fix. Thanks!
I love this bow.
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I've owned a few CM recurve bows and for the money they're a great bow especially the Hunter II. The Hunter II is undoubtedly the best recurve they make.
The only negative I've found with them is getting them to shoot as quiet as I like. The Hunter I and especially the Firebird take some tinkering to quiet down. I never could get a Firebird to shoot quiet and ended up selling it after a week.
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ND, I can take orders on the 56" Hunter, I just don't have it on my site. I appreciate the thought though!
Glad it worked Allan! It really sounds too simple, but it works! Several years ago I had a fellow contact me, literally almost in tears. He'd twisted a limb and thought he'd ruined his bow. I told him how to fix it, but he said he'd rather I do it for him. He drove several hours, and in a few minutes it was as good as new--thought he was going to hug me.
Ghost, if you ever run into that again, give me a holler and I'll see if I can help. I have run into a very few that were finicky about tuning--usually the short bows. Really couldn't say why that happens on some, but I haven't had one in my hands yet that I couldn't get quiet. Along with brace height, silencer placement can make a big difference. I've had customers tell me their CM recurves were quieter than some longbows they owned. The type string, material, and how it's made will also make a difference--more on some than on others. The Firebird was probably the most finicky, but it's not offered anymore.
Thanks again for all the great feedback, and hope you all have a very Happy New Year!
Chad
P.S. Donnie, I haven't said a word to Dorthy (yet).
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I have owned 10 CMs and they were all fine bows. I would love a hunter 1 as I think it their best performer, but I have decided to shoot only two bows that are identical except for #age. They are probably the best bow for your buck out there as they perform and look as good as a lot of 8-9 hundred dollar bows. The wait is short compared to a lot of bowyers wait time as well. If ya order one custom ya can ask to have the grip a little narrower and ask Marc to use Dymondwood which is some tough stuff!! Shawn
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Damn, I misunderstood Chad. I thought you didn't deal with the 56" Hunter. Sorry pard...
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I've owned two hunter II's in the past, a 58" and 62", and was very pleased with both. I've currently got a Sabre on custom order, a bocote and cocobolo riser, and can't wait to get that one in. :)
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i ordered a falcon special in january of last year and received it in august. prior to this i was shooting a martin, since feb. after shooting the falcon i never picked up the martin again. the bow is loud, i messed with the bh, silencers to where it is ok. i missed five deer with it this fall. its no fault of the bow as i can shoot it real well. shooting at a live animal is alot different than shooting hay bales off your deck. although i didn't have buck fever, i guess i would forget to 'pick a spot' which is absolutely a must. would i order another one? you bet! for the price it can't be beat. chad is excellent to work with. he fixed the serving on one of my strings for nothing. my bow is right at 53#, just what i ordered and shoots 175 fps through the chrony. chopper
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I'VE HAD SEVERAL AND LOVED EM ALL BUT HAVE FOUND THAT I CAN'T SWITCH BETWEEN MY LONGBOW AND MY CMII SO FOR THOSE INTERESTED THERE'S ONE LISTED HERE FOR SALE RIGHT NOW IN THE CLASSIFIEDS-
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I have a Crusader and love it. I had a Raven and loved the bow, but because it is a short bow and I did not have a consistant release, my shooting was inconsistant. I hated to part with it because it was a work of art, but sold it to get my Crusader. It was a great move for me. I doubt I will ever part with it. Good luck.
Joel
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I'll add to the positive comments above. I got a Hunter II thru Chad. Love it. Now wish I had one of their longbows.
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i have had 3 CH's
a 56" t/d hunter which i modified the grip because it was too large for me. this was a great little bow. wish i never sold it.
a hunter 1 t/d that didn't really fit me. not the bows fault at all.
and a 1 pc falcon deluxe i got from chad. this bow was beautiful. cocobolo riser with multiple overlays. it was a great shooter.
i found that my CH's liked a lower brace height than normal. it helped quiet the bow and added to the performance department.
i have known Chad via the internet for a number of years now. all the way back in time to when you couldn't say or type the name 'Checkmate'. :rolleyes: LOL
Chad is a good honest man.
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(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v496/joevt/DSCN0180b.jpg)
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(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v496/joevt/risergripresized.jpg)
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The first trad bow I got was a Chek-Mate Crusader, 56#, Since then through some sort of strange asexual reproductive traits that I have never witnessed, it has multiplied so that there are now 4 Crusaders in the house, 2 at 56#, 1 at 54# and the latest one is only 40# odly enough perfect for the wife....what luck.
The last one actualy came from
git-r-donearchery.com in Calgary. And from phone call to bow at my door was measurable in hours and I live 1300 km away.