Bear Karnage Apocalypse Review

Intro

The new 2018 Bear Karnage Apocalypse is one of those once-in-a-blue-moon crossbow packages that make you seriously wonder how  can many archers/ hunters spend thousands dollars on a crossbow when this one is made so well.

Indisputably, the advances in technology on the latest models from the likes of Ravin or Excalibur are such to justify their price tag, which while prohibitive for some, are still a reasonable trade-off for a lifelong investment that the best crossbow can and needs to be.

But if for whichever reason, you’re looking for: 1) a premium crossbow, 2) with a comprehensive accessory package, from a 3) reputable brand, 4) without breaking the bank, the Bear Karnage Apocalypse is the answer.

In this review, we’ve taken a deeper dive into the Bear Karnage features. In all honesty, we could hardly find anything wrong with this crossbow package, and by the end of this review you will also be convinced that this is one of hottest deals right now .

About the manufacturer

Karnage Crossbows, is a new Brand owned by Bear Archery, which as of 2018 has launched  two models, the Apocalypse and Apocalypse LS. In the words of  Dave Parker, Bear Archery General Manager:

The market demanded an ultra-fast brand of crossbows at price points that are accessible to all consumers and we have delivered that with Karnage. Our crossbows are dependable, trustworthy, and can be used by the whole family, and at the same time, lethal and ready to hunt in any environment.

Full Review

Bear Archery Karnage Apocalypse Packages

Two packages are available for purchase, the Apocalypse and the Apocalypse LS. The Apocalypse LS package is a slightly costlier version of the Apocalypse standard one, and features:

– 4×32 illuminated scope with 5-position rheostat light adjustments (in place of the multi cross-reticle with focusing eye piece on the standard version)

– neoprene detachable string (instead of econo)

– Kryptek Highlander camouflage finish.

Both Standard and LS packages include a cocking rope, rail lube/string wax, a 4-bolt modular quiver, and three K20 Carbon bolts.

Materials and design

When you unpack it and hold it in your arms for the first time, the Bear Karnage Apocalypse crossbow will instantly impress you for the top-notch quality of its components, sturdy built, and captivating finish, which make you want to take it for a hunt straight out of the box, like a kid with his new toy.

No doubt about the quality workmanship that went into the engineering and designing of this crossbow, which looks and performs flawlessly.

The whole crossbow takes only a few minutes to put together thanks to the included instructions by Bear/ Karnage (to follow diligently), and easy to cock even if you’re not an expert crossbow user: just make sure sure the cocking rope is seated properly in the “rope groove”.

The Bear Karnage Apocalypse is short and compact, with a narrow cocked AtA width (14inches) for added maneuverability, and feels balanced in terms of weight (not too light, but not too heavy) and stable when shooting.

The rear stock has 3″ of adjustability and five settings, and adjustable cheekpiece. The adjustable forearm and grip is mounted on a picatinny-style rail system for improved accuracy and comfort.

Performance

This Bear Karnage Apocalypse crossbow carries a tremendous amount of kinetic energy and power. Our special KE calculator worked out that with a 400 grain bolt (no less than a 360grain bolt is recommended for this crossbow), the kinetic energy release is equivalent to 121.5  foot pounds. This is more than double that what you need to take down the largest of game such as bear or buffalo.

In terms of accuracy, users have reported being able to shoot nickel sized groups from 20 yards out after zeroing-in. Some users have reported issues with the 4×32 scope shooting some 10” low right out of the box, but this can be easily fixed by shimming the rear end of the scope bracket. Watch the video tutorial below to learn how to make this simple adjustment should you have any problem with your scope.

Hunting Features

The Bear Archery Karnage Apocalypse crossbows are “forged with the hunter in mind” . The massive amount of speed and power offered together with great maneuverability, sleek design and stability makes this crossbow a true lethal shooter for both beginners and veteran archers and hunters/ huntresses.

With powerful crossbows, the price to pay is almost always excess noise, which for many is the main concern when hunting, and if you’re a compound bow shooter you’ll miss the quietness of the modern compound bow models.

On this occasion, Bear/ Karnage have done a good job with the dual mount string recoil suppressor system and dampeners that come with the Apocalypse package, which reduce noise and friction when firing the crossbow. Nonetheless, if you’re still not feeling comfortable with the noise level, we recommend getting additional limb dampeners to help keep this babies as quiet as possible when on the hunt.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• checkHigh-quality and durable materials
• checkEasy to assemble thanks to manufacturer’s instructions
• checkPowerful and fast
• checkReputable brand
• checkHigh value/ money with the accessory package 
• checkPremium crossbow without the high end price tag

​​​​Cons

• Minor alignment issue reported with the included scope not adjusting up far enough (easy to fix by shimming the rear of the scope)

Bear Karnage Apocalypse crossbow review: Conclusion and Rating

When it comes to choosing the best crossbow for the money (or the best one to stop a zombie apocalypse) you can’t go wrong with this Karnage package. In one sentence, the new 2018 Bear Karnage Apocalypse has the performance and hunting features of a high end crossbow, but without the high end price tag. This is probably the hottest deals on crossbow packages right now, and one not to be missed for sure!