52 INSIDE ARCHERY MAY 2023 MARKET TRENDS BOW REPORT The Elite Era test bow was delivered with speed-boosting Performance Mods, but was still exceptionally pleasant to draw and shoot. The 2023 Era by Elite Archery includes proven S.E.T. Technology, which makes tuning faster and more precise for busy dealers. containment/drop-away rest, and 11-inch Torq Target carbon stabilizer in place, the Era sits in my hand dead level and steadily, without requiring even the smallest amount of manipulation on my part. Caged Carbon Riser ■ The 31.25-inch axle to axle Era is Elite Archery’s first venture into carbon technology. The Era riser is assembled using hand laid high modulus carbon fiber, with specs kept to the tightest tolerances to create a precise and extremely rigid shooting platform. The carbon construction makes the Era feathery light, with an out-of-the-box weight less than 4 pounds. I have shot carbon-riser bows in the past that gave the impression I could detect my pulse while at full draw, but the Era is different. That exceptional balance creates superior stability that makes fine aiming easier, without the bow-arm fatigue that can occur with heavier bows. Carbon is also warmer to the touch in cold weather than milled-aluminum risers. That excellent balance is in large part due to the caged riser section above the sight window, which removes weight from the sight window/upper riser transition, which is normally most responsible for the top-heavy feel of many milled-aluminum compounds. A structural bridge is also found in the lower portion of the riser, which allows adding a vibration-absorbing stabilizer without causing persistent forward tilting at full draw. The riser design brings the limb pivot points in line with the grip for accentuated balance and stability, and the grip is comfortable and includes small side plates that provide more aesthetics than function. Being a carbon riser, all taps and connection points are aluminum or steel inserts or plates. The top and bottom quiver mounting studs are sandwiched through the carbon riser from each side and thread don’t recall when I shot my first Elite Archery bow or even what model it was, as it was way back when I was still releasing arrows with my own fingers and a leather tab. That Elite was my designated whitetail bow because it was ultra smooth and effortless to snug into anchor even with the frozen fingers and stiff muscles that accompanied long, immobile waits on stand during the cold weeks of the November rut. I have continued to shoot Elite bows for the same reason, with impressive velocity now also part of the long list of attributes produced by the company’s compound designs—though I now release bowstrings with a release aid. Elite Archery made its reputation on the shootability of their bow models, even offering the Shootability Challenge, allowing archers to test drive Elite models before committing to a permanent purchase. To those net positives of sweet-shooting characteristics, Elite can now boast of one of the most well-balanced bows in the business—or at least that was my first impression while handling the 2023 carbon-risered Era. In-hand bow balance is a serious stickler of mine and the Era is one of the most well behaved compound bows I have handled to date—partially due to the feathery mass of the Era’s advanced all-carbon, dual cage riser, and partly due to Elite engineer’s attention to detail in piecing the many parts of the equation together just so. With a Custom Bow Equipment (CBE) CXS five-pin fixed sight, Defy I BY PATRICK MEITIN together. Steel stabilizer taps are epoxied in the standard frontal location, and just behind the lower limb pocket for the addition of a now-popular V-bar. The plate holding the sight and rest taps/LTR cable management system moorings are highgrade/anodized aluminum plates embedded into the carbon riser. The dual sight taps are staggered for more mounting latitude and double rest taps allow double bolting for automatic leveling. The new and wider limb pockets are anchored in metal sleeves to protect the carbon riser material beneath, and each is equipped with Elite’s revolutionary S.E.T. Technology (Simplified. Exact. Tuning). S.E.T. allows dialing out poor arrow flight by micro adjusting tension and pivot angle on individual limb butts, which in turn alters cam lean and center shot. S.E.T. saves busy dealers time by making bow tuning faster, and more secure through the system’s locking mechanism. Elite also added a rubber arrowshelf/sight window pad to guard against game-spooking arrow clicks and dropaway arrow rest launcher impact. That is a nice touch and saves customers the need to add adhesive-backed felt or foam. New SP Cam ■ The 2023 Era provides realworld arrow speeds of up to 336 fps IBO (measured at 80 percent let-off while employing performance mods). This easy speed is combined with a silky-smooth draw cycle that makes the Era feel many pounds lighter than actual draw weight while pulling into anchor. The 2023 SP Cam with redesigned V2 Micro Mods allows creating custom, micro- manageable Elite Archery 2023 Era
MAY 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 53 Arrow Speed Elite Archery Era set at 70.0 pounds at 30 inches. 29-inch Arrows/ Shaft Finished Kinetic Arrow 100-Grain Tips gpi Arrow Wt. Energy Speed ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CX Triad 300 10.9 564 grains 90.5 ft. lbs. 268.8 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Easton T64 DF 7.9 tapered 528 grains 88.2 ft. lbs. 274.2 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Bloodsport Evidence 300 11.7 518 grains 89.4 ft. lbs. 278.8 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Arrow Tech MT 12.2 508 grains 89.3 ft. lbs. 281.4 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Victory VAP-SS 300 9.9 473 grains 88.9 ft. lbs. 290.9 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CX Max RED SD 350 9.4 465 grains 89.2 ft. lbs. 293.9 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Black Eagle Spartan 340 9.9 453 grains 91.6 ft. lbs. 301.7 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Victory VAP 300 8.7 424 grains 88.5 ft. lbs. 306.5 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Easton Hexx 330 7.9 386 grains 87.9 ft. lbs. 320.2 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Black Eagle Carnivore 350 7.5 363 grains 7.1 ft. lbs. 328.6 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Victory RIP XV 300 7.0 355 grains 86.9 ft. lbs. 332.0 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Liberty Archery 320 5.9 292 grains 82.5 ft. lbs. 356.6 fps ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Arrows shot from a Spot-Hogg Hooter Shooter and velocity established using Caldwell Shooting Supplies’ Chronograph G2. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (877) 503-5483, OR VISIT ELITEARCHERY.COM Specifications –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Axle-to-Axle Length 31.25 inches –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Brace Height 7.25 inches –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Mass Weight 3.95 pounds –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Let-Off 70 to 90 percent, adjustable –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Available Draw Lengths 25.5 to 31 inches –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Available Draw Weights 40, 50, 60, 65, 70 pounds –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Available Finishes Ninja Black, Outdoor Green, Mountain Tan, and Sienna Brown. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– MSRP $1,699 spot quickly. The generous 7.25-inch brace height provides inherent forgiveness when shooting under pressure, while allowing the Era all the usable speed needed for clean kills and long-range punch. From our heaviest to lightest test arrows, the Era remained remarkably quiet. This is a basic function of the carbon-construction riser, but the Era also includes several integral silencing features. The split limbs hold rubber dampening blocks, and a standard rubber-bumper string stop is included. The latter is held on a carbon rod also holding a radiated rubber dampener. A rubber dampening module is located inside the lower limb pocket bridge. The Era’s past-parallel split limbs also help hush every shot, while the LTR cable management system includes bearing-equipped rollers, lateral-torque-eliminating cant, and keeps buss cable under tension to prevent postshot clattering or vibration. I look forward to carrying the Elite Era into the field soon (very soon). Spring bear season is upon us and my baits are set. If anything should go wrong, like a cut bowstring, the Era (and all new Elite Archery bows) is backed by an industry-leading Limited Lifetime Warranty & Hunt Guarantee. IA holding weight from 70 to 90 percent let-off, macro draw length adjustments in quarterinch increments, and a soft to hard rear wall while at full draw. The SP Cam with V2 Micro Mods proved extremely efficient, maintaining relatively even kinetic energy levels throughout our test arrow group, heavy to light. The Era is shipped with Performance Mods, which boost energy delivery and provide the highest arrow speeds. Elite says Performance Mods require more applied energy during the draw cycle, as they carry peak draw weight deeper into the draw cycle, but I found them quite pleasant to draw. They may also require a stiffer arrow spine due to the increased rate of acceleration applied. These mods can be swapped out for Smooth or 75% Mods. Smooth Mods are designed to provide that old Elite feel, beginning let-off around mid-cycle and providing a gradual drop into valley—the ideal option for those who regularly hunt from cold stands with stiff muscles. This option includes 70- to 90-percent adjustable let-off. The 75% Mods are designed to provide more valley at higher holding weights, while increasing holding weight. They allow let-off ratings from 60 to 75 percent. Quiet & Stable ■ The 2023 Era sports a wider and more stable limb stance. This has the added benefit of reducing torque, improving accuracy and enhancing shooters’ ability to get on target and settle into the aiming Though the 2023 Elite Era is based on a carbon riser, it includes the company's familiar caged riser, which gives it excellent balance. WebXtra ■ For a closer look at this product and many others, check them out at insidearchery.com.
54 INSIDE ARCHERY MAY 2023 MARKET TRENDS GEAR REPORT R BY PATRICK MEITIN Maverick Hunting XL Blind WebXtra ■ For a closer look at this product and many others, check them out at insidearchery.com. emerged as a high-quality option offering reasonable pricing. The Maverick XL Blind is the company’s largest model. While remaining hassle free and easy to deploy, the hardsided blind is delivered in two lightweight pieces to make transportation into the field and setup simpler. Despite its convenient design, the Maverick XL Blind includes all the hunt-friendly features of brands retailing for two to three times the price. The Maverick XL includes silent windows held on friction hinges that open to the side to ensure more interior space for equipment or hunting companions. The hard-sided design protects occupants from the elements, whether that be harsh wind, moisture, or the bitter cold. Maverick’s patented rain-guard guarantees occupants stay dry when rain or snow is flying outside. This kind of protection promotes longer sits in complete comfort, including the allday visuals typically accompanying the whitetail rut. Maverick Hunting blinds include UVstabilized and paintable, rotomolded polyethylene construction, making it durable enough to leave in the field year-round. A two-inch bottom flange is provided for anchoring the blind to the ground or an elevated platform, so it will stay in place during the strongest winds. Sturdy construction also means it will stand up to the heaviest snow ecent reports released by ATA using info compiled by the annual NDA Deer Report and 2022 NWTF Spring Hunt Guide tells us more hunters are operating on private properties today. Private land offers more freedom in how hunters approach the sport due to less worry of theft or vandalism of expensive equipment. In addition, private land allows creating permanent focal points such as food plots, watering sites, or bait stations (where legal). This has driven a thriving market in hard-sided blinds, which offer more comfort in harsh weather, and the ability to easily share hunts with family and friends. In this competitive market, Maverick Hunting, based out of Wisconsin, has loads, and a patented roof overhang of the two halves further accentuates its waterproof nature. The Maverick blinds are so durable they come with a 10 year warranty to registered owners. The round-shaped, peaked-roof of the Maverick XL provides seven feet of interior space—plenty of room for video gear or three to four family members or friends—and the six-foot, three-inch ceiling accommodates shooting even longer traditional bows. It is the perfect blind for introducing youngsters to hunting, without worry of an uncomfortable experience or the possibility youthful fidgeting will ruin a hunt. The 35-by-45-inch hinged access door allows easy entry, even while packing a bow or wearing a backpack. Nine 10-by-22-inch vertical plexiglass windows (available clear or tinted) offer a 360-degree field of view and ensure no lost shot opportunities, no matter what direction game approaches from. The XL blind can be ordered in black, green, or brown. These USA-made blinds are backed by an American company that gives back 10 percent of annual profits to their community, conservation efforts and veterans. Maverick Hunting’s motto is, “Your Hunt. Your Way. Your Story.” Check them out at maverickhunting.com. IA
56 INSIDE ARCHERY MAY 2023 By Josh Honeycutt ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MAY 2023 57 INSIDEARCHERY.COM O utdoor and 3D archery season is upon us, which means it is time to restock or update your target gear inventory. In some regions serious tournaments have already begun, but there is certainly more to come, so as this action continues customers will undoubtedly arrive looking for the latest target shooting gear as competitors seek the advantage of the latest and greatest target archery gear offerings. If you’re a shop owner or retailer sifting through the latest crop of offerings, give the following target bows, arrows, hip quivers, stabilizers, and miscellaneous items a look. These just might be the rack and shelf items needed to boost sales in such a crazy market. Serious Target Compound Bows ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Mathews • Mathews recently introduced the new TRX 34, TRX 38 Gen2, TRX 36, and TRX 40. At 34 inches axle-to-axle, the TRX 34 is a great crossover bow for hunters and target archers, while the TRX 38 Gen2 offers ultimate stability and forgiveness on the range. Both models offer a new 75 percent mod which gives shooters a deeper valley, while the standard 80 percent mod and 70-V mods remain an option. The TRX 34 has an IBO rating up to 334 fps, and the TRX 38 G2 up to 329 fps. The 34 has a brace height of 6.5 inches, draw length range of 23.5-30 inches, and weighs 4.69 pounds. The 38 has a brace height of 7 inches, draw length range of 25 to 31.5 inches, and weighs 4.87 pounds. Peak draw weights include 50, 60, or 70 pounds. Further specifications of the TRX 36 include a 6.5-inch brace height, 36 inches axle to axle, weight of 4.66 pounds, and speed of 334 fps. It has a draw length range of 24 to 30.5 inches and 50-, 60-, or 70-pound peak draw weights. The TRX 40 has a 7-inch brace height, measures 40 inches axle-toaxle, weighs 4.93 pounds, and shoots 329 fps. It has a draw length range of 25.5 to 32 inches, with 50-, 60-, or 70-pound peak draw weights. Certain models also offer additional features, including a new dovetail mount, 3D damping, AVS bearings, bridged riser, stabilizer bushing, and more. Color options include black, blue, white, or red. Learn more about this bow at mathewsinc.com. Top-Shelf Competition Target Shooting Gear for 2023 A look at some of the most competitive gear available to professional archers this year
58 INSIDE ARCHERY MAY 2023 Prime Archery • Prime Archery by G5 Outdoors introduces the all-new 2023 Prime REVEX 6. It is available in a 36-inch axleto-axle configuration, providing shooters with a great, trustworthy build. Prime’s exclusive riser design is still a primary feature of the bow, giving the REVEX 6 superior stability. Prime’s new cam system features draw length specific mods that allow the REVEX 6 to reach maximum efficiency. Draw length ranges from 27.5 to 31.5 inches. This bow is very balanced throughout the entire draw cycle. It has a 6.75-inch brace height, 40- to 80-pound draw weight, and weighs 4.7 pounds. It shoots 330 fps. Learn more about this bow at g5prime.com. Athens Archery • The Athens Peak 38 is powered by the popular RT-X cam to deliver a smooth, stable, and forgiving platform. It also features the new TCS (Tunable Cable System) roller guard. The Athens Limb-Lok limb pocket design balances limb loads and securely locks the limbs in place, preventing any lateral movement while locking the pocket to the riser. This pocket system provides unequalled consistency and repeatability in a transition area that is critical to bow performance. The 38 features a 38-inch axle-to-axle and 7-inch brace height. Draw length ranges from 27.5 to 33.5 inches in half-inch increments. Draw weight ranges from 40 to 70 pounds, including 55- and 65-pound peak weight options. It has 70 to 90 percent let-off and reaches IBO speeds of 330 fps. The riser and limbs come in 18 color options. Learn more about this bow at athensarchery.com. Elite Archery • The Elite VERDICT is yet another innovative bow by Elite. It feels great in the hand, and the new SPX Cam with V2 Micro Mods establishes a great shooting foundation. It offers precision control, customizable comfort, and more. It even features a machined dualcage riser, 1 percent let-off adjustments, and Simplified. Exact. Tuning. (S.E.T.) technology, which makes tuning much easier. Focusing on specs, it measures 37.75 inches axle-to-axle, has a 7.125-inch brace height, and 25.5- to 31-inch draw length range. The bow weighs 5 pounds, offers up to 90 percent let-off, and comes in 40-, 50-, 60-, 65-, or 70-pound peak draw weights. The bow comes in rightor left-hand models and shoots 332 fps (IBO speed). It comes in 12 different color options. Learn more about this bow at elitearchery.com. Martin Outdoors • The Legend 730 was designed at the request of Legendary Archer Jeff Hopkins. He wanted a bow with a shoot-through riser and got it. Martin created the double bridge shoot-through competition platform. The main bridge is located at the standard location in the grip area. The large slot found in the lower portion is the secondary bridge. Combined with a proven NXT Cam system, it also utilizes a helix groove to reduce cam lean, and allows the archer the choice of mod stop, limb stops, or a combination of the two. The cable guard Competition Target Shooting Gear ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Elite VERDICT Athens Peak 38 Prime REVEX 6 Mathews TRX
MAY 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 59 versatility allows the archer to switch between cable guard rod with slide or roller guard. Also, the rod has the Martin Outdoors cable guard offset, and you can rotate the cable guard or roller guard location for tuning and cable loading. With the versatility and adjustability of the Legend 730, the archer can custom tune all shooting aspects to their feel. This bow is 37.5 inches axle-to-axle and has 90 percent let-off. The brace height is 6.875 inches. It can be ordered with peak draw weights of 50, 55, 60, 65, or 75 pounds. It reaches speeds of 338 fps and comes in 17 different colors. Learn more about this bow at martinarchery.com. PSE Archery • The PSE ShootDown Pro is based on a newly designed riser geometry that produces high performance, incredible repeatability, great speed, utmost comfort, and sets standards necessary to compete at high levels. It is a very stable shooting experience thanks to the dynamic brace height. Plus, the Full Draw Stability system actively resists induced torque, resulting in increased accuracy. Furthermore, the new EZ.220 Snap Spacer System allows for quick bow tuning and cam lean adjustment. The grip is engineered for comfort and reduced torque. It comes with a Picatinny sight rail and QAD integrate and Hamskea integrate arrow rest mounts. Specifications vary based on the specific SE2 Cam, S2 Cam, M2 Cam, and E2 Cam offerings. The SE2 weighs 4.7 pounds, has a 25.5- to 31-inch draw length, and shoots 338 fps. It measures 36 inches axle-to-axle, has a 7.125- inch brace height, and comes with 40-, 50-, 60-, or 70-pound peak draw weights. The S2 Cam weighs 4.7 pounds, has a 27- to 31-inch draw length, and shoots 345 fps. It measures 36 inches axle-to-axle, has a 7-inch brace height, and comes with 50-, 60-, or 70-pound peak draw weights. The M2 Cam weighs 4.7 pounds, has a 25- to 29-inch draw length, and shoots 340 fps (at 29 inches). It measures 36 inches axle-to-axle, has a 6.75-inch brace height, and comes with 40-, 50-, or 60-pound peak draw weights. The E2 Cam weighs 4.7 pounds, has a 29.5- to 33.5-inch draw length, and shoots 340 fps. It measures 36 inches axle-to-axle, has a 7.25-inch brace height, and comes with 60-, 70-, or 80-pound peak draw weights. Learn more about these bows at psearchery.com. Hoyt • The Hoyt Stratos 40 HBT is true to the brand, meaning it’s incredible. This model features the all-new, highly adjustable HBT Cam System. It also incorporates an updated riser geometry for better center of gravity, a proven modular grip system, and integrated arrow rest capabilities. This bow is offered in four configurations, including the Stratos 36 HBT, Stratos 40 HBT, Stratos 36 SVX, and Stratos 40 SVX. The Stratos 36 HBT shoots 318 fps, measures 36.5 inches axle-to-axle, and has a 7.375-inch brace height. It weighs 4.9 pounds, has a 24.5- to 31-inch draw length span, and sports a 30-70-pound draw weight span. The Stratos 40 HBT shoots 318 fps, measures 40 5/8 inches axle-to-axle, and has a 7.375-inch brace ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Darton VEGAS-E-3D Hoyt Stratos 40 HBT PSE ShootDown Pro Matin Legend 730
60 INSIDE ARCHERY MAY 2023 height. It weighs 5.1 pounds, has a 25.5- to 33-inch draw length, and sports a 30- to 70-pound draw weight. The Stratos 36 SVX shoots 332 fps, measures 36 inches axleto-axle, and has a 7-inch brace height. It weighs 4.7 pounds, has a 23.5- to 31-inch draw length span, and sports a 30- to 70-pound draw weight span. The Stratos 40 SVX shoots 327 fps, measures 40 1/8 inches axle-to-axle, and has a 7-inch brace height. It weighs 4.9 pounds, has a 24.5- to 33-inch draw length, and sports a 30- to 70-pound draw weight span. It’s available in eight color options. Learn more about this bow at hoyttarget.com. Darton Archery • The Darton VEGAS-E-3D was made for competition, and even named after it. This right- or left-handed bow comes with a shoot-through-riser design, new limb pockets for better control of limb alignment, and a more controlled shot process with the patented E-System. The Equalizer Cable System offers the utmost in balance. It even offers an adjustable draw module, positive limb stops, a split yoke system, and more. It features 7075 aluminum cams, 0.25-inch axles, 0.625-inch bearings, .790 limbs and pockets (which improves stability), and even a new grip angle. Drilling down on specs, it shoots 310 to 315 fps, measures 37.5 inches axle-to-axle, and has a 7-inch brace height. It weighs 4.72 pounds, has a draw length of 25.5 to 31 inches, 80 percent let-off (adjustable), and 40-, 50-, 60-, or 70-pound peak draw weights. It is made in the USA. Learn more about this bow at dartonarchery.com. Target Arrows ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Victory Archery • High velocity, precision and durability are all features offered by Victory’s 3DHV. They are constructed from 100 percent high-modulus carbon fiber. With a .204-inch inside diameter, these small-diameter arrows minimize wind drift. Spine ratings range from .300 to .800. They come spine aligned and are weight matched to within +/- .5 grains per dozen. These arrows are offered with straightness tolerances of +/- .001-, .003- or .006-inch and all come with top-grade AAE nocks and 7-grain Uni-Bushings. Customized upgrades are available. Victory’s proprietary ICE Nano Ceramic Coating provides easy extraction from high-density foam targets, while custom hand fletching guarantees optimum vane alignment and adhesion. Learn more about these arrows at victoryarchery.com. Easton Archery • Easton’s new Superdrive Micro 4mm arrow is the latest addition to the popular Superdrive family of products. The Superdrive Micro is Easton’s fastest all-carbon fiber arrow designed for all-purpose outdoor tournament use from target to field to 3D archery. It was engineered to provide the lightest grainper-inch weights possible in each spine range. Weight tolerance is +/- 1 grain. The Superdrive Micro is available in 11 spines from 325 to 950, providing a choice for the best archers across every division with extremely tight +/- .002-inch straightness specs. Sold in a pack of 12, components are sold separately. Learn more about these arrows at eastonarchery.com. Black Eagle • The Revelation by Black Eagle is an excellent 100 percent carbon choice for 2023. It was crafted for long-range target accuracy and dependability, even on the biggest of stages. This micro-diameter arrow has a great surface area-to-mass ratio, which improves overall flight and performance. Spine ratings include .300 (10.2 gpi), .350 (9 gpi), .400 (8.1), .450 (7.5), .500 (7), .550 (6.5), .600 (6.3), .650 (6), .700 (5.8I), .750 (5.6), and .800 (5.3 gpi). The outer diameter ranges from 0.183-inch (.800 spine) to 0.218-inch (.300 spine). The inner diameter is 0.125- inch for all spine ratings. Learn more about these arrows at blackeaglearrows.com. Competition Target Shooting Gear Victory 3DHV Easton Superdrive Micro 4mm Black Eagle Revelation Gold Tip X-Cutter Plus ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Make target retention better for target shooting! •Adheres paper-based targets to cardboard, haybales, foam blocks, poly-wrapped bags, and more! •Durable, reusable, holds on impact •Perfect for firearm, air-gun, and archery targets 833-822-5748 • targettackllc.com
MAY 2023 61 INSIDEARCHERY.COM Gold Tip • X-Cutter Plus Target Arrows by Gold Tip are one of the most popular shafts in 3D archery. It is a large-diame - ter arrow with lightweight construction. It sports a .380-inch outside diameter and 100 percent carbon construction. Its straightness tolerance is +/- .0025-inch, weight tolerance is +/- .5-grain, and the diameter is 24/64-inch. The spine rating is .250, they weigh 7.8 gpi, and overall length is 32 inches. They come in packs of 12 and components are sold separately. Learn more about these arrows at goldtip.com . Hip Quivers ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Elevation • Built from a podium proven design, the Elevation Mettle is a haul-itall, water-resistant, PVC-backed fabric field quiver. It features a spacious threestage arrow bay, scorecard sleeve pocket with scorecard holder, pen sleeve, sepa - rate damaged arrow bay, two stacked zippered pockets, and a sleeve pocket, rounded out with ample accessory at - tachment points. An exterior kickstand holder provides quick access and traps the bow stand against the body of the quiver, eliminating the need to waste a pocket for bow stand storage. It has a 2.25-inch belt receiver, drain holes, two D rings, and more. It is designed with 3D archers in mind. Individual and pack - age (belt and pouch included) options are available. Learn more about this quiver at elevationequipped.com . Bohning Archery • The Black Sky Adult Tar - get Quiver by Bohning is a great selec - tion for 2023. This all-black hip quiver comes in a right-handed model, fits up to a 3-inch belt, and was designed by com - petitive archers for competitive archers. It features four durable, high-capacity, solid-base tubes. It even incorporates a large double-zippered storage compart - ment, easy-to-access mesh and pencil storage areas, and a durable, water-re - pellant exterior. Learn about this quiver at bohning.com . October Mountain Products (OMP) • The Switch Hip Quiver by OMP showcases ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ a reversible design that converts this .30-06 Outdoors Deluxe OMP Switch Bohning Black Sky Elevation Mettle
62 INSIDE ARCHERY MAY 2023 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ model from rightto left-handed mode rather quickly. Like the Shift, it is crafted to perform well in recreational, 3D, and target archery. It sports a 2-inch belt loop, top storage pocket, storage compartment with mesh accessory, and four arrow tubes. Get it in black with purple trimming, or black and camo with yellow trimming. Learn more about these quivers at octobermountainproducts.com. .30-06 Outdoors • The Deluxe Target Quiver with Belt by .30-06 Outdoors is made for the target archer. It is crafted for right-handed shooters, offers heavy-duty construction, has three arrow compartments, sports a 6-by8-inch external compartment, and comes with a belt. It is durable, thanks to heavy-duty seams with moisture resistant material. Learn more about these quivers 30-06outdoors.com. Target Stabilizers ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ AXCEL Archery • The AXCEL CarboFlax 550 Acclaim is well suited to recurve or compound bows. It is one of the stiffest bars on the market. The .550-inch bar is equal to the stiffness of the .650-inch bar yet has better wind-resistance. It comes in 24-, 27-, 30-, or 33-inch lengths and sidebar lengths of 10-, 12-, or 15-inch offerings. Each one comes with a 2-ounce, 1-inch diameter weight and a 1-ounce, 1-inch diameter weight. It also includes a 3-ounce X-Vibe vibration dampener. It features a new Carbon Fiber Twill finish with engraved endcaps. Made in the USA. Learn more about these stabilizers at truball.com. Custom Bow Equipment (CBE) • The Torx Micro Kit by CBE is a well-crafted stabilizer system available for 2023. This product has incredible balance and stability while combining vibration-reducing technology in a slim, lightweight design. The Torx Carbon Micro is available in a stand-alone stabilizer of 8-, 10-, or 15- steel weight. The integrated front and back bar quick disconnect allows for easy disassembly for travel and stowing purposes. Learn more about these stabilizers at custombowequipment.com. Stokerized • Stokerized’s Super Lite (SL) Carbon Target Stabilizer is the company’s lightest premium carbon stabilizer, designed for archers looking for a minimal weight-tolength ratio and including nearly unlimited adjustment. All Carbon SL Series Target Bars come with three 1-ounce stainless steel weights and Stokerized’s Dual Saturn Dampener. Black hardware is standard and offered on all lengths. They are offered in SL 15 (15.25 inches, 8.1 ounces), SL 24 (24.25 inches, 9.3 ounces) and SL 30 (30.25 inches, 9.8 ounces) models. Listed weight includes three 1-ounce end weights and a 1.5-ounce DSD. Additional weights can be ordered separately for additional balance control. The SL Series moves mass away from the riser for enhanced stabilization and dampening of every shot. Learn more about this stabilizer at stokerized.com. Bee Stinger • Bee Stinger recently unveiled its latest offering, the MicroHex Target stabilizer. Made for serious target competition, it uses a competition archery design in a format that works for those who head afield. It sports a micro-diameter design with exclusive Countervail Technology. This stabilizer produces quicker dampening, less recoil, and a smoother shot without adding undue weight or sacrificing stiffness. Get it in 20-, 24-, 27-, 30-, 33-, or 36-inch lengths. The V-bar in 10-, 12-, or 15-inch lengths are also available separately. It features a 5/16x24 weight stud and three independent 1-ounce end weights (for 24-36-inch models only, 6-ounce on 20-inch model). It fits all current Bee Stinger hardware mounts. Altogether, it’s an effective system for overall bow balance and stabilization. Learn more about these stabilizers at beestinger.com. Competition Target Shooting Gear inch lengths, but also features a tapered fit to ensure the stabilizer doesn’t move once set. The high modules micro carbon rod features a seamless integration of the dampers and 2-ounce stainlessAXCEL CarboFlax 550 Acclaim CBE Torx Micro Kit Sokerized Super Lite (SL) Carbon Bee Stinger MicroHex AAE Street Rodz Viper X-Strike Bear Master Glove Bohning Bullet Screw-In Points Q2i Archery Griff-X Vane
MAY 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 63 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Arizona Archery Enterprises (AAE) • AAE’s Street Rodz are specifically designed to allow archers to maximize their stabilization potential while remaining on a budget. The Street Rodz features hi-modules carbon with the fit and finish AAE customers have come to expect. The front bars come with three 3-ounce stainlesssteel weights. The back bar weights are available separately. The Street Rodz is the perfect stabilizer for youth and beginning archers. Street Rodz bars are available in 24-, 27- or 30-inch front bars and 10- or 12-inch back bars. Learn more about these stabilizers at arizonaarchery.com. Viper Archery • X-Strike Stabilizers from Viper Archery Products offer excellent target options for 2023. This lightweight, stiff carbon rod comes with two 1-ounce steel weights and a matte finish. They are available in 8-, 10-, 12-, 14-, 18-, 20-, 24-, 28-, 30-, 33-, and 36-inch lengths. Learn more about these stabilizers at viperarcheryproducts.com. Must-Have Gear ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Bear Archery • The Bear Master Glove is a replica of Fred Bear’s personal shooting glove. It was crafted by the original manufacturer and made using the same materials of the original product. The tanned cow leather has an elastic stretch back for comfort and an adjustable Velcro wrist band for tightening and removal. The over-knuckle design provides air circulation. It is handcrafted and constructed of 100 percent full-grain leather for increased durability. It incorporates an adjustable Velcro wrist strap, which ensures a comfortable fit. It is an ambidextrous design for left- or right-handed shooters. Overall, this is a great accessory for any traditional archer using a recurve bow, traditional bow, or longbow. It comes in medium, large, and X-large. Learn more at beararchery.com. Bohning Archery • The Bullet Screw-In Point by Bohning features a contour slightly larger than the shaft, making for easier arrow removal. Regarding internal diameters of arrows, the 17/64-inch and 9/32-inch points typically fit .204 shafts, 19/64-inch and 5/16-inch points generally fit .246 shafts, 21/64-inch points usually fit large aluminum 21 series shafts with inserts, and 11/32-inch points generally work with crossbow bolts. Get these in packs of six, 12, 120, or 1,200. Weights are 85, 100, 125, or 150 grains. Learn more at bohning.com. Q2i Archery • The Griff-X vane from Q2i is ideal for all types of target archery, including indoor, outdoor and 3D shooting. It is a low-profile and lightweight design that provides top velocities and flattened trajectories while shooting unmarked targets. They are available in 1.8—by-0.38- , 2.3-by-0.43- and 3.0-by-0.43-inch options and a huge array of colors. The treated base provides nearly instantaneous and durable long-lasting adhesion. Learn more by visiting q2iarchery.com. IA
64 INSIDE ARCHERY MAY 2023 MARKET TRENDS GEAR REPORT V BY PATRICK MEITIN Victory Archery RIP Series Arrows WebXtra ■ For a closer look at this product and many others, check them out at insidearchery.com. switching to left-hand shooting, drawing with a much weakened arm, and using lighter .350-spine shafts. Seeking the speed high draw weight previously afforded, Victory’s .204-diameter RIP series arrows held serious appeal. The original RIP was all about speed, though certainly tough enough for bowhunting, weighing just 8.2 gpi in .350 spine. Looking for a touch more momentum-generating mass while shooting just 55 pounds, I turned to the slightly heavier RIP TKO. It proved an ideal balance between flat trajectories and deadly energy delivery. The RIP TKO provided a slightly heavier 8.7 gpi in .350 spine. In my case, that translated to 15 extra grains of mass that was enough to influence noticeable jumps in delivered KE. I used those shafts to tag two spring gobblers and mark my return to bowhunting after months of frustration and physical struggle to even shoot a bow again. As my strength slowly returned, aided by more frequent shooting, adding a full turn on my limb bolts each month, I sought a shaft offering even more penetration potential on the larger game I had big plans for (such as Texas wild boars and Idaho black bear). Victory’s heavier RIP SS—9.9 gpi in .350 spine— made a logical next step. The RIP SS, like the VAP SS, represents the pinnacle of carbon hunting arrow ictory Archery has become a serious carbon arrow powerhouse and a master of ultra-thin diameter carbon arrows. Victory introduced the first micro .166- inch diameter carbon shafts with the lightweight VAP, followed by the VAP TKO and heavier weight VAP SS. I have used them all successfully on game ranging from gobbling turkeys to bugling elk. A .300-spine VAP-SS had become my goto shaft, until a recent injury required technology, while creating a bonesmashing, deep driving option with a just-right balance of speed and durability. The RIP SS includes layers of stainless steel mesh infused into a 90-degree carbon fiber weave, creating one tough arrow shaft including the speed I need to center vitals at unknown yardages. Standard 50-grain 7075 aluminum alloy Shok TL broadhead adaptors give the RIP SS impressive F.O.C. balance for deeper penetration, exceptional forgiveness, and straighter broadhead flight, while also protecting the front of the shaft. Optional 75-grain stainless steel Shok outserts are offered. MaxxKe Technology (plainly visible in the directional carbon weave showing through the proprietary slick ICE Nano Ceramic Coating) helps RIP TKO and RIP SS arrows recover more quickly during launch for greater accuracy and gives them incredible strength. Each arrow is spine aligned for consistent spine and flight characteristics, and hand fletched to ensure a quality job. Like other Victory arrows, the RIP series are offered in Elite V1, Gamer V3 and Sport V6 grades, including +/- .001-, .003-, and .006-inch straightness tolerances, respectively. All are weight matched to within half a grain per dozen, and offered in .250, .300, .350, and .400 spine ratings. Check them out by visiting victoryarchery.com. IA
66 INSIDE ARCHERY MAY 2023 Five Questions with Rinehart Targets INSIDE THE INDUSTRY INDUSTRY 5Q Rinehart has represented a gold standard in archery and 3D targets for quite some time now. This has a lot to do with the company’s proprietary solid self-healing foam and patented locking vital inserts, which not only stop the fastest arrows and bolts dead, but allows effortless extraction and long target life. Rinehart has also remained family owned and operated since 1999, translating into unbeatable customer service and that personal touch lacking in many large companies. All Rinehart products are made in the USA. Inside Archery talked with James McGovern to learn more, who along with his wife Barbara, owns Rinehart Targets. We upgraded all Woodland series targets to the Signature series. Discontinuing the Woodland series provided customers with the quality they expected when they purchased a Rinehart Target. The Woodland series was a mid-level price point target and a third of our line, so this move drastically improved our product offerings and allowed us to increase our efficiencies internally. What programs or incentives has Rinehart Targets put into place to better help dealers thrive in today’s challenging marketplace? ■ We have always offered dealers margins they could live on. Dealers make better margin dollars selling one of our products than five of my competitor’s. We have always been very conscious of dealers’ need to make money along the way. Learn more about Rinehart Targets at rinehart3d.com. IA same Eighteen to One for decades without wearing it out. Our solid No. 2 is our 1/3 Scale product line. Those targets filled a need in the market, as not everyone has $1,600 to spend on a full-size elk target, or a 60-yard range to shoot it. The 1/3 Scale series allows getting the same perspective and shooting practice at 20 yards as 60. What changes have taken place at Rinehart Targets recently, and how will these changes help the company better serve their dealers and customers? ■ Over the last two years we have completely revamped our entire leadership team. Upgrading the people running the company has allowed us to adapt to the changing marketplace, bring lead times down, maintain our top quality, and put us on a stronger footing alltogether. What major changes to your product lineup have taken place for 2023? ■ hat traits have helped Rinehart Targets retain such a high level of customer loyalty and remain an industry leader for so long? ■ We pride ourselves on the consistency of our products, the fact that our materials and user-friendly features have remained so even over the years. We took a big hit during COVID, with material and operating costs rising drastically. Despite that we decided to continue providing the same quality as before. Material costs are still high, but we continue to adhere to the high quality Rinehart is known for. What Rinehart Target products have remained the company’s best sellers, and what features do you attribute that popularity to? ■ Our Eighteen to One (18-1) solid-foam target has remained our No. 1 seller for 20 years. We have customers who’ve owned the W