Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow Review

Does the **Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow** Live Up to Its Name?

The Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow presents itself as a serious contender in the archery market, promising precision and performance for serious hunters. As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I approached this compound bow with a critical, yet open, eye. My goal is always to find tools that not only perform but also inspire confidence through their design and reliability.

My pursuit of a new compound bow stemmed from a need for a more forgiving platform, one that could adapt to a wider range of shooting styles and conditions without demanding constant, intricate adjustments. I’ve spent countless hours fine-tuning equipment, and the allure of a bow that offers robust adjustability without requiring a press is always compelling. After reviewing several options, the Viking APX 70’s advertised features, particularly its press-less adjustment system and customizable backwall, stood out.

Initial impressions upon unboxing were positive. The bow felt solid, with a well-machined riser and limbs that appeared robust. The black finish was uniform and understated, which I appreciate for its practicality in the field. It felt like a piece of machinery built for purpose, not just aesthetics, a sentiment that generally bodes well for durability.

In considering alternatives, I looked at models known for their speed and stability, but many either came with a steeper price tag or lacked the specific adjustability the Viking APX 70 promised. Some offered raw speed but at the cost of a harsher draw cycle, which is precisely what I aimed to avoid. This Xpedition Archery model seemed to strike a promising balance.

My first reaction was one of professional curiosity mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism, eager to see if the advertised features translated into tangible benefits on the range and in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting **Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow** to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor archery range, a familiar environment with controlled conditions. I spent the first session getting acquainted with the draw cycle and the feel of the bow at full draw, making minor adjustments to the draw weight within the 60 – 70 lb range. The 33 Axle to Axle measurement provided a comfortable shooting platform, avoiding the cramped feeling some shorter bows can induce.

The bow performed admirably in calm weather conditions. The 340 FPS @ IBO specs felt accurate to my estimations, delivering a good punch without excessive noise or vibration. The rotating mod system for press-less adjustment was indeed a welcome feature, allowing for quick tweaks to draw length and let-off without a trip to the pro shop.

However, I did notice a slight learning curve with the limb stops. While they are crucial for customizing the backwall feel, achieving the exact sensation I prefer took a few iterations of adjustment. It wasn’t a major issue, but it required a bit more fine-tuning than I initially anticipated to achieve that solid, consistent backwall.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months, the Viking APX 70 bow has seen regular use. This included practice sessions, a week-long whitetail hunt in varied weather, and some informal field archery. The bow has held up well to repeated drawing and shooting, with no noticeable degradation in performance.

Durability has been impressive. Despite being handled in dusty conditions and experiencing light rain on one occasion, the finish remains intact, and the moving parts operate smoothly. There are no signs of cracks or excessive wear on the limbs or cams. The overall construction feels robust enough to withstand the rigors of hunting season.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick wipe-down after use and occasional lubrication of the string and cables are all that’s needed. The press-less adjustment system continues to be a major convenience, especially for field adjustments should the need arise. Compared to some older bows I’ve owned that required specialized tools for basic tuning, this Xpedition Archery model is a breath of fresh air.

Breaking Down the Features of **Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow**

Specifications

The Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow boasts a set of specifications designed for versatility and performance. Its 33 Axle to Axle measurement contributes to a stable shooting platform, a critical factor for consistent accuracy. The 6.75 brace height is a balance between speed and forgiveness, aiming to reduce string slap and hand shock.

The adjustable draw weight, ranging from 60 – 70 lb, allows archers to tailor the bow’s power to their strength and hunting needs. This flexibility is crucial for different game types and personal comfort levels. The advertised speed of 340 FPS @ IBO specs positions it as a capable performer for hunting applications, offering sufficient velocity for flat trajectories.

The rotating mod system is a standout feature, enabling press-less adjustments to draw length and draw weight. This significantly simplifies tuning and personalization. Furthermore, the inclusion of limb stops allows for customization of the backwall feel, providing a more solid and consistent anchor point for the shooter.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow delivers a strong performance. It shoots accurately, with arrows flying true and consistent groupings achievable at typical hunting distances. The speed is certainly adequate for taking down large game effectively, provided proper shot placement.

A significant strength is the press-less adjustment capability, which makes fine-tuning much more accessible for the average user. The bow’s draw cycle is reasonably smooth for its speed, although pushing towards the upper end of the draw weight can introduce a bit more tension. The customizable backwall through the limb stops is another key functional advantage, allowing archers to dial in their preferred holding weight and feel.

One area for potential improvement might be the dampening of vibration. While not excessive, there is a slight residual hand shock upon release, particularly when shooting at higher draw weights. This is a common characteristic of many high-performance bows, but it’s worth noting for those highly sensitive to it.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Viking APX 70 is practical and functional. The all-black finish is unobtrusive and durable, resisting scuffs and scratches well. The riser feels solid and well-machined, providing a stable foundation for the limbs and cams.

Ergonomically, the bow is comfortable to grip, even during extended shooting sessions. The 33 Axle to Axle width makes it manageable in tighter spaces like treestands, without compromising stability. The rotating mod system is intuitively designed, though as mentioned, achieving the perfect backwall feel requires some trial and error.

The overall build quality suggests a reliable piece of equipment. It doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap; instead, it conveys a sense of purpose-built robustness. This is crucial for any piece of gear intended for the demands of hunting.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, the Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow appears to be a durable piece of equipment. The materials used, from the riser to the limbs and cables, show no signs of premature wear. It seems built to withstand the typical stresses of archery, including repeated draws, firing, and exposure to various environmental conditions.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Regular cleaning of the riser and limbs, along with occasional waxing of the string and cables, is sufficient to keep it in top condition. The press-less adjustment feature significantly reduces the need for specialized maintenance tools, making it user-friendly for those who aren’t mechanically inclined.

There are no obvious weak points that have emerged during my testing. The cam system and limb pockets appear robustly constructed. However, like any compound bow, proper care and maintenance will undoubtedly extend its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow comes in a standard configuration, with its core strength lying in its inherent adjustability rather than a vast array of included accessories. The primary customization comes from the press-less adjustment system with its rotating mod and limb stops, allowing archers to tailor draw length, draw weight, and backwall feel without specialized equipment.

While no additional accessories like sights, rests, or quivers are typically bundled with the bow itself, its standard design means it is compatible with the wide array of aftermarket archery accessories available. This allows for extensive personalization, from choosing a preferred sight for precise aiming to selecting a quiver that balances capacity and weight. The ability to adapt it to user preference is a significant plus.

Pros and Cons of **Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow**

Who Should Buy **Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow**?

The Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow is an excellent choice for dedicated hunters and serious archery enthusiasts who value adjustability and reliable performance. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate the ability to fine-tune their bow without needing a professional shop for every minor adjustment. This model offers a great balance of speed, stability, and user-friendly tuning capabilities.

Individuals who are looking for a bow that can grow with them, allowing for changes in draw length or desired draw weight as their skills progress, will find this bow beneficial. It’s also a strong contender for hunters who often find themselves in situations requiring quick adjustments in the field. Those who prefer a more traditional aesthetic with a focus on raw performance will also appreciate its understated design.

However, absolute beginners might find the detailed adjustments of the limb stops and rotating mods slightly overwhelming initially, though the press-less nature makes it far more approachable than many other performance bows. If your primary concern is the absolute lightest draw cycle possible at all costs, you might explore other options, but for a blend of speed and adjustability, this is a solid choice. Essential complementary items would include a quality bow sight, a reliable arrow rest, and a functional quiver to complete the setup.

Conclusion on **Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow**

The Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow is a highly capable compound bow that lives up to its promise of precise performance and user-friendly adjustability. Its press-less adjustment system, coupled with customizable limb stops, provides archers with significant control over their shooting experience, making it a standout in its class. The build quality feels robust, and the performance, including its advertised speed, is more than adequate for serious hunting endeavors.

Considering its price point and the features it offers, the value proposition is strong. You receive a well-engineered bow that allows for substantial personalization without the need for specialized tools for common adjustments. While some minor hand shock is present at higher draw weights and achieving the perfect backwall takes a bit of tuning, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent package.

I would certainly recommend the Xpedition Archery Viking APX 70 Bow to experienced archers and hunters looking for a reliable, adjustable, and performant bow. It’s a tool that inspires confidence and allows the shooter to dial in their setup for optimal results in the field. If you’re seeking a bow that balances speed with accessible customization, this Xpedition Archery model is definitely worth your consideration.