For archery enthusiasts seeking a classic recurve experience on a budget, the Sanlida Royal X8 recurve bow has emerged as a compelling option that has been creating quite a stir since it was released. This 60″ one-piece traditional recurve bow caters to those who appreciate the simplicity and elegance of a well-crafted wooden bow. But is the Royal X8 all about aesthetics, or does it offer real performance on the range? Let’s dive deeper into its features and explore if this Sanlida model might be the perfect fit for your archery journey.

Aesthetics and Construction: Embracing Tradition

The Royal X8 boasts a visually striking design. The riser, the central section of the bow where you grip it, is crafted from laminated solid wood, giving it a natural and beautiful look. The riser’s design and shape remind me of the Martin Dreamcatcher recurve I shot and enjoyed many years ago. Sanlida specifies American wood for the riser, hinting at a commitment to quality materials. The limbs, the flexible arms that generate the bow’s power, feature a multi-layered construction. A core of maple wood is encased in fiberglass, offering a blend of strength and flexibility.

This combination of wood and fiberglass is a common choice for traditional recurve bows. While some high-end bows utilize entirely synthetic materials like carbon fiber for increased performance, the Royal X8 stays true to the classic aesthetic. This might hold particular appeal for archers who value the historical charm and connection to traditional archery practices.

Performance Considerations: Power and Accuracy

The Sanlida Royal X8 comes in a variety of draw weight options, ranging from 30lbs to 60lbs in 5lb increments. Draw weight refers to the amount of force required to pull the bowstring back to full draw. This adjustability allows archers of varying strengths and experience levels to find a suitable bow for their needs. Beginners might start with a lower draw weight for easier handling, while more experienced archers can opt for a higher draw weight for increased power and arrow velocity. The weight I chose is 45 lbs, and while one-piece recurves are known to be faster than takedowns, this bow is noticeably quicker than any 45lb traditional bow I’ve ever shot. According to my chronograph, a 450-grain arrow flew to the target like a laser at 170 fps. To say I was impressed is an understatement.

The Royal X8 boasts features designed to enhance the shooting experience. The manufacturer mentions an “excellent central line” which likely refers to the alignment of the sight window (where you aim), the riser, and the nock (where the arrow rests on the string). Proper alignment is crucial for consistent and accurate shooting. I can attest that this bow shoots right where you’re looking and naturally pointing. Additionally, Sanlida highlights the bow’s “micro-vibration (minimal hand shock) and smooth arrow flight.” Ideally, minimal vibration upon release translates to better arrow stability, tighter shot groupings, and quieter than most recurves. The only negative thing I noticed is that the Royal X8 stacks a little more than some other recurves. I’ve also read a few reviews that said the poundage is slightly more or less than what is listed on the bow, which is not uncommon for inexpensive bows.

Out-of-the-Box Ready: A Complete Traditional Archery Kit

A significant advantage of the Royal X8 is that it comes as a complete kit, eliminating the need to purchase additional accessories separately. This makes it an attractive option, particularly for first-time archers. The kit includes:

• A 56″ Flemish D97 string: This type of string is commonly used on traditional bows and is known for its durability.
• A stringer: This tool assists in safely attaching the string to the bow.
• A horse hair arrow rest: This is a traditional arrow rest material, offering a simple and quiet solution.
• A finger glove: This protects the archer’s fingers from the string pinch during release.
• A pair of rabbit hair string dampeners: These help reduce noise generated by the string vibration.
• An arm guard: This protects the archer’s forearm from the string slap upon release.
• Six carbon arrows with removable field tips: These arrows provide a good starting point for target practice.
• A user’s manual: This guide offers assembly and safety instructions.

With everything you need to start shooting right away, the Royal X8 is a convenient and cost-effective choice for archers looking for a traditional archery experience.

Who Should Consider the Sanlida Royal X8?

The Sanlida Royal X8 is a good fit for several archer profiles:

• Beginners: With its performance and included accessories, the Royal X8 offers a beginner-friendly package to learn the fundamentals of archery without breaking the bank.
• Traditional Archery Enthusiasts: The classic design and use of natural materials cater to archers who appreciate the historical aspects of archery.
• Target & 3-D Archers: The Royal X8’s speed, flat trajectory, and vibration reduction make it great for target practice.
• Bowhunters: The Royal X8’s speed, 60-inch length, and quiet shooting make it ideal for bowhunting.

Things to Consider Before Buying

While the Royal X8 presents a compelling option, it’s important to acknowledge some potential drawbacks:

• Right-Handed Only: Currently, the Royal X8 is only available for right-handed archers. Left-handed archers will need to look for alternative models.
• Draw Weight: Several reviewers have noted that the draw weight is 3-5 pounds heavier than marked on the bow, and mine was as well. I’d suggest ordering a bow five pounds less than your desired draw weight. The one-piece design also doesn’t offer the same level of adjustability as takedown recurve bows, where the limbs can be detached and replaced for modifications in draw weight.
• Limb Tips: The bow comes with a fast-flight string, but the limb tips are not reinforced to be durable with that type of string over the long haul. I recommend getting a Dacron B-55 string or a custom blend string. I’m using a Shrew Whisper String on mine, and it works great.
• Brand Reputation: Sanlida may not have the brand recognition of some established archery manufacturers, but that is changing fast and reviews speak well of their excellent customer service.

Wrap Up: A Traditional Recurve Bow with Modern Performance

The Sanlida Royal X8 recurve bow carves a unique niche in the archery market. It bridges the gap between a purely traditional bow and a more modern recurve. The use of natural materials and classic design elements offers a beautiful and historically-inspired shooting experience. Yet, the incorporation of modern features like vibration reduction and a complete accessory kit ensures functionality and ease of use.

For beginner and traditional archery enthusiasts seeking a well-crafted bow with everything they need to get started, the Royal X8 is a strong contender. However, left-handed archers and those seeking highly customizable bows might need to explore alternative options. Ultimately, the Sanlida Royal X8 presents a compelling choice for those who want to embrace the elegance and challenge of traditional archery without sacrificing performance. Check prices on Amazon.