Hoyt Exceed 2 Riser & Metrics Limbs Review: First Impressions, Setup, and Shoot Test

Today on the channel, I’ve got something exciting to share, a full review of the Hoyt Exceed 2 riser paired with the Metrics foam limbs. I’ll be unboxing them, showing you the fit and finish up close, walking you through the initial setup, and then taking them outside for tuning and a 70 meter shoot. By the end, you’ll get my honest, unbiased opinion on Hoyt’s newest lineup.

Quick disclaimer: I purchased these products myself, thanks to your support of the channel through affiliate links and memberships. That means I get to give you my unfiltered feedback without the influence of sponsorships. If you’d like to support the channel, check out the links in the description before you shop, it really helps me keep these reviews coming!

Unboxing the Hoyt Exceed 2 Riser

The Exceed 2 comes with a hardware pack that includes the new monolock VertiTune system, clicker plate, and a riser sleeve for protection.

The color I chose is Mr. Perfect Orange, which looks a bit more red-orange in person compared to what I saw on my computer screen. Under bright sun, it should pop a bit more, but it’s definitely deeper and less neon than expected.

First impressions of the finish:

• Overall, the paint flowed well and looks sharp.

• I did notice some orange peel texture in a few spots and minor flaws like dirt nibs tiny specs of dust or hair that got trapped in the finish during coating.

• Some edges are sharper than I’d like for a premium riser at this price point.

The grip is noticeably improved. It now has a relief cut, making it more comfortable as your fingers wrap around. My only complaint is the lack of a filler piece in the top section, which leaves a gap under the hand. Still, this stock grip is a step up from previous Hoyt grips.

Another change? The sight window is thicker than previous models. This means you can’t just swap your sight and plunger over from an older Hoyt and expect it to line up, adjustments are required.

New Monolock VertiTune System

Hoyt’s updated Monolock VertiTune system is designed to stiffen the riser in the Z-axis (front to back stability). However, my riser only came with one VertiTune plate, the medium option.

In the past, Hoyt included three plates: low, medium, and high, so you could customize your tuning. Missing these options is disappointing, especially considering this is a $900+ riser. I’ll be reaching out to Lancaster Archery to confirm whether this was intentional or just a packing mistake.

Unboxing the Metrics Foam Limbs

Next up: the Metrics foam limbs (Grand Prix fit).

• These limbs are extremely torsionally stable, which should translate to better performance and consistency.

• I appreciate the new white paint on the top of the limbs, which helps reflect heat great for those hot summer outdoor tournaments.

• The limb sleeves are nicely made, holding both limbs securely in one case.

Concerns I noticed:

• Small inconsistencies in the machining of the Delrin inserts at the base of the limbs. Some weren’t pressed in fully, leaving gaps.

• Underlying striations and scratch marks visible beneath the clear coat, giving the limbs a slightly unfinished look up close.

• A few areas of overspray or paint runs, especially around the tips.

For a limb at this high price point, I expected more precise finishing.

Setup & Initial Fitment

When installing the limbs, I immediately noticed a loose fit between the tiller bolts and the limb butts. The limbs actually fell out of the riser pockets when tipped upside down not ideal for a premium bow.

After measuring:

• The limbs were slightly oversized at 0.377–0.378".

• The tiller bolts were undersized at 0.371–0.372".

For context, Hoyt’s own specs say these should be between 0.373–0.375".

Solution: I’ll be using Kaminski precision tiller bolts to tighten up this connection. Proper fitment matters because it reduces vibration and makes tuning more consistent.

Tuning & First Shots at 30 Meters

After setup, I started tuning at 30 meters. A few quick observations:

• Brace Height: My initial brace height was much higher than expected. After adjustments and using a longer string, I got it dialed in.

• Center Shot Adjustments: Because of the thicker sight window, my center shot was way off compared to my previous Hoyt risers.

• Draw Feel: The limbs have a Korean-style smoothness early in the draw, but they stack noticeably through the clicker, which some archers will like for stability.

• Noise & Vibration: This is one of the quietest Hoyts I’ve ever shot. While there’s still some low-frequency vibration, it’s very manageable.

After swapping to my Rrcore “I AM” recurve grip, the bow felt significantly more stable and comfortable.

70-Meter Test Round

To really put the bow through its paces, I shot a full 36-arrow scoring round at 70 meters.

• The bow jumps beautifully out of the hand, with a strong forward roll that many archers will love.

• Despite being quiet, it gives clear feedback when you make a bad shot — a feature I value.

• My final score was 334 out of 360, solid considering this was my first session with the bow.

Final Thoughts

The Hoyt Exceed 2 with Metrics foam limbs is, without a doubt, one of my favorite-feeling Hoyts to date. It’s smooth, stable, and exceptionally quiet.

What I Love:

• The bow jumps straight and responds predictably to grip pressure.

• Limbs feel rock solid at full draw, holding steady even under pressure or in gusty wind.

• The new grip design is more comfortable than previous stock options.

• Extremely easy to tune and align.

What I Don’t Love:

• Fit & Finish Issues: Orange peel, dirt nibs, paint drips, and unfinished details are disappointing on a premium product.

• Loose Limb Fit: The tiller bolts are undersized, and the limb butts are oversized — not ideal without aftermarket solutions.

• Missing VertiTune Plates: Only one included instead of the usual three.

• Thicker Sight Window: Requires extra setup work and adjustment when swapping components.

Who This Bow Is For

This bow is perfect for archers who want a quiet, stable, and responsive shooting experience and are willing to spend time fine tuning for perfection. If you’re detail-oriented and don’t mind addressing minor cosmetic issues, the performance will absolutely deliver.