Trad Gang

Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: Even on July 09, 2024, 08:16:31 PM

Title: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 09, 2024, 08:16:31 PM
I was thinking about this the other day, regarding my own bows, and thought it might make an interesting topic:

If you could only have ONE bow, of all your bows... which one would it be, and WHY?

I don't have an agenda here, other than to learn about some nice bows, and why they are special to you.  It could be any reason, from the sentimental, to the practical. 

Personally, its now my 62#, 66" Sentman longbow.  A few months ago, I'd have said my Zebra Grevy, but the Sentman is just so... natural.   It just silently goes where I look.  LOVE that.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 10, 2024, 07:38:29 AM
I have 4 MOABs and that's what I would choose.  I've killed more stuff with them by far.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Jim Wright on July 10, 2024, 11:04:44 AM
For me a Toelke Super D, like all of Dan's bows they're beautifully crafted, smooth, stable and exceptionally quiet but there's a special feel when I shoot them.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Wudstix on July 10, 2024, 11:20:35 AM
Dave;
It used to be my 60" MOAB 64#, but now is my 66" Moosejaw Razorback 60#, for many of the reasons you listed.  Especially, your last sentence.
 :campfire: :coffee: :archer2: :campfire:
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: rastaman on July 10, 2024, 11:46:19 AM
Last year mine was my Cari-Bow Peregrine.  This year it's my Toelke Lynx. It's a toss up for me between the two and i keep flip flopping between the two.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Magilla on July 10, 2024, 11:49:56 AM
Treadway Black Forest 60”
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 10, 2024, 12:32:44 PM
I got distracted and didn't finish.

I have a 50# that I haven't killed anything with yet as it's only been hunting once.

I've killed more with the 70#er than the 64#er, but the 60#er has killed a slew of critters. So, the 60# would be the one bow choice.

Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: kopfjaeger on July 10, 2024, 12:36:15 PM
My 1984 factory woodland camo Bear Kodiak Takedown (60#@28").

I like the way it feels and the way it shoots. I also like the easy no tools takedown system.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Roy from Pa on July 10, 2024, 01:41:01 PM
My Bear Victor Viking takedown..

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Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 10, 2024, 04:00:12 PM
Lots of beautiful 60# bows so far!  Lots of jam, but still not crazy hard on the shoulder.

Thanks for moving this thread, Rob.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 10, 2024, 04:16:56 PM
Holy Cow!!!  I've been shooting MOABs for 20 years! Here is my 1st MOAB kill in 2004 and posted here a year and four months after we started Tradgang........

70# MOAB

Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 10, 2024, 05:19:33 PM
Terry:  out of curiosity, why would you pick the 60# MOAB over the 70#, if you had to choose one?   
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 10, 2024, 05:32:07 PM
I've killed more with the 70#er than the 64#er, but the 60#er has killed a slew of critters. So, the 60# would be the one bow choice.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 10, 2024, 05:38:22 PM
Ahh, sorry, I misread the 64# for the 60#.   So volume of critters, and obviously the trust in the bow that comes from that.  Thanks!
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 10, 2024, 06:13:40 PM
No worries!  :campfire:
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Wudstix on July 10, 2024, 06:32:19 PM
I've killed more with my 64# MOAB than any other bow, but the Moosejaw has not hunted yet!!!
 :campfire: :coffee: :archer2: :campfire:
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Rob DiStefano on July 10, 2024, 08:26:26 PM
Mohawk Bows "Sparrowhawk" longbow.

Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: smokin joe on July 11, 2024, 04:01:47 PM
The bow I am going to pick up 9 times out of 10 is my Centaur Triple Carbon Elite takedown. It is 45 pounds and 60 inches long -- a very sweet bow.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: PrimitivePete on July 11, 2024, 06:50:43 PM
I finally after many years got my hands on a Schafer one piece recurve made by Paul. It gives me goosebumps to know that at some point Paul made this bow and likely shot the bow. I was always taken by the stories I have read and the pictures I have seen so this bow has a lot behind it for me.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: artifaker1 on July 12, 2024, 10:30:25 AM
Prolly my Bear takedown, that was given to me in 78". An A riser in black with a set of 53lb #3 limbs with very narrow white tips. They are very similar to black widow limbs, and might be from the custom shop at bear archery. I carried this bow all the time when I was in Wyoming and Colorado later. nothing like a takedown ....

To hunt big game it would prolly be my 61lb at 27inch 62 inch long pronghorn. it is a three piece takedown and has the bob limbs .... bamboo backed with osage on the belly, very hard shooting bow for sure and takes down to three pieces. no carbon but all laminations are working laminations so to speak. performance with heavy arrows is very similar to my mid nineties SA limbs, both checked on a chrono, sorry but it is good to know sometimes ....
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 12, 2024, 10:51:04 AM
Sentimental? My TD Sparrow Hawk Longbow that was a gift from Rob.  It has an inscription on the upper limb 'Best Friend'.  I have killed hogs, javies, pheasants, quail, and an Impala in Africa. It also came with a knife from Doug Campbell with the wood left over from the riser that I have skinned numerous animals with. VERY special bow....

It always goes with me when I fly as again, it is a TD. :thumbsup:

Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 12, 2024, 11:22:53 AM
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Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 12, 2024, 08:55:47 PM
Thats awesome, Terry, thanks for the pics!

I really like the leftover riser wood knife handle idea... a matched set. 

Guys, don't let the "There can be only one!" idea in the first post stop you.  If you have a bow that is very special to you, and you feel like sharing why, by all means do!   

Bows are special for a lot of reasons, and friendship or companionship are the best of reasons. 
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Wudstix on July 13, 2024, 12:30:10 AM
Dave;
In that case there are my Big River bows.  They are special to me, as John has passed on.  I have both a Radical D/R and mild D/R longbow, plus a Kodiak clone recurve.  The curve was my first custom bow in 1996.  The mild D/R longbow 54# has not been shot allot, due to recent acquisition, but it shows promise with heavy arrows in excess of 700 grains.
 :campfire: :coffee: :archer2: :campfire:
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 13, 2024, 04:22:13 AM
I've only ever seen good things about Big River bows.   So many great bowyers are gone, or retired :/ 
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 13, 2024, 10:22:43 AM
Thats awesome, Terry, thanks for the pics!

I really like the leftover riser wood knife handle idea... a matched set. 

You bet, here's another Rob DiStefano Sparrow Hawk pic. I'm still about a buck 85. HUGE sow.

Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Tim Reese on July 13, 2024, 11:29:34 AM
Man I hate these threads. lol. That is so hard atleast for me as all mine are extremely similar. But I still maintained the HH cheetah is my number one. One it’s the sexiest. Two it was my first ASL and third it just shoots where I point. But I could easily pic any one of these and be just as happy.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 13, 2024, 09:17:15 PM
Yeepers, Terry!  That is a LARGE pig. 

Those Cheetahs are gorgeous, Tim.   They make my HH Big five look drab.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: charles m on July 15, 2024, 11:13:08 AM
Rob,

What about that pic of that big hog you killed where you were standing by it hanging in the dark. You still got that pic and was it killed with a Sparrow Hawk also?
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: dnovo on July 15, 2024, 04:56:29 PM
Man this is a tough one. I dearly love my Wild Horse Creek Destiny longbow that I've been shooting for several years. But I won't ever give up my MOAB. Surely wish I had Jim make another for me while he was still building. And then there is my Mohawk or actually several Mohawks tha are special to me.  Any of which I would hunt with forever if that was to be.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 15, 2024, 06:07:20 PM
Haha, yeah, I thought it would be an interesting question, and decision.   For some folks, pretty easy, for others... very, very hard.   I think too, some of it is a function of TIME.  Many of us just love bows, and are always looking for that one magical bow, so when we can afford it, we add to the collection...

Then you have a new bow, and you spend time learning it, and tuning arrows, and your prior favourite sits on the rack.  But then, months, weeks, or days later, after time has passed, you pull out that older bow you love, and compare! 

Then, sometimes (as in my case!) that new bow grabs you and won't let go, and the prior favourite goes back on the rack.  OR, you shoot your old favourite, and the magic hits again, and you can't put it down.  Its still the ONE.

But then you think about PURPOSE, and that short bow you like for deep cover, or a tree stand.  But that long, string-follow ASL of yours is SO smooth, and fun to rove with, or that light-ish recurve you love for 3D courses...

Its never easy picking just one, that for sure.

I wonder if bows are like women?   Some guys have a high-school sweetheart they never stray from, forsaking all others, where as other people play the field, and weigh... options.  Be interesting research ;)
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Sant-Ravenhill on July 16, 2024, 01:23:04 AM
Purely sentimental...a yellow glass and zebra wood Bear Polar that is 66" and 44 lbs. that my dad bought new in 1961. He bought it while serving in the Army at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Gordon Jabben on July 16, 2024, 03:43:32 PM
I've actually had two.  A 21st Century 64# Nova and a Jerry Hill 55#longbow.  They both came apart after I'm sure, thousands of shots.  I've owned so many bows but these were my favorites.  21st Century with some squirrels.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 17, 2024, 01:28:42 AM
Great Pic, Gordon... love the fall colours.

I've looked at several Jerry Hill bows, but never pulled the trigger.   I've been so tempted, but they seem polarizing, more than most bows.  Some guys seem to love them, and some hate them.

What was it about yours that made it your go-to bow?
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Gordon Jabben on July 17, 2024, 01:45:00 PM
Evan that's kind of a hard question to answer.  Big Jim had the Jerry Hill bow for sale cheap at one of the shoots I went to so I bought it.  It shot high for me so I lowered the shelf a little.  After that it seemed to be the most accurate bow I had.  It's the only ASL that I thought I shot better than any of my r/d bows. It was pretty center shot and shot a wide range of spines.   I ended up really liking the dished handle and if it had a hand shock, I never noticed it.  Pretty quickly, I took some nice deer and did well on the squirrels also and it just became my go to bow.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 17, 2024, 02:03:40 PM
Thanks for your answer, I think it explains it well :)   I've never tried a fully dished handle, just a mild locator, or straight.  I'll have to give that a shot.

That deer was in beautiful condition.  Thanks for the picture!
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: toddster on July 26, 2024, 02:40:32 PM
For me my Sunset Hill was my all around favorite, killed a lot of animals with it, sweet draw, quiet and points when I aim.  Right under it, with nose in butt is my Norther Mist American.  I love this bow, grip fits me littler better, has to me more cast, and throws a heavy arrow with authority, and quiet.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Al Dente on July 26, 2024, 03:34:26 PM
For me, it's my first real investment traditional bow, a 58# Wes Wallace Mentor, aptly named after his mentor Jim Brackenbury.  I've had/have other recurves, long bows, and self bows, but that is my go-to.   
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Michael Guran on July 26, 2024, 09:36:46 PM
I have a few favorites and can’t pick just one.  This JD Berry Morning Star is one of them.  Riser looks to be rifle stock grade walnut.  I’ve had some shoulder issues the last couple of years and had to drop weight, but I’m feeling stronger and got it back out this week.  Still shoots where I’m looking and has some great mojo.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 27, 2024, 08:28:44 PM
Some beautiful figure in that walnut.   Mr. Berry seems to have a lot of fans!
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Walt Francis on July 27, 2024, 11:13:59 PM
Any Selfbow I have made and kept. 
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: mangonboat on July 27, 2024, 11:48:59 PM
I have way too many bows and several I'm sentimental about. But i really had to keep just one, it would be one I recently took responsibility for, made 35 years ago by one of our premier bowyers, now gone, for a close friend and hunting buddy who is one of our other premier bowyers who is no longer hunting. The original recipient of the bow hunted with it a lot and said for decades that he'd never sell it. But time catches up with all of us and I'm honored to now be the keeper of the mojo. I can vouch for that mojo being strong in this bow, and when my hunting days are drawing to an end, I'll pass it along. That's all I'm going to say. Some of you will see the photo and know what I'm talking about. 
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: woodchucker on July 28, 2024, 01:02:57 PM
My Bear Kodiak T/D :archer:
I've wanted one since I was a kid. 1984, when I got discharged from the Marines, I was going to buy one. I didn't
In 2015, we settled our Union contract, and I got a big retroactive pay check. I called Big Jim, and ordered one.

There's just something about getting something you've wanted, for 40 years....  :archer:
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Kirkll on July 29, 2024, 11:33:09 AM
My favorite hunting bow is the Sasquatch Hybrid long bow. I build these from 58-62”  lengths, and I shoot the 60” myself with. 30” draw.

Here is my hunting bow.

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And here are some other hybrid bows I’ve built including aftermarket Bear limbs.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/u2xWDjA2qPDZ48WaA
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 29, 2024, 12:07:59 PM
Nice again Kirk!

Three questions. ....

How is that extra arrow holder attached on the hood of the quiver, and how is it attached at the bottom(pic please)?

And, how old is the fletch cover and where did you get it?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Kirkll on July 29, 2024, 12:41:04 PM
Nice again Kirk!

Three questions. ....

How is that extra arrow holder attached on the hood of the quiver, and how is it attached at the bottom(pic please)?

And, how old is the fletch cover and where did you get it?

Thanks.

The quiver is an older Selway strap on model that i modified myself for quick access to a small game arrow. Its gotta be 15 years old. I use a standard field tip with a grass hopper for squirrels, grouse, and other running rodents in that outside mount...  They fly better than other blunts and small game tips i've used. They will tear up a turkey pretty good too. I dont shoot stumps any more... Well not intentionally. :biglaugh:

I don't have a photo of the bottom side, but there is one arrow holder on the end of the rubber. (See attached link below)  What i did was attached a single rubber arrow holder to the hood using a small screw from the back side and liquid rubber. I've hunted this bow a lot, and it's taken a beating over the years, and that added arrow holder has held up well.

I just bought one of these and cut the end off to mount on my hood.

https://www.3riversarchery.com/replacement-arrow-gripper-for-selway-bow-quivers.html


Kirk
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: BowDiddle on July 29, 2024, 12:46:16 PM
If I weren't completely eaten up with the ILF craze I would be shooing a Bigfoot super static takedown recurve.
I forget what the model is called.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 29, 2024, 12:49:37 PM
Thanks  Kirk, you missed one though  :bigsmyl:

And, how old is the fletch cover and where did you get it?
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Kirkll on July 29, 2024, 08:23:58 PM
Thanks  Kirk, you missed one though  :bigsmyl:

And, how old is the fletch cover and where did you get it?

The fletching cover is only about 10 years old, and I believe I either got it at 3rivers, or Lancaster . That is a nice cover made from saddle cloth that I believe has the option of being open on the bottom, or closed.   For many years I used fletching covers my wife made from camo handkerchiefs and had elastic at the top and completely enclosed on the bottom. The problem with those were when it got serious raining, the cover got wet and didn’t protect the fletching well because of 5ge thin material.  I much prefer the heavier saddle cloth , and have two full suits of the predator camo made from that material in the jungle green pattern.

Here are a couple elk hunting photos with an 800 pound cow elk I was cutting up to pack out of the mountains.

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Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Kirkll on July 29, 2024, 08:29:48 PM
If I weren't completely eaten up with the ILF craze I would be shooing a Bigfoot super static takedown recurve.
I forget what the model is called.

No worries there mate… I build some very nice SS ILF limbs, and risers too.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/PFxjZgjsKdrJsoZM9

https://goo.gl/photos/mFRUxAaBhJ1mPNYi9

https://goo.gl/photos/kwioyLB1KvLhhrgh9


Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 30, 2024, 07:58:47 AM
Thanks Kirk, it looks like one I got years ago from Bob Morrison.  Same camo pattern.  Mine was open at the bottom as that's the only way I'll use one.

You are making some really fine looking bow Kirk!  :clapper:
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: BowDiddle on July 30, 2024, 10:37:56 AM
If I weren't completely eaten up with the ILF craze I would be shooing a Bigfoot super static takedown recurve.
I forget what the model is called.

No worries there mate… I build some very nice SS ILF limbs, and risers too.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/PFxjZgjsKdrJsoZM9

https://goo.gl/photos/mFRUxAaBhJ1mPNYi9

https://goo.gl/photos/kwioyLB1KvLhhrgh9

I shot with a guy at a shoot in Odessa who was shooting one of your ILF SS recurves.
He was kind enough to let me shot it. Very nice shooting bow.
He also took it down, and allowed me to put the limbs on my riser. My riser is a Titan, and the limbs wouldn't fit.

If I can afford it someday, I will just go with your SS in a direct bolt down.
Looking at your website is see you have them with hidden bolts. Yeah Baby !
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Kirkll on July 30, 2024, 11:24:09 AM
If I weren't completely eaten up with the ILF craze I would be shooing a Bigfoot super static takedown recurve.
I forget what the model is called.

No worries there mate… I build some very nice SS ILF limbs, and risers too.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/PFxjZgjsKdrJsoZM9

https://goo.gl/photos/mFRUxAaBhJ1mPNYi9

https://goo.gl/photos/kwioyLB1KvLhhrgh9

I shot with a guy at a shoot in Odessa who was shooting one of your ILF SS recurves.
He was kind enough to let me shot it. Very nice shooting bow.
He also took it down, and allowed me to put the limbs on my riser. My riser is a Titan, and the limbs wouldn't fit.

If I can afford it someday, I will just go with your SS in a direct bolt down.
Looking at your website is see you have them with hidden bolts. Yeah Baby !

The limbs I build for my own ILF risers do not fit into a std ILF pocket. They are full width. But I still build limbs only that are interchangeable on other risers. Most ILF risers have lateral limb adjustment screws, and it’s critical that the limb alignment is perfect on my SS RC limbs. The limbs on my bolt down versions are not interchangeable with other risers for that very reason.

It’s also the reason I need my customers riser in hand when building aftermarket Bear limbs. Those TD Bear risers are all over the place, and differ one riser to the next. And…. They have no lateral limb adjustment. The only way I can insure good fit and alignment is by building the limbs to fit that particular riser.

Kirk
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: artifaker1 on July 30, 2024, 02:08:40 PM
............ It’s also the reason I need my customers riser in hand when building aftermarket Bear limbs. Those TD Bear risers are all over the place, and differ one riser to the next. And…. They have no lateral limb adjustment. The only way I can insure good fit and alignment is by building the limbs to fit that particular riser .........


I was just going to ask that, as this was also what was told to me by other bowyers earlier on .... Have you made any static recurve limbs for the bear system? ..... Always interested in bear limbs made by others ... checking my wallet ..... lol
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Kirkll on July 30, 2024, 03:03:05 PM
............ It’s also the reason I need my customers riser in hand when building aftermarket Bear limbs. Those TD Bear risers are all over the place, and differ one riser to the next. And…. They have no lateral limb adjustment. The only way I can insure good fit and alignment is by building the limbs to fit that particular riser .........


I was just going to ask that, as this was also what was told to me by other bowyers earlier on .... Have you made any static recurve limbs for the bear system? ..... Always interested in bear limbs made by others ... checking my wallet ..... lol

Absolutely i build the "Bare SS RC" limbs that are static tip in #2 &#3 lengths, and i build a "Big Foot Bare" riser too in 4 different lengths.   Here is a picture of one i built both Hybrid long bow & the Bare SS RC limbs for you can look at at full draw on the tiller tree....   Kirk

https://photos.app.goo.gl/NgSTVmAicvbdRrag6
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on July 30, 2024, 05:27:00 PM
Kirk, what are and where can I see 'hidden bolts'?
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: artifaker1 on July 31, 2024, 09:28:48 AM
...... Kirk, what are and where can I see 'hidden bolts'? ......

You can't see them their hidden .... lol
But seriously on his web site at the very bottom of the bows page he shows that stuff.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Mike Bolin on July 31, 2024, 02:36:45 PM
From 2017 until this spring, my favorite was the Black Widow TF/PTF. I had one of each, both 60" and both had Widow's low wrist grip. The TF (older) was 43#@28" and the PTF was 46#@28" and were my favorite style of recurve that I've owned since I started shooting traditional in 1988. Even though these bows were not particularly heavy as in mass weight, my old bow shoulder dictated a lighter weight (in the hand) bow. I picked an almost brand-new Centaur that is 62" and 43#@28" and it is fast becoming my new favorite. Very light in the hand, points well and is quick and quiet. October will tell the tale as far as hunting with the Centaur, but with every practice session, my confidence is growing.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 31, 2024, 03:36:04 PM
Given their popularity, I've been surprised that there hasn't been more Black Widows on here. 

Centaur bows seem to be great!
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Wudstix on July 31, 2024, 04:26:07 PM
I'm glad I have been able to pick up a MOAB, and a couple Big River D/R longbows; they are are light in the hand.  And now my Moosejaw that is a pleasure.
 :campfire: :coffee: :archer2: :campfire:
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on July 31, 2024, 05:33:37 PM
I sure seem to see a LOT of very good references to the MOABs, on here, and elsewhere.  Seems to have quite a rep!

How are you finding the extra length of the Moosejaw, Wud?   Shaping up for your fall hunts? 

The more I shoot my Sentman, the more I appreciate it.   I've been alternating between that, and my 70# HH Big Five this summer, but If I had to keep just one, the Sentman would stay.  Love that bow.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Wudstix on July 31, 2024, 05:47:12 PM
Enjoying shooting the 66" Moosejaw.
 :campfire: :coffee: :archer2: :campfire:
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Maclean on August 01, 2024, 11:16:21 PM
I have several bows and really like them all. It would be nearly impossible to pick a favorite. But have you ever come across a bow where you said "I wish I would have tried one of these years ago"? The Centaur longbow is  that for me right now. I'm simply amazed with this bow.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Terry Green on August 02, 2024, 10:13:40 AM
Maclean, I hear ya, but it's so obvious to me that my 60# MOAB is my favorite and most trustworthy.  If I could only have one bow to survive it would the that one.

I even have a 2nd favorite, the 70# MOAB hands down. However, it would not be my 2nd choice for survival.  That would be the 50# MOAB that has killed nothing. I trust the 60 and 70 so much, that I would give that trust to the 50#er without a 2nd thought.

Morrison Cougar(Interceptor) and Cheyenne(Zip Code),  and Centaur are great friends of mine also, but not my faves of all times.

Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Longtoke on August 02, 2024, 02:45:07 PM
Mine would be my Toelke Pika. Just a sweet shooter and preforms good for me.  I really want to try one of the carbon back centaurs though…. Someday. 

Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: CaseyK on August 13, 2024, 07:05:52 PM
For me, it's either one of my Thunderhorn 3 piece Longbows. Accurate, dead in the hand, and the quietest bows I've ever shot.
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Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: MnFn on August 16, 2024, 12:07:18 AM
Right now, it’s my Tall Tines 58” 47#/52#. I would have never ordered a 58” as I thought they had to be 60” or 62”. I had two or three of them.

But I picked up this one used and quickly found it was the best shooter of the bunch for me.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: MnFn on August 16, 2024, 12:50:12 AM
My back-up. No doubt what it is: The iconic Black Widow PSA
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Sam McMichael on August 27, 2024, 09:04:12 PM
Wow! It's been a long time since I've warmed my feet by the campfire. I have had several health issues that made it very inconvenient to pull the bow. I did not hunt for the past three deer seasons. But this year I'm getting back in the game. Still my favorite bow is my NM Shelton at 53#. It is 68 " long and is constructed of yew. It is very beautiful and smooth on the draw. I can think of no characteristics that I would change. The only other bow that is equal to this one is my other Shelton. It has exactly the same specs as the yew bow except that it is green and constructed of bamboo. They handle pretty much the same, and the only significant difference I can tell is that the yew bow draws more smoothly, while the bamboo bow seems to be "snappier". Both are great bows.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Mike Bolin on August 27, 2024, 09:37:29 PM
Welcome back Sam! Glad you are back in the game.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Bluefeather on August 27, 2024, 10:17:53 PM
My favorite bow is a 64" 1pc Asbell Bighorn recurve that is 50# at 27" and I pull it to 30". Too dang bad I can't pull that weight anymore, I guess it's time to sell it.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on August 28, 2024, 12:27:09 AM
Wow! It's been a long time since I've warmed my feet by the campfire. I have had several health issues that made it very inconvenient to pull the bow. I did not hunt for the past three deer seasons. But this year I'm getting back in the game. Still my favorite bow is my NM Shelton at 53#. It is 68 " long and is constructed of yew. It is very beautiful and smooth on the draw. I can think of no characteristics that I would change. The only other bow that is equal to this one is my other Shelton. It has exactly the same specs as the yew bow except that it is green and constructed of bamboo. They handle pretty much the same, and the only significant difference I can tell is that the yew bow draws more smoothly, while the bamboo bow seems to be "snappier". Both are great bows.

Welcome back!   

A Northern Mist Shelton around 70 lbs is my next wishlist target... eventually.   I've heard nothing but good, regarding them.   Glad to hear you are a fan :)
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on August 28, 2024, 12:30:28 AM
My favorite bow is a 64" 1pc Asbell Bighorn recurve that is 50# at 27" and I pull it to 30". Too dang bad I can't pull that weight anymore, I guess it's time to sell it.

I wonder if someone talented could reduce the draw weight for you, a bit?   Not sure what that entails, but it would be nice to be able to hold onto your favorite. 

Might change the character, though :/
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Archie on August 28, 2024, 02:44:05 AM
In the past 18 or so years, I have owned or test driven lots of different bows, and although I've been very impressed with many of them, I've always preferred the shooting experience I have with my Black Widows (PMA and PLX).  But....

A year ago I found myself quite fortunate in acquiring a 56" Cascade recurve made for me by Steve Gorr in 2023, and then a 52" Cascade magnum (also recently made by Steve).  Something about both of those bows gives me a similar shooting experience to my PMA (grip, draw, hold), except in a considerably shorter package.  I've ended up with 3 sets of limbs for each of the Cascades (light, medium, heavy), and something really agrees me about the way they load up during the draw process.  I've been drawn much more to the 52" magnum, which is shocking since I draw a tad over 30".  I wouldn't bother sharing this, except that these shorter bows have given me some unexpected benefits.  1, my string is not catching on my clothes like it used to.  I've always had trouble with that, and that's tricky for me in Alaska.  2, the "finger pinch" from the string angle of the short bow has forced me to deal with a ring finger problem that I ignored previously, and my release has improved as a result.  3, the magnum feels like I hit a wall right at the point of full draw, so it's easier to stop there, not overdraw, and hold.  4, the obvious benefits of a more compact bow in the woods.  And 5, contrary to even my own logic, I seem to be more consistent and accurate with the 52" magnum than I've been with any other bow previously.  This has been an unexpectedly enjoyable and unique experience.

So I guess the 52" Cascade Golden Hawk Magnum is the favorite now.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: kopfjaeger on September 02, 2024, 04:11:17 PM
Another favorite of mine is my 55# 1980s Bear Kodiak Takedown with illusion factory camo. Which took this nice buck for me last year (2023).
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Jegs.mich on September 02, 2024, 08:00:36 PM
My favorite recurve is my Bear b-mag.
Favorite longbow is my JT Zeus
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on September 04, 2024, 03:41:39 AM
Lots of Bear representation here!   That factory Illusion camo looks great... like it would really break up the sillhouette.

LOL, I was paying too much attention to the bow in Kopfjaeger's post, and failed to note the tiger stripes underneath.   Love that pattern... its the best on North Coast BC, bar none. 
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: kopfjaeger on September 05, 2024, 10:56:26 AM
[quote  "LOL, I was paying too much attention to the bow in Kopfjaeger's post, and failed to note the tiger stripes underneath.   Love that pattern... its the best on North Coast BC, bar none."
[/quote]

I like my tiger stripe camo BDUs for bowhunting. I bought some Fred Bear camo BDUs for bowhunting this year, it's another pattern I like. I have a wide assortment of camo patterns in bowhunting clothes.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: BRONZ on September 05, 2024, 01:57:06 PM
I've been shooting Fox High Sierras since 2009. I've taken a lot of critters. With Ron retiring, they're a little extra special for sure.

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Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: BRONZ on September 05, 2024, 01:58:43 PM
They each got one last year!



Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on September 05, 2024, 06:40:55 PM
Mr. King makes beautiful bows!  I really like the look of his risers. 

I hadn't looked through Fox's site before today... thank you for that.  Nice to know they shoot, too.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: BRONZ on September 06, 2024, 12:50:11 PM
I've watched compound guys pick up one of my bows and drive tacks. They ARE shooters for sure!
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Wudstix on September 08, 2024, 11:20:47 PM
My favorites, MOAB, Big River and Moosejaw are all not being made anymore.  All made by exceptional bowyers.  There are many others out there.
 :campfire: :coffee: :archer2: :campfire:
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Even on September 09, 2024, 03:03:12 AM
Its too bad, too... I'd like to find another Sentman, and you see them only rarely :/
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Phil Magistro on September 09, 2024, 01:05:59 PM
I hunted primarily with Bear Takedowns and DAS bows for decades. This year I sold all them and returned to my favorite bow - ASLs - as I wind down my bowhunting. My favorite now is Jim Belcher’s Hill Jack or Union Jack both true ASLs. Both are very similar except that the Hill Jack has all four laminations on the back of the riser and the Union Jack has three lams on the back and one on the belly. His craftsmanship is superb and the bows perform well for a string follow bow.  This is a Union Jack.

(https://pmagistro.com/Belcher/IMG_3639.jpeg)
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: Mike Walker on September 09, 2024, 09:51:15 PM
Hoyt Satori and it's easy for me because it's the only bow I have.
Title: Re: Your Favourite Bow
Post by: stagetek on September 16, 2024, 10:59:32 AM
As much as I enjoy my Bear T/D's, Blacktail and Widow, the ones I like the most and shoot the best are my Pittsley Preditors. I still have some with 60" limbs, but prefer the 62". They are between 47 and 51#. Beautiful, fast and a pleasure to shoot. Ron (rest his soul) did it right !