Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder Review

What I Wish I Knew Before Buying the Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder

The Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder promises a simple solution to a common archery problem: keeping your arrow securely in place on the bow rest before the draw. Manufactured by Saunders, this little adhesive-backed device aims to provide a reliable hold and smooth release. Does it live up to the promise, or is it just another gadget destined for the archery gear graveyard?

For years, I’ve struggled with arrows slipping off my bow rest, especially during awkward hunting positions or in windy conditions. This constant readjustment can be frustrating and even cost you a shot at that trophy buck. I was looking for a simple, inexpensive solution that wouldn’t interfere with my draw or arrow flight.

Upon unboxing, the Kwik Lok seemed deceptively simple – a small piece of flexible material with adhesive backing. Its minimalist design immediately made me wonder if it could truly handle the force of a drawing arrow. The build quality felt adequate, though I had concerns about the adhesive’s long-term durability and performance in extreme temperatures.

I considered other options, like magnetic arrow rests or more complex spring-loaded designs. However, those options were significantly more expensive and seemed like overkill for my needs. The Saunders Kwik Lok was appealing due to its simplicity and affordability.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited about the potential for a simple fix to a nagging problem, but also wary of its seemingly flimsy construction. Could something so small and inexpensive really make a difference?

Real-World Testing: Putting Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder at my local archery range, focusing on various shooting positions and draw speeds. I also spent some time practicing in my backyard, simulating the uneven terrain I often encounter while hunting.

The Kwik Lok performed surprisingly well in dry conditions. The arrow stayed firmly in place until I initiated the draw, and the release was clean and consistent. However, when exposed to a light rain, the adhesive seemed to lose some of its stickiness, resulting in occasional arrow slippage before the draw.

Installation was relatively straightforward, though I did have to trim the Kwik Lok slightly to fit my particular bow rest. The initial learning curve was minimal, but I did need to experiment with the optimal placement to achieve the best hold and release. After a few adjustments, I felt confident in its basic functionality.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder has held up reasonably well. There is some visible wear on the contact surface, but it hasn’t significantly impacted performance.

The adhesive has proven to be the weakest point, gradually losing its stickiness, particularly in hot weather. Reapplication or replacement of the adhesive backing seems inevitable after a few months of use. Cleaning the Kwik Lok is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to my previous experience of manually holding the arrow in place, the Kwik Lok offers a significant improvement in consistency and convenience. While it doesn’t completely eliminate the possibility of arrow slippage, it reduces the occurrence dramatically. It is not a replacement for a higher end arrow rest with containment features, but at a tenth of the cost, it will get you on the range comfortably.

Breaking Down the Features of Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder

Specifications

• The Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder is a small, flexible piece of material designed to hold an arrow on a bow rest. It uses an adhesive backing for easy installation.
• It is designed to fit both right and left-handed bows and can be trimmed to fit specific bow rests. The price is $13.95.

The flexible material allows for a smooth arrow release, while the adhesive backing enables simple attachment. The ability to trim the holder to size allows for a greater degree of customizability.

Performance & Functionality

The Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder performs its core function – holding the arrow in place – adequately in most conditions. It provides a noticeable improvement in stability, particularly when shooting from unconventional angles.

The primary weakness is the adhesive’s sensitivity to moisture and extreme temperatures. The design is inherently simple, which contributes to its ease of use, but also limits its overall performance. It generally meets expectations for its price point, offering a basic but functional solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kwik Lok’s design is minimalistic and unobtrusive, adding minimal weight to the bow. The flexible material is comfortable and doesn’t interfere with the draw cycle.

It is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup or adjustment. However, the adhesive backing can be tricky to apply perfectly straight, and the need for trimming can be a slight inconvenience.

Durability & Maintenance

The Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder is not designed for extreme durability. Expect to replace it or reapply the adhesive periodically, especially with frequent use.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. However, replacing the adhesive backing can be somewhat tedious.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder does not come with any additional accessories. The only real customization option is trimming it to fit the specific bow rest.

It is universally compatible with most bow rests, making it a versatile option. The minimalist design doesn’t typically interfere with other accessories, such as arrow rests or stabilizers.

Pros and Cons of Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder

Who Should Buy Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder?

The Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder is perfect for recreational archers, budget-conscious hunters, and beginners who want a simple solution to arrow slippage. It is especially useful for those who frequently shoot in uneven terrain or windy conditions.

This product is not ideal for competitive shooters or those who demand the highest level of reliability. Those individuals should consider more advanced arrow rest systems. A must-have accessory is a small bottle of high-quality adhesive for reapplication or replacement, as well as some rubbing alcohol to clean the surfaces before applying.

Conclusion on Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder

The Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder offers a surprisingly effective solution to a common archery problem at a very affordable price. While it has its limitations, particularly concerning the adhesive’s durability, it provides a significant improvement in arrow stability and convenience.

For $13.95, the price is definitely justified. It’s a small investment that can make a noticeable difference in your shooting experience.

I would personally recommend the Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder to anyone looking for a simple, inexpensive way to improve their archery setup. Don’t expect miracles, but do expect a noticeable improvement in arrow retention. If you’re tired of constantly readjusting your arrow, give the Saunders Kwik Lok Aro Holder a try. You might be surprised at how much of a difference such a small device can make.