Takedown longbows

[Curmudgeon]

How well do the various takedown systems for longbows work?  Any issues with them?  If you were shooting a take down and a one piece of the same model, would there be a noticable difference?  I'm most interested in the Shrew and Hill systems.  Got an itch to order a new bow and am trying to decide.

[bow'narrow]

I shot a socket handle takedown for years.  I think it is the best takedown system for a long bow.  Nothing interferes with the grip.  It is quick to use and is solid.  If you prefer a dished grip, merely contour the grip with some leather wrap.  I live near Howard Hill archery and am familiar with Craig;s socket handle takedowns.  They are great!

[Jerry Wald]

I have a three piece A%H and a 2 piece shrew and they work great.

Jer Bear

[amar911]

The two piece Shrews use the Bow Bolt system, as do several other makes of bows. I have a Shrew with the Bow Bolt and have two more on order. I would not order a new Shrew without the Bow Bolt. I also have a Holm-Made longbow with a Bow Bolt. In my opinion it is the best two piece bow connection system in existence. Craig Warren designed and manufactures the Bow Bolt and sells it to various bowyers or anyone else who wants to buy it. Here is his website:   http://www.warrenarchery.com/

Allan

[amar911]

Here are pictures of a Helms Deep with a Bow Bolt and a Shrew Lil Favorite one piece. Both bows are made by Gregg Coffey and are virtually the same. Except for a couple of ounces or so difference in weight, a bow with a Bow Bolt feels and shoots identical to the same bow without a Bow Bolt. The bolt uses an interrupted thread that requires only a 90 degree turn of the two parts of the riser to be able to pull the bolt straight out of the female receiver section. The bolt locks up very securely and makes the bow the functional equivalent of a one piece. The only real disadvantage to having a Bow Bolt is the $200 additional cost. The advantage is the ease of transporting the bow, which can be critical at times. If you don't mind the extra cost, definitely get the Bow Bolt.

 http://s20.photobucket.com/albums/b214/javamanarchery/Helms%20Deep/?action=view¤t=Tippit1.jpg

 http://s20.photobucket.com/albums/b214/javamanarchery/Helms%20Deep/?action=view¤t=LiFavorite001.jpg

Allan

[Curmudgeon]

Alrighty then.  Thanks for the info.  I dropped a deposit on a Super Shrew w/bow bolt in the mail today.  Now the waiting begins.

[T. Downing]

I own a Black Widow PL III with their takedown system. It is first class! The locket socket is so simple and you cannot tell that it is a takedown. I like it so much that I just ordered another one! T

[Daddy Bear]

I see you've already decided, I'm sure you'll be pleased:)

My two favorites are Jerry Brumm's Jack Knife folder on one of his Critter Gitters, and a small handle sleeve on a Hill bow. I've grown accustomed to these small straight longbow handles. Both are strong and solid, but the edge goes to the Jack Knife for being the most overall KISS bomb-proof.