Built on and backed by the Bowtech DeadLock Cam System platform, the Solution SD promises “Performance Without Compromise.” This is a bold statement to make for a bow designed for short-draw archers. Let’s face it, the challenge of retaining performance while downsizing is difficult. However, after putting the Solution SD to the test over several days, I can affirm Bowtech’s promise.

Out of the Box

Removing the bow from the box, I made two immediate conclusions. First, the Bowtech Solution SD is exceptionally lightweight and maneuverable. Second — albeit not the only color available — the black satin riser coupled with the white limb lettering and red on the DeadLock Cam System is an aesthetically pleasing combination. Overall, the Solution SD’s fit and finish are stellar.

Setup

To begin, I mounted and leveled a Whisker Biscuit rest and then tied on a D-loop. Next, I bolted on a Rocky Mountain 3-pin Driver Dovetail Mount sight, as well as a short Octane stabilizer. My hope was to make the Solution SD feel and perform like a hunting bow, which I achieved. Following Bowtech’s guidelines, I set the draw weight to 65 pounds and draw length to 28 inches. (Note: I usually shoot a 27.5-inch draw length, so you may find you need an extra half-inch with this bow.)

Test Results

I began the testing process by firing a few arrows to get a feel for the bow’s idiosyncrasies. Once I was comfortable with the setup — about five arrows — I grabbed the chronograph to check speed. Using a 371-grain arrow, I shot three arrows, which had an average speed of 281 fps. Performing a quick calculation in my head provided a positive response; however, I wanted to check the performance with an online calculator.

Estimating that I added about 15 grains to the string (D-loop and original nocking point that I kept), the 281 fps was a perfect IBO-equivalency for my personal setup of 28-inch draw length and 65-pound draw weight. Kudos to Bowtech on its published speed!

The Solution SD efficiently creates energy. At 281 fps, a 371-grain arrow produces approximately 65 foot-pounds of kinetic energy (KE) and 0.46 slug-feet/second of momentum (M) at release. This is more than ample energy — however, you choose to measure it — to take any North American game species at an ethical distance. Still, speed isn’t the only variable or reason to buy a bow.

I don’t proclaim to be an expert at reading draw curves or feeling every idiosyncrasy along the draw cycle. All I have is a comparison to other bows I’ve drawn. In my opinion, The Solution SD draws smoothly, like most flagship bows I’ve shot. The draw cycle is smooth. It settles nicely into a back wall at full draw, not wanting to spring forward without warning. I say go to your local pro shop and shoot it; I bet you will like its overall smoothness.

Diverse Audience

The Solution SD is, as mentioned, a lightweight and maneuverable compound. Therefore, it is an ideal choice for spot-and-stalk bowhunters, as well as bowhunters who prefer to wait in a hide — treestand or ground blind. It’s also a likely candidate for the growing teen hunter because the bow adjusts to grow with them. It’s size and weight are ideal for every short-draw archer, male or female.

Bowtech Solution SD Features

• DeadLock Cams: A quick and simple way to achieve outstanding arrow flight and repeatable accuracy. Move the cams right or left on the axles with a turn of a screw and then lock them down for permanent and repeatable accuracy.
• DeadLock Pockets: Deadlock limb pockets lock every component in the entire bow structure as one, resulting in a rigid, accuracy-producing platform. 
• Deadlock Cable Containment: The reduced torque translates to added forgiveness and dramatically enhanced shot-to-shot accuracy. 
• Clutch Performance Grip: Comfortable modular grips are engineered to reduce torque while increasing comfort. The low-profile Clutch grip comes standard. The Clutch Control grip is available for purchase separately. Both grips are available in four popular colors.
• Orbit Dampener: Multi-positioning to offset accessory weight, while absorbing unwanted vibration.

 

From Bowtech

“Performance Without Compromise — Optimized for draw lengths of 23.5 to 28.5 inches, the new Solution SD features the dead silence, dead-in-hand feel, and deadly accuracy of our DeadLock Cam System. Its modern riser design and DeadLock cams give you a buttery-smooth draw and transfer more energy to your arrows with even more nock-splitting precision than you’ve ever experienced. Built just for you. Because, the ultimate shooting experience isn’t one size fits all.”

Visit www.bowtecharchery.com for more information.

How We Test

• Each bow is carefully inspected out of the box for fit and finish and for any visible defects in workmanship. Axle-to-axle length, brace height, mass weight and draw length are measured and compared with stated specifications.
• Bows are set-up utilizing a Last Chance Archery EZ Green Bow Vise. Peak draw weight and holding weight are established using a Last Chance Archery Draw Board and digital Bow Scale 2.0. All bows are pressed with a Last Chance Archery EX Green bow press.
• Speed testing is conducted by hand-firing test arrows, Easton Hexx (348 grains), Gold Tip Air Strike (398 grains) and Carbon Express Triad (468 grains), through a Caldwell Ballistic Precision G2 Chronograph into a Block Range Target backstop.
• Kinetic energy, momentum and additional speed data are projected using Western&Whitetail’s Archery Calculators.