Special Report

very January, traditional enthusiasts converge on the EKalamazoo Expo Center for the Traditional Bowhunters Expo put on by the Great Northern Company. Inside the center are tra- atmosphere in traditional archery. SS Limited are sure to live up ditional archery manufacturers, deal- Once again, everyone was positive. to the  ne reputation Tomahawk bows ers and distributors displaying their Growth remained strong last year and have earned since their introduction various products, old and new. In this the consensus was that 2015 should be many years ago. article, we focus on the new: new prod- another big year. 3Rivers is also introducing the ucts and new happenings within the Congratulations are in order for new Whitetail Classic Back Quiver, traditional archery industry. 3Rivers Archery, one of the largest dis- embossed with an attractive running e Traditional Bowhunters Expo tributors in traditional archery. It’s cel- deer. e 24 inch deep leather quiver is quite an event. In addition to all ebrating its 30th anniversary this year. easily holds a dozen and fea- the traditional archery products and It has come a long way since entering tures: an antiqued antler accent but- accessories available, there are bows the industry in 1985 and, as always, it ton, an divider bar and a fully everywhere. e expo draws many has many new and relevant products adjustable three point strap with brass and for the dealer or retail for its traditional archery dealers. buckles. Whitetail Classic Back Quivers shooter, whether you’re looking for a In honor of its 30th anniversary, are available in right and left handed line of bows to carry in your shop or 3Rivers created a special Tomahawk models and are sure to be popular with you’re shopping for a new traditional SS limited edition called the traditional shooters. bow yourself, you’ll have hundreds “SS Limited.” e limbs are composed Every now and again, some- to choose from. Bring your arrows of carbonized bamboo, Stabil-Kore one makes a breakthrough in quiver because you can test drive them all. and yew. e risers feature a three designs and the new 3Rivers Target e shooting lanes are always busy. piece ebony construction and attrac- Hip & Pocket Quiver is just that. It’s While making my rounds at the tive accent stripes. Each bow is serial the  rst of its kind, o ering a belt loop expo, I was able to interview many of numbered and includes a special 30th and a pocket tab so archers can either the companies in attendance. We dis- Anniversary Tomahawk Bows medal- wear it on their belts or in a back cussed new products and the overall lion inlay. e new 30th Anniversary pocket. is clever quiver is crafted from 5 to 6 ounce brown all-weather

Where to Learn More About the Lines We Cover Here 3Rivers: www.3riversarchery.com Ace Archery Tackle: www.acearcherytackle.com Alaska Bowhunting Supply: www.alaskabowhunting.com Bear Archery: www.beararchery.com Bearpaw Products: www.bearpaw-blog.com Brandywine Arrows: www.brandywinearrows.com Cedar Ridge Leather Works: www.archeryleather.com J-Grip-Tip: www.griptip.com Kootenai River Archery: www.kootenairiverarchery.com Kustom King Archery: www.kustomkingarchery.com Lancaster Archery: www.lancasterarchery.com Monty Browning: www.montybrowningbook.com Outdoor Lines Flemish Strings: www.outdoorlines.com Pine Hollow Longbows: www.pinehollowlongbows.com Predator Bows: www.huntersniche.com Rhino Products: www.rhinoproducts.com New for 2015 is 3Rivers Archery’s 30th St. Joe River Bows: www.stjoeriverbows.com anniversary SS Limited Tomahawk long- Selway Archery- : www.selwayarchery.com bow. 3Rivers is celebrating 30 years of serv- ing the traditional archery industry and Selway Archery Products – Quivers: www.selwayarcheryproducts.com has created this limited edition bow to Traditional Bowhunter Magazine: www.tradbow.com commemorate the event. 46

Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 46 3/3/15 11:20 AM Recurves, Longbows, Accessories By Todd Smith

leather and comes with an embossed TradTech is the tra- running deer. Eight lockable positions ditional archery arm of ensure a customizable t. Each quiver powerhouse distribu- includes a pencil holder and scorecard tor Lancaster Archery slot.  e quiver easily holds six arrows Supply. I didn’t see and is ambidextrous for left or right TradTech at the expo handed shooters. this year but I had a Rod Jenkins is a world class shooter nice phone conversa- who travels extensively, giving semi- tion with President Rob nars that help archers become better Kaufhold. During our shots. He has a speci c shot sequence chat, Kaufhold was able system and it works. Jenkins is now to bring me up to speed o ering, through 3Rivers Archery, what with what’s new and he considers the ultimate shooting tab: exciting for Lancaster the Safari Tu Leather Tab.  e tab is Archery/TradTech faced with super slick Herman Oak for 2015. The Samick Sage takedown , with close to leather and backed with soft, comfort- First and foremost 200,000 units sold to date, continues to plant the seed of able suede.  e split nger versions on his mind was the archery and is helping to grow the sport more than any come with a generous arrow slot, a Samick Sage recurve other bow o ered by Lancaster Archery/TradTech. Its over- whelming popularity and its ability to entice so many to try removable nger spacer and a cord bow. Not that this bow the sport has earned it a spot as a must-have bow for any lock.  e tab is available in a split n- is new, really but it has archery shop anywhere. ger model or for three ngers under become a gateway bow, and it is right on target for precision introducing hundreds of thousands of the economical Sage recurve bow.  is nger shooters. people to the sport of archery world- bow is reaching young kids, older kids, wide. It’s easy to see why Kaufhold husbands, wives: families. Kaufhold was so excited about the success of was quick to point out that growing the entire industry is what it’s all about. If the sport grows, everyone grows. Kaufhold mentioned in passing that he started Lancaster Archery back in 1983 to give back to the sport that had given so much to him. It certainly seems as though his Sage takedown recurve is doing just that. Planting the seed of archery in so many new people

The 3Rivers Target Hip & Pocket Quiver is a completely new innovation in quivers for the target and 3-D shooter. The clever The Safari Tu Leather Tab was designed design allows the archer to decide whether The embossed running deer on the new by shooting coach Rod Jenkins as his ver- he or she prefers to wear it on a belt or sim- Whitetail Classic back quiver from 3Rivers sion of the ultimate shooting tab for bow- ply carry it in a back pocket. Eight lockable Archery is a nice upgrade to the classic hunting or target shooting. This new tab positions give control over the angle of the design. The quiver easily holds a dozen is constructed from super slick Herman arrows and the running deer embossed on arrows and features an antiqued antler Oak leather with a soft, comfortable suede the front is a nice, classy touch. Each quiver accent button, an arrow divider bar and backing. It is available in split  nger or includes a pencil holder and a scorecard a fully adjustable three point strap with three  ngers under versions to accommo- slot and easily holds six arrows. brass buckles. date all shooting styles. 47

Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 47 3/5/15 10:29 AM is sure to go far in growing the entire Limbs are available in weights from 25 and by providing appropriate products, sport. After all, a rising tide lifts all to 60 pounds. Even if you’re not ready it is growing the sport. Rebellion long- boats, right? to stock a complete line of traditional bows are constructed in the USA from The Samick Sage Takedown bows, the Samick Sage belongs in your solid maple and sport a solid black Recurve Bow, available in right and shop. e margins are very generous topcoat. ey’re extremely lightweight, left handed models, retails for less than and the bow, quite frankly, is a heck of only 54 inches long and available in $140.00. It’s the perfect entry level to a deal for retail customers. 25 pounds at 24 inches (35 pounds at intermediate level bow for anyone Lancaster Archery/TradTech 28 inches), so they  t younger archers interested in shooting a traditional has done a very good job these past perfectly. If your customers have been recurve bow. e 62 inch length works few years staying in touch with the asking for bows like this, consider well for shooters of all sizes. e riser ever growing interest in “ e Hunger the Rebellion. of laminated DymondWood and maple Games” movies. Its Rebellion longbow Another new product from is cut past center and comes with a is similar to the bow Katniss shoots in Lancaster Archery/TradTech is the pat- crowned shelf and brass plunger, a “ e Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part ented TopHat Roving Crown modular stabilizer and sight/quiver bushings. 1.” Here, TradTech is reaching a com- point system. It is perfectly suited for pletely new segment of archery interest roving, stump shooting and small game hunting. e  oating “crown” deliv- ers lethal knockdown power for small game hunting while the special cush- ion collar absorbs damaging energy from hard impacts on stumps and logs to help prevent arrow breakage. is innovative head can be rigged with tough synthetic arms for roving and stump shooting or with longer looped arms for bird hunting. All machined parts are made in Germany to the high- est industry standards and all parts are completely interchangeable from point to point. is is one well engineered arrow point that weighs approximately 165 grains with the short arms installed. Bearpaw Products has introduced its new e weight changes according to con- Made in the USA, the Rebellion longbow is screw-in broadhead: the German Jager another bow with a mission from Lancaster (Hunter). This good looking broadhead was  guration. If your customers are into Archery/TradTech. In an e ort to reach fans tested in the  eld by Bearpaw Products roving, stump shooting or small game of “The Hunger Games” movies, Tradtech Owner Henry Bodnik and bowhunters hunting, give the TopHat Roving Crown has made this bow very similar to the bow from the U.S. and Canada. It is available modular points a try. Katniss shoots in “The Hunger Games: in weights of 125, 145 and 175 grains. It is Tim and Gobby Cosgrove of Mockingjay - Part 1.” If your customers have hardened to HRC 54-56, comes three to a been asking for bows like the ones in “The pack and is available from Bearpaw’s mas- Kustom King Archery, along with son- Hunger Games,” consider the Rebellion. ter distributor, Kustom King Archery. in-law Eric Bell and longtime friend and co-worker Kathy Gunn, are one of

The patented modular Roving Crown The new Penthalon slimline arrows from Bearpaw Archery Products are perfect for small game and roving head from TopHat is target shooters. They’re available in black and also a unique bamboo  nish. If you have marketed in the U.S. by Lancaster Archery/ traditional archers that would like all the precision of carbon arrows in a package that TradTech. This innovative head is sure to be looks remarkably like natural bamboo, consider the Slim Line Bamboo. These arrows are a hit with traditional and compound shoot- available in spines all the way down to 1600, so even the youngest archers can now shoot ers alike. properly spined arrows. 48

Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 48 3/3/15 11:22 AM the main attractions at the expo. eir don’t have the irregularities and nodes weight recurves and longbows. is is wide selection of everything traditional found in natural bamboo. According great news because young shooters can archery is hard to resist. If you’re look- to Bearpaw, this hardly ever  nd arrows that will shoot ing for something traditional, chances is an excellent well from their super light bows. are they’ll have it with them. carbon arrow for Last and very intriguing is the new While I visited with Tim at the show, the target shooter. Bodnik Bows Mohawk T/D Recurve. he discussed three of the more excit- With seven spines It is a graceful package designed to ing new products Kustom King will be available from 400 be sure in the hand, consistent shot o ering in 2015 through the Germany all the way down after shot and very smooth but there based company Bearpaw Products. to 1600, it covers is a plan for future developments. e First is the new line of broad- bow weights from Bodnik Bows Mohawk T/D Recurve heads aptly named the “German the lightest of kids’ is going to become the Bodnik Bows Jager.” “Jager” is the German word for bows to hunting interchangeable Mohawk bow system. “hunter.” e German Jager broadhead Soon, there will be risers in 13 and is the result of the combined e orts The German of German technicians and the test- made Mohawk ing and feedback of North American takedown recurve World’s Largest bowhunters. is new broadhead was from Bodnik Bows tested by Bearpaw Products Owner is available in 60 Traditional & Primitive and 62 inch draw Henry Bodnik and bowhunters from lengths and draw Archery Supplier the U.S. and Canada in the  eld. e weights from 20 to results have been impressive. 55 pounds. Limb Bodnik, owner and founder of cores of bam- Bearpaw Products, shared this in an boo under clear Bearpaw power email to me: “We are proud that we glass sport a were able to implement our German Bearpaw Whisper quality and design in this broadhead String. Soon, a in cooperation with so many North shorter 13 inch riser and longbow American bowhunters.” limbs will be avail- e second new product is the thin able and will be diameter Bearpaw Penthalon carbon completely inter- changeable with arrow in an attractive bamboo  nish. Expert Knowledge (250+ years experience) Bearpaw still o ers the black version the recurve com- ponents, o ering Genuine Customer Care but the bamboo look is really unique. I unique mix and Top Quality Products Competitive Pricing haven’t seen the arrows myself yet but match combina- I am told it’s tough to tell them apart tions of limbs and 1-Stop Shopping from real bamboo other than how they risers. FAST – Same Day Shipping 1,000’s Online Reviews, FAQ’s, & Videos Always Open (shop anytime online or phone)

The all leather Powderhorn from Art Vincent of Cedar Ridge Leather Works is an excellent alternative to using a bow quiver. This handy quiver holds up to six wood or carbon arrows and the deep foam hood fully protects even long 3:1 ratio broadheads. Extra brass D-rings attached in strategic locations around the outer edge of the quiver back come in very handy and allow hanging of the quiver from a screw-in bow holder while hunting from a treestand. As an extra bonus, the quiver can be ordered with an attached le for touching 866-732-8783 up your broadheads or knives in the eld. 3RiversArchery.com 49

Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 49 3/3/15 11:25 AM 17 inch lengths with interchangeable innovation. His popular Hunter back after. It’s over two hours of roughing recurve and longbow limbs. One take- quiver is now available with a dual out the bow, forms and heat bending, down bow will be able to do it all, o er- pocket.  e entire front pocket is tillering, sinew backing, clay backing, ing several di erent bow lengths and a stitched onto the quiver through the rawhide backing, snakeskin backing, choice of longbow or recurve limbs. sides and bottom but the area behind tip overlays and more.  is new release Late this past deer season, I the pocket is unstitched, forming a slim from Yancey is sure to be a strong seller. started carrying the new Powderhorn second pocket for a  le or sheath knife. Bob Mayo and his wife Jan of Ace side quiver from Art Vincent of Cedar  e quiver itself is quite roomy and Archery Tackle are always at the expo Ridge Leather Works. I have been made of top quality leather and the top and ready to discuss their broadheads, very impressed. Vincent is a crafts- is round, braided with tough kangaroo small game Hex Blunts, spine testers man and the workmanship on these leather.  e decorative antler button and other products.  is year, when I quivers is  rst class.  e all leather with leather ties is a classy addition asked Bob what was new, he showed Powderhorn holds up to six wood or to a classic back quiver. Cedar Ridge me some attractive brass screw-in carbon arrows securely and the deep Leather Works also accepts custom points and a strange looking point foam hood fully protects even long orders, so if you’d like to treat yourself called the “Ace Arrow Wrangler.” 3:1 ratio broadheads.  e adjustable to a customized, one-of-a-kind quiver I guess he gets this question a lot shoulder strap gives complete control or carry any of its leather goods, give and no, the Ace Arrow Wrangler is over how the quiver rides as you work the manufacturer a call. not for shooting around corners. It’s your way through your hunting terrain. Mike Yancey of Pine Hollow for  nding arrows that get lost in the Extra brass D-rings attached in strate- Longbows recently started distribu- grass or leaves. It comes in glue-on and gic locations around the outer edge of tion of his new DVD, “Building the screw-in versions and pays for itself the quiver come in very handy. I found Sinew Backed Bow with Mike Yancey.” quickly by helping you  nd arrows you one of them to work perfectly for hang- Yancey is known for his beautifully may never have found without it. Just ing the quiver from a screw-in bow crafted self bows that draw smoothly rake the ground where you last saw holder while hunting from a treestand. and cast arrows with authority. With your arrow until it turns up.  is handy As an extra bonus, tucked right under the information in this new DVD, any- little tool is machined from solid brass; your arrows, you’ll  nd a  le for broad- one can learn, from one of the best, head sharpening.  e Powderhorn how to build his or her own sinew side quiver from Cedar Ridge Leather backed bow. Many traditional shoot- Works is an exceptional alternative to ers are interested in making their own using a bow quiver. bows and this DVD is the one to have For those who prefer back quiv- if sinew backed bows are what they’re ers, Vincent has introduced a new

Bob and Jan Mayo own Ace Archery Tackle, manufacturers of Ace broadheads, spine testers, arrow straighteners, small game hex blunts, and much more. Ace Archery tackle has been in business since 1927 and they’re still going strong.

Mike Yancey, owner of Pine Hollow Longbows, has long been recognized as one of the top builders in the United States. He o ers bow building classes year Many traditional shooters prefer back round but there’s only so much time and The Ace Arrow Wrangler might look like quivers and for those folks, Art Vincent has limited spaces available. Now, would-be it’s for shooting around corners but Bob just introduced a new innovation. His popu- sinew backed bow builders have another Mayo assured us that it is a tool for nding lar Hunter back quiver is now available with option: the new DVD “Building the Sinew arrows hidden under the grass or in the a dual pocket. The external pocket, shown Backed Bow with Mike Yancey.” This com- leaves. It is available in screw-in and glue- at left above, is stitched only on the sides prehensive DVD includes over two hours on versions and easily ts in an archer’s and bottom. The top is open so a knife and of roughing out the bow, forms and heat quiver. It earns its keep by nding lost le can be slid in behind the pocket for easy bending, sinew backing, clay backing, til- arrows and has proven itself as a strong access. Vincent also does amazing custom lering, rawhide backing, snakeskin back- impulse seller if you keep some on or near work, as shown in the sample at right. ing, tip overlays and more. the counter. 50

Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 50 3/3/15 11:27 AM the glue-on version has a standard 5 the game is setting up bowhunters for degree taper and a screw-in version ts success even when things go wrong. New Shock Stopper standard carbon or aluminium arrows.  ey de nitely go against the grain  e Wrangler is easy to carry in a when they suggest arrow and broad- for Oneida Bows quiver and makes a great gift for friends head setups that weigh a minimum of #1094 who ask you to spend too much time 650 grains. helping them nd their lost arrows. Alaska Bowhunting Supply’s Keep some at the counter; they’re great unique approach is to provide an arrow impulse buys. and broadhead system that, when used  e Ace Screw-In Brass Points together, can actually split bone and were introduced in response to many allow bowhunters to harvest animals if Works as a Limb Dampener and a String requests from the Ace Archery Tackle’s they accidentally hit a shoulder blade, Suppressor all in one. These customers who were looking for points even on large animals like elk and dampeners fit Oneida bows from that would be easier to pull from foam moose. As a matter of fact, President 2003 until present. targets.  e aerodynamic shape  ares Garrett Schlief shared with me that out to be larger than the shaft diam- the company’s arrow-broadhead sys- Super Speed eter, allowing for easy pulling from tar- tem has taken Cape bu alo and Asiatic gets.  e points are for 5/16 carbon water bu alo with shots through the String Sleeves and aluminium shafts and available in shoulder blade. #1037b weights of 100, 125, 145, 160, 175 and  e GrizzlyStik line of arrows 200 grains. and broadheads has a couple of new Not only was G. Fred Asbell one products for 2015. First is what Alaska of the keynote speakers this year; he Bowhunting Supply is calling a “game and his wife Teresa were there in a big changer” in arrows.  e new arrows way.  ey have so many products and are the GrizzlyStik Momentum TDT so much variety, it’s an event just to ( in Diameter Taper) series.  e new The Super visit their booth.  ey o er wool cloth- Momentum TDT arrows are full length Speed String Sleeves are ing, bow quivers, knives and sheaths, tapered woven carbon arrows with built a new edition to the BowJax bow cases, books, DVDs and much, in FOC (Forward of Center). Alaska String Silencer Category. much more. Bowhunting Supply accomplishes this • Silence your bowstrings  e Asbells are well known for their with a 12 percent taper from tip to • Help give that little bit of wool garments, all made in the USA added speed you need and all hand sewn, mostly by Teresa • Weigh 26 grains herself.  is year, they introduced a nice black and pink checker print for Silent Tamer the ladies. For the folks at GrizzlyStik (Alaska Stabilizer Dampener Bowhunting Supply), the name of #1052

Silent Tamer Stabilizer Dampeners provides an extra level of dampening to your stabilizers. These innovative G. Fred and Teresa Asbell o er a wide dampeners are just the right selection of books, DVDs, quivers, bow weight to work effectively. They cases, haversacks, knives, armguards and fit ¾” up to1¼” stabilizers. These unique solid brass points from Ace handmade wool apparel. This year, they Archery Tackle were designed with the tar- have introduced a nice pink and black get and 3-D shooter in mind. Their aero- checked wool for the ladies. The new pat- dynamic shape ensures accurate ight tern is available on ponchos, zippered and easy removal from foam targets. The jackets and pullovers with or without brass is quite striking in appearance and hoods. The plan for 2015 is to o er more the heads are popular with medieval shoot- for outdoor women, which happens to be ers and those who want to try something the fastest growing segment of the hunt- di erent. ing industry. 208-762-3692 [email protected] 51

Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 51 3/3/15 11:28 AM tail. is means the arrows are thicker and sti er at the point end, tapering back to a lighter weight and a lighter spined tail. e new design decreased the external diameter of the current Momentum U-FOC arrows by 12 per- cent and increased the wall thickness by 52 percent, making the arrows super tough. ey recover from archer’s paradox and impact paradox almost Alaska Bowhunting Supply thinks it has a game changer on its hands with the new instantly, greatly increasing penetra- Momentum TDT (Thin Diameter Taper) arrows. These are still the only full length tapered tion. (Impact paradox is the sideways carbon arrows on the market. Tapered arrows like this, with built-in FOC (Forward of  exing motion an arrow goes through Center) o er more strength and more sti ness up front, maximize penetration, improve on impact and as it moves forward downrange accuracy and consistency and resist wind drift. during penetration.) It has been shown way to 100 pounds and up. Internally, and Asiatic water bu alo. is is the in Dr. Ed Ashby’s testing that when the Momentum TDT tapered carbon broadhead that has split elephant ribs arrows are at least 5 percent smaller arrows are .205 of an inch in diameter and shot right through Cape bu alo in diameter than the back end of the and parallel, so cutting to length can be and Asiatic water bu alo shoulder broadhead, penetration is increased done from the point or nock end. Any blades. Yet, once in a while, in extreme by 14 percent and tapered arrows show .202 to .205 of an inch nock, like Easton conditions, there have been issues. an 8 percent penetration advantage X-nocks and Bohning A-nocks, should Addressing these issues has caused over parallel arrows. By combining  t them nicely. changes to the forged broadhead line. these two attributes with the extreme The next big change in the For 2015, all forged GrizzlyStik and ultra-extreme FOC percentages GrizzlyStik line is in the design of broadheads will have a redesigned possible with the Momentum TDT its forged broadheads. At this time, ferrule-post. is ferrule-post is 400 arrows, the GrizzlyStik folks think they GrizzlyStik broadheads are available in percent stronger and is designed to  t might just have the best penetrating the Monarch 150 grain, the Monarch only the new proprietary GrizzlyStik arrow and broadhead system available 200 grain, the Nanook 315 grain and inserts. e change will happen in 2015 anywhere. e arrows are available the Ashby 315 grain versions. What and once it is in place, all GrizzlyStik in 550, 450, 330, 250 and 175 de ec- makes them so unique is that they forged broadheads will use new pro- tions for bows from 40 pounds all the are each forged from a single piece of prietary GrizzlyStik inserts. e two 440C stainless steel, so the transition piece GrizzlyStik broadheads will still from ferrule to tip is extremely smooth.  t conventional inserts. e granddaddy of the forged heads, Monty Browning has been one the 315 grain Ashby, has taken over of my bowhunting heroes for many 50 elephants and hundreds of Cape years. His warm, unassuming manner and the vibrant twinkle in his eyes endeared me to him instantly. He is a storyteller extraordinaire and has hunted all sorts of big game all over the world. His attraction to bowhunt- ing dangerous big game has resulted in extraordinary experiences and these stories of adventure and survival are excellent reading. Drop Browning o in the middle of nowhere with his straight ended long- bow and a quiver of sharp broadhead- tipped arrows and he is in his element. I chatted with him at the expo and paged through my copy of his new Monty Browning is one of the most hum- book, “Bowhunting, A Passion for Life.” ble yet experienced bowhunters you will ever meet. He is a master storyteller and Stunning color photos graced nearly he loves to laugh. His new book, released every page and the Bible verses sprin- at the expo, is  lled with dramatic color Tim and Tricia Gardner, owners of Outdoor kled throughout made his convictions photos and dozens of stories of his bow- Lines LLC, are known for their hand twisted crystal clear. hunting adventures around the world. Flemish strings and string maker’s wax. Tim and Tricia Gardner of “Bowhunting, A Passion for Life” indeed They just entered the custom wood arrow Outdoor tells the tale of a man passionate about life, business by purchasing Brandywine Lines are best known for their hand- bowhunting and God. Traditional Arrows from Ross Vickers. twisted Flemish strings and string 52

Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 52 3/3/15 11:29 AM maker’s wax but they also just pur- limb options ranging from a black information can be found at the begin- chased Brandywine Traditional Arrows glass Hunter to an elegant Red Elm ning of this article. from Ross Vickers. Vickers had been under clear glass or bold Bocote under During the expo, I was pleased making custom wooden arrows for clear glass, with many other options to share some time with T.J. Conrads, himself for years prior to making this in between.  is interchangeability founder of Traditional Bowhunter craft into a thriving business in 2003. makes for a very dealer friendly tra- Magazine (TBM). If you’re not famil- Last year, at the expo, Tim noticed the ditional bow line because with a few iar with TBM, you are missing out. It’s arrows that Vickers had for sale and components stocked, the dealer can t a leading publication for traditional said it was love at rst sight. All the almost every customer with higher end archers and bowhunters worldwide. vibrant colors and di erent color com- equipment, which will of course lead You can nd TBM on newsstands binations of wood stain and feathers to more satisfaction and longevity for throughout the United States and captivated him. Tim shared, “ ere is new traditional archers and veterans of Canada and in an ever increasing num- something about a wood arrow that the sport alike. ber of archery shops. seems pure and simple with an ele- Although best known for its In addition to its print magazine, ment of romance, which adds to the recurves, Predator is now putting more TBM has digital subscriptions avail- already gratifying sport of traditional emphasis on its longbows.  e Lobo able on its website. As of May 2014, archery.” longbow is newly designed for 2015. TBM is available as a digital subscrip- Tim and Tricia decided it would  e Lobo features more re ex/de ex tion through Pocketmags.com and the be a good idea to add Brandywine than its big brother, the Phoenix and it iTunes Newsstand. As Conrads noted, Traditional Arrows to their current is considered a more modern longbow “We have a myriad of subscribers who business for many reasons but also to in comparison.  e Lobo will be the not only want the printed issues; they help their three young boys to learn pinnacle of the Predator longbows and want digital subscriptions as well. Due about business and to broaden their will be available in the popular 62 and to the timeless information and classic interests beyond all things electronic. 64 inch bow lengths.  e Phoenix and content, past issues have become col-  is is something that can be passed Lobo models are available in a variety lector’s items for many of our readers.” down to them as a legacy. of combinations and both will have While we visited, Conrads intro- Tim called Brandywine Traditional carbon cores as standard. Ron Pittsley duced me to the new TBM advertise- Arrows, talked to Vickers and asked and Mike Hoadley have put years of ment manager, Kerri Doyle. Doyle was if he would be interested in sell- experience into research and devel- a pleasure to deal with; her enthusiastic ing. Within a week, Vickers called back. opment, making  e Gardners asked him to come up these longbows with a selling price and then spent time worthy of bearing praying about it.  ey came up with a the Predator name. number and when Vickers called back, It is impor- he asked for the exact same number. To tant to note that Tim and Tricia, it was a direct answer to all Predator bows their prayers. are crafted from Now they’re busy twisting Flemish the nest materi- strings and hand crafting beautiful cus- als available.  ey tom wood arrows. If you’re in the mar- use U.S. made ket for either, contact Tim or Tricia; composites, choice they’d be glad to help. exotic woods and Since 1989, Predator Bows has Predator’s own established a reputation for pro- Futurewood (sta- ducing some of the top performing bilized hardwoods) takedown recurves on the market. In in the construction 1996, it introduced an interchange- of every bow to able limb system, now known as the ensure the highest P.L.F. (Predator Limb Fit) system. All quality and per- Predator takedown recurve bows made formance for your since then feature the P.L.F. system and money.  ere never are interchangeable. was nor will there For 2015, Predator has expanded ever be plywood the riser model options to include in the construc- the price conscious Hunter DX; the tion of a Predator machined aluminium, performance bow. Predator driven Velocity and the new Custom Bows is actively Reen Steenkamp wood model. You can mix and match seeking strong [email protected] any of these risers with 60 or 62 inch dealers; its contact 53

Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 53 3/3/15 11:30 AM demeanor was refreshing. She brings interested market. now and an innovative Flex-Quiver an understanding of hunting, bow- I have known Gordy Mickens, made for takedown bows.  e Flex- hunting and shing to TBM as well as owner of Selway Archery, for over 25 Quiver has a bracket that is welded to a eight years of experience with Cabela’s years and seeing him at the expo was bezel that stays attached to the bow so as an ATF Administrator. Her degree in a nice surprise. As always, his side- the quiver can be easily removed from business and her outstanding interper- kick of many years, Andy Kohlhofer, the bracket if so desired.  at way, the sonal and professional communication was with him but there was a twist; bow does not have to be taken down to skills make her a valuable addition to Mickens recently sold the quiver por- remove the quiver. the TBM team. tion of Selway Archery to Kohlhofer, Kohlhofer is looking well into Other changes within TBM include which elevated Kohlhofer from “side- the future and shared his vision; “We contracting David Balowski as a sec- kick” status to the new owner. (Mickens will continue the tradition of Selway ond eld advertising representative. will continue to offer Limbsaver Archery as a family business. Drew, my Balowski, along with Mark Viehweg, bow stringers.) son, will be running the customer ser- will help to expand the company’s Kohlhofer shared with me, “First vice and PR work. My wife, Debbie, will advertising base. New markets are of all, we are very proud and excited to handle the shipping and o ce duties. being explored for newsstand distri- be carrying on such a great business as Drew and I will work together to do bution and TBM is working with pro- Selway Archery. Knowing Gordy over everything else. One day, we are hope- fessional leaders to help attract and 20 years made the decision an easy one ful our daughter Stefanie will join us maintain subscribers in existing and to purchase the business from my best as well. We’re excited and honored to new markets. friend, just knowing how much of his have this opportunity to take the com- Conrads wrapped up our conver- heart and soul he put into it.” pany that Gordy started from scratch sation with the following: “ e changes Not only are the Kohlhofers 25 years ago into the future for at least we make today will assure our read- the new owners of Selway Archery another 25 years.” ers and advertisers that the same Products; they are introducing a few As I walked by one booth at great magazine will continue into the innovations to the quiver line. New for the expo, I noticed a new vendor in future.” 2015 are a mini-quiver, which is just a the spot where I always used to see As TBM moves forward, it will con- smaller three to four arrow version of Bill Bonzar of Allegheny Mountain tinue to entertain readers with bow- the regular sized quivers Selway sells Arrow Woods.  e new company was hunting adventures as well as technical and historical information while pro- viding an avenue for large and small businesses to show their products to an

Times are changing at Traditional Jonathan Holdeman (left), owner of Bowhunter Magazine. Here is TBM founder Kootenai River Arrow Works, stands with T.J. Conrads with new Advertisement Bill Bonzar of Allegheny Mountain Arrow Manager Kerri Doyle. Doyle is young, tal- New for 2015 is the Flex-Quiver that Woods. Bonzar just recently sold his com- ented and motivated to grow the maga- Andy Kohlhofer, owner of Selway Archery pany to Holdeman and was at the show zine. Her background in the hunting and Products, is showing here. The new quiver giving him a hand. Kootenai River Arrow archery industries and her drive bode well really dampens any hand shock left in bows Works o ers several varieties of wood for the continued growth of the magazine. and is a very easy-on and easy-o option shafting, specializing in Western Larch. It Maybe it’s time for you to stock Traditional for bowhunters who shoot three piece take- now o ers 10 inch tapering, custom arrows Bowhunter Magazine; if so, contact Doyle. down bows. and arrow test kits. 54

Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 54 3/3/15 11:30 AM Kootenai River Arrow Woods and the the expo and she owner Jonathan Holdeman. Holdeman shared this: “We are showed me his excellent product line: very excited about boxes of Western Larch, hickory and this new addition to ash shafting. He also o ered a new our bow lineup. We Port Orford Cedar option with a 10 inch wanted a bow that taper.  ere were some sample arrows could  t every mem- made from these shafts there and they ber of your family, were very well executed. so we designed the It turns out that Holdeman actu- Torrent longbow ally bought Allegheny Mountain Arrow with a shorter riser Woods from Bonzar. Bonzar, ready and longer working to move on to other pursuits, made limb for a smoother, Holdeman an o er he couldn’t refuse longer draw in a and just like that, Holdeman’s busi- shorter longbow. ness expanded.  e riser design is Kootenai River Arrow Woods spe- borrowed from our cializes in Western Larch shafting, Torrent recurve and which Holdeman says has a little more incorporates many spring to the shaft, seems to be stron- of the classic features ger and has much straighter grain than folks have come Douglas  r. Larch is Holdeman’s favor- to expect in a St. ite wood for shooting because of the Joe River longbow: way it  ies from the bow and how well reflex/deflex limbs, Bear Archery has introduced three new bows for this year. On the left is the Kodiak, with a twist; a version with White Maple it holds up. forward handle, sexy I-Beam construction, as was o ered back in the day, is new for Kootenai River Arrow Woods has curves and full cus- 2015. In the middle is a remake of the ’69 Black Beauty and on dealer pricing in place and o ers cus- tomization options the far right, refreshed for 2015, is the Kodiak Magnum now tom orders and  nished arrows as well, of wood, length, o ered in a green solid maple riser capped with green and white  berglass with Grayling Green glass on the limbs. from economy arrows to full-blown poundage and grips.” custom arrows. Custom 10 inch taper- ing and test arrow kits are also available. David and Tracey Balowski of St. Joe River Bows are all about traditional values and family, especially families that shoot traditional bows together. With that in mind, they’ve introduced the Torrent longbow. I spoke with Tracey at

BOWSTRING MATERIAL WITH SAFETY, STABILITY, SPEED, DURABILITY. RELY ON BCY

BCY-X - The latest and best compound - tough, fast, no creep.

452X - Still preferred by many top compound archers and bow companies for complete stability.

8125G - For higher arrow speed. The preferred bowstring for recurves. David and Tracey Balowski, owners of St. 8190 - Low creep, 100% toughest Dyneema. Compound or recurve. Joe River Bows, wanted a bow that could  t every member of the family, so they’ve Dynaflight 97 - The original Dyneema bowstring - very durable and safe. Use on mid introduced the Torrent longbow. It com- quality compounds and modern recurves. Also . bines a shorter riser with a longer work- B55 polyester is offered for traditional bows. ing limb for a smoother, longer draw in a shorter package. The new Torrent longbow Whatever you’re looking for in a bowstring material, serving thread, or is available in 56 and 64 inch lengths and bowstring accessories, BCY CAN HELP YOU. any weight you’d like, so everyone in the family can shoot the same model of bow. BCYFIBERS.COM PHONE (USA): 860.632.7115

1-piece_475x4875_widel.indd 1 8/17/2014 10:31:0455 AM

Layout: Stephen Libby | [email protected] | 617.899.5611 Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 55 Client: BCY | [email protected] | 860.632.7115 3/3/15 11:33 AM e Torrent longbow is available in 56 to 64 inch lengths and any weight you’d like, so everyone in the family can shoot the same model of bow. I come from the Fred Bear era. e adventures of Fred Bear and Glenn St. Charles inspired me as a young bowhunter. I dreamed of bowhunting big game in Alaska and I’m glad to say I was able to realize those dreams. Yes, Fred Bear was a living legend to me and he helped to grow the entire archery industry. Whenever I stop by the Bear Archery booth at the expo, it’s like going back in time. Seeing all the clas- sic bows, the very bows I ached to own as a kid, still tickles my adventure bone and my nostalgic bone as well. Bear Archery’s Steve Dalp holds the Black Beauty version of the Super Kodiak. It’s a As always, the Bear Archery team recreation of a bow originally o ered for had new bows to talk about but what sale back in 1969 from the manufacturer makes these new bows so interesting is now located in Florida. that they are really reintroductions of classic Bear bows of the past, enhanced I-Beam as was o ered back in the day. with more modern materials. I spoke Both have Bolivian Rosewood on each with Steve Dalp, Bear’s product man- side of the I-Beam and strips of Purple ager and he explained a couple of the Heart and White Maple on the front new Bear bows to me. and back side of the riser. Both bows Bear Archery is making a transition from DymondWood to Futurewood. e ’59 Kodiak has some changes are o ered in Satin and Gloss  nishes.” Futurewood is now being used with the for 2015. According to Dalp, “ e Another new bow Dalp showed Kodiak Magnum and will be transitioned Kodiak we make is reminiscent of the me was the Bear Super Kodiak, spe- to other bow models in the lineup that used 1959 Kodiak that was so popular in ci cally the Black Beauty. Dalp shared, DymondWood in the past. The Futurewood the day. roughout the years, Bear “Neil Byce (Gainesville director of process can result in birthmarks that are unique to each bow depending on the den- has been asked time and time again operations) and I struggled with how sity of the wood grain in each riser. These to bring this bow back into the lineup. we could launch a bow in 2015 that are highly sought after by collectors, as e ’59 Kodiak rede ned the recurve would have a similar impact with our they are one of a kind. In the photo above, bow both in beauty and performance. traditional bow enthusiasts as the ’59 you can see examples of these birthmarks. It seems like a light switch went o in Kodiak had in 2013 to present. We ’59 in comparison to prior years. Mr. landed on a bow that has been repeat- with green and white  berglass with Bear introduced beautiful and vibrant edly requested over the years: the ever- Grayling Green glass on the limbs. colors with exotic woods and  nishes. popular ’69 Black Beauty Super Kodiak. “Bear is making a transition from is changed the design of traditional Neil Byce and his team in Gainesville DymondWood that has been used in bows from that point forward. have done a tremendous job in recreat- constructing some of our bows in the “ is year, we are still o ering the ing this classic recurve.” Dalp was pretty past to Hard-Rock Maple. is solid Kodiak with a Purple Heart I-Beam pumped about this bow and it is easy to maple utilizes a process used by Mr. but new for 2015 is a White Maple see why. is bow lives up to the name Bear back in the 70s and was known as “Black Beauty.” Futurewood. is process is now being e third bow used with the Kodiak Magnum and will we discussed was be transitioned to other bow models in the shorter Kodiak our lineup that had used DymondWood Magnum. Again, in the past. e Futurewood process Dalp told the story; can result in birthmarks that are unique “Another bow that to each bow depending on the density has been refreshed of the wood grain in each riser. ese for 2015 is the are highly sought after by collectors, as Kodiak Magnum. they are one of a kind.” We are o ering this As always, it was a treat to chat with bow in a green solid the guys at Bear Archery and it seems maple riser capped  tting for them to attend the expo; after 56

Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 56 3/5/15 9:29 AM all, Bear Archery’s past is deeply rooted stumps and clumps of brush helps feeling of satisfaction, knowing they in Michigan. to keep your instinctive shooting eye did their part. I have been involved in the tradi- sharp.  e problem for those using Be sure to encourage and service tional archery industry since the late quivers with hood foam has been keep- the growing trends in archery, like the 1970s and I have seen many manu- ing the Judo tipped arrow tight in the compound shooters giving traditional facturers of bow cases come and go. quiver hood. Some folks turn the arrow archery a try and the women and kids When I ran into Dawn Brady of Rhino around and push the nock end into that are fueling additional growth. Products at the expo, it was impressive the hood instead of the point end but I Whether you’re looking to add tradi- to learn that Rhino has been in busi- have never liked doing that. I like all my tional archery gear to your shop for ness since 1990. Initially, it manufac- arrows to face the same way. the  rst time or expand what you’re tured medical bags but in 2012, Rhino  at’s why I am impressed with already o ering, check out the com- expanded its product line to include the J-Grip.  e lightweight aluminum panies and products mentioned in this sporting bags and traditional archery J-Grip is inserted into the foam of your article for new and unique products. bow cases and the growth on the archery quiver so that the ridges grip the sides  eir website information is listed at side has been very encouraging. of the foam, keeping the unit in place. the beginning of this article. Rhino had quite an assortment A Rare Earth magnet inside the J-Grip Shoot true. Todd Smith of bow cases on hand at the show will snap onto the tip of your Judo and and these cases were priced correctly. hold it securely in place with a strong About e Author: Todd Smith Rhino o ers strung bow cases, two 2 pound grip. When you’re ready to has been professionally involved in the piece cases and three remove your arrow, the Judo easily traditional archery industry for over piece takedown bow cases and for unsnaps from the magnet while the 30 years. Since 2008, he has worked 2015, Rhino is adding a split and pad- J-Grip stays in the hood.  e J-Grip directly with many traditional archery ded case for traditional shooters so is 100 percent made in the USA and companies, o ering marketing services they can leave their bow quivers on the is one of those items that you can such as website design and content bow during transport and storage. keep right on the counter; it’s a great management, ad creation and graphic Brady mentioned that she is always impulse seller and a true friend to the design, catalog creation and email and looking for new dealers to carry her roving bowhunter. social media marketing through his products and is very open to customiz- website, ToddSmithCo.com. ing cases or bags for whatever applica- Conclusion tion or bow you might need a case for. We all see it; the archery industry Most traditional bowhunters carry continues to experience strong growth. a Judo tipped arrow in their quivers Key players in traditional archery, as so they can do some stump shooting well as in conventional archery, con- while out hunting. Shooting at leaves, tinue to push forward, planting the seeds for future crops of target archers and bowhunters. By working together and embracing all facets of archery, we can ensure a bright future for the sport and at the end of the day, those who perpetuate the sport will enjoy a

Dawn Brady of Rhino Products manu- Bowhunters have never had a good factures several di erent bow cases, from method of carrying a Judo tipped arrow strung bow cases to two and three piece with them while hunting. That has all cases. For 2015, she is o ering a strung changed with the J-Grip. The lightweight bow case that allows archers to leave their aluminum J-Grip goes into the hood foam bow quivers attached. Brady makes every- of the quiver and a magnet holds the Judo thing in Michigan and is looking for deal- tipped arrow securely in place. J-Grips can ers to stock her cases. Custom orders are be great impulse sellers; keep them on the welcomed. front counter. 57

Apr15AT046-057T-R-V.indd 57 3/4/15 7:24 PM