Inside Archery November 2023

www.insidearchery.com NOVEMBER 2023 ®

4 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 18 26 30 38 28 40 INSIDE ARCHERY (Volume 26, #9) ISSN #1940-3879, USPS #024-412 is published 10 times per year (Jan / Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep / Oct, Nov, Dec) by Apollo Creative Inc. PO Box 15827, Colorado Springs, CO 80935. Periodical postage paid at Colorado Springs, CO 80935 and at additional offices. Postmaster please send address changes to INSIDE ARCHERY, P.O. Box 986, Levittown, PA 19055-9998. INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 | VOLUME 26 | NUMBER 9 People Mrs. Doe Pee’s Just Like Mother Nature By Michaelean Pike Market Trends Bow Report Mathews 2024 Lift Gear Report Trophy Ridge Propel Drop-Away Arrow Rest Next Generation Bowhunting Optics & Rangefinders By Patrick Meitin Gear Report Q2i Archery Leading Manufacturer Bear Archery By Inside Archery Staff 16 18 38 30 26

6 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 50 8 14 10 12 50 16 44 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 | VOLUME 26 | NUMBER 9 Inside the Industry Inside Track Whitetail Deer Drive Hunting Kinsey’s Business Blueprint Bow Season is the Reason Your ATA Insights Keep Customer Focused at 2024 ATA Show Industry News The latest on news, events, and people in the archery industry ATA Action Save and Score at the ATA Show with these Exciting Promotions NASP Continues to Introduce Students to the Sport of Archery By Jack Borcherding Industry 5Q Five Questions with Rich Chrzan from Killer Food Plots 40 insidearchery.comOnline Exclusives Fresh content daily on social media! WebXtras: Gear Reports: Trophy Ridge Propel Drop-Away Arrow Rest and Q2i Archery Vanes. Bow Report: Mathews 2024 Lift Inside Archery Digital Edition Now Inside Archery can be delivered to your door, viewed on your computer, AND on your smartphone or tablet insidearchery.com/digital Three Off-Season Hunts You Can Make in the New Year What Features Should You Look for in a Bow for the Hunting You Do Most? Three DIY Western Bowhunts You Should Try & How to Make Them Happen 44 28 30

INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 Whitetail Deer Drive Hunting hitetail deer are inarguably North America’s favorite game animal. This is due largely to widespread availability, deep tradition, and because deer provide a substantial source of organic protein. Whitetails are found from the entire Atlantic coast and across the nation into the Inland Northwest, sparking a legacy of sport hunting. And let’s face it, a single deer supplies much more meat than a full season of small game. Whitetail drive our industry. Sure, hunters pursue purely Western subspecies of deer, pronghorn, black bears, elk, invasive wild hogs and other big game, but the vast majority of U.S. hunters are whitetail-centric. For most conservation agencies, more than 80 percent of funding comes through hunting and fishing—including $800 million annually spent on licenses—and around $680 million collected from Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson taxes derived from the sale of hunting equipment. Deer hunters directly contribute about $295 million of those funds annually. This money funds everything from law enforcement budgets and hunting access to vitally important management projects and habitat protection, including the propagation of endangered species that will never be hunted. And this does not account for the contributions made by private hunting conservation groups and organizations, which adds up to another estimated $440 million annually in Canada and the U.S. All hunting, but whitetail hunting in particular, has a deep impact on our industry and those who make a living by serving hunters, including your local archery pro shop. According to a recent National Deer Association report, whitetail hunters in just the Southeastern states alone spent about $8.8 billion in 2021 pursuing white-tailed deer, with a total multiplier effect of $15.8 billion when including aspects such as fuel and lodging. That same report revealed that hunters across the U.S. annually spend about $38 billion, with a $90 billion per year total economic impact—$13.1 billion of that derived directly from deer hunting. That adds up to about 209,000 jobs, including $5.5 billion in salaries and wages, and $2.1 billion in local state and federal taxes, in the Southeastern U.S. alone—and $852 million in salaries and wages annually in just Texas. Serving the whitetail craze is good for business. The newest trend in bowhunting seems to be shooting at ever greater distances, sparking an interest in 5- and 7-pin fixed-pin sights, mover sights that stretch aiming capabilities to unethical limits, longer stabilizers, more advanced drop-away rests, and compound bows offering barn burning performance. But don’t forget your straightforward whitetail hunters, those who sit in stands or blinds and seldom shoot beyond 30 yards. Blazing performance and long-range capabilities make for industry buzz, but what whitetail hunters truly need is more shooting forgiveness and smoother draw cycles making shooting easier with cold, stiff muscles, and most of all, whisper quiet shooting to eliminate string jumping on what are arguably the sport’s jumpiest game. Whitetail hunters need simplicity that promotes no-brainer shot cycles. Leave the hotrod bows and complicated accessories to Western specialists. Patrick Meitin, Executive Editor W INSIDE THE INDUSTRY INSIDE TRACK

NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM Inside Archery® is a publication of Apollo Creative Inc Printed in the USA. Publisher Apollo Creative Inc Executive Editor Patrick Meitin • [email protected] Associate Editor Michaelean Pike • [email protected] Copy Editor Kat Ainsworth Stevens Contributors Jack Borcherding | Thomas G. Floyd Cassie Gasaway | Michaelean Pike | Kurt Smith Sales & Marketing Director Stephen Mack • [email protected] (814) 341-9313 Design & Production ER Graphics / Ed Rother • [email protected] Graphic Designer Tara Bondar Social Media Manager Jason Ashe Video Editor Marc Balistreri Account Manager Pam Ludlam • [email protected] Subscription Services & Change of Address: Inside Archery® Circulation Department Inside Archery, PO Box 986, Levittown, PA 19055-9998 Phone: (844) 862-9286 • Fax: (888) 965-9961 [email protected] Publication Office Inside Archery® / Apollo Creative Inc P.O. Box 15827, Colorado Springs, CO 80935 Phone: (719) 495-9999 • www.InsideArchery.com Inside Archery founded in 1998 by Bill and Sherry Krenz Inside Archery® Copyright © 2023 Apollo Crreative Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. Inside Archery® is a registered U.S. trademark of Apollo Creative Inc. Opinions expressed in by-lined articles or columns are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, the magazine or its staff. Submission Guidelines: Apollo Creative Inc and Inside Archery® magazine assume no responsibility for unsolicited editorial, photography or art submissions. Contributors submitting articles, photos or art do so at their own risk. Material will not be returned without a selfaddressed envelope with sufficient postage. No contract, agreement, term or condition provided by any contributor shall be binding on Apollo Creative Inc unless it is signed and returned by the Editor. Archery, hunting and bowhunting are inherently dangerous activities. Improper use of hunting or archery equipment may cause serious injury or death. Always follow state and local hunting safety rules, and get required permits or licenses before hunting. Apollo Creative Inc uses reasonable efforts to include accurate and up-todate information in our publications; however, we do not make any warranties or representations as to accuracy or completeness. All information in this magazine is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. Apollo Creative Inc is not responsible for researching and investigating the accuracy of the contents of stories or advertisements published in this magazine. Readers use the information in this magazine at their own risk. Apollo Creative Inc assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this magazine, or arising from use by any person of the information in this magazine.

INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDE THE INDUSTRY BUSINESS BLUEPRINT 10 Bow Season is the Reason I Kinsey’s is the leading distributor to the archery and outdoors industry. Carrying items from your favorite brands, in-stock and ready-to-ship, the well-established company offers domestic and international retailers a wide array of products and services. Kinsey’s also owns innovative consumer brands including Alpine Archery, BlackHeart, Fin-Finder, Elevation, and October Mountain Products. For more information, please visit KinseysInc.com Presented by be cognizant of the fact that there are not only hunting bows, but also youth and target models. It’s important to service all your customers. Perhaps there’s a new bow that boasts an impressive new speed. Don’t be afraid to mention that there are bows for men, women, and children. Further, mention that you carry bows for all levels of bowhunting and at all price points. This will attract a greater expanse of customers. Go with the Flow ■ Additionally, find out which bows will be given the most marketing focus. That’s where the majority of the consumer demand will likely be placed, so that’s where you’ll want to tie up most of your open-to-buy dollars. And don’t forget about last year’s model bows. You want to enter the new bow season lean on last year’s inventory. Find out which bows are moving forward, and which bows are being discontinued, and come up with a strategy that allows you to retain margin while still turning your inventory before the product becomes stale or outdated. Don’t be shy; seek constant updates from your sales representative on projected release dates to get your orders reserved ahead of time. Drive and Thrive ■ Next, get aggressive and drive traffic to your shop. A great way to get customers into your store is to host a demo night. At this t’s happened again—bow season has arrived and harvests abound! As if that’s not exciting enough, everyone’s favorite manufacturers are releasing their new, innovative bow models. Social media and industry publications are flooded by coverage on features and benefits of these flagship bows, which will wet the appetite of your customers. It’s imperative to capitalize on these opportunities to capture the big-ticket sales that fuel strong business. Here’s your reminder how to get your shop ready to outfit your deer-hunting fanatics with the best new products available. Stock for the Flock ■ From the top, make sure you’re stocked. It is easy to get caught up in the seasonal excitement and snooze on your communications with your distributor. Be sure to familiarize yourself with what’s new. Make sure your sales rep is providing you with up-to-date information on when bows will launch and how many bows are being introduced. They should be happy to provide you with detailed information like technical specs and demographic outreach. Keep your focus broad and event, you’ll want to have a variety of new bows from everyone’s favorite brands. You’ll want to be educated on the specific upgrades and pertinent features so you can answer any questions that your customers may have. If possible, a manufacturer rep can help you with these tasks if you’re able to coordinate with them to attend on a particular night. Lastly, bait customers in with some sort of food or treat. A pizza night gives customers an excuse to come to your shop, speak with your associates and get hands-on experience with your product selection. Loud and Proud ■ Further, make sure you spread the word. Take to your social pages and post photos of new bows that are rigged and ready to shoot. Reshare manufacturer’s content. Most manufacturers have highbudget materials readily available to share that will help to sell their products for you. Visit local clubs and pass out flyers for your demo nights. Check in with your local radio station to discover any opportunities to get your name out there. In this day and age, you may even have a digital billboard available. In short, any exposure that gets in front of your customers is worth considering to make the most of this financially rewarding window. IA

12 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 Keep Customer Focused at 2024 ATA Show efore we know it, most of us will be heading to St. Louis for the 2024 ATA Show. With the entire archery and bowhunting industry under one roof, it’s easy for attendees to quickly slip into “spectator mode,” wandering up and down aisles looking for cool stuff and familiar faces. While those aspects of the Show are great, you want to make sure that the time spent in St. Louis will not only be enjoyable but also help you better serve customers throughout the year. To do that, you need to stay focused on your customers as you hit the Show floor. It sounds simple, but it’s easy to forget a few key points that can help keep you on target. And with just a few short weeks left before the Show, it’s time to start planning your strategies. The Future ■ Some of the most important customers in your business are those who haven’t yet walked through the door. Who is the customer you’ve been wanting to attract but haven’t yet? What products and offerings are they looking for? Meeting the needs of your core customer base is always key, but exploring opportunities to attract new audiences gives your business a steady stream of fresh revenue sources. That future cusINSIDE THE INDUSTRY YOUR ATA INSIGHTS B BY KURT SMITH, COURTESY OF THE ATA tomer might be beginner archers, or perhaps just folks who enjoy the simplicity of bowhunting with traditional gear. Whether it’s attending a Masterclass session to get some insights into different marketing tactics or finding a new vendor for recurves, you’ll come out of the Show with tools to attract new archers and bowhunters. Diversification ■ What do your current customers do beyond archery and bowhunting? Do they cook and process their own meat? Do they enjoy physical fitness or like to drink coffee? Although you may not be interested in those things, finding additions to your product assortment can help keep customers coming through your doors during slower times of the year and give them a sense that your shop is not just about archery, but about helping them enjoy the outdoors and having fun. Speaking to the folks in the booths is also a great chance for you to learn about their products so you can pass along that knowledge to your customers. Use your social media platforms as a method to communicate with your customer base while you’re at the Show. Take a few photos or a quick video of some potential product lines and see what kind of feedback you get. When they see the product on the shelf a few weeks later, you’ll get the added benefit of making customers feel like they’re part of your community and that you are listening to their feedback. Not Your Wallet ■ “Selling with your own wallet” refers to projecting what you value onto your customers. In other words, you don’t try to sell them anything you wouldn’t purchase yourself. While the intentions of this are good, it prevents you from selling products and features that customers want and are willing to pay for. For example, you might never put the money out for that range-finding bow sight because you think there’s too much that could go wrong. But plenty of bowhunters out there feel the higher price tag is totally worth the convenience, and they are eager to spend that extra money. If you want them to make that big purchase with you, you’ve got to put one on the shelf. As you look for new products at the Show, think like your customers and shop with their purchasing tendencies in mind. Remember you are shopping for them, not yourself. Your time in St. Louis should be enjoyable! Have fun, eat good food, and see old friends. But don’t forget the reason you are making the trip is so you can better serve your customers for the rest of the year. Don’t miss opportunities to take advantage of special deals with your tried-and-true vendors, but also take a step back and think about what would excite your customers or encourage new customers to come check out your business. Also, look for opportunities to learn from peers and industry experts regarding how you can improve your operations to better market to them or give them a truly excellent experience when they visit. Carrying out a plan at a big event takes some forethought, so be sure to check out all the Show details at ATAShow.com to plan your trip. If you have questions about the Show or how to plan, feel free to contact me at [email protected]. We look forward to seeing you in St. Louis! IA

Pope & Young Hires New Executive Director Pope & Young, America’s preeminent bowhunting organization, is pleased to announce the hiring of their new Executive Director, Justin Spring. Pope & Young is incredibly excited to bring Justin on as the next Executive Director, as well as his excitement about the direction of the organization in its entirety. Justin is a well-established conservationist, measurer, and a lifelong bowhunter who has found great success in the field. The experience Justin brings to Pope & Young comes from both his professional goals and personal passion for hunting and conservation. He’s a lifelong bowhunter and has spent the past 15 years with the Boone & Crockett Club, starting as their Assistant INSIDE THE INDUSTRY INDUSTRY NEWS Director of Big Game Records in 2008 and moving into the Director of Big Game Records role in 2015. He holds a BS degree from Northland College where he studied biology and natural resources. In addition to managing Boone & Crockett’s records department and triennial Awards Program, he also serves on both the Records & Ethics Committees for the organization. He has served on three of Pope & Young’s judges’ panels and was an administrator of five panels for Boone & Crockett. Justin recently termed out as a Director for The Montana Wild Sheep Foundation, completing a 9-year tenure on their board. Justin has had guest appearances on numerous podcasts, including MeatEater and Pope & Young’s podcast, and his writings have appeared in the Boone & Crockett Club’s books and magazines as well as other outdoor publications including Bear Hunting magazine and Sports Afield. Justin has hunted 15 of the recognized categories of big game in North America, nearly all unguided, and successfully taken four of those with archery equipment. “I am greatly honored to be selected

NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM by Pope & Young’s Board of Directors to serve as the next Executive Director for the organization”, said Justin Spring. “The passion and dedication of both the staff and leadership I have had the opportunity to work with over the last 15 years has me very excited about taking on this new position. I look forward to helping shape the positive impacts the organization can make for conservation and bowhunting in the coming years.” The Pope & Young Club is North America’s leading bowhunting and conservation organization. If you are a fair chase, ethical bowhunter, and you care about preserving the culture and future of bowhunting, then you belong to the Pope & Young Club. | JOIN TODAY AT POPE-YOUNG.ORG. USA Archery Launches Sweepstakes to Benefit Member Clubs USA Archery has partnered with some of the biggest names in archery to launch the 2024 USA Archery Sweepstakes, which aim to benefit member clubs across the country. Sweepstakes entries went on sale November 1 and remains available for purchase through August 1, 2024. Register early to be entered in all prize drawings through 2024! Prize drawings will be made on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday of each week from January 1 through November 30, and daily in December in 2024, with hundreds of incredible prizes offered, thanks to more than 20 amazing partners. The total value of all prizes is over $100,000! Among the prizes are stabilizers, bows, arrows, bowstrings, sights, stabilizer sets, binoculars, spotting scopes, tripods, gift cards, and a 10-day South African safari. Sweepstakes entrants will be eligible for all prize drawings following their date of purchase and can win more than once. Visit the USA Archery Sweepstakes website to view the prizes and drawing calendar. “Fundraising is and always has been a key component in the growth of clubs and our sport,” said USA Archery CEO Rod Menzer. “In creating the USA Archery Sweepstakes, and through the enormous generosity of our industry partners, we see this as a truly amazing and unique opportunity to help generate revenue for the sport and our member clubs in a fun way.” Proceeds from each entry will be split evenly between USA Archery and the USA Archery club selected at the point of purchase. With each purchase, at a cost of $50 per entry, the buyer will have the option to choose where their money goes. With the click of a button on a dropdown menu the buyer may select a USA Archery club to receive half the proceeds from each purchase to support clubs to host tournaments, upgrade or maintain equipment or their range, support athletes, or however the club determines funds can best benefit and sustain their club. Alternatively, the buyer may select “no affiliation” to have 100 percent of funds support USA Archery to promote and grow the sport. USA Archery would like to thank American Whitetail, Athlon Optics, Easton, Elite Archery, GAS Bowstrings, Hotel Planner, Hoyt USA, Lancaster Archery Supply, Mantis, Mathews Inc., Maven Optics, Morrell Targets, RamRods Archery, Sandstone Safaris, Scott Archery, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Steady Aim, TenPoint Crossbow Technologies, Trek, T.R.U. Ball/Axcel, Vortex Optics, and Win & Win Archery. | FOR MORE ON USA ARCHERY, GO TO USARCHERY.ORG. IA

16 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 Save and Score at the ATA Show with These Exciting Promotions INSIDE THE INDUSTRY ATA ACTION ARCHERY TRADE ASSOCIATION archerytrade.org Register now and take advantage of these deals and freebies for the ATA Show in St. Louis. ATA’s First Night’s on Us ■ All registered ATA-member retailers who book their rooms through the official housing provider will receive a $150 credit on their bill for the first night of their hotel stay, thanks to ATA’s “First Night’s on Us” hotel promotion in partnership with Explore St. Louis. You stay and we pay $150 toward the first night! Hotel reservations opened the same day as ATA Show registration on August 1, and the promotional credit will automatically apply to your first night’s stay! For full promotional details, visit archerytrade.org/ first-night-on-us. Big Buck Tags Coupon Book ■ Back by popular demand! The ATA’s Big Buck Tags coupon book is returning this year for all retailers. The coupon book offers exclusive deals from manufacturers and thousands of dollars in savings only redeemable at the ATA Show. Be on the lookout for additional Show-only deals and money-saving opportunities. Goody Bags & Inserts ■ Based on ATA-member feedback from the 2023 post-Show survey, the ATA is bringing back the goody bag for the 2024 Show. Trophy Treestands is sponsoring the 2024 ATA Show goody bag. Samantha Fowler, administrative assistant for Trophy Treestands, said, “Trophy Treestands is excited to be the 2024 ATA goody bag sponsor. We look forward to a great ATA Show. Come check out Trophy Treestands at Booth 1129.” The goody bag will include gifts, product samples, and promotional items and inserts from exhibitors. You can also use the bag to store pens, papers, and swag on the Show floor. Show attendees can pick up their free goody bag near the main registration desk. Travel Discounts ■ • Parking : Hotels in the ATA block will offer reduced parking rates ranging from 10 to 30 percent off for all ATA R egister for the 2024 Show and take advantage of deals and freebies. The 2024 ATA Show in St. Louis, which takes place January 11 through 13, is the industry’s largest celebration of archery and bowhunting. The event gathers thousands of archery professionals to see and test new products, network and meet company leaders face to face, get Show special pricing and discounts, and support the archery industry. On top of all that, the ATA is offering several promotions to make the Show even more worthwhile, while also helping ATA members increase their ROI. BY CASSIE GASAWAY UNITING THE INDUSTRY Get the most bang for your buck and capitalize on these 2024 ATA Show promotions. PHOTO © ATA

NOVEMBER 2023 17 INSIDEARCHERY.COM hotel guests staying at one of the contract hotels. • Exhibitor Parking : The ATA has reserved a secured parking lot directly next to America’s Center for exhibitor vehicles. • Airfare : The ATA has partnered with airlines to give ATA members traveling to the 2024 Show in St. Louis discounted airfare rates. More information is available at ATAShow.com by clicking on the “Travel” tab. Other Promotions & Freebies ■ • Events : Showgoers can also capitalize on free events while they’re in St. Louis, including: - Outtech Innovations on Wednesday, January 10, at 6 p.m. in America’s Ballroom. - ATA’s Industry Celebration, presented by Mossy Oak, which includes a free full dinner, drinks sponsored by CamoSpace and entertainment on Thursday, January 11, at 6 p.m. in America’s Ballroom. - The Badlands Film Festival on Friday, January 12, at 7 p.m. in the Ferrara Theatre, located in America’s Center. • T-Shirts : The ATA is giving one free T-shirt to each retailer account at the Show. Attendees can redeem the first coupon in their Big Buck Tags coupon book at the ATA info booth to get their free T-shirt. Extra T-shirts will be available for purchase. Register Now! ■ All ATA members can register for the 2024 Show and book their hotel in the ATA block today. Just visit archerytrade.org/trade-show/ registration and follow the prompts to register. The ATA Show was recognized by Trade Show Executive as one of the 100 largest trade shows in the country in its most recent rankings and is the best place to see the latest innovations and access special Show deals. For registration questions, please contact Sarah Haala, ATA’s Trade Show coordinator, at [email protected] or call (507) 233-8130. Not a member? It’s not too late to join or renew to attend the 2024 Show. Head to archerytrade.org/membership for more information or contact Kim Watson, ATA’s membership director, at [email protected] or by calling (507) 233-8133. IA Retailers that book in the ATA Hotel Block for their first night’s stay get a $150 dollar hotel credit. PHOTO © EXPLORE ST. LOUIS The Big Buck Tags coupon book is back! PHOTO © ATA. ATA’s Industry Celebration, presented by Mossy Oak, will have food, drinks and entertainment. PHOTO © ATA.

18 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 “There was one call in particular,” she told me. “It was from a gentleman in Kentucky. He was so excited he could barely get it out. ‘I just killed the biggest buck of my life. The biggest buck of my life!’ He was so excited. You cannot replicate that.” Judi is even happy to share the most common problem hunters experience with the company’s lures. “The biggest complaint we get is that the bucks are coming in before the hunters are up in the treestand and ready,” she said. The reason for Mrs. Doe Pee’s success is no secret. Since the beginning, the company has worked hard to deliver clean, pure urines—as close to Mother Nature as they can get. The First Fawn Sam Collora didn’t set out to start a successful lure company, though he’s always loved hunting, the outdoors, and wildlife. “When I was probably five or six, I had a BB gun,” he ovember is a good time of year for Sam and Judi Collora, especially Judi. She’s the one who fields the phone calls from hunters who’ve experienced success with Mrs. Doe Pee’s products and want to share their excitement. It’s possible that Judi is even more excited about these calls than the hunters themselves. k By Michaelean Pike N

NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 19 said. “I spent every waking moment outside, shooting and watching animals. We had encyclopedias, and the A volume was almost worn out because it had animals in it. “My uncle was a quail hunter, and he took my cousin, myself, and a friend of his and his son quail hunting religiously. I spent my younger years doing lots of quail hunting.” Sam enjoyed quail hunting, but as the whitetail deer population in his home state of Iowa began to grow, he eventually found his true passion—bowhunting whitetails. “That’s the part of it that I really, really enjoy,” he said. After high school, Sam went to trade school and worked for a time at a Chevrolet dealership before getting into manufacturing. He was eventually promoted to plant manager at a facility that built steel grain bins and livestock feeding and watering equipment. “I love to build things,” he said. “I’m a builder. I’m currently working on my someday house. It’s a labor of love. I gathered materials for 25 years before I started the project, so I have treasures to build it with. We have a pot-bellied stove that came out of a one-room schoolhouse where my wife’s father went to elementary school.” While Sam was working his way up at his job, Judi established a career in nursing. The couple had three daughters—Gina, Maria and Theresa—while Judi worked as a nurse. To fund his hunts, Sam began doing taxidermy on the side. Then Judi bought Sam a fawn so he would have a live model for his taxidermy, and everything changed. When people found out Sam had his own deer, they asked if he would collect some urine. Soon, Sam discovered how valuable his deer’s urine was. “I was giving urine to my buddies,” he explained. “A fellow I worked with wanted to pay me for some. I told him I really didn’t want his money, and he said it was worth it to him. He ended up paying me for some urine. Other people asked me to collect for them, and it just became a business.” A Name That Stuck “A neighbor came over, and Sam told him what he wanted to do,” Judi said. “He had people asking him for the urine, so they were discussing what they would call this company. And the neighbor said, ‘Mrs. Doe Pee, of course. That’s what you’re selling.’” k––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– k––– k–––––––––––––––––––––––––– k–––

20 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 At the time, Judi had recently given birth to the couple’s fourth child, a son named Sammy, and she was ready to enjoy full-time motherhood. She wanted nothing to do with starting a company, let alone a deer lure company. “I told them I wasn’t doing this,” she said. “I’d done my bedpan duty. I was done. I just wanted to play with the kids. Sammy was three weeks old when we brought that fawn home, and I was excited to be a stay-at-home mom. With my three older girls, I worked after they were born. I didn’t get to stay home with them.” But Sam soon won her over, and Mrs. Doe Pee's was born. “I objected to that Mrs. Doe Pee's name,” Judi said. “That’s how it stuck. But it’s not all bad. Some people get a funny look on their face when they hear it, but everybody knows what we sell.” Clean and Pure Judi and Sam began expanding their deer herd, and would eventually welcome one more child, Kristi. “The kids loved the deer,” Judi recalled. “The whole family has always loved the deer.” From the very beginning, the Colloras knew the importance of maintaining a clean facility. “We are the only deer farmers I know that clean our facility on a daily basis,” Judi said. “We use a high-pressure water wash so it stays nice and clean.” The Colloras have also perfected their collection process. “It’s so important to have a clean process,” Judi explained. “You have to keep the bacteria count down. We’re not adding an aerosol, we’re not adding a preservative. We want to keep this as close to Mother Nature as possible. “I worked in nursing for 18 years. I understand the dynamics of urine being a sterile product when it’s eliminated, and that fecal matter is loaded with bacteria. If you want

Success stories are one of the best ways to show how effective one's product is... and Mrs. Doe Pee's has tons of them, starting with co-owner Sam Collora (right) and one of several mega-bucks. y NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 21 to keep a product fresh, it’s important not to allow the two to ever sit together. So in our process, it doesn’t happen. The fecal material does not go through the top floor. If one pellet does get through, we catch it in the next part.” After the urine is collected, the Colloras cool it immediately to keep it fresh. “Urine is a good medium for bacteria growth,” Judi said. “Once the bacteria takes off, the urine isn’t going to stay as fresh. We ship to dealers in coolers with hard-frozen ice packs, and our dealers have refrigeration. So, when our dealers get it, they put it in the fridge. Hopefully when people buy it, they keep it cool until they’re ready to use it. It doesn’t go bad fast. But if you lay it in the truck and let sun shine down on it, it’s going to grow bacteria. And once the bacteria growth starts and it starts changing to ammonia, you’ve destroyed your product. We’ve had people keep it in the refrigerator for over a year, then take it out and kill big bucks with it.” Owning their own deer herd sets the Colloras apart from many other lure companies. “Because we own our own herd, we can control the quality,” Sam said. “I’m not at the mercy of somebody else and what they collect, getting the bottom of the barrel or getting old stuff. We have fresh, clean, pure, uncut product. We’re still doing the same thing we started doing, and it continues to work. “We have a waterer inside our collection area. If the deer don’t drink, they don’t pee, so we give them all the water they want to drink. And once, we had a small leak underneath the waterer overnight. It was dripping water into the urine. The next morning when I collected, I had too much. I knew there was a problem. I identified the problem, and I took all that day’s urine and poured it out. It wasn’t pure and uncut. There are people that water their urine down on purpose. But I can look anybody in the eye and tell them our stuff is not watered down.” The Collora Buck Over the years, Sam has done a great deal of testing and experimenting with deer urine. One of the things he discovered was that some commonly held beliefs about whitetails simply weren’t true. “Back then, the big companies said people shouldn’t use estrous urine early in the prerut,” Judi said. “One day, Sam sprayed down a decoy. Our daughter Maria had the video

22 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 camera, and she was going to film him talking about what he was doing. He started talking, and Maria started laughing. When he asked what she was laughing at, she told him to turn around. A buck was trying to breed the decoy. It wasn’t the buck that he wanted to show. It was the breeder buck, and his antlers were already cut off. Sam chased the buck off and started again. Maria started laughing again. The buck came back.” This continued until Sam finally locked the buck up. An overly excited buck isn’t that remarkable. What surprised Sam and Judi about this encounter was when it took place. “It was October 5th,” Judi explained. “That’s when you’re not supposed to use Doe in Estrus because it makes the does nervous.” On October 11, 1996, Sam got the chance to prove that using estrous urine early is effective—in a very big way. “After the testing, Sam switched to hunting with Doe in Estrus in the pre-rut,” Judi said. “He took some Doe in Estrus out, and in came this monster buck. He was smelling the scent, and Sam delivered an arrow.” “At the time I shot him, he was the largest gross-scoring typical ever killed with a bow and arrow,” Sam said. “It came to be called the Collora Buck. It gave us some momentum. People were like, ‘If he’s killing bucks like that, maybe this stuff works.’” “On the good side of it, we had so many people interested,” Judi said. “They wanted to use our product. On the bad side of it, our rep group said they wanted all of the phone calls sent to them, so that’s what we did. That was a big mistake. Some of the reps didn’t answer the phone calls. They didn’t respond, and people were angry that we were so arrogant we wouldn’t even take their calls. It was very disappointing.” The company did get more publicity when Sam appeared on the cover of North American Whitetail. Sam was offered speaking engagements, and the couple traveled to those for the next four years, picking up dealers and customers. In 2000, they decided to open their own sporting goods store. It wouldn’t be the last time Mrs. Doe Pee’s Doe in Estrus earned Sam a place on North American Whitetail’s cover. He’s now been on the cover four times. “I shot all but one of those bucks with Doe

NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 23 in Estrus,” he said. “And the one I didn’t use Doe in Estrus for was shot with a gun. The other three were archery deer. There are two other people that have been on the cover twice. But nobody’s been on the cover three times, and definitely not four times.” Purposeful Products Over the years, Mrs. Doe Pee's has introduced a number of effective products. “The misconception that most people have is that they need to use 17 different things during the course of the season,” Sam said. “I use Doe in Estrus early, I use Doe in Estrus during the peak, and I use Doe in Estrus late—and it works. If you’re the very first doe in heat out in the wild, the bucks are going to come find you. It’s probably as effective or even more effective early than it is late. And a lot of folks can’t bring themselves to use it until they’re in the height of the rut. Why would you wait to be the first productive doe the bucks are going to find?” “When I first started hunting, Sam told me, ‘You’re going into their house. They can’t see you. They can’t smell you. And they can’t hear you,’” Judi said. “If you’re walking in the woods and you’re not to be seen, heard or smelled, and they can smell up to 10,000 times better than we can, that’s a pretty big challenge. I always think if hunters would think in terms of what they would do instinctively—I call it the id— they’d be better hunters.” A product that uses a deer’s curiosity to the hunter’s advantage is the Early Season Prep Kit. “It uses our Continuous Scrape Set to get bucks to start the scraping process,” Judi explained. “With it, we include a small bottle of Fresh Doe urine. The does have a pecking order. And if there’s a scrape set going, they’re paying attention. There’s a stranger in the house and what are they doing here? You throw some Fresh Doe in there, and their thinking switches to, ‘Who is she and how does she fit into our pecking order?’ They end up going to the area because they’re more concerned with how she fits in than the fact that someone moved some tree limbs or put up a treestand. It’s getting them to think in different terms.” Besides Doe in Estrus, Fresh Doe and Pure, a completely unblended estrous urine, Mrs. Doe Pee's also offers Buck in Rut. “The buck urine is great in October, especially on scrapes,” Judi said. “If you’re hunting a scrape line and can tell which way the bucks are running, you can go to the end of the scrape line and drag your Doe in Estrus through it, then turn around and give a squirt of buck urine. You’re telling the bucks that are running that scrape that there’s another buck in the bedroom with their hot doe. They won’t be looking for you at all. They’re looking for another buck.” Sam developed the Land Mine for treestand and trail camera locations. “The Land Mine can be used in the prerut, during the rut and post-rut,” Judi said. “You put it in the ground and pull out a wick. The product wicks out. It works great.” With some help from a family member, the Collaras were introduced to the freeze-drying process, allowing them to sell freeze-dried urines. “It was a means of keeping our estrous k––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– k––– k––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– k–––

24 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 from one year to another without chemically changing it,” Judi said. “That was very important. We had that patent for 21 years.” The most recent product from Mrs. Doe Pee's also uses freeze-drying technology. The Game Changer is a small pad soaked in urine and then freeze-dried and packaged in a secure mylar bag for freshness. “I’m excited to see how hunters use it,” Judi said. “We sold it this entire season. It’s something people can put with their hunting gear and use when they decide they need it. I think our customers are going to tell me they used it three or four times before it wasn’t effective anymore. Some will think they have to rehydrate it because it’s freeze-dried, but they don’t have to. It will pull moisture from the air.” “Our new Game Changer is working out really well,” Sam added. “Since this is the first season for the hunters to use it, we are excited to hear their feedback!” Disease Prevention “People wonder, ‘Why is doe pee so expensive? It’s just urine,” Judi said. It’s a fair question. But managing a herd of deer involves so much more than most people understand. Given Judi’s nursing background and Sam’s passion for animals, the Colloras are committed to doing their part to prevent the spread of chronic wasting disease and epizootic hemorrhagic disease. “When CWD hit the news in 2002, I got very involved,” Judi said. “We started this CWD program. We’re double fenced. You want at least 10 feet between your two fences. That way any deer on the outside of the fence, should they get CWD, will not infect the deer on the inside. They can’t do nose to nose. We have not purchased any whitetail deer since 2002. To get a different bloodline, we use artificial insemination, but the semen comes from an animal that has died and tested negative for CWD. And you don’t share instruments. “It’s a lot of extra work. We do a great deal for prevention. There is a group called Responsible Hunting Scent Industry, and we’re part of that. We are able to sell our lures in some states where if you were just a deer farmer and you were collecting urines, you would not be able to sell your product. There are a lot of states that want

NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 25 to make sure you’re not going to bring CWD in. We even send the urine off to be tested for prions.” In addition to CWD, the Colloras are concerned about EHD, which is spread by midges. “We vaccinate for it, but if the deer are bitten a thousand times, their system’s overwhelmed,” Judi said. “It happens in either really wet seasons or really dry seasons. The deer bleed out. We first heard about it in 2004, and they estimated it killed 200,000 deer in the state of Missouri. “We airconditioned our barns so we could put deer in when it was really hot and protect them from the bad bugs. All of the grass is cut as short as it can be and fogged to keep this bug down. It’s a lot of work. We want the deer in the barn during feeding time, and dusk and dawn. Sam puts them in early and lets them out late. We want to make sure they stay healthy.” The Future of Mrs. Doe Pee's Mrs. Doe Pee's is very much a family business. “It’s fun to work with the grandkids,” Judi said. “It’s fun to work with the kids.” The couple operates Mrs. Doe Pee's under the American Outdoors corporation. Sam is the president and Judi is technically the secretary and treasurer, although Sam told me she does “the heavy lifting for the corporate stuff.” (Judi, meanwhile, explained that she does everything but wrestle deer.) “My wife gives the best customer service that anybody can ever get,” Sam said. “She cares about our dealers and works very, very hard to get product out in a timely fashion.” Both Judi and Sam hope to continue to educate hunters on how to use lures effectively in the field. “Our goal is to help hunters be successful,” Judi said. “We try to educate them on how our process is very much like Mother Nature. That’s not always the most conveA Devastating Loss On August 7, 2023, Judi and Sam lost their youngest daughter, Kristi, when she was hit by a distracted driver. It was a huge loss, both for the family and for the business. “She was a critter kid,” Sam said. “She absolutely loved critters, any kind of critter. We had a great big, burly buck named Chief, and he loved Kristi. They grew up together. He was a bottle baby, and a lot of times bottle baby bucks will get mean and nasty. This guy never did. Kristi could actually ride him. He didn’t run around with her, but she could slide on his back and he’d walk around a little bit. That’s just not heard of with a deer. It’s a natural response—anything touches their back, they get out from under it. The first time she got on him, he just turned around and looked at her like, ‘What are you doing?’ She loved it. It was a pretty enchanted childhood for a critter kid.” “Her brother wrote that she unapologetically marched to the beat of her own drum,” Judi said. “When the five kids were all drawing names for presents, she said, ‘I’m not doing that. It’s too expensive.’ She didn’t do it, but she came at Christmas with a gift for nient way for the dealers, so it makes it a little bit harder for dealers to carry our product. But it works so well. If we can help educate some hunters on how to be better hunters, how awesome is that?” “We still have the same products that we started with,” Sam said. “Our process has not changed. In fact, lots of dealers around the country tell my wife every year, ‘Please do not sell your company. Because you maintain the quality that we’ve come to know and enjoy and want for our customers.’ “We cater to the hardcore deer hunters. We appeal to the people who understand it. I did an interview one time, and I told the interviewer, ‘If our buck lure was a car, it would be a Lamborghini.’ It’s the highest quality you can get. It’s real, fresh, uncut.” When I asked what we could expect from Mrs. Doe Pee's in the future, Judi had a simple answer: “Continued good, clean urines that are natural. And successful hunts. That’s what you can expect.” IA everyone. She was an artist. She took all the elk ivories and would make jewelry.” “She was absolutely key in our operation and always showed up when we needed help,” Sam said. Recently, the couple made the decision to close their archery shop, in large part due to the loss of their daughter. “They always say don’t make major decisions when you’re grieving, so I don’t know if that’s good, bad, or in between,” Judi said. “It’s been very hard. Kristi’s life was cut short by a driver who has been charged with vehicular homicide. I hope in the future we can prevent anyone from losing their life the way she did.” k––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– k––– k––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– k––– k–––––––––––––––––––––– k–––

26 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 MARKET TRENDS BOW REPORT The Lift’s extended Nano 740 damper lends the 2024 Lift better balance and contributes to super-quiet, vibration-free shooting. Like 2023 Mathews models, the 2024 Lift includes Bridge-Lock stabilizer mounting, for better balance and streamlining. Mathew’s new top mounted axle system, which maximizes the working surface of the RPD limbs. or more than 32 years, Sparta, Wisconsin-based Mathews Archery has been raising the bar of compound bow technology and creating an industry gold standard. I’m always excited to run the newest Mathews’ models through its paces, as it never fails to amaze me how the company continues to introduce truly innovative bow technologies that help to elevate the shooting experience by making compounds more stable, efficient, and quieter. I have made the mistake in the past of believing Mathews had achieved the peak of bow design— that they could not possibly top their last model—only to be proven wrong, year after year. Well, Mathews has done it again for 2024, introducing improvements that make shooting one of their bows more productive and enjoyable than before. Introducing the 2024 Mathews Lift— taking everything archers loved about the 2023 Phase4 and packing it into a bow that is conspicuously lighter, more stable, and better balanced. 2024 Face Lift ■ The Lift is, most of all, lighter than Mathews compound models of the past several years. The Lift 29.5 tested here is a sub-4-pound compound created through a more heavily skeletonized riser. That is what I noticed first upon pulling the Lift from its box. On closer inspection it was evident every single aspect of the Lift Dual Bridge riser was refined for 2024, with materials and weight shaved from every possible area, giving the riser a hollowed-out look of geometric trusses. The main body of the riser front and rear is thinner than last year’s Phase4. Even the wedge areas of truss transitions have been drilled out and the sight window all but hollowed. It really is a work of machining art. Of course, this riser is milled to accept QAD’s UltraRest Integrate MX2 micro-adjust arrow rest and rigid and streamlined Mathews Bridge-Lock stabilizers (in addition to front and rear embedded stabilizer taps) and sights, which also opens the use of many sight brands including dovetail mounting bars. The Lift also includes an extended Nano 740 damper just above the lower limb pocket, which pulls multiaxis vibrations out of the riser while also introducing better balance in the hand. The front-top riser edge includes a milled-in loop that should make a great tie-off point for a pull-up rope or a convenient attachment point for a shoulder sling. More important for pure shootability, the Lift 29.5 riser is a full inch longer than last year’s Phase4 29, and includes a less pronounced reflex geometry, placing the grip throat closer to the limb pivot points for better inhand stability and balance. F BY PATRICK MEITIN Riser Accessories ■ Paired with the longer riser are notably shorter limbs, an inch shorter on the Lift 29.5 than the 2023 Phase4. These limbs include Resistance Phase Dampening (RPD) and are heavily preloaded. This was made possible through the Lift’s new topmounted axle system, which maximizes the working surface area of the limbs—also subtracting weight and increasing stability across the entire platform. This combination translated into remarkably quiet shooting from the heaviest through the lightest of our test arrows and results in a vibrationfree shooting experience. The Lift includes what has become Mathews’ trademark look of the Center Pivot Roller Guard, anchored above the arrow rest and angling downward at 45 degrees to shift the buss-cable tension point to the exact center of the bow for improved cam dynamics. The Lift holds a standard carbon-mounted string stop. The Lift’s milled aluminum limb pockets were also refined for 2024, but still include taps for Mathews’ Silent Connect System pull-up rope and shoulder sling studs. The Lift sports a new for 2024 Mathews Shot Sense compatible grip. As delivered, this is a comfortable, wrap-around rubber insert with light texturing in all the right places. As an accessory Shot Sense pairs with the Shot Sense app to provide bow movement feedback and data to help archers become better shooters by perfecting Mathews 2024 Lift

NOVEMBER 2023 27 INSIDEARCHERY.COM Arrow Speed Mathews Lift set at 70.0 pounds at 30.0 inches. 29-inch Arrows/ Shaft Finished Kinetic Arrow 100-Grain Tips gpi Arrow Wt. Energy Speed ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CX Triad 300 10.9 564 grains 108.7 ft. lbs. 294.6 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Easton T64 DF 7.9 tapered 528 grains 104.6 ft. lbs. 298.7 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Bloodsport Evidence 300 11.7 518 grains 103.6 ft. lbs. 300.1 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Arrow Tech MT 12.2 508 grains 106.3 ft. lbs. 306.9 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Victory VAP-SS 300 9.9 473 grains 99.6 ft. lbs. 307.9 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CX Max RED SD 350 9.4 465 grains 98.0 ft. lbs. 308.1 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Black Eagle Spartan 340 9.9 453 grains 100.3 ft. lbs. 315.8 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Victory VAP 300 8.7 424 grains 97.8 ft. lbs. 322.2 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Easton Hexx 330 7.9 386 grains 95.8 ft. lbs. 334.3 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Black Eagle Carnivore 350 7.5 363 grains 91.4 ft. lbs. 336.7 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Victory RIP XV 300 7.0 355 grains 93.5 ft. lbs. 344.3 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Liberty Archery 320 5.9 292 grains 84.2 ft. lbs. 360.4 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Arrows shot from a Spot-Hogg Hooter Shooter and velocity established using a Shooting Chrony chronograph. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (608) 269-2728 OR VISIT MATHEWSINC.COM Specifications –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Axle-to-Axle Length 29.5 inches –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Brace Height 6 inches –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Mass Weight 3.99 pounds –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Let-Off 80 or 85 percent –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Available Draw Lengths 24.5 to 30 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Peak Draw Weights 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, and 80 pounds –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Available Finishes Black, Earth, Granite, EV2-3Q, Green Ambush, Realtree Edge, First Lite Spectra, Optifade Sub Alpine, and new Mossy Oak Bottomland and Fade-to-Black series in Earth/Black, Granite/Black, and Green Ambush/Black options. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Dexterity Left- and right-hand –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– MSRP $1,329.99 tem also accommodates draw lengths from 24.5 to 30 inches on the Lift 29.5 and up to 31.5 inches on the Lift 33. Unlike many rotating modules Mathews’ SwitchWeight technology ensures maximum efficiency at every draw weight and length setting. With the Lift, Mathews has another winner on its hands. The Lift solves what few criticisms customers might have voiced with past Mathews models— mainly weight, but also in-hand balance— though the latter would be truly nit-picking. The Lift is hunting quiet out of the box and equipped with MonkeyTail string silencers at the factory, in addition to all the dampening technologies built into the design. Finally, this might just be the most forgiving (relative to comparable axle-to-axle specs) and pleasant shooting Mathews to date, providing stability and comfort that leads to improved shooting confidence in the field. These are features that make the Lift an easy sell, combined with the ability to fit a single bow to many customers, which means less inventory investment and easier sales and service for your diverse customers. IA the shot and eliminating bad habits. Shot Sense is compatible with 2023 and newer Mathews models. New Cam System ■ The Lift is fueled by the highly refined SwitchWeight X, or SWX Cam. The completely redesigned system provides a steady buildup into a solid and locked-in rear wall. The draw cycle is buttery smooth and the rear wall resulted in remarkably consistent arrow velocities, a key facet of accuracy. For all this the SWX generates impressive arrow speeds, especially marked with heavy arrows. SWX mods are not compatible with SwitchWeight mods from 2023 and earlier models, though they do allow more versatility, providing draw weights ranging from 55 to 80 pounds. The cam sysThe Lift’s new SwitchWeight X or SWX Cams offer a smooth draw cycle and rock-solid rear wall. Introduced last year, Resistance Phase Dampening (RPD) pulls residual vibrations from the limbs for deadly shot silence. WebXtra ■ To take a closer look at the new Mathews Archery Lift in action, go to insidearchery.com.

28 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 MARKET TRENDS GEAR REPORT W BY PATRICK MEITIN Trophy Ridge Propel Drop-Away Arrow Rest WebXtra ■ For a closer look at this product and many others, check them out at insidearchery.com. cent less opportunity to introduce human error. Drop-aways, of course, also eliminate the possibility of any fletching contact that might kick arrows off course or upset clean arrow flight. In the world of drop-away rest design there are two basic approaches; buss-cable activated/driven and limb activated/driven. In my opinion, limb-activated drop-away rests offer more advantages than buss-cable activated designs. First of all, they are infinitely easier to install, because the design allows making all necessary tuning adjustments without the need to wedge the launcher upward like some buss-activated systems do. I also believe limb-activated dropaways provide a slight accuracy edge, supporting the arrow during launch a bit longer, the powerful limbs snatching the launcher away just before fletchings arrive, and providing a bit of free-floating cushion to dampen slight arrow bobbles during launch. The Propel is the newest drop-away arrow rest from Trophy Ridge, a top or bottom limb-driven design that also provides full capture security. Arrow security is provided by a rubber-overmolded containment cage, which inhile I understand why many archers prefer the simplicity of a static total containment arrow rest like the Whisker Biscuit, those who demand the most from themselves and their equipment have largely adopted drop-away rest designs. For archers who seldom shoot beyond 30 yards, and prefer to keep things as simple as possible, Whisker Biscuitstyle arrows rests can’t be beat. Yet for archers who expect more—more accuracy and more distance—drop-aways are the answer. Drop-away rests are inherently more accurate because the arrow spends around 50 percent less time in contact with the rest and bow, following release. This in turn provides 50 percludes a spring-loaded, rubber-flap side loading gate. The base-mounted arrowpositioning arms and wide launcher automatically captures and lifts the arrow into place during the draw cycle for no-look shooting. The Propel is all about shooting silence. In addition to the rubber overmolded capture cage and loading flap, the launcher is also rubber coated for whisper-quiet draw cycles. The launcher axle is bearing equipped for precision operation and longer life, while the mounting bracket and adjustment hardware are all milled from rugged aluminum. The elevation and windage bolts include oversized heads for positive manipulation. Instillation couldn’t be easier. Bolt the rest to the bow (I use double bolts when possible for automatic leveling and extra security). The launcher will remain in the upward/activated position to allow easy adjustment for elevation and center-shot. Adhere the slipstop pad to the outside edge of the limb tip directly above the activation wheel/ activation cord attachment point, loop the cord around the outside of the limb edge, pull the launcher down flat to the rest base and tie off securely. It’s now ready to shoot, without bow presses, tedious activation-cord serving, or bulky clamps. The Trophy Ridge Propel limb-activated rest is offered in standard sidebolt mount and dovetail Integrate versions, both retailing for just $99.99. Learn more at beararchery.com. IA

ATA Booth #3615

30 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 ext to my bow setup and quality arrows, I consider cutting-edge optics just as important to a successful hunt. Without binoculars my odds of finding game diminish considerably, and without a quality laser rangefinder—either built into my binocular or a separate handheld unit—I am more apt to miss a shot at hard-earned game than not. This makes the right optics hot-ticket items for any archery pro shop, as very few serious modern bowhunters enter the field without them. There are a lot to choose from, but these are our picks for optics sure to sell in the coming year. Binoculars Tract Optics ● TRACT Optics’ TORIC UHD 15x56 Spotting Binocular offers an ideal optic for spotting elusive game in big country when set on a tripod. These binoculars feature TRACT’s advanced UHD (Ultra High Definition) technology, which includes SCHOTT HT (High Transmission) glass and ED (Extra Low Dispersion) lenses that provide sharp, bright images. The $1,044 MSRP makes them competitive in this magnification range, especially considering the cutting-edge technology and features. The apochromatic optical system and ED lens provides exceptional detail, resolution, and light transmission with exceptional edgeto-edge clarity with no color fringing. They offer incredible light transmission and the oil-phobic lens coatings help keep them cleaner in the field. They’re argon purged to be fog proof and offer a wide field of view and generous eye relief. The simple Locking Diopter system eliminates inadvertent movement and ensures strain-free viewing. Visit tractoptics.com to learn more. Zeiss ● Zeiss SFL binoculars (SmartFocus Lightweight) were engineered for maximum compactness and light mass. The new N

NOVEMBER 2023 31 INSIDEARCHERY.COM By Patrick Meitin

32 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 Ultra-High-Definition (UHD) Concept ensures true-to-life color reproduction and the highest level of detail. The SmartFocus Concept positions the focus wheel perfectly to enable fast, precise focusing, even while wearing gloves. Optimized ergonomics and a large exit pupil promote relaxed viewing. The SFL 30 (8x30mm) offers a field of view up to 142 meters at 1,000 meters and focus as close as 1.5 meters. Thinner lenses and reduced dimensions make them 30 percent lighter than binoculars in the same class without sacrificing viewing quality, and provide 90 percent light transmission through Zeiss T* multicoating. The rugged magnesium housing ensures ruggedness. SmartFocus coupled with the DoubleLink Bridge offers exceptional ergonomics and requires just 1.4 turns to focus from up close to infinity. They measure 4.7-by-4.6 inches and weigh just 16.2 ounces. Visit zeiss.com to learn more. Vortex Optics ● Vortex’s newly-introduced Triumph HD 10x42mm binocular delivers quality, durability, and the company’s lifetime VIP Warranty. The Triumph HD 10x42mm comes with an affordable sub-$150 price tag with good resolution and contrast for detecting animals in the shadows. The HD optical system ensures crisper color and sharper images and the fully multi-coated lenses deliver greater clarity and low-light performance. The durable, compact roof prism design holds protective armor coating, and they’re tripod adaptable. Adjustable eyecups make them compatible with glasses. They are fog, shock, and waterproof and ship with a neck strap and adjustable GlassPak binocular harness. Visit vortexoptics.com to learn more. Meopta ● MeoPro Air is the newest premium binocular from Meopta. They are available in 8x42mm (MSRP $1,099.99) and 10x42mm (MSRP $1,149.99) models and feature an ergonomic open-hinge design and lightweight magnesium-alloy chassis engineered to withstand harsh treatment. ED glass and the company’s proprietary lens coating provide edgeto-edge clarity and exceptionally bright, sharp images while virtually eliminating chromatic aberration. Colors are true and vivid and contrast is enhanced, making it easier to see detail in low light. Air binoculars feature Meopta’s MeoShield anti-abrasion and MeoDrop hydrophobic moisture-, grease, and dust-repelling lens coatings. Visit meoptasportsoptics.com to learn more. Rangefinding Binoculars Swarovski Optik ● Swarovski’s groundbreaking EL Range rangefinding binoculars offer precision and the ability to customize functions, including transferring rifle ballistics data for two-season hunters. The new EL Range 32 offers a feathery 25-ounce carrying weight and includes customizable configuration to adapt the EL Range 32 to specific needs while providing Tracking Assistant to help shooters narrow down the area where a shot was taken. The compact EL Range 32 includes Swarovski’s premium optical system, providing high-contrast images with natural colors and razorsharp contours. The rangefinder includes an integrated tilt indicator with a unique angle shot program and displays either adjusted shooting distance or angle for ranges starting at 10.9 yards (10 meters). Rifle hunters can utilize the EL Range Configurator App for iOS or Android to set up the rangefinder to suit their needs and plug in custom ballistics data. Visit swarovskioptik.com to learn more. Leupold ● Leupold’s BX-4 Range HD TBR/W 10x42mm rangefinding binocular fuses Leupold’s DNA engine and ballistics software with the company’s renowned BX-4 binocular. These rangefinding optics are highly intuitive and quick, allowing bowhunters to convert on fleeting shot opportunities with confidence. A high contrast red OLED display delivers visible readouts in any light, and edge-to-edge resolution makes glassing sessions easy on the eyes. The BX-4 Range HD is built TRACT Optics TORIC UHD 15x56 Zeiss SFL 30 Vortex Triumph HD 10x42 Meopta MeoPro Air Swarovski EL Range 32 Continued on page 34

34 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 around Leupold’s Elite Optical System, which delivers excellent dawn-to-dusk light transmission, exceptional glare reduction in harsh light, and the resolution and clarity diehard hunters need to succeed. Leupold’s True Ballistic Range/ Wind (TBR/W) technology offers a high degree of precision for dual-season rifle hunting, offering 25 selectable ballistics groups to take in a preferred cartridge and providing accurate adjusted range. They also include 10-mph wind holds for rifle shooting. Combine those features with Leupold’s Custom Dial System and shooters can get on target in seconds. The BX-4 Range HD ranges reflective targets to 2,600 yards, trees at 1,600 yards and deer-sized game to 1,100 yards. This rangefinding optic also allows ambidextrous operation. Visit leupold.com to learn more. Burris Optics ● Burris’ 2023 Signature LRF 10x42mm rangefinding binoculars make ranging fast and accurate. The integrated rangefinder offers everything needed to range game in any environment out to 2,600 yards and provides essential data for ballistic management. Signature LRF 10x42mm binos present information in an easy-to-read heads-up display, presented in five ranging options: line-ofsight (LOS), horizontal distance (HOR), LOS and HOR, LOS and angle (ANG) above and below horizontal, and HOR and ANG. The Signature LRF is accurate to +/- 1 yard at less than 1,000 yards. Auto mode displays the range of the target with the strongest return signal; Sport, the range of the closest target in a group; Hunt, the farthest range of a target in a group; while Scan allows constant yardage readouts on moving targets. This unit combines proven Signature HD binos and the technology found in Eliminator riflescopes—delivering excellent image sharpness and edge-to-edge clarity courtesy of multi-coated HD lenses and BaK-4 roof prisms. They weigh 36 ounces. Visit burrisoptics.com to learn more. Hawke Optics ● Hawke’s Frontier LRF Binocular combines high light transmission glass and a laser rangefinder relaying information via a red colored OLED display. The Frontier is part of Hawke’s H7 optics, offering stunning high-definition viewing with incredible color control and phase correction. High performance lens coatings and dielectric coated prisms ensure the highest level of light transmission, plus they feature water repellent lens coatings. The magnesium alloy chassis with rubber body armor protects the optic and ensures a firm grip when wet. Rangefinding capabilities include Distance, Rain, Hunt, Near, Horizontal Distance and Angle modes, including six-level brightness control. The unit is accurate to +/- 1 yard. Power is provided by one CR2 battery and power automatically shuts off after 15 seconds. Visit hawkeoptics.com to learn more. German Precision Optics (GPO) ● RANGEGUIDE 8x32mm and 10x32mm binoculars by GPO combine an accurate laser rangefinder with compact, lightweight binoculars. These are some of the smallest, lightest range-finding binos around but also provide exceptional edge-to-edge clarity and precise ranging on reflective targets to nearly 1.75 miles. They stand just 5.4 inches tall and weigh 24.3 ounces but accurately capture ranges to 3,062 yards with inclination/declination compensation. They include a rubber armored magnesium frame and smaller laser rangefinding engine. Scan mode provides three readings per second, displayed on an orange OLED display with nine manual brightness levels. It can also be set to automatically manage brightness levels. The RANGEGUIDE measures ambient temperature (Fahrenheit or Celsius), humidity, and air pressure. The rangefinder reliably ranges deer to 766 yards, with both line-of-sight distance and the user’s choice of adjusted distance, angle, or temperature provided. Coupled with the GPO bright high-transmission lens coatings, and double-HD laminated 32mm objective lenses, they provide excellent low-light viewing. They feature a diopter focus and orange display focus adjustments on both the left Leupold BX-4 Range HD Burris Signature LRF 10x42mm Hawke Frontier LRF GPO RANGEGUIDE Bushnell Broadhead Continued from page 32

and right sides of the ocular tube and utilize GPO’s premium cut-brass-geared focus-wheel system for a tight, consistent turning radius without free-play. Visit gpo-usa.com to learn more. Handheld Rangefinders Bushnell ● Bushnell’s Broadhead handheld laser rangefinder provides archers +/- 0.3-yard accuracy out to 150 yards. The Broadhead was purpose built for bowhunting and 3D archery. The ACTIVSYNC display includes an auto-adjusting feature that provides the ideal brightness for any lighting condition from dim to bright. The high-definition, all-glass optical system is two times brighter than past models and the objective lens 50 percent larger to provide superior light-gathering qualities during critical dawn and dusk hours when game moves best. The fully multicoated system offers true color fidelity. ARC (Angle Range Compensation) Technology ensures accurate readings on slanted topography for pinpoint uphill and downhills shots. Bushnell’s EXO Barrier lens protection repels water, oil, fog, and dust to keep viewing surfaces clean and sharp. The unit includes Near/Far ranging modes, combined with Scan mode for greater versatility. The Broadhead was made for bowhunting, which should make it a big seller in 2024. It comes with Bushnell’s 5-year Lifetime Ironclad Warranty. Visit bushnell.com to learn more. Hawke Optics ● Hawke’s Multi-Sport LRF 400 and LRF 800 rangefinders offer fieldproven performance at a reasonable price. The LRF lineup includes an LCD display and provides Distance, Rain, Hunt and Flag modes that give users yardage accuracy within +/- 1 yard. Rain mode helps eliminate laser beams reflectHawke Multi-Sport LRF 800 Burris Signature LRF 2000 Leupold RX-1400i TBR/W

36 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 ing off rain droplets, while Hunt mode helps hunters range through brush and vegetation. Flag mode is for golfers and all allow hunters to capture true range measurements in any weather. The reticle display shows range, signal strength and includes a low battery warning. Each LRF unit has a fully multi-coated optical system that is water-resistant and nitrogen purged to make them fogproof. Each weighs just 4.6 ounces and sports 6x magnification with adjustable diopter. The LRF 400 ranges from 7 to 437 yards, while the LRF 800 starts at 7 yards and reaches out to 875 yards. Field of view for each model is 341 feet at 1,000 yards and features 6 inches of eye relief. The units are powered by a CR2 battery and carry a two-year warranty. Visit hawkeoptics.com to learn more. Burris Optics ● Burris’ new Signature LRF 2000 handheld laser rangefinder is at home whether bowhunting or rifle hunting, providing quick yardage readings from 5 to 2,400 yards (1,100 yards on game) with 1-yard accuracy inside 1,000 yards. The 6-by-5.5-by-2.7-inch, 6-ounce Signature LRF 2000 provides three operation modes. Auto displays the range of the target with the strongest return signal. Sport mode does the same for the closest target in a group. Finally, Hunt mode displays the farthest range of a group of targets, handy while ranging through branches or tall grass. The unit allows choosing from five display options, including line-of-sight (LOS), horizontal distance (HOR), LOS and HOR, LOS and angle (ANG) above/below horizontal, and HOR and ANG. Scan mode is activated by holding down the power/ ranging button, providing continuously updated ranges on moving targets. The chassis is nitrogen purged to protect from fogging and the unit is waterproof. The adjustable eyepiece allows focusing for individual eyesight and provides 7x magnification. Field of view at 100 yards is 31.5 feet, 14mm of eye relief is included and it is powered by a CR2 battery. Visit burrisoptics.com to learn more. Leupold ● The RX-1400i TBR/W Gen 2 from Leupold is super versatile and feature rich. The bright red display and company’s high-performance DNA laser engine provides lightning-quick and accurate range readings from 6 to 900 yards on deer (up to 1,400 yards on reflective targets). Internal software provides Flightpath and trig solutions for archers to simplify uphill and downhill shots at any angle. It can also calculate 10 mph windage holds and display additional holdovers in MOA, MIL, inches, and centimeters for dual-season rifle hunters. Available modes include Line of Sight (LOS), Bow Mode with angle compensation, TBR-W rifle angle compensation, Last Target Mode, Flightpath, and TOLED. The unit allows selecting a preferred reticle. The rangefinder runs on one CR2 battery for up to 3,000 pops and includes 5x magnification and 60 percent light transmission, 18.3mm of eye relief, and a 21mm objective lens that provides a 368-foot field of view at 1,000 yards. The unit measures 4-by-1.4-by-3 inches and weighs 5.1 ounces. Ranging accuracy is a half yard to 125 yards, and 2 yards to 1,000 yards. Visit leupold.com to learn more. Cutting-Edge Crossbow Scopes Garmin ● Garmin’s Xero X1i digital crossbow scope holds an integrated laser rangefinder and 3.5x magnification. The digital overlay automatically measures yardage to 250 yards on game and up to 500 yards on reflective targets. The stout aluminum housing and nitrogen purging make it ruggedly dependable, while interactive aiming makes shooting more automatic. The unit provides sharp edgeto-edge clarity, while a multi-color digital display provides aiming points, compass, horizontal level, string counter, roll at shot, impulse duration, and flight apex. It even includes integrated instructions, which allows sight-in and setup in less than 20 minutes. Set the 20-yard aiming point and an auto-calibration feature Garmin Xero X1i Burris Oracle X SIG Sauer BDX Combo Kit Crossbow Scope & Rangefinder Huskemaw Crossfield 4x40mm Omega III

NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM combines bolt speed and integrated algorithms to provide aim points to 80 yards (increased ranges programmable). Garmin also recently announced Xero X1i crossbow scopes will be paired with Ravin Crossbows. They will be preloaded with the technical specifications of specified Ravin models and include adjusted aiming solutions based on each model’s performance. This provides hunters with unparalleled out-of-the-box accuracy and quick setup times. Visit garmin.com to learn more. Burris Optics ● Burris’ Oracle X Crossbow Rangefinding Scope holds a builtin laser rangefinder that is engaged via a wireless remote. A push of this button displays distance to target and instantly provides a bright aiming point correlating to the ranged distance. Point of aim remains consistent across the unit’s 2- to 7-power zoom range. The laser rangefinder is accurate to 200 yards on game and up to 500 yards on reflective targets. One CR123 battery fuels the unit, which weighs 30.8 ounces. Visit burrisoptics.com to learn more. Omega Sights ● The Omega III by Omega Sights offers crossbow shooters a precision sighting system, accurate laser rangefinder, and an HD video camera in a single unit. The sight provides scanmade ranging out to 500 yards, while also offering quick and intuitive elevation and windage adjustments for any crossbow setup. The unit is highly water resistant. HD video recording provides instant playback capabilities for quick shot-placement review. The Omega III weighs 13 ounces. The sighting system includes five independently adjustable aiming dots that also move laterally for precision zeroing. The 1.5-by-2-inch LCD screen includes five-level dimming capabilities, and the rangefinder an integrated True Distance Calculator for automatic compensation on angled shots. The Omega III comes with a 12-hour Rechargeable Power Bank, improved mounting bracket with refined adjustments, 32GB micro-SD card, two 3-volt batteries, twobutton remote control, sunshield, and anti-glare LCD screen. It carries a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty. Visit omegasights.com to learn more. Huskemaw Optics ● Huskemaw’s Crossfield 4x40mm Crossbow Scope provides a superior solution for crossbows pushing 450-plus fps, allowing shooters to accurately place shots at 150 to 200 yards. It uses a precision custom turret system calibrated to any crossbow speed and actual bolt weight. The custom turret is quick and easy to dial, what Huskemaw calls an efficient “Range It, Dial It, and Send It” approach. The 20.1-ounce scope measures 9.7 inches long, making for a compact option. The 40mm objective lens provides exceptional low light viewing, the 36mm ocular lens making shooting more intuitive. The 30mm tubed scope provides 4.3 inches of mounting latitude, while providing a 31.4-foot field of view at 75 yards. Each click of the exposed turret provides 2 MOA of movement, applied 60 clicks per revolution and 120 MOA total. A turret zero stop is provided for quick returns to zero after major corrections. The scope comes with flip-up dust caps and a microfiber cleaning cloth. Visit huskemawoptics.com to learn more. SIG Sauer ● SIG Sauer’s BDX Combo Kit Crossbow Scope and Rangefinder are programmed to pair automatically, providing easy setup and precision sighting. The SIERRA BDX scope includes BDX technology providing holdover aiming points established by the connected laser rangefinder. It can be operated without the app, or used to maximum effectiveness through use of the SIG Sauer app. Even if purchased separately, the laser rangefinder is easily paired to the scope without undue effort—though buying the kit makes this automatic. The rangefinder holds eight preinstalled ballistic group options, while the scope provides SmartBDC reticles for precise holds at any range. Visit sigsauer.com to learn more. IA

38 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 MARKET TRENDS GEAR REPORT Q BY PATRICK MEITIN Q2i Archery WebXtra ■ For a closer look at this product and many others, check them out at insidearchery.com. white, purple, teal, and violet. For the coming New Year, Q2i Archery is offering a new version of your favorite vanes—so new it remained unnamed prior to press time. Q2i will have settled on a label by the ATA Show. The new vanes include a stiffer and tougher composition in a thinner, lightweight, yet durable, product. The near universal use of modern dropaway arrow rests makes the new vanes especially relevant, providing superior arrow steerage and longlasting durability without the worry of rest launchers upsetting arrow flight. Despite the stiffer, more durable construction, these new vanes are lightweight to provide quick arrow speeds and stealthier flight. The new series incorporates one of the greatest selling points of all Q2i vanes, particularly for busy pro shops, namely the company’s no prep and no primer fletching. Each vane includes Duo-Poly black base technology for easy and remarkably durable adhesion. Just apply fletching cement and press the base to the arrow surface and you receive exceptional adhesion—vanes that stay in place in various weather conditions and endure a beating during practice or in the field. Q2i Archery is testing and will soon be releasing the new series vane for ev2i Archery is best known for manufacturing high quality, U.S.-made vanes with a reputation for extreme durability and adhesion reliability. I regularly depend on Q2i vanes on my toughest hunts, being particularly fond of their highly visible Zeon Series vanes with fiber-optic-like edges that better mark arrow flight and impact. I prefer bright fletchings while bowhunting because they provide confirmation of where I’ve hit an animal and how to follow up after a shot. Q2i Archery also offers bright color options in their other vane series, as well as camouflage hues. The company’s 12 color options include gray, black, blue, green, orange, pink, yellow, red, ery archery application through three of the company’s most popular fletching profiles, and in their 12 standard colors. Options include the New-RaptX, New-Fusion XII 2.5, and New-Fusion XIISL 1.75. The New-RaptX includes a newlypopular “broadhead vane” profile measuring 2 inches long, .55-inch high and including a .016-plus-inch thickness spec. They should weigh less than past Rapt-X vanes. This profile has become one of the most popular vanes amongst bowhunters, shot three-fletched offset/ helical for mechanical broadheads, four-fletch offset/helical for fixedblade broadheads. The New-Fusion XII is a 2.5-inchlong vane with a lower .45-inch height. The thinner .016-plus-inch width gives these vanes a 6-plus grain weight. These vanes are designed for 3D and outdoor target-shooting, though would certainly pair well with most mechanical broadhead designs for bowhunting, or shot four-fletch for low-profile fixed-blade broadhead designs. The New-Fusion XIISL is a 1.75-inchlong vane standing .35-inch off the arrow shaft and including a .016-plusinch thickness spec. This is one of Q2I’s most popular target vanes, the low profile bucking wind well. This new series gives drop-away rest shooters a more durable vane offering superior arrow control. Learn more by visiting q2iarchery.com. IA

40 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDE THE INDUSTRY LEADING ARCHERY MANUFACTURERS true, there are many other people who have made Bear Archery the success it is today—too many to discuss in the limited space available here. But it is safe to say Bear Archery is filled with great people dedicated to making archery accessible and maintaining the course Fred started the company down. Fred Bear founded Bear Archery in Detroit, Michigan, back in 1933 with the goal of making archery accessible to everyone. He was a man devoted to the outdoors who had a deep respect for nature and all things wild. Bear believed the bow and arrow were irrevocably linked to the history of mankind and that immersing yourself in the outdoors made you a better human being. It is these goals that continue to drive Escalade Sports in its management of Bear Archery. The company’s focus, its initial challenge even, was to continue the legacy Fred Bear set into motion more than 90 years ago—manufacturing quality archery products made available to all who are interested, regardless of their economic status. This mission was combined with maintaining the traditional line that sits at the very core of Bear Archery and serves as a constant reminder of the craftmanship and profound heritage of the sport. A vast majority of Bear Archery’s compounds and 100 percent of the company’s traditional line are still made in the U.S.A. While it isn’t always possible to source raw materials domestically, Bear Archery strives to do so whenever feasible. One of the most conspicuous results of Bear Archery’s new Escalade management was not only rescuing the company from utter ruin, but continually improving their compound technology year after year until they have become undeniably competitive with the largest names in the industry. There are a multitude of features introduced to the ear Archery has been owned by Escalade Sports since 2003, when it was purchased from the bankrupt North American Archery Group to figuratively pull the iconic name from the ashes. Bear Archery’s corporate offices are in Evansville, Indiana, while manufacturing and warehousing is in Gainesville, Florida—where Fred Bear moved operations from Grayling, Michigan, in 1978. The Evansville headquarters is comprised largely of office space but also holds the company’s engineering lab, as well as a 30-yard indoor archery range. The original Gainesville location includes a sprawling multi-building manufacturing facility situated on 26 acres, which provides room for an outdoor range. The Gainesville facility transforms raw material into finished goods through several specialized departments, including CNC machining, powder coating and paint, limb molding and manufacturing, traditional bow rough-shaping, molding, and finishing, compound bow assembly, and warehousing and shipping. It is difficult to separate Bear Archery the brand from Fred Bear the man, the company’s founder and long-time owner, who arguably did more to advance the sport of modern archery than any other single figure. And while this is B BY INSIDE ARCHERY STAFF Bear lineup that have become industry standards. Last year’s flagship Execute is a clear testament to this continual technological advancement. However, the Bear Archery Legit continues to lead sales volume by providing top quality and solid performance combined with an unbeatable price. Whether a firsttime hunter, life-long enthusiast, or a young archer who needs a bow that can grow with them, the highly adaptable Legit has emerged as a serious winner. That has always been something customers could count on from Bear Archery—true value and solid utility. Bear Archery bows have always been and continue to be bowhunters bows, highly shootable bows. They have continued to advance technically, features added that make them more shooter friendly, easier to set up, and performance driven, but at their heart, Bear bows are made to hunt, for chasing those wild things that Fred Bear found so important. The 2024 flagship Persist continues down that road, with many features added specifically to improve efficiency while bowhunting. For instance, the Persist includes an integrated wrist sling mounting point and set screw that eliminates unnecessary parts and allows removing the stabilizer for travel or storage without dislodging the sling. It also features an integrated top limbpocket loop that serves for the quick and secure connection of a treestand pull-up rope. The Persist also holds both IMS (Integrate) rest and Picatinny sight mounting options that make accessory attachment more streamlined and balanced. These IMS and Picatinny options are also included on Bear Archery’s more affordable Alaskan XT and Paradigm models, allowing customers to apply sleek flagship accessories to mid-range priced bows. It is difficult to consider any form of manufacturing without taking into acBear Archery Continued on Page 42

NOVEMBER 2023 41 INSIDEARCHERY.COM

42 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDE THE INDUSTRY LEADING ARCHERY MANUFACTURERS count the supply-chain issues resulting from COVID. In this respect, Bear Archery has managed the crisis expertly, accurately forecasting and developing long-term relationships with suppliers to minimize any issues in securing the materials necessary to build Bear bows. While some companies recently struggled to keep up with demand, Bear Archery has maintained good turn-around times, which was also facilitated by the company’s quality personnel who helped ensure product was delivered in a timely manner. While some Persist features were discussed above, expanding the discussion seems appropriate given this is Bear’s top model for 2024 and represents 90 years of Bear Archery’s American ingenuity. This is a 31-inch axle-to-axle bow developing IBO arrow speeds of up to 340 fps through the highly adjustable EKO Cam and a 6.5-inch brace height. The proven EKO hybrid cam in next-generation form allows draw-length adjustments from 26 to 30 inches, and let-off settings of 80, 85 Continued from Page 40 or 90 percent in a single bow, while also providing top performance at all settings. Right- and left-hand versions are available with draw-weight spans of 45-60 or 55-70 pounds and finished in Mossy Oak Break-Up DNA or Bottomland, Fred Bear Camo, Olive or Stone. The Persist is hunt quiet out of the box, holding strategically placed through-theriser dampeners and KillerWave limb silencers. The standard string stop includes its own integrated dampening, and new silent shelf technology covers the arrow shelf to prevent game-spooking arrow clicks. Wider limb pockets and a new limb design add to its stealth, while also lending the Persist greater shooting stability. Convenient quick-disconnect shoulder sling attachment points have been added as well. The Alaskan XT also warrants further discussion, offering blue collar customers a more affordable option ($599.99) that sacrifices little performance (335 fps IBO), while including Integrate and Picatinny mounting options. The Alaskan XT measures a stabile 33 inches between the axles and includes a 6.25-inch brace height and provides the same draw-length and -weight options of the Persist to fit most customers. The only spec change is the exclusion of the Mossy Oak Break-Up DNA finish option. Those arrow speeds are fueled by the ultra-efficient DHC-XR hybrid cam system with 80 percent let-off. It also holds strategically placed riser dampeners, KillerWave limb silencers, and an upgraded roller cable management system for silence and reduced cable wear. Bear Archery continues to make archery accessible to everyone. It also makes a bow for any budget or skill level, from the $1,249.99 flagship Persist engineered to compete with the best in the industry, to the $599.99 mid-priced Alaskan XT, to even lower-priced options for beginners or dabblers gauging their interest in archery before going all in on top-end gear. Bear Archery continues to make its mark on archery, pushing Fred Bear’s legacy forward for new generations of archers. IA

44 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 Papa Bear may have said it best, but no one organization facilitates the sport more than the National Archery in the Schools Program. The National Archery in the Schools Program is an in-school program aimed at improving educational performance among students grades 4th through 12th. NASP doesn’t discriminate—anyone of any age can shoot a bow and get involved. School-aged children can be a part of something, even those who may normally not take part in other activities. Tommy Floyd, NASP President, said, “Twenty-one million students have gone through NASP since 2002. Nobody has introduced more people to archery than NASP.” While NASP is a powerhouse for introducing children of many ages to archery, what is the barrier that prevents students and schools from participating in the sport? The only thing holding students back from pursuing archery through NASP is whether or not their school is partnered with the organization. “We now have NASP schools in 49 States,” said NASP President Tommy Floyd. “We recently added Vermont and Rhode Island. NASP Continues to Introduce Students to the Sport of Archery Since 2019 the program has been growing by about 1,000 new schools per year. In 2022 it was 1,300 schools and in 2023 1,360 new schools. It’s not a matter of if your school has NASP but when it will be a NASP school." The requirement of entry for a school is pretty straightforward and minimal. “In order to be a NASP school they have to meet the requirement of 10 hours of instruction per year to a group of students in an organized way so that you are introducing archery to new people,” said Floyd. If equipment is an issue, NASP also has state grants for up to $1,500 for a full kit for new schools entering the program. They have a $400 matching grant for a reactivated school to buy equipment to get up and running again. With recent bipartisan legislation of the H.R. 5110, Protecting Hunting Heritage and Education Act (see accompanying sidebar), schools can use federal education funds to purchase equipment to train students in archery, hunting, other shooting sports, and culinary arts. This should help archery grow more than ever and break down entry barriers for schools or children drastically. Nothing cures a ❝ troubled mind like shooting a bow. —Fred Bear ❞

NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 45 NASP does more than just introduce students to archery. It helps students grow developmentally as well as build their team-building skills. That’s the great thing about archery: it can be an individual sport to better yourself as well as a team sport for your school. A study conducted by NASP across their different programs found that 58 percent of students say they feel more connected with their school thanks to NASP and 40 percent say they are more engaged in the classroom. What more can a school ask a program to do? Not only does it help them in school, but NASP students tend to participate in other outdoor activities as well. Floyd said, “Around 90 percent of kids that go through NASP want to do something else outdoors.” In a 2017 survey, 32 percent of kids who are in NASP want to participate in a 3D archery competition and 33 percent want to go bowhunting. In that same survey, 18 percent of those kids introduced their family members to the sport of archery. It’s a cascading effect. “I know there is a kid out there who will spend a day shooting with us, ride the bus home, and tell their parents about it," Floyd said. "Then tell their friends on the bus the next day. By Jack Borcherding There are tryouts for the archery team at school and when they make the team, they are never the same.” The outdoor community couldn’t ask for more than that—a program that introduces kids to archery and then encourages them to do other outdoor activities. That’s why NASP has partnered with organizations such as Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, Easton Archery, Whitetails Unlimited, the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), and Safari Club International (SCI). The mission survives in part because of like-minded organizations and brands like these that care about furthering the education of archery to children who need it most. Even organizations like Scholastic 3D Archery or S3DA are teaming up to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. NASP and S3DA decided to host a joint fundraiser during the month of April 2023 and allowed program participants to help others by donating. NASP and S3DA together raised $6,544 from the fundraiser. This is just one of the ways the two youth archery programs have teamed up. NASP President Floyd encouraged other organizations to get involved, saying, “I want to make it known that we are looking

46 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 to help promote others that want to help with archery and want kids to find archery.” It’s a beautiful thing to see and it’s needed with increasing frequency in the outdoor space. NASP doesn’t stop at the high school level. Floyd said, “The organization has now exceeded more than 4 million dollars in scholarships to students.” That is 4 million with six zeros. Students are using NASP to further their education more than ever. Some students are winning thousands of dollars if not tens of thousands of dollars to further their education at the next level. Some students are benefiting by just being a part of NASP. In 2022 more than $50,000 was awarded randomly to participants during the National Tournament season. In a new NASP article students and parents alike expressed thankfulness for NASP in many ways. These are a few: Cy and Wendy Early, parents of an Academic Archer random scholarship recipient, shared: “Receiving this scholarship was not only a blessing, but a pleasant surprise. As he enters his senior year, this scholarship has given him a jumpstart in his college interest. We greatly appreciate this opportunity.” Koen Rauls, a student from New Tech Institute, was chosen for one of the random $500 awards and said, “I never expected to be chosen for a scholarship, and I feel like this is an opportunity to help with my radio and broadcasting career dreams. This will help me get started on my journey after high school.” Another $500 random scholarship recipient’s parent said, “We are very grateful that NASP has allowed our daughter to earn this scholarship to help her with school expenses. Archery has been a great way for her to meet new friends and enjoy a new sport that she loves.” One student, Logan Kelly of Iowa, in particular, competed in NASP for eight years and through those years was able to have college paid for with his scholarships. Logan earned a Business Management associate’s degree from a local community college and now works full-time for the family business. Logan was able to go through college without having to worry about incurring debt, all because of NASP, and Logan even gets to call himself a national champion. Kelly expressed in a letter to NASP, “NASP has forever changed my life in so many ways, some indescribable.” Hearing stories like this can be so inspirational, and there are many more. Positively affecting students’ lives and furthering their education is an important mission of NASP. Students grow in a big way but so do parents and instructors. Floyd said, “We have trained over 104,000 basic archery instructors since the inception of NASP in 2002.” Most, if not all, of these BAI-certified instructors are unpaid. NASP wants to reward these individuals as well, with Coach of the Year or the Superhero award. The Superhero Award is an individual award intended to recognize an unpaid volunteer who makes an outstanding positive impact on their NASP program or team. The award includes a $500 equipment grant. The 2023 winner was Andy Hedges from Prosper High School in Texas. This is just one of many ways that NASP is giving back to instructors. In July 2023 instructors gathered for a special event to gather intel and experiences to help further the mission of NASP. Floyd said, “This is some of the most important time we spend each year! It feels like a family reunion of sorts, where folks gather to help students discover the joy of safely becoming an archer!” He went on to say coordinators and volunteers are the lifeblood of the organization and it’s a great place for other sponsors to hear about success stories or other ways that they can reach new kids and help build a better team. It’s all about how we can reach kids better through NASP. There are so many ways to be a part of NASP. It doesn’t mat-

NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM ter if you’re a bow tech at your local shop or a CEO for a million-dollar brand—the goal is to come together. Floyd puts it this way: “If you take all the manufacturers and all the organizations that promote hunting, if we don’t get more kids into the sport someday no one is going to be turning on a headlight before daylight and making their way across the field because there won’t be anyone hunting.” It’s up to us to do the best we can and work together with other organizations to provide a pathway to get kids outdoors. If you want to be an instructor or you are a brand that wants to sponsor a local team or NASP entirely you can learn more at naspschools.org/. The National Archery in the Schools Program is truly changing lives, one arrow at a time. S imply turning on the television or scrolling on your cellphone is all it takes to immerse yourself in the divided political landscape of our nation. Recently an unexpected unifier, youth archery, became a catalyst and one of the eventual unifying forces in the polarized political environment of the United States. Over the course of several months, people from different political viewpoints came together in a show of support for youth shooting sports. After a wave of armed killers in schools, The Unity Quiver Youth Archery’s Role in Brief National Political Harmony By Thomas G. Floyd Ed.D President, The National Archery in the Schools Program federal legislators created the Bipartisan Safe Communities Act (BPSCA) in the fall of 2022. This legislation was intended to increase support for school and community safety and help mitigate tragedies like the one in Uvalde, Texas. Although the BPSCA was written with the best of intentions, educators were soon faced with some unintended consequences due to the language within the legislation. In late spring of 2023, several schools in Alaska were contemplating the launch of the National Archery in the Schools

48 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023 Program (NASP). Following the actions of other states, they were considering using funds from the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) to train teachers as instructors for this program. Prior to the utilization of the federal money, the schools sought guidance from the United States Department of Education. After reviewing the language of the BPSCA, representatives of the USDE provided guidance that archery instruction, hunter education, or any other similar training involving the use of “deadly weapons” would be prohibited for the use of ESEA funds under the terms of the BPSCA. The result of this guidance soon became public, and immediately almost every organization related to conservation or the shooting sports was discussing the issue, with NASP at the forefront. What began as a trickle of communication soon became a torrent of concern, confusion, and disbelief. Many wondered how these long proven and safe programs could contrast with the intention of the BPSCA and be out of bounds for the use of federal funds. Staff members from several congressional offices soon began reaching out to NASP and hunter education organizations and others to gain insight on the impact of these programs on millions of school-age students. Conservation groups and directors of fish and wildlife agencies soon developed talking points on the value of these programs had on the future of conservation efforts and advised federal legislators on possible solutions. Parents, grandparents, foster families, and mentors of all kinds also began contacting their federal representatives to explain what these programs have done and continue to do for their students. They begged for solutions to this new barrier potentially blocking the expansion of these valuable programs. The groundswell of support for a solution might have begun as a trickle, but soon became a mighty unified voice from urban, suburban, and rural origins. For weeks, the developing situation was covered daily by multiple media outlets. Finally, legislators acted. Support started flowing from both sides of the political aisles and legislators began drafting bills to submit for potential resolutions. One piece of legislation, HR5110, rose above all others with support from the nation’s most respected conservation and shooting sports organizations. HR5110 established language where federal funds could be used for the promotion of hunter education and youth shooting sports such as NASP. Once HR5110 was introduced in the house, it passed rapidly with only one opposing vote. The bill quickly passed in the consent agenda of the senate and a few days later, the president signed it into law. HR5110 became one of the most rapidly approved legislative actions related to the shooting sports in recent times. In a nation divided on issues involving guns, gun violence, and student safety, why did archery instruction and hunter education mat-

NOVEMBER 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 49 ter so much to so many people from so many walks of life? The answer lies in a simple truth: Archery and the shooting sports are transformative in the lives of the young people who participate. Millions of students receive instruction in archery, shotgun, rifle, air rifle, and hunter education across the nation every year. These programs provide multiple benefits to young people including: ● A lifelong understanding of the paramount need for safety. ● An understanding of the need for personal accountability and responsibility. ● A foundation in the value and promotion of sportsmanship and ethics. ● Persistence through the process where marksmanship skills develop. ● Experience in dealing with pressure from various competitions. ● The value of becoming a contributing member of a team—many for the first time. ● A lifelong commitment to the value of conservation and the continuation of the outdoor lifestyle. Students acquire these benefits through interaction with a coach, mentor, or sponsor who often volunteers their time to work with students in the shooting sports or in hunter education instruction. Millions of adults in communities large and small give their time and effort to work with young people in these disciplines. They develop long lasting relationships and become someone of relevance. Through the instruction of various disciplines over the course of weeks or months, they help students not only become proficient in their chosen discipline, but they soon help many make academic and behavioral improvements. They form relationships that outlast graduation and transcend into adulthood. Perhaps it was this “truth” alone that led so many individuals to contact their federal representative. Perhaps they knew that through their time with kids in the shooting sports, they were making a difference with students that otherwise might not have anyone else in that role. Perhaps they simply wanted as many students as possible to have the opportunity to experience what they had seen— transformative positive change through participation in archery and other shooting sports. Perhaps it was this “truth” that brought red and blue together, Democrat and Republican. From our perspective, this situation embodies what may still be the best of America; it demonstrates how people of different perspectives can unite to eliminate barriers for students. We believe that this situation illustrates just how deeply Americans care about the future of conservation and the preservation of the youth shooting sports. On behalf of all the 1.3 million active student archers, as well as the millions of students that now have an easier path to be introduced to NASP, thank you to everyone who helped to develop this resolution! To learn more about the National Archery in the Schools Program, please visit naspschools.org. IA

Five Questions with Killer Food Plots INSIDE THE INDUSTRY INDUSTRY 5Q Killer Food Plots (KFP) has made its name by providing unique products that solve specific problems, attract more game, and some of the most personal customer service in the business. Inside Archery sat down with Rich Chrzan, owner of KFP, to learn more. screening and watch the deer flow in. It is highly attractive while giving deer the nutrients they need to stay healthy and ultimately grow bigger antlers. Aside from creating food plot focal points for hunting success, what products does KFP offer to maintain quality soil and habitat during the off season? ■ Killer Food Plots year round products used to maintain a healthy habitat include Aqua Shield and Re-Tain. Aqua Shield pond treatment is designed to go to the bottom and digest organic buildup, releasing dissolved oxygen to aquatic species living in the pond. Meanwhile it destroys habitats that produces midge fly and mosquito larva. It clarifies the water and produces a healthier water source for all the animals. Re-Tain is a 100 percent organic pellet that works for three years. Re-Tain gets worked into the soil, absorbing H2O and nutrients year round. It then releases H2O and nutrients back to plants when needed. Has KFP put any programs or incentives into place to help independent dealers enjoy higher profit margins? ■ We deal with a lot of great people in small momand-pop shops. They might not have room for a lot of inventory or the overhead, so we work with them on that. We prefer to have a win/win relationship with our dealers. IA relationships helped in the development of 11 different blends using only high quality, high germination rate seed, that is very palatable for the deer. While attracting that ‘big buck’ is always great, our products are developed to help the overall health of the herd by having seed blends that give the deer proper nutrients. If you keep the bucks healthy the big racks will come in time, naturally. We have also developed Groganix pelletized fertilizer, 4-4-4 and 7-0-5 that is OMRI listed. Groganix is waterway safe, kid and pet friendly and can be used in any organic processing. How can KFP products help land managers create more welcoming habitats and promote better quality hunting? ■ A couple tools to help: Border Patrol seed blend is great for concealment. This allows getting in and out of your hunting spot without bumping deer, while surrounding and screening off your food plots. This makes curious deer come out from the woods and walk into the plot, giving you that daytime exposure you otherwise wouldn’t have had. Carnage Brassicas: plant Carnage Brassicas inside the an you provide a brief history of KFP, how it started, and who is involved with the company today? ■ Killer Food Plots started more than 20 years ago with the passion and drive of founder, Nick Percy. Unfortunately, Nick passed away in October 2021. Nick and I had a very close friendship that began 10 years before KFP. We spent numerous hours enjoying the outdoors; hunting and fishing our favorites. I was fortunate to be able to work side by side with Nick for two and a half years before he passed. KFP has always been a family run business. The opportunity was presented to me and my wife to acquire the business and keep it exactly that—family owned and operated. My wife Elly, daughters Sydnee and Richelle, play key roles in the behindthe-scenes operations. While, my dad Rich Jr. and soon to be son-in-law Blake help with the down and dirty food plot installations. What main factors have helped set KFP apart from other food plot companies in such a competitive market? ■ Killer Food Plots works with great minds in the seed and fertilizer industry. Those C 50 INSIDE ARCHERY NOVEMBER 2023