Inside Archery March 2024

52 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 OBSESSION THE BONE PSE MACH 30 DS PSE NOCK 30 ES tension. The riser has received a rubberized Soft Touch Armour finish, the LimbSaver string stop is mounted on carbon, and LimbSaver Broadband limb silencers are installed at the factory to offer outof-the-box bowhunting stealth. The Black Mamba Pro is also Integrated Bow Winch compatible, ensuring bowhunters who hunt from elevated stands always have a pull-up rope on hand. Go to apaarchery. com to learn more. Obsession Bows • The Obsession Vengance NT is a 6061 aluminum riser bow set to ship in the next couple months. The aluminum riser is a departure from the company’s premium Mag-Lite construction, providing a more affordable option for fans of the brand (MSRP $1,099). It holds the company’s NT Cam, which relinquishes IBO arrow speeds of up to 348 fps, while offering a smooth draw cycle and 80 percent let-off. This cam handles draw lengths from 26 to 31 inches. The Vengance NT will weigh only slightly more than the Mag-Lite NT version, while maintaining the same basic specs, including a forgiving 33.125-inches axle-to-axle span and 6.25-inch brace height. It can be ordered with peak draw weights between 40 and 70 pounds. It will be available in black and most solid color options, plus 18 Last Leaf Limitless Series color schemes, and an incredible 36 camouflage and graphics options. There are also nine string colors to choose from, and and cams are black anodized. The Bone by Obsession provides standout looks in a tidy and quick 29.75-inch package. It is based on a unique riser design, which produces a stable and lightweight 4.3-pound outfit. Though it is compact and lightweight, The Bone propels arrows to IBO speeds of 360 fps via its Flite Cam with Perf Tuning System and 6-inch brace height. Its cam system handles draw lengths from 24.5 to 30 inches and it can be ordered with peak draw weights of 40, 50, 60, 65, 70, or 80 pounds. Go to obsessionbows.com to learn more. PSE Archery • PSE has become another carbon-riser powerhouse through their monocoque riser technology, while their efficient cam systems have become trusted by legions of serious target archers and bowhunters. The Mach 34 proved one of PSE’s hottest compound models for 2023, so it should come as no surprise the company would pack that remarkable design into a more compact platform. PSE’s Mach 30 DS and Nock 30 ES models provide more compact, maneuverable, and lightweight 30-inch options for 2024 while maintaining the warm-tothe-touch, ultra-stout carbon monocoque construction that makes these bows a true industry touchstone. The Mach 30 and Nock 30 each weigh just 3.6 pounds. These are essentially identical bows, the differences found in the DS and ES cam systems employed in the two models. The Mach 30 DS accommodates draw lengths between 24.5 and 30 inches while generating IBO arrow speeds of up 2024 Hunting Bows ATHENS AXXIS 31 Continued from Page 50 Continued on Page 54

54 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 to 338 fps. The John Dudley/Nock-On TVinspired Nock 30 ES, on the other hand, integrates PSE’s EZ.220 tuning system for faster, no-bow-press tuning, while serving draw lengths from 27 to 31 inches. It generates IBO arrow speeds of up to 342 fps. In addition to axle-to-axle dimensions, the two models share many similarities, including a 6-inch brace height, 80 to 90 percent let-off, and 50- to 80-pound peak draw weights. Go to psearchery.com to learn more. Athens Archery • Athens Archery is quickly gaining market share through competitive designs and pricing combined with unbeatable customer service. The Axxis series for 2024 offers newly introduced, patent-pending technologies that make them exceptionally shootable and more easily tuned. Included in the Axxis lineup are Axxis 31, Axxis 33 and Axxis 35 models (numbers representing axle-toaxle specs) to serve any customer’s need. Each is equipped with new Accu-Tune Cam™ Technology and 1-inch-wide split limbs. The riser holds Athens’ popular low-profile molded grip, a standard and lower stabilizer tap, and Integrate rest and Picatinny sight mounting options to accommodate the newest accessory options. Accu-Tune Cam Technology allows precise lateral cam adjustment using only an Allen wrench and without the need for a bow press. Let-off settings of 70 to 90 percent can be chosen with the RT-X Rotating Cam Gen 3 system with ½-inch draw-length settings accomplished without a bow press. Peak draw weights from 40 to 80 pounds can be ordered. Axxis 31 specs include a 4.4-pound mass and up to 335 fps IBO arrow speeds. The Axxis 33 includes a 4.4-pound mass and produces IBO arrow speeds of up to 330 fps. Finally, the Axxis 35 weighs 4.7 pounds and sends arrows at IBO speeds of up to 325 fps. All include 7-inch brace heights. Stability and performance of the 1-inch split limbs are enhanced through a lighter Limb-Lok 2.0 limb pocket including improved alignment features. The riser holds Athens’ popular low-profile molded grip, and Integrate rest and Picatinny sight mounting are provided to accommodate the newest accessory options. Lateral riser torque is eliminated through the TCS Tunable Cable System Roller Guard, and shots are hushed by Mountain View Products’ highly effective X-Out Limb Dampeners. Look for these Axxis series bows in 15 durable powdercoat solid and Kolorfusion camouflage finish options, including new Athens Conifer Grey camo, TrueTimber Strata camo, SKRE Solace camo, Mallard, Hummingbird, and Green Winged Teal. Go to athensarchery.com to learn more. Prime Archery • Prime Archery by G5 Outdoors has developed a solid reputation with discriminating archers for providing easy shooting qualities and easy accuracy. For 2024 those attributes are compounded in the new RVX series—including 32, 34, and 36 models with corresponding axle-to-axle dimensions. This is being called the most tunable and acPRIME RVX XPEDITION XLITE GEARHEAD B34 DARTON SEQUEL 33 2024 Hunting Bows Continued from Page 52 Continued on Page 56

curate Prime bow yet, producing trulylevel nock travel, huge efficiency, and a buttery-smooth draw cycle while generating IBO arrow speeds of up to 340, 342, and 332 fps, respectively. Cams can be quickly, easily but precisely shifted left or right via Quik Tune technology and without removing the axles. Let-off from 75 to 85 percent is easily established and drawlength adjustments (26-30 inches RVX 32, 26.5-30.5 RVX 34, and 27.5-31.5 inches RVX 36) are established in ¼-inch increments. The RVX riser includes a perfectly centered grip and Swerve Technology that offsets accessory weight and eliminates torque at full draw, design aspects that translate into faster target acquisition, and unsurpassed in-hand stability. The comfortable Nano-Grip is molded from NASA-inspired Aero-Gel technology that insulates the bow hand in chilly temperatures. Integrate rest and Picatinny sight mounting options are machined directly into the RVX riser. Finish options include Recon Grey, Morel, Ridge Rock, Black, Asio Camo, SoloHntr Camo, Firstlite Specter, Sitka Subalpine, Kings XK7, Ridge Rock Scar, Morel Scar, Hammered Grey, Hammered Penny, Prism, Deep Red, Midnight Blue, GFade SubAlpine, and GFade Kings XK7. Specs for the RVX 32 include a 6.25- inch brace height and 4.4-pound weight; the RVX 34 6.25-inch and 4.5 pounds; and the RVX 36 6.75-inch and 4.6 pounds. All models can be ordered with 40- to 80-pound peak draw weights. Go to g5prime.com to learn more. Xpedition Archery • Xpedition’s XLite series includes the XLite 29, 31, 33 and 35. Of these the XLite 29 is the newest addition and was designed with serious bowhunting in mind. Like all the bows in this series the XLite includes a riser made from proprietary MAGNITE alloy used in the defense and aerospace industries, a material that is said to be stronger and more consistent than carbon and 30 percent lighter than aluminum, while also providing 20 times more vibration dampening qualities than commercial-grade carbon. The XB29 Dual Cam system was designed especially for the XLite 29, providing higher arrow velocities without sacrificing the smooth draw cycle experienced with the company’s XB1 Cam. The 80 percent let-off X29 Cam allows set-up for draw lengths from 24.5 to 30 inches in ½-inch increments via two module options that promote optimal performance at every draw length. The strategically-positioned dual draw stops give shooters a rock-solid back wall. All models include a generous selection of ultra-durable Cerekote finishes. The sub-30-inch axle-to-axle dimensions and double-bridged MAGNITE riser create 2024 Hunting Bows Continued from Page 54

MARCH 2024 INSIDEARCHERY.COM a 3.65-pound package for easy toting. The XLite 29 comes with Xpedition’s new 17- or 19-degree grip options to customers’ preferences, and is well balanced to sit effortlessly in the hand. The 29-inch bow (+/- .0625-inch) generates IBO arrows speeds of up to 340 fps through a 6-inch brace height. It is offered in peak draw weights of 50, 60, 65 and 70 pounds. Go to xpeditionarchery.com to learn more. Gearhead Archery • Gearhead Archery’s B34 Hunting Bow offers the company’s highly-unique double-panel, shoot-through design that lends the bow extreme rigidity and in-hand stability. The B34 includes the company’s 1911 Slider Grip that helps it point and shoot like no other bow, while also providing a dead-in-the-hand shooting experience. The 34.625-inch B34 is as well suited to target archery as serious hunting. The B34 comes with a standard black hard-coat anodized finish (custom dipping and colors available at an additional cost) and three-position ST-2 stabilizer mounting bracket. The B34 relinquishes IBO arrow speeds of 337 fps and 88.25 foot pounds of kinetic energy. The bow weighs a stabile 4.75 pounds out of the box. The B34 can be ordered with draw weight spans of 45-55, 55-65 and 65-75 pounds, and includes a draw-length range of 26 to 32 inches. Brace height measures 5.25 to 7 inches, depending on the location of the multi-position Slider Grip. Go to gearheadarchery.com to learn more. Darton Archery • Darton is making a comeback under new ownership and the 2024 Darton Sequel 33 is sure to boost that momentum. This is a longer, more forgiving version of last year’s Sequel 31 and is designed for greater shooting comfort and performance. The Sequel 33 is based on a pre-stressed/forged 7075 T6-6511 aluminum riser, this new technology increases strength, providing excellent aesthetics and improved shooting silence. The refined BBS Dual Sync Cams include rotating modules and ultra-smooth draw cycles. These cams are also milled from stout 7075 grade aluminum, set on ¼-inch axles, and given precise and super-reliable 5/8-inch sealed bearings. A single bow can be adjusted to produce 26- to 31.5- inch draw lengths and 80 to 87 percent let-off. Axle-to-axle specs are 33 1/16 inch, weigh 4.65 pounds, and the actual IBO arrow speed is 335 fps. BCY 452X Natural Bowstrings come standard, and the improved .870-inchwide limbs and pocket system provide improved stability, energy transfer, and speed while reducing vibrations and shot noise. Integrate rest mounting is milled right in, while Darton’s popular grip angle, a roller guard buss cable management system, and a new buss cable yolk system work together to reduce torque and create a more forgiving bow. Left- and right-hand versions are available in 50-, 60- and 70-pound peak draw weights. Go to dartonarchery.com to learn more. IA The best target retention for better target shooting Adheres paper and vinyl targets to cardboard, plastic, haybales, foam blocks, poly-wrapped bags and more! Durable, reusable, holds on impact Perfect for firearm, air-gun, archery targets More package options! More colors! More value! • 833-822-5748 • targettackllc.com Family Owned and Operated

58 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 The Importance of in Modern Archery Feather Fletching Natural feathers are conspicuously lighter than plastic vanes—up to four times lighter than like-sized vanes. Three 4-inch parabolic Gateway feathers, for instance, weighed just 10 grains on my precision RCBS reloading powder scale, while three 2-inch “broadhead-style” vanes weighed 23.5 grains. Given the industry’s current obsession with F.O.C. and its effects on arrow forgiveness and penetration on game, feathers provide a clear edge, removing rear-end weight and creating improved weight distribution. Feathers also result in lighter finished arrow weight and faster launch speeds. Natural feathers’ ability to collapse around obstacles, be that arrow rests or encountered branches, also makes them much more forgiving. Many archers choose drop-away arrow rests today, but just as many prefer something simpler like Whisker Biscuit-style rests with fewer moving parts and less setup headaches. And despite drop-away arrow rests, vane contact with buss cables and/ or cable-slide/roller systems can still upset arrow flight. Natural features can also save a hunt, collapsing after encountering branches that would send plastic-fletched arrows off course. Feathers’ forgiving nature remains in extreme cold, while vanes can become excessively stiff or even brittle in frigid temperatures. Natural feathers (including nontoxic food-grade dyes used exclusively by Gateway Feathers) are also naturally biodegradable and environmentally friendly— something that cannot be said of modern plastics. A plastic vane left in the field can very easily be consumed by a wild animal to cause digestive problems. Natural feathers’ ability to resist side pressure provides superior steerage while shooting broadheads, while the microstructures of the feather fibers create increased rear drag to keep arrows flying true. My testing has established that a vane-fletched arrow will overtake a similarly-sized/shaped feather-fletched arrow of the same weight/spine at 55 to 60 yards due to feathers’ increased drag, but few ethical bowhunters shoot beyond 60 yards, even if we’d like to pretend otherwise. Moisture has long remained the nemesis of natural feathers, though Gateway offers effective Waterproofing Powder to repel moisture, with an even better option promised soon. In parting, natural feathers prove dramatically more forgiving while also introducing greater arrow stability. This makes them less critical to fine-tuning, and helps correct small flaws in shooting technique or tuning such as a sloppy release or the smallest fletching contact. Feather fletchings are still winning archery tournaments at the highest levels, including Chris Berry’s 100th podium finish of the season and Brady Ellison’s recent Olympic Recurve win in Las Vegas. Feathers are also more attractive, including Gateway Printz, which offers comprehensive feather customization for individuals, archery clubs, or businesses. Learn more by visiting gatewayfeathers.com. IA BY PATRICK MEITIN Feather Fletching Natural feathers are a wonder of nature, proving incredibly stiff when pushed from the flats while collapsing readily when pushed from the edges (the polar opposite of plastic vanes). They also prove remarkably durable. Feathers made a natural choice of ancient archers because nothing else really made sense. Goose quills remained standard for centuries in Europe, while turkey primary features replaced goose after the discovery of the New World, where turkeys were native and domesticated by indigenous peoples. Natural turkey feathers remain the No. 1 choice of traditional shooters the world over due to the attributes outlined above. This is especially true of single-string shooters shooting off the shelf, sans an elevated arrow rest, as the forgiving nature of feathers keeps arrows on a straight path after passing across/ past a solid arrow shelf and sight window. The remainder of the archery and bowhunting world has gone high-tech, with so much of our equipment revolving around space-age polymers. This is especially true of arrow fletchings, the plastic vanes used on most compound arrows today. This begs the question: Are natural feathers still viable in modern archery/bowhunting outside the obvious traditional realm? The answer is yes, as the attributes provided throughout history have remained, offering inherent advantages over plastic vanes. Presented by

2024 ATATRADE SHOW 2024 marks the first time the annual ATA Show was held in St. Louis, Missouri, and despite the apprehensions of many, the location and Show itself proved a resounding success. The Archery Trade Association (ATA) managed to introduce renewed excitement to the 2024 event, eliminating “dealer-only” day, hosting a free dinner, introducing the first ATA Industry Icon award (received by PSE Archery’s founder Pete Shepley), allowing manufacturers to host free-beer happy hours at their booths for the first time in years, as well as other well-received events and amenities. While our nation’s current economic downturn and harsh winter weather kept many ATA members at home this year, manufactures who did attend the Show reported taking steady orders, while attending dealers provided favorable reviews overall. The annual ATA Show was definitely the place to be in January, with a plethora of spanking newproducts introduced, some new names in the archery industry appearing, and the innovation that makes attending any Show a big event continuing apace of previous years. The big ATA Show is still the place to see new product first, take advantage of Show discounts and meet face-to-face with old friends, manufacturers and archery/bowhunting celebrities. 60 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024

clockwise from top left: ■ Todd Snader of Pure Archery Group and Jake Poplin of Idea Ranch Marketing show off the lastest Bowtech bows and accessories from Montana Black Gold, Tight Spot, and Ripcord. ■ Brian Bychowski, owner of Pine Ridge Archery, demonstrates the company’s new Kwik Stand Tri-Pod bow stand. ■ One of the biggest surprises of the ATA Show was Delta McKenzie’s purchase by BIGshot Archery, a move that left their booth hopping. ■ The crew at Headhunter Bow Strings wants to change the way dealers order replacement and upgrade strings. ■ Inside Archery’s Executive Editor Patrick Meitin checks out the latest hard-side blind offering by Banks Outdoors, the Stump 2 Phantom. ■ The CamoSpace booth saw a steady stream of bowhunting celebrities and live entertainment. MARCH 2024 61 INSIDEARCHERY.COM

clockwise from top left: ■ Inside Archery’s Patrick Meitin takes a spin on one of Rungu Dualie’s e-bikes, the only brand with dual front tires to provide added stability. ■ Killer Instinct’s Jason Fuller poses with the company’s Max 430 crossbow model, highlighted in the January issue of Inside Archery held by Sales & Marketing Director Stephen Mack. ■ Jody Wheeler, right, and Angus Moss display some of Q2i’s latest vane options and the wide array of bright color options available. ■ Elevation by Kinsey’s Archery is well known for its wide array of hunt-friendly products. Lisa Royer discusses 2024 additions with an interested dealer. ■ Spot-Hogg continues to refine its entire product lineup, including some of the most feature-rich and popular bow sights in the business. ■ October Mountain Products’ (OMP) Phoenix Fletching Jig, offered by Kinsey’s Archery, has emerged as one of the finest fletching tools in the industry, as explained by Dale Howe. 2024 ATATRADE SHOW 62 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024

clockwise from bottom left: ■ MTM Case-Gard introduced a tough but affordable bow case for 2024, which should prove appealing to bowhunters and archers on a budget. ■ The crew of GAS Bowstrings is like a family, working together as a well-oiled machine. Left to right are Tanja Gellenthen, Destany Trent, Eric Griggs, Karla Griggs, Sara Moore and Aaron Adams. ■ Pnuma Outdoors has become a powerhouse in high-tech hunting clothing, providing clothing systems for any occasion or conditions. ■ Scorpion Venom’s John Logalbo (left) and Ed Cunningham (right) are rightly proud of the company’s highly-effective lineup of archery and bow lubricants and string waxes.

clockwise from top left: ■ Matt Minshall, owner of .30-06 Outdoors, introduced several new products for 2024, the company’s Wash & Wax bowstring system destined to become a best seller. ■ Bear Archery’s Caleb Sorrells displays the Bear Persist (left) and Alaskan XT, two 2024 bows sure to be big hits with bowhunters this season. ■ The new-for-2024 Bowdacious Bowrest acts as a stabilizing monopod for bows, helping any archer hold steadier and shoot better. ■ Gary Cornum, Marketing Director of Easton Archery, holds a brace of Axis 4mm arrows, which continue to be top sellers in today’s archery market. ■ The CariBow by MD-50 Gear provides a better way to carry any compound bow into the field. Keoki Schattauer demonstrates how well balanced the system is. ■ ULTRAVIEW is a new company that has burst onto the archery scene with ultra-advanced bow sights and handheld releases designed to improve any archer’s shooting. ■ Bone Collector scent products offer an everwidening lineup of hunting attractants sure to be in big demand from customers in the coming year. 2024 ATATRADE SHOW 64 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024

clockwise from top left: ■ The guys from Morrell Targets, including, left to right, Tanner Morrell, Elijah Wilson, Tucker Backus and Robert Roxin line up behind some of the company’s most popular targets. ■ Hawke Optics offers a wide range of optics choices, from binoculars and spotting scopes, to crossbow scopes, to riflescopes for any type of weapon. ■ Annihilator Broadheads won two awards at the St. Louis ATA Show, including Best New Product, and Best New Broadhead. ■ Cassie Gasaway, ATA’s Communications manager, was on hand to answer show-goers’ questions and distribute informational materials. ■ America’s Best Bowstrings is not only a source for top-grade aftermarket replacement strings and cables, but also owns Helix Broadheads, a proven cut-on-contact design. ■ Wendy Clark and Leon Pittman of Last Chance Archery were on hand at the St. Louis, Missouri, ATA Show to talk to dealers and take orders for the industry’s most popular bow press and tuning tools. MARCH 2024 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 65

clockwise from top left: ■ BIGshot Archery introduced several new products at the 2024 ATA Show, including a Bigfoot 3-D target and this dramatic charging Brown Bear 3-D target. ■ BCY not only supplies the cutting-edge materials that go into many of today’s best custom bowstrings, but always has one of the most colorful booths at the ATA Show. ■ The Axion EZ Slingbow Y is ideal for target shooting or small game hunting, shown here by Bahram Khoshnood (right) President of Axion and Pulse Archery. ■ Bow Spider’s David Merrill introduced a new crossbow system for 2024 that makes unwieldy crossbows much easier to manage in the field. ■ Antler King’s Clayton Baughman, left, shows Inside Archery’s Executive Editor their latest deer feed introduction, Kitchen Sink, which includes everything but the kitchen sink. ■ Inside Archery’s Director of Sales & Marketing tries out the fit of Barnett’s 2024 Raptor crossbow. 2024 ATATRADE SHOW 66 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024

OUTTECH INNOVATIONS ■ Above: Outtech Innovations annual ATA Show event brings together Outtech Outdoor Sales Services clients under one roof for a night of free food, drinks and entertainment, while taking in the latest product introductions. Left: “Rocket” Rod Swanson is on hand to answer any Outtech questions.

clockwise from top left: ■ QuivAR won ATA’s Best New Technology award during owners Matt Gross and Levi Perigo’s first ATA Show. This product was highlighted in the January issue of Inside Archery. ■ Phenix Branding owner Tim Kent runs through the features of one of Rhino Treestands’ (owned by Feradyne) latest products. ■ Black Eagle Arrows owner Randy Kitts takes time out of a busy Show schedule to chat with Inside Archery. ■ The Bowhilt team was on hand to explain the virtues of the Bowhilt heated grip system to interested dealers at the 2024 ATA Show. ■ Eric Young, Sales & Marketing for Redline Bowhunting, shows off the company’s latest arrow quiver design, just a small portion of Redline’s growing stable of bowhunting accessories. 2024 ATATRADE SHOW 68 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024

69 clockwise from top left: ■ Outdoor TV stars Nicole (far left) and Pat Reeves (far right) dropped into the Nose Jammer booth while attending the ATA Show to chat with Eric Borrman, second from left) and Nathan Slenczka (second from right). ■ Carter Enterprises’ April Carter and Davey Huber talk about some of the latest products that have helped the company maintain a reputation for creating some of the top release aids in the business. ■ Rob Schneider designed Trifecta Broadheads for his own hunts, eventually starting the company to share the super tough and reliable design with the bowhunting world. ■ Ani-Logics has emerged as one of the top deer nutritional and supplemental feed companies in the hunting world, offering products that deer like and that are good for them. . ■ Inside Archery’s Stephen Mack, right, wears new, silent rain gear designed and manufactured by Vapor Trail Scents owner Rex Holmes, left. ■ Ballista staff proudly display their Best New Bow at the ATA Show along with the Ballista Megabat.

clockwise from top left: ■ HHA Sports designs some of the most advanced mover sights in the business. HHA’s Jake Mancl and Inside Archery’s Patrick Meitin display some of the latest introductions. ■ The big news at Victory Archery for 2024 is the expansion of spine options for most of the company’s arrows. Victory Operations Manager Steven Greenwood shows Stephen Mack the new .200 and .250 options. ■ REK Broadheads has become increasingly popular with many serious bowhunters through a selection of nail-tough fixed and mechanical designs. ■ Gateway Feather’s Zach Miller talks to Inside Archery about the many advantages of natural feathers in the age of plastic vanes. ■ Blocker Outdoors and Scentlok Technologies are now under one roof, creating patented scent-control clothing used by hunters worldwide. ■ Jeff Ellis, President of JATK Gear talks to dealers about his award-winning designs. The JAKT Gear Tree Gear Collection won Best New Accessory at the Annual ATA Awards this year. 2024 ATATRADE SHOW 70 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024

clockwise from top left: ■ Firststring owners Mikey and Scott Parrish have revolutionized the custom bowstring industry, introducing many of the string-building processes commonly used today. ■ Dark Owl Archery’s Cody Kress shows the Stealth41 Custom Optic sight, which includes three single-stacked pins and adjustable rheostat illumination. ■ Rock Ridge Outdoors offers a wide range of useful hunting-related products, including a comprehensive lineup of DeadRinger Broadheads. ■ Link Edge’s owner, Scott Leum, talks to gathered dealers about his easy-to-use point-of-sale and inventory system. The system is so easy that new users can learn the software as they work.

clockwise from top left: ■ SKB Cases owner Steve Kerpan introduced the iSeries Shaped Bow Case for 2024, which provides the company’s renowned protection but at a lower price point. ■ Brandon Reyes, Director of Sales & Marketing for T.R.U. Ball/AXCEL, shows off the company’s new Ultimate Flex release, which won the Best New Release award at the 2024 ATA Show. ■ Wildlife Research Center’s marketing head Paul Marion was excited to talk about the company’s new Golden Rope mock scrape kit, which makes creating a mock scrape easier and more productive. ■ Josh Fields, Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls marketing manager, shows off the company’s newest offerings, deluxe reusable game bags, and a compact rattling call. ■ It’s a family affair at Western Recreation. Owner Brad Love, center, is flanked by his son Trevor Love and daughter Morgan Love. ■ White Water Archery offers arrows and points, but is likely best known for producing the widest selection of unique arrow wraps in the business. 2024 ATATRADE SHOW 72 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024

clockwise from top left: ■ Inside Archery’s Patrick Meitin, right, ran into ATA president Jeff Poole during the Show and took the time to chat about how the show was going. ■ James McGovern, owner of Rinehart Targets, was proud to introduce the new 1/3-scale bighorn ram. ■ Quality Archery Designs (QAD) arrow rests have arguably become the most popular in the entire industry. Their Exodus Broadheads are also great sellers. ■ One of the newest products in the industry is the StealthRig bow carrying system, which uses magnets to hold the bow in place. ■ Inside Archery’s Stephen Mack, center, is flanked by Pro-Tracker owners Gary Christensen, left, and Michael Ferguson, right, showing the company’s latest Friction Grip Inserts. ■ If a dealer is in the market for any type of arrow component, from inserts to points, and at competitive prices, Precision Designed Product and owner Keith Jabbin are who you need to contact. MARCH 2024 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 73

clockwise from top left: ■ Andrea “Ravin” Boville, and Greg “Kaz” Kazmierski, owner of Buck Rub Gear, display the company’s Carbon Fixation bow sight and Ravin Claw Magne-Drop arrow rest. ■ Jacob Carpenter, right, dipped a swab in raccoon trapping lure and then sprayed it with Scent Thief. The stinky lure could not be detected after the Scent Thief treatment. ■ Inside Archery magazines could be found throughout the ATA Show forum, free to anyone attending the show. ■ Paul Beck, left, holds Viper Archery’s new Pit Viper mover sight, while Mitch Minich, right, displays the company’s rechargeable sight light. ■ Providence Marketnig’s Jack Gavin shows off a Metcalf pack, one of the latest products from innovative Mystery Ranch. ■ Timothy Kent, owner of Phenix Branding and marketing for FeraDyne Outdoors, shows Inside Archery’s Stephen Mack the latest wares from Muzzy Broadheads. 2024 ATATRADE SHOW 74 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024

MARCH 2024 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 75 clockwise from top right: ■ Sam Collora was on hand to share hunting stories and discuss the virtues of Mrs. Doe Pee’s ultra-fresh scent products. ■ NASP president Tommy Floyd took the time to visit with Inside Archery’s Patrick Meitin, left, and Stephen Mack, right. Inside Archery has remained a huge supporter of the organization and its mission. ■ Nate Grace, Chief Design Officer at G5 Outdoors/Prime Archery, calls the 2024 Prime RVX a refinement of the 2023 Prime Revix.

clockwise from top left: ■ Danny Alba demonstrates how his arm-brace Mule Stabilizer makes any bow easier and seemingly lighter to carry in the field. ■ The ATA Annual Banquet, sponsored by Mossy Oak this year, included a free dinner, Best Product Awards and ATA’s first Industry Icon Award inductee, Pete Shepley of PSE Archery fame. ■ Rob Ransom and Ellie Holmes were on hand at Primal Treestands to show dealers their latest treestands, blind models and stand-hunting accessories. ■ Brownell & Company offers a huge variety of bowstring-building materials, including original FastFlight material. Brownell materials are favorites of many custom string makers. ■ Helix Broadheads, owned by America’s Best Bowstrings, include a huge selection of cut-on-contact designs such as 2-blade and FJ4 4-balde options in weights from 100 to 225 grains and in single-bevel options. 2024 ATATRADE SHOW 76 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024

clockwise from top left: ■ Dennis Lewis, Obsession Bows’ founder, is back on board at the company and has helped design the newest models. Here he displays the XR7 (left) and The Bone for 2024. ■ Inside Archery’s Patrick Meitin chats with Flex-Fletch representative Durk Stark about the all-new 2.5 Pro vane. ■ Mark Olis gives the Inside Archery team the rundown on fresh Moultrie Mobile remote-access trail-cam systems, which have been made more affordable and easier to use. ■ Wasp Archery offered one of the first viable replaceable-blade broadheads and continues to innovate with the new Jak-X Velocity mechanical broadheads made especially for crossbows. ■ Left to right, Richard Kebar, Jonathan Hoop, and Mike Rogers of Kasco Manufacturing Company were eager to talk to dealers about products designed to make creating food plots easier. ■ Inside Archery’s Stephen Mack was impressed by the roominess of PRADCO Outdoors’ new Texas Hunter Products hard-side blind option. MARCH 2024 77 INSIDEARCHERY.COM

clockwise from top left: ■ Millennium Treestands’ new steel-framed, soft-side Buck Hut Magnum 6x6 blind provides wrap-around, elevated concealment at a fraction of the cost of hard-sided blinds. ■ Stephen Mack, Sales & Marketing Manager for Inside Archery talks with Mark Edwards about the 2024 Martin Archery and Obsession Bows lineups. ■ RT Outdoors specializes in insurance for all outdoor vocations and business. Jeff Deregnaucourt explains the unique services offered. ■ ATA’s Kurt Smith, Director of Industry Relations, was on hand to lend his talents to the organization’s newly-formed Bow Tech Certification classes. ■ The guys from the Pope & Young Club display the latest issues of the organization’s Ethic magazine, which is designed and published by Apollo Creative (publishers of Inside Archery magazine). ■ Wildtech Game Grip is a simple but effective product that allows hunters to quickly and simply remove hair and debris from skinned or quartered game. 2024 ATATRADE SHOW 78 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024

clockwise from top left: ■ Interested dealers listen to a product presentation by Chris Barnett at the Deception Scent booth. The ultra-effective system makes it easy to eliminate odors on all hunting gear. ■ Stephen Mack admires the dizzying assortment of vane styles and colors offered by Arizona Archery Enterprises (AAE). MARCH 2024 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 79

INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 MARKET TRENDS GEAR REPORT 80 A BY PATRICK MEITIN BIGshot Digital Archery Range with Delta McKenzie ASA Targets WebXtra ■ For a closer look at this product and many others, check them out at insidearchery.com. sualizing a perfectly executed shot, again and again—can actually boost performance above that of people mindlessly performing the actual act of shooting. BIGshot’s realistic Digital Archery Range bowhunting settings take these visualization exercises to the next level, allowing archers to live actual encounters with highly coveted game. Serious 3-D competitors can now enjoy that same mental edge. BIGshot and Delta McKenzie combined forces to create a digital target system designed to elevate the mental game of 3-D shooters. The new option incorporates Delta McKenzie ASA Pro AM target images into the existing Digital Target lineup. From serious local 3-D shooters to professional ASA competitors, this newest version of the Digital Archery Range provides an invaluable tool to help shooters perform at their very best. The BIGshot Digital Range pushes s the old saying goes, practice makes perfect. This is never more emphatic than when practicing the age-old art of archery, something that is never truly mastered, a muscle-memory and mental-honing path and never a destination. Yet in archery there’s practice and there is practice—the former mere repetition that can actually do more harm than good by instilling bad habits, the latter part of that path to better preparing yourself for any challenge. BIGshot’s Digital Archery Range emerged as an affordable, highly portable and versatile system that provides realistic hunting experiences at local archery pro shops, special events or at home. Psychologists have established that mental visualization can offer a powerful performance tool, the reason it is employed by athletes at the highest levels. Simply engaging in intense mental visualization—including the emotions and sensual cues of a tense bowhunting encounter, while vithe traditional archery range into the next millennium and aims to attract modern archers who grew up in the digital age. The system now includes a more intuitive touchscreen slide interface including an integrated scorecard, allowing users to easily find and shoot the most extensive content library in the industry, including official Delta McKenzie targets such as elk, moose, pronghorn, mule deer, a wide variety of small game and turkey poses, and even exciting African big-game. Each set can be quickly programmed to provide official score rings for shooting leagues or realistic tournament practice, or vital areas for bowhunting preparation. BIGshot’s patent pending system works in standard range lighting and can be shot at any distance with a wall as large as 25 feet. The system is also mobile for outdoor and corporate events. The newest software provides the most exciting option for any ASA pro or aspiring pro with added ASA practice sets featuring more than 160 simulated shots at official Delta McKenzie ASA Pro Am targets. The system allows shooting ASA targets anytime, anywhere and getting a jump on competition. The system is affordable enough any pro shop, club or home gamer can get started for as little as $399 per month. Learn more by visiting bigshottargets.com. IA

82 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 Hottest Consumer Picks ~ for ~ 2• 0• 2• 4 The industry’s top archery manufacturers reveal the products that are receiving the most pre-orders and sparking the most interest going into the New Year. Our No. 1 priority here at Inside Archery is continually communicating with dealers, distributors, and manufacturers in the archery industry to help keep our finger on the pulse of the latest developments, while also asking penetrating questions that allow us to offer more informed insight into what products or product categories will be hot for the coming year. A large part of this is attending events like the annual ATA Show and Kinsey’s Dealer Show, where we not only get to talk with archery insiders face to face but also handle and sometimes shoot the latest products. But outside of the shows, this is an ongoing process, as we strive to keep our readers informed and up to date. With all that snooping behind us, to follow are some of the hottest new products we feel customers will be seeking to add to their arsenal for the 2024 season. By Inside Archery Staff

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Hottest Picks 2024 84 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 HEADHUNTER BOW STRINGS ■ “Dealers couldn’t believe how easy it was to order off our new website,” says Headhunter Bow Strings’ Jeff Adee. “By keeping the order format simple and intuitive, dealers were quick to master it, freeing them up to work on other projects.” “What we found very interesting was that many dealers didn’t realize how broken the replacement string market was. Then they saw the solution Headhunter offered and were excited about how superior our business model was. Our model is focused on supporting dealers—not consumers. With more than 50,000 parts in stock ready for replacement orders, their minds were blown.” “Another hot topic of discussion at the ATA and the NABA Vegas Show was that many dealers told us about making their own strings due to long lead times in the industry. While this solved a problem, it opened the door for some big problems. None of them had manufacturer insurance protecting them from lawsuits in case of consumer accidents. The second problem making your own strings introduces is none of them paid FET tax. After talking with us, they realized they were putting their business at great risk. Buying from Headhunter eliminates that risk.” See headhunterbowstrings.com. HHA SPORTS ■ The Tetra RYZ X3 three-pin mover sight is new from HHA Sports for 2024 and includes fully-milled aluminum construction and highly adjustable indicator/yardage pointers for individual pins to provide micro settings for precision shooting at 100 to 120 yards. The 1 5/8-inch scope is a touch smaller than past models, while also holding a bubble level and neon green peep alignment ring. Second and 3rd axis adjustment capabilities are included to promote centered shots across steep terrain and a square sight picture at full draw. HHA’s Infinite Adjust Plate permits independent elevation adjustments and quick and easy two-stage micro/ macro windage adjustments. The yardage wheel is side-mounted and provides 2.1 inches of silky-smooth vertical travel free of backlash. They are offered in standard side-mount, Mathews Bridge-Lock, or Picatinny options. See hhasports.com. CAMOSPACE ■ Denny Reid created the new CamoSpace App after he began to understand conventional social media platforms were outright banning or shadowbanning hunting-related posts shared after successful hunts. CamoSpace was created specifically for outdoors people to share content pertaining directly to hunting, fishing, and the overall outdoor lifestyle—without fear of being banned or shadowbanned. CamoSpace works handin-hand with noted outdoor celebrities such as Michael Waddell, Chad Belding, and Phillip Culpepper to help promote and grow the app, while also allowing users to celebrate the hunt, the catch, and the overreaching outdoor lifestyle. CamoSpace users are free to post pictures and create their own profiles without the fear of getting banned or their pictures being taken down by those hostile to the hunting lifestyle. Users can also set up a public or private feed to their desires and an outdoor marketplace should be in place soon. See camospace.com. .30-06 OUTDOORS ■ Several new products from .30-06 deserve mention, but two of the most appealing include UFO Lighted Nocks and Bowstring Wash & Wax Combo Pack for 2024. UFO nocks are priced right, with the 3+1 Bonus Pack retailing for just $29.95. The force-activated design provides a snug shaft fit for most popular arrow sizes, requires no assembly, and features toolless deactivation. The waterproof nocks include a 20-plus hour battery life. The Bowstring Wash & Wax Combo Pack comes with Bowstring Detox (Step #1), Bowstring Revive (Step #2), and String Snot Wax (Step #3) and is compatible with all bowstring material. It makes the ideal solution for reviving older bowstrings and making them like new. See 30-06outdoors.com. BOW SPIDER ■ The Complete Crossbow Spider Kit by Bow Spider creates a handsfree system with any Picatinny rail equipped crossbow, eliminating the need Bow Spider Complete Crossbow Spider Kit for cumbersome shoulder slings. The sysHeadhunter Bowstrings HHA Tetra RYZ X3 CamoSpace App .30-06 Outdoors UFO Lighted Nock and Bowstring Wash & Wax Combo

MARCH 2024 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 85 tem was specifically designed to attach to Picatinny rails, so Bow Spider cannot guarantee compatibility with crossbows that do not include a Pic rail. The Complete Crossbow Spider Kit is shipped with a Bow Spider Receiver in all of the company’s available colors, a Receiver Post, two Spacers, two Pic Rail Clamps, two Jaw Clamp Bolts, three mounting bolts, three mounting straps, one nylon belt, and a puck mounting hardware bag. The Crossbow Spider gives customers the ability to carry their crossbow on a belt or the back of a daypack or backpack or hang it from a wall, vehicle headrest, or a tree while occupying a stand or inside a side-by-side UTV. See bowspider.com. ALTRA ARROWS ■ No Spine Technology is a key selling point of high-modulus carbon fiber Altra Arrows, which means nock orientation will not affect accuracy or arrow-to-arrow impact. Altra Arrows are offered in four Centrum series options, including 166 and 246 hunting, or 23 and 27 target shafts, and in Limited (+/- .003- inch straightness) or Premier (.001-inch) grades. The labels represent .166- and .246- inch internal specs, and 23 and 27 fatter line-cutters. All are weight-matched to within +/- 1 grain per dozen. Centrum 166 hold machined A.R.C.O.S. (Altra Reinforced Concentric Outsert System) insert/ outserts, the Centrum 246 holding standard inserts. The 23 and 27 target arrows can be fitted with a variety of Altra glue-in target points and weight systems. The 166 and 246 arrows come in fletched six packs holding Q2i RAPT-X vanes and all components. See altraarrows.com. PINE RIDGE ARCHERY ■ Pine Ridge Archery’s new and highly adjustable Kwik Stand Tri-Pod was designed to reliably support today’s top-heavy and parallel-limb bows, even on uneven ground. The Kwik Stand Tri-Pod can be used to keep a hunting bow within easy reach while hunting in a ground blind or support a target bow on the 3-D course or during indoor league. Hunters can deploy their bows without noise or added commotion. The Tri-Pod sports non-marring adjustable jaws that attach to any bow securely yet can be removed silently when game is near. The adjustable legs allow easy set-up for various bow designs to ensure guaranteed support whether set on a range floor or the ground. The Tripod leg is hugely adjustable and also includes a protective trough to hold a bow’s lower cam out of forest litter, mud, or dirt. See pineridgearchery.com LAST CHANCE ARCHERY ■ Last Chance Archery is a one-stop shop for all the tools needed for bow techs to efficiently accomplish their work, including one of the most popular bow presses in the business. To help techs set up newer Mathews bows, Last Chance has introduced the ¾-inchwide Mathews Finger Set with 1-inch-wide Mathews Limb Support Caps and Mission Cradle, designed specifically for Mathews and Mission bows. They improve stability and support while eliminating stress and improving safety. Also check out Last Chance’s 14-by-30-inch Archer’s Mat, a rubber-backed counter mat loaded with archery tuning info, including how to measure FOC, FOC overview, paper tuning tips, whitetail anatomy, common knots, arrow wrap installation, kinetic energy computer, standard bolt sizes, and more. It also protects workspaces from scratching and prevents parts from rolling off the counter. See lastchancearchery.com. TROPHY RIDGE ■ Trophy Ridge’s Propel arrow rest is brand new for 2024, including top or bottom limb drop-away activation and full arrow capture during a stalk, while sitting, or during the draw cycle. The Propel is dampened by a rubber over-molded containment cage featuring a spring-loaded, rubber side loading gate. The base-mounted arrow-positioning arms and wide, sealed bearing-equipped launcher automatically capture and lift arrows into place during the draw cycle. All of these features add up to an amazingly quiet and reliable design that is also remarkably accurate and easy to set up. Oversized bolts make adjustments fumble-free, and the activation cord can be set up to operate on the top or bottom limb to preferences. Standard side bolt or America’s Best Bowstrings Launch Series Trophy Ridge Propel Last Chance Archery Archer’s Mat Pine Ridge Kwik Stand Tri-Pod Altra Arrows Centrum Series

Hottest Picks 2024 86 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 Integrate mounting options are available. See beararchery.com. AMERICA’S BEST BOWSTRINGS (ABB) ■ Launch Series custom bowstrings from America’s Best Bowstrings are the company’s flagship offering for 2024. The Launch Series is the first top-grade string introduced by the company since the 2016 Platinum Series and introduces new levels of durability and abrasive resistance. ABB uses their proprietary 452XE fiber as a base—a low wax fiber enhanced by the ABB team—to create the most durable and stable bowstring archers and bowhunters could ask for. Launch Series strings are offered for all compound models (Launch-X is also available for crossbows). ABB now offers the option of custom-colored heat shrink and center serving, as well as an industry-leading 2-year warranty for peep rotation, serving separation, and stretching, which introduces added value. See americasbestbowstrings.com. LOWDOWN VIEWER ■ Lowdown Viewer continues to receive upgrades to enhance the user experience and make reviewing images and video in the field faster and easier. The most recent upgrades include brighter screen lighting, speed control for the Slide Show feature (up to one image per second), and greater functionality from the protective case. Other features remain, like two full-sized SD card ports for capture and save cards (up to 128GB), a large 9-inch screen, finger-swipe Scroll Bar control, SD card formatting, and the video pause/zoom/save Snap Shot feature. Pull all these features together and users can run through a fully loaded SD card faster and more efficiently. Lowdown’s integrated Navigator Help System instructional video helps get new owners started quickly. See lowdownviewer.com. SCENT THIEF ■ In addition to Scent Thief Field Spray, new Scent Thief Wafers revolutionize hunting with No Smell Technology, which allows using the wind as an advantage by hanging the wafer downwind of a stand or blind and allowing its scent-blocking power to create a no-smell zone. Long-lasting Scent Thief Wafers work best in light or imperceivable breezes, or combined with Scent Thief Field Spray in gusty or swirling winds. Scent Thief Wafers use a concentrated, oilbased formula, which evaporates slower and remains effective longer (dry wafers can be recycled by spraying them with water-based Scent Thief Field Spray). Wafer sets come in a resealable pouch, and once deployed will last at least two full days. Scent Thief uses a patented formula to completely neutralize an animal’s perception of threatening odors by soothing the scent-detecting region of the animal’s nose and temporarily disabling their sense of smell. See scentthief.com. MYSTERY RANCH ■ Mystery Ranch, the hunting-pack experts, introduced the Metcalf Series for 2024 after thoroughly field testing them in Western environments. Three versions were introduced for various applications, including 50-, 75- and 100-liter options. All are based on a new Ultra-Light MT frame, which includes a higher OVERLOAD shelf to produce betterbalanced loads and higher micro-adjust load lift points. A plethora of interior and exterior attachment points are included, plus roll-top closure, zippered lid pockets, and a side zip to allow quick access to the main compartment. Look for these feature-rich packs in Foliage, Subalpine, Buckskin, and Ponderosa color schemes and men’s and women’s frame sizes. The Metcalf 50 provides 3,050 cubic inches of interior space, the Metcalf 75 4,575 cubic inches and 5.34-pound mass, and the Metcalf 100 6,100 cubic inches and 6.06-pound mass. See mysteryranch.com. PRO-TRACKER ARCHERY ■ Pro-Tracker’s newest products are all about making arrows better through superior components. Friction Grip Inserts are milled from stout 7075 aluminum and hold interior O-rings to provide precision point fit and ensure they do not loosen in flight or after impact. They can also be used to fine-tune arrow weight. Maximum Arrow Protection Collars protect the front of arrows from hard impacts while also boosting F.O.C. and GAS Bowstrings Recurve+ standard and custom strings Pro-Tracker Friction Grip Inserts Mystery Ranch Metcalf Series Hunting Pack Scent Thief Wafer and Field Spray Lowdown Viewer

MARCH 2024 INSIDEARCHERY.COM momentum. They fit seamlessly over arrow shafts without trimming, creating a tougher and deeper-penetrating hunting arrow. They can be secured by tightening a point over them or glued in place. They are engineered to maintain arrow impact at 20-30 yards and minimize adjustments at longer yardages. An option is made for every arrow make, with models for smaller shafts including heat-shrink tubing. Each is color-coded for various weight options. See pro-tracker.com. GAS BOWSTRINGS ■ GAS offers the industry’s first engineered recurve string, built in partnership with Olympic archer Brady Ellison. Recurve+ Standard and Recurve+ Custom strings are made from groundbreaking natural white RCX1200 material free of dies, a patented blend of SK75 and SK99 Dyneema that creates the perfect balance between elasticity and stability, and is free of creep. This thin material includes a higher strand count for added stability and is constructed using GAS’s RTS (Recurve+ Tensioning System) process. SenseTek Suppression Loops ensure flexibility to reduce vibration and limb slap. Standard includes black BCY Halo end loops and center serving to fit Beiter #1 nocks, including 20-strand construction. Custom includes solid-color Halo end servings and center serving, three nock diameters, and three strand-count options. If you have customers looking for the best recurve string available, this is it. See gasbowstrings.com. ANTLER KING ■ Antler King’s newest feed blend for 2024 is labeled Kitchen Sink, as it includes a little bit of everything to make it appealing to white-tailed deer. It is set to be available this spring. This allencompassing feed mixture is designed to produce premium whitetail nutrition and has been expertly crafted to include only high-quality ingredients that provide an all-in-one solution to help deer managers nurture a thriving deer population. The new feed blend features energy-packed oats and corn, staple wheat, protein- and vitamin-rich barley, protein-packed peanuts, carbo-rich milo, fat-filled black oil sunflower seeds, roasted soybeans, sweet shredded sugar beets, protein pellets, and cotton seed. The ingredients were chosen to benefit deer health and promote higher-scoring antlers. See antlerking.com. G5 OUTDOORS ■ G5 introduced STAX arrows to their premium lineup of hunting arrows, a more affordable option to complement their previously released Prime Mark Series shafts. Though these shafts cost less than Mark Series arrows, they still provide exceptional quality and accuracy-enhancing precision for serious bowhunting. STAX premium arrows include two-layer, 100 percent high modulus carbon construction to withstand punishing impacts, and every shaft is inspected for +/- .001-inch straightness tolerances. G5 STAX Series arrows are available in .250 (.203-inch diameter only), .300, .350, or .400 deflections and are paired with

Hottest Picks 2024 88 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 precision-matched American-made components, including Bohning vanes and nocks. Options include .203 and .244 inside diameters, all with the same straightness tolerances and including +/- .02 gpi weight tolerances. They are sold in fletched sixpacks or raw dozens. See g5outdoors.com. GATEWAY FEATHERS ■ Gateway’s Mako is new for 2024 and provides a new twist on the ancient Japanese fletching shape known for invoking magical protection while destroying demons. This Mako evolved into a lower, more aerodynamic profile to reduce drag and noise, while also taking design cues from Yana Native American Yishi, who taught Saxton Pope and Arthur Young the art of archery. These left-wing feathers measure 3.125 inches long and are available in all of Gateway’s Solid and Tre colors varieties, as well as custom Printz projects. The larger surface area provides the stabilizing effect of a larger feather, making them ideally suited to longbow and recurve shooting. See gatewayfeathers.com. T.R.U. BALL ■ T.R.U. Ball’s new Ultimate Flex handheld release came away from the 2024 ATA Show with ATA’s Best New Release award. The release is activated by the bow’s draw weight, instantly firing the release when touching the trigger— instead of delayed bar firing mechanisms requiring spring power to begin the cut-away sequence. The Ultimate Flex includes a hardened stainless steel TriStar Hook System (TSHS) with an embedded magnet that automatically resets the sear shot after shot. The half brass/half aluminum construction adds weight to the Ergo-Fit Handle (EGH) body, which includes tapered finger scallop surfaces on the sides. The Ultra-Flex Personalized Fit System allows 30 degrees of front-to-back adjustments of the third- or fourth-finger (sold separately) handle pieces. Micro Adjustable Draw Length (MDL) allows quick and easy shortening/lengthening of the release head to create a faster or slower shot sequence when pulling into the back wall of the bow. The three-axis knurled thumb trigger is adjustable for fit and feel. This release is offered in medium and large. See truball.com. BCY ■ A leader in bowstring fibers for 33 years, BCY provides the industry with cutting-edge materials for building strings and buss cables for archery’s most demanding string makers, target archers, and bowhunters. BCY continually strives to develop string and cable materials that remain apace of today’s high-performance advancements, allowing ever greater bow and crossbow performance. BCY is constantly experimenting with ways to adapt the latest fibers to the bowstring market. One of the latest is Mercury 2 Bowstring material. Mercury 2 Bowstring provides a larger diameter version of the proven Mercury original. Made from high-strength Dyneema, Mercury 2 provides ultra-low creep, amazing strength, and excellent durability ideal for today’s high-performance crossbows and compounds. See bcyinc.com. LINKEDGE ■ Point-of-sale, inventory, and time-clock programs are important to any successful business and LinkEdge has a solution that is uncluttered and easy to understand and operate. Getting started requires no tedious training manuals— most users can simply log on, play with the system, and become comfortable with the system’s features within an hour. LinkEdge costs just $100 per month/location to operate with an annual commitment. This price has remained the same for 11 years. LinkEdge is compatible with just about any retail environment, with custom features targeted specifically to archery shops available. LinkEdge can help shop owners and employees handle everyday point-of-sale needs, including scanning barcodes, activating/redeeming gift cards, processing credit cards, and printing sales receipts. It can also handle inventory, time clocks, bookkeeping, memberships, ecommerce, and more. See leumtech.com. KEENE OUTDOORS ■ The Omega Lift by Keene Outdoors is just the solution for hunters who want to get above it all and improve mobility. The Omega Lift is the BCY Mercury 2 Bowstring T.R.U. Ball Ultimate Flex Gateway Feathers Mako G5 STAX Series Arrows Antler King Kitchen Sink

MARCH 2024 INSIDEARCHERY.COM industry’s most versatile, completely collapsible, fully portable hunting blind platform. The Omega Lift extends to a height of 10 feet and includes a platform that accommodates a wide variety of blinds. The Omega Lift allows pulling a blind where it is wanted with a truck or ATV and deploying it in just minutes. The patented trailer design and high-quality rubber torsion axle make the Lift hugely mobile and suitable for transport at highway speeds, so customers can adjust their hunting locations as needed to succeed. The system includes four leveling jacks with 15 inches of travel to ensure safe and reliable stability on any ground, and two earth anchor brackets to provide added platform security. See keeneoutdoors.com KILLER FOOD PLOTS ■ Organic KFP Aqua Shield was designed to address the root cause of the EHD epidemic by getting the muck out of watering sites. The decaying debris creating pond muck also harbors the biting insects that infect deer with EHD, as well as anaerobic bacteria that rob the water of dissolved oxygen needed by fish and other aquatic species. Aqua Shield prevents algae bloom, and energizes and helps healthy aerobic bacteria to get to work cleaning up ponds and watering sites. It also breaks down unhealthy bacteria, heavy metals, and toxins that cause whitetail digestive issues. Apply 1.5-2.0 gallons per 1-foot deep surface acre and it will last up to 45 days. See killerfoodplots.com. CRÜZR SADDLES ■ The CRÜZR XC Hunting Saddle is all about comfort. Proudly made in the USA, each saddle is carefully manufactured by a team with more than a century of combined sewing expertise. Each comes with a 30-day perfect fit guarantee and a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty. The XC includes a unique pleated mesh Xpansion Chamber offering up to 5-6 inches of additional seating space and is fully adjustable and easily operated in the field. The XC also exudes convenience and durability, equipped with quick-release buckles and an Adjustable AmSteel-Blue Bridge for strength and longevity, complemented by mil-spec, resin-coated webbing TargetTack Orange, Lime green and Pink packages Odin’s Innovations Scent Beads and Liquid Scents CRÜZR XC Hunting Saddle Killer Food Plots Aqua Shield Keene Outdoors Omega Lift

Hottest Picks 2024 90 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 for rugged environments. The ergonomic design solves “hip pinch,” and featuring dual rows of molle loops for versatile gear attachment. See cruzrsaddles.com. ODIN’S INNOVATIONS ■ Odin’s continues to enjoy explosive growth as more hunters experience the advantages of the company’s unique and hugely effective scent products. Odin’s continues to expand their scent options into 2024, releasing three new options at the St Louis ATA Show— bringing the total selection to 15 products. These three new scents were released to serve the growing number of feral hog hunters, including Pear, New Berry, and Molasses scents. These scents also work exceptionally well for bear hunting. They are offered in Odin’s revolutionary Scent Beads (which remain effective for more than 30 days and are impervious to moisture), and their newer all-natural, oilbased Liquid Scents (which last seven days). All Odin’s scent products are exhaustively field-tested and backed by the company’s unsurpassed dealer support programs. See odinsinnovations.com. TARGETTACK™ ■ TargetTack introduced new Lime Green and Pink (in addition to Original Orange) to their lineup for the New Year, as well as new packaging options for clubs, ranges, and pro shops. Company representatives say Lime Green 1-inch six and 12 Packs and Lime Green and Original Orange 100 1-inch Loose Bulk Bags have led sales for 2024. They also say 3-inch Loose Bulk packs are selling steadily. The 1-inch TargetTacks are excellent for solid foam backstops, while the 3-inch TargetTacks prove ideal for layered foam or fiber targets. TargetTacks securely anchor paper and vinyl target faces, are infinitely reusable, and will not damage arrows if accidently hit. Due to popular demand, TargetTack will also be adding 50-piece Loose Bulk bags to the lineup for 2024. They offer a convenient and reusable option for any range or training center. See targettack.com. MAPLE LEAF PRESS ■ Maple Leaf Press offers a huge variety of official target faces, one of the newest options including the reduced target line consisting of a three-spot vertical 4.25-by-13-inch target. Their weather-resistant polypropylene No Trespassing signs have also proven popular. The new 50 percent smaller spot target simulates the perspective of standard-sized targets set at double the range and is printed on 9-point cover stock. They can be bought individually or in 25 packs, each with a UPC code for individual sale. Maple Leaf’s durable No Trespassing signs are tough and made to last, and now include “without the consent of the landowner” verbiage for people who have been given access permission. The 8.5-by-11-inch signs can be purchased in 50 or 100 packs, the 8.5-by-11-inch version in 25 or 50 packs. All include UPC codes. See mapleleafpress.com. FIRSTSTRING ■ The “Classic” is Firststring’s newly-launched product for 2024, representing the company’s ready-made option and offered in a classic black and white look but with modern cutting-edge materials. Like other FS options, they include a proprietary blend of BCY materials that boost performance while ensuring zero peep rotation or string creep. Though they are an off-the-shelf option they require no break-in. The Classic is a balanced string providing both long life and top performance in a cleaner look. These strings are offered for traditional and compound bows, as well as crossbows. FS offers multiple programs customized to fit any business model and ensure dealer success—including stocking and stockbalancing programs, retail packaging, and tech counter packaging. FS is also a great source for string accessories, and ships all orders within three days (if not the same day), even during the busy season. See firststringusa.com. VAPOR TRAIL ARCHERY ■ Vapor Trail Archey’s limb-driven arrow rests are a customer favorite and continue to be tweaked to function with the newest modern compounds. The Gen Integr8X Low Profile Arrow Rest includes a refined windage knob and a more compact design to create a lower profile that works in conjunction Thorn Broadheads Titanium Terror Treestand Wingman Emergency Descender System Maple Leaf Press No Trespassing Signs Firststring Classic Vapor Trail Gen Integr8X

MARCH 2024 INSIDEARCHERY.COM with Mathews’ LowPro Detachable Quiver. The GI8X arrow rest includes streamlined Integrate mounting, which also helps create a lighter, more compact rest. The GI8X weighs just 4.1 ounces yet includes micro-adjustable windage and elevation, top or bottom limb activation options, and a full capture rubber over-molded carbon cage that effectively dampens vibrations. They are available in 14 interchangeable colors. Each rest includes a SHAG and limb pad and activation cord. See vaportrailarchery.com. BLACK ASH OUTDOOR PRODUCTS ■ The Treestand Wingman Emergency Descender System by Black Ash Outdoor Products was devised to prevent compression injuries and suspension trauma should hunters fall from an elevated position. Should the user fall the system safely lowers hunters to the ground in a smooth and controlled manner, even if that person is unconscious. The system works in conjunction with any commercial four-point safety harness to virtually eliminate the risk of injury or death should a hunter fall from a stand, reducing impact forces by 66 percent (compared to standard lanyard systems). The system meets OSHA 1926.502 and ANSI Z351 safety standards, is suitable for hunters weighing from 70 to 300 pounds, and can be reused after deployment. The system weighs less than 2 pounds, so is easy to keep on hand. See treestandwingman.com. THORN BROADHEADS ■ Thorn Broadheads’ new-for-2024 Titanium Terror is like no other mechanical broadhead on the market. It sports dual-blade activation to make it 100 percent compatible with the fastest, hardest-hitting compound bows and crossbows. In fact, it is speed-rated to more than 500 fps to accommodate the fastest crossbows on the market today. The 100 percent titanium construction makes it ultra-tough, and the broadhead holds scary-sharp stainless steel expandable blades, which open to produce a blood-letting 2-inch-wide wound channel. Thorn Broadheads are proudly made in the USA and are backed Power-Stop 24-inch Range Target Lumenok Red X-Nock Ravin/Garmin Xero X1i Crossbow Scope OMP SX Crossbow Case Victory 204 Series RIP XV UTRAVIEW UV Button

Hottest Picks 2024 92 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 by the company’s quality assurance guarantee. See thornbroadheads.com. ULTRAVIEW ARCHERY ■ ULTRAVIEW’s UV Button is a top-quality T-handle/handheld release specifically engineered to improve your customers’ bowhunting experience and improve downrange accuracy. The UV Button release is meticulously crafted from the latest materials to provide superior ergonomics built around the human hand, so shooters enjoy enhanced comfort and a consistent shot every time they draw their bows. The intricately designed finger-beds, combined with a robust and proprietary internal mechanism ensure unparalleled performance. When accuracy is paramount, rely on UV Button to leave nothing to chance. See ultraviewarchery.com. VICTORY ARCHERY ■ Victory Archery makes an arrow to fill every archery or bowhunting need. One of the newest options is made to maximize arrow velocities, flatten trajectories at long ranges, and tighten pin gaps. The 204 Series carbon RIP XV (Xtreme Velocity) is Victory’s lightest and fastest arrow but does not sacrifice strength or the quality we have learned to expect from the carbon experts. They include Victory’s spine-aligned construction, are weight-matched, and hold ICE Nano Ceramic Coating to be quiet and easy to extract from foam targets. Look for them in V1 Elite, V2 Sport and V3 Gamer grades (+/- .001-, .003- and .006- inch straightness tolerances) and .200, .250, .300, .350, .400 and .500 spines. They weigh from 9.3 (.200 spine) to 5.1 gpi (.500 spine). Customers can also choose from new 21-grain SHOKTM aluminum inserts, 50-grain sleeved 7075 aluminum, 75-grain sleeved stainless steel, or 60-grain shouldered stainless steel to boost F.O.C. See victoryarchery.com. OCTOBER MOUNTAIN PRODUCTS ■ October Mountain Products’ (OMP) SX Crossbow Case is the company’s most compact crossbow case but will safely protect most of today’s most popular narrow axle-toaxle crossbow models. It was specifically designed for the modern market and is loaded with useful features. These include a removable quiver storage pocket—which is secured by durable hook and loop panels—dual exterior mesh accessory pockets, four reinforced grab handles, high pile fleece interior, and a rugged water-resistant exterior made from a canvas fabric. The case includes 30-by-14-by-10-inch dimensions to fit crossbows up to 14 inches wide. See octobermountainproducts.com. RAVIN CROSSBOWS ■ Ravin Crossbows and Garmin partnered to create an integrated Ravin-compatible Xero X1i Crossbow Scope. Customers get a combination of Ravin’s top-performing technology and Garmin’s cutting-edge electronic-based optic to ensure every shot is executed precisely and with complete confidence. Garmin’s Xero X1i features 3.5x magnification and digital overlays to ensure reliable shot placement out to 125 yards. Sighting-in is made faster and easier through the optic’s preloaded ballistics and enhanced functions, to ensure more ethical shots at game. The new Ravin integrated Xero X1i Crossbow Scope comes with an MSRP of $1,899 and is available for all Ravin models save the R18. See ravincrossbows.com. LUMENOK ■ Field-proven Lumenok XNocks are now being offered in a new red color. Lumenok is the original lighted nock option and has received continual upgrades to make them brighter and longer lasting than other brands in the business. Lumenok lighted nocks are extremely durable to stand up to the extreme performance of today’s hotrod crossbows. They also include replaceable batteries to extend their effective lifespan. X-Nocks, including the new red color, are available for a wide variety of crossbow bolt diameters and to accommodate specific crossbow models, including those requiring a capture-style nock. See lumenok.com. POWER-STOP ARCHERY TARGETS/AMERICAN EXCELSIOR ■ American Excelsior’s new Power-Stop 24-inch Range Target is a high-density layered polyethylene foam target designed for backyards and perSKB iSeries Shaped Bow Case Banks The Stump 2 Phantom Rothco Bear Archery x Rothco Fred Bear Camo Q2i Archery Griff-X Smooth-On Archery Target Repair Kit

MARCH 2024 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 93 sonal ranges. It sports 25 printed aiming spots to spread impact wear around, and the target can be safely shot with field points and all broadhead types. The generous dimensions and its six shootable sides provide ample surface area to make long-range shooting safer and more enjoyable, while also ensuring longer target life. The target’s lightweight construction allows easy setup, and its layered construction also makes it ready for crossbows delivering bolts at up to 350 fps. The 24-inch Range Target is made in the USA and includes Power-Stop’s tradition of providing superior quality and true value. See americanexcelsior.com. SMOOTH-ON ■ Smooth-On’s Archery Target Repair Kit offers a low-cost way to extend the life of expensive foam 3-D targets that have been shot out by thousands of arrows. This allows pro shops with shooting lanes or leagues to rehabilitate costly 3-D targets and create a long-lasting repair, saving money and increasing profits. Smooth-On can also be used by customers who would like to repair their home range targets and save a few bucks. Smooth-On can be used to fill gaping holes in targets caused by prolonged shooting and can be worked to return targets to their original condition. The kit includes FlexFoamiT!™ 15 Tuff Stuff expandable foam, a mechanical mixer, UVO™ Black, Brown, Green, and White Pigments, and a how-to guide. Users need only supply a utility or Exacto knife, mixing cups and sticks, packaging tape, plastic film, and shaping tools such as a reciprocating saw or variable speed drill. See smooth-on.com. Q2I ARCHERY ■ Though it is not spanking new, Q2i’s Archery Griff-X has become a favorite with serious tournament archers and many bowhunters. They are super-tough to withstand thousands of shots and are designed for all weather conditions. The parabolic, low-profile, and lightweight vane is especially welcomed on the 3-D course, though is useful for many other archery applications. Duo-Polymer base technology ensures reliable adhesion on all types of arrows. They are offered in 1.8-inch with .38-inch height and 4.7-grain weight; 2.3-inch with .43-inch height and 6.71-grain weight; and 3-inch with .43-inch height and 8.85-grain weight. They can be ordered in grey, black, royal blue, lime green, orange, yellow, red, white, lavender, teal, and purple. Also keep an eye out for lighter, thinner, stiffer vanes to be announced soon in Q2i’s most popular profiles. See q2iarchery.com. ROTHCO ■ Bear Archery and Rothco combined forces to create iconic Bear Archery x Rothco Fred Bear Camo apparel, set to launch in the spring of 2024. Rothco is well known for its quality military, tactical, work, and outdoor footwear and apparel. By teaming up with Rothco (in business for 70 years), Bear Archery (90 years in business) aims to amplify its brand’s presence. The Fred Bear Camouflage collection will encompass an impressive range of products, including outerwear, the legendary Rothco BDU pants, and a curated assortment of apparel and accessory items. Each item will be meticulously crafted using the iconic Fred Bear camouflage pattern, epitomizing the rich heritage and exceptional quality associated with both Bear Archery and Rothco. See rothco.com. BANKS OUTDOORS ■ Banks’ newest deluxe hard-side blind is The Stump 2 Phantom, which helps solve the age-old challenge of remaining concealed without missing any of the outside action. Banks’ ‘Phantom Edition’ features tinted framed windows, which effectively conceal interior movement while also allowing unrestricted, 360-degree viewing via its silent-hinged windows. The oval design makes it bowhunting compatible, even if wielding traditional bows. The blind includes durable, UV-stabilized polyethylene construction, which includes a paintable bark-like texture. The complete blind is equipped with a silencing/insulating floor mat, a gun shelf, and a vent kit. See bankoutdoors.com. SKB CASES ■ The iSeries Shaped Bow Case is the latest from the bow-case experts at SKB Cases. This is SKB’s first shaped injection molded model, a design that is more BIGshot Ironman Kinetic 650 TenPoint GRIT Workhorse Saddle Kit Axcel Achieve XP Pro Western Recreation Fleetwood Celtic Recurve Carter Revelation

Hottest Picks 2024 94 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 affordable and weighs just 18 pounds empty. Despite the more affordable price tag, this bow case gives travelers the same level of protection archers have grown to expect from the company. The interior measures 17 inches wide and 41 inches long, and the case includes anchoring straps to prevent bows from shifting. The incorporated floor recess allows stowing a dozen arrows, while also eliminating bowstring or bowfinish wear. The case’s lid features straps to secure a detachable bow quiver with arrows installed, and dual elastic-topped net storage pouches to stow optional SKB 3i-0702-1 accessory boxes or other accessories. They are offered in Black, OD Green, Desert Tan, or dealer-only Coyote Brown Pro Series. See skbcases.com. CARTER ENTERPRISES ■ Carter has earned a well-deserved reputation for creating thoughtful and precision-geared handheld target and hunting releases. The company continues that tradition with the Revelation, which has four strategically placed rubber sound dampeners to silence the sear mechanisms and quiet every shot at wary game. The Magnetic Adjustment System eliminates the need for a travel adjustment, resulting in a zero-movement trigger break. This feature makes changing the trigger tension faster and simpler—simply remove or add the trigger magnets by sliding them in or out for instant trigger tension customization. The Revelation sports a reverseopen jaw for fast and silent hookups on a D-loop and the jaw is designed to open away from the face to minimize string/ loop contact with the face, face mask, or beard. The Revelation’s magnet returns the hook to the closed position after firing. See carterenterprises.com. WESTERN RECREATION ■ The brand-new 62-inch Fleetwood Celtic takedown recurve from Western Recreation provides rugged beauty and impressive performance but at a reasonable price. Features include a clean limb pocket design, reinforced limb tips to handle modern bowstring materials, and threaded taps that allow to use of popular accessories such as quivers, sights, or bowfishing gear. The recurve includes contrasting Dymond Wood, white oak, hard maple, paddock, and black fiberglass with tough reinforced tips. A feather rest and bowstring are included. They are available in 30, 35, 40, 50, and 55 pounds at 28 inches and left- or right-hand options. See wri-biz.net. LANCASTER ARCHERY ■ The 2024 Axcel Achieve XP Pro target sight isn’t a Lancaster exclusive, but Lancaster is one of the very few places you’ll find this sight right now. Achieve sights are ultra-tough and offered in 6- and 9-inch compound and 9-inch recurve versions. The sight was completely redesigned, including a two-strut mounting block that prevents flexing and vibrations. The diamond weave bar resists twisting/vibration and connects and includes a micro-adjust 1staxis leveling connection system. Springs in the windage/elevation blocks eliminate vibration and scope movement. A new quick-disconnect system allows quick scope removal and precise installation. New micro-adjustable sight-tape indicator allows precision yardage adjustment, and 2nd and 3rd axis adjustments are provided. See lancasterarchery.com. GRIT GEAR ■ GRIT line was created to offer more affordable saddle hunting gear without compromising on quality. The GRIT lineup includes premium materials designed to withstand hard use while providing uncompromising safety and exceptional comfort. GRIT’s engineering worked hard to create innovative designs that enhance the saddle-hunting experience; including user-friendly saddles, platforms, climbing sticks, and lightweight accessories. The GRIT line offers a wide range of options that cater to individual needs, whether a veteran or a beginner. Their website and YouTube channel provide educational resources, how-to guides, and a supportive online community to help newcomers and experienced saddle hunters alike. The 2024 lineup includes saddle kits in Realtree APX or Mossy Oak Bottomland camo, climbing sticks, platforms, and accessories. See gritgear.com. Carbon Express Predator Air Western Recreation Velociraptor Chronograph Viper Archery Pit Viper Buck.It Ready Performance Food Plot Seed Delta McKenzie Backyard 3D Mule Deer

MARCH 2024 INSIDEARCHERY.COM 95 BIGSHOT TARGETS ■ The Ironman Kinetic 650 TenPoint from BIGshot is the company’s innovative answer to high-energy, high-speed TenPoint crossbows. The Ironman 650 TP provides extreme stopping power, the high-strength target utilizing the company’s signature Iron Man stuffing, and a five-stage multi-layered aramid core effective enough to stop hard-hitting TenPoint bolts cold. As the name suggests, the Ironman Kinetic 650 TP is speed-rated to 650 fps (250-foot pounds of KE) to accommodate any compound bow or crossbow. The high-compression core allows ultra-easy bolt extraction with field points (do not use broadheads). The target’s 95 aiming points combined with its stout construction provide extra-long target life. The target measures 20-by-20 inches and is 14 inches thick. See bigshottargets.com. DELTA MCKENZIE TARGETS ■ Delta McKenzie Targets’ Backyard 3D mule deer target is new for 2024 and was designed to provide affordable backyard 3-D practice. This target costs just $199.99 (MSRP), making it one of the most affordable Western big-game 3D targets available. It comes with life-like antlers, and the replaceable core extends the life of the target for years. The target stands about 38 inches tall and is 41 inches long. Delta McKenzie is now owned by BIGshot Targets, which is promising to focus more resources on new product development and increase even more variety in the Backyard 3D lineup. Delta McKenzie’s realistic line of ASA-approved 3D targets, high-performance bag targets, and layered block-style targets will remain. Customers can continue to contact respective BIGshot and Delta McKenzie companies through their existing contact information. See dmtargets.com. BUCK.IT READY ■ Buck.It Ready Performance Food Plot Seed offers premium food plot seed guaranteed to provide high yields and more deer sightings. Buck.It has worked hard to better understand what deer like to eat and then blends their seed varieties to promote success. Buck.It packages its seed mixes in buckets, instead of bags, to make handling, transport, and storage easier. As the Buck.It brand gains more market share its seed options will also expand. Buck.It Ready Performance Food Plot Seed offers free shipping and will work with customers to blend custom seed mixes that work best in particular regions. Current options include Buck Booyah (Turnip/Radish/Kale/Collards), Fence Jumper (Clover/Alfalfa/Chicory), Double Trouble (Turnip/Rape), Forage Feast (Pea/ Cereal), and other tasty formulations. See buckitready.com. VIPER ARCHERY ■ Viper Archery’s brand new Pit Viper mover sight was designed to provide tool-free sight-in and 2 inches of

Hottest Picks 2024 96 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 micro-tune elevation adjustment. It uses an aluminum gear and a 2-inch Delrin rack-drive system with adjustable tension to provide ultra-smooth movement without the fear of slippage or stripping. Second- and 3rd-axis are included and the sight is offered in fixed-plate or dovetail mounting options. The multi-pin housing is threaded front and rear to accept lenses or sun shades and the encapsulated sight light port directs illumination directly onto the tubing-encased fibers and machined-aluminum pins. The .010-, .015-, or .019-inch pin fibers are easily replaced and the snap-in peep-alignment ring comes in lime green, yellow, or white. See viperarchery.com. WESTERN RECREATION ■ Western Recreation’s Velociraptor Chronograph is a feature-packed unit including a price the average archer can easily afford. The Velociraptor Chronograph features a sturdy aluminum alloy body, stainless steel material, and support rod, plus industrialgrade core components. This chrono provides reliable performance and a large and effective induction area. Operation is intuitive and a large LCD screen provides arrow speed in meters per second (mps), feet per second (fps from 5 to 6,500 fps), or Joules readings. The kit includes a chronograph, tripod, and light kit. See wri-biz.net. CARBON EXPRESS ■ The new Carbon Express Predator Air is an ultra-durable, deep-penetrating, and affordable allcarbon arrow including single spine construction. It was designed to crowd the 12-ring and destroy the vitals of big game with its accuracy-enhancing construction that includes a reasonable price tag. The Predator Air includes premium-quality woven carbon in a .244- inch inside diameter shaft. They include a straightness tolerance of +/- .0025- inch and are weight-matched to within +/- 2.0 grains per batch. Order them in fletched six packs (MSRP $59.99), or bulk 36-packs (dealers only), and in .500 (6.2 gpi), .400 (7.2 gpi), .350 (8.0 gpi) or .300 (8.6 gpi) spines. Fletched arrows hold Q2I Fusion XII Shield Cut Vanes, precisionmachined, ultra-durable stainless-steel inserts, and precision Launchpad nocks. See feradyne.com/carbon-express. CUSTOM BOW EQUIPMENT (CBE) ■ CBE’s sleek and innovative new Defy Micro Rest is a cable-driven drop-away rest that ensures easier setup and assured accuracy. The rest includes a Gravity Lock internal mechanism to keep arrows fully contained and secure, and the launcher drops only when the bow is fired. The BounceBack Prevention System guarantees zero fletching contact while also eliminating post-shot vibrations. Rightor left-handed options are available, and laser-engraved windage and elevation marks are provided to promote precise movements. The rest is constructed from high-grade aluminum and is designed to fit tight to the riser. Each rest comes with a 9/64-inch Allen wrench, cable clamp, shelf pad, two mounting screws, launcher arm felt, and silencing launcher felt. See custombowequipment.com. MUZZY BROADHEADS ■ Muzzy’s newest offering is a refinement of a fan favorite. The new Trocar Ti replaces the original stainless steel ferrule with a titanium body, retaining the adjustable Offset Blade Technology of the original that works with fletchings to ensure pin-point accuracy from the fastest compounds and crossbows. Blades can be set up to complement left- or right-wing offset/helical fletching configurations. The rugged stainless steel blades are .039-inch thick and are delivered razor sharp. The Trocar Ti features a reliable center blade retention system that keeps blades securely anchored without the need to first screw the head into an arrow. The Trocar Ti will be available in a 100-grain option for compound bows, and 100- and 125-grain models for crossbows. All include a generous cutting diameter of 1.25 inches. See feradyne.com/muzzy.com. STEALTH OUTDOORS ■ Stealth Strips are easy and fast to apply but highly effective at silencing any hunting gear. This Tethrd Ultralock Saddle Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD Stealth Outdoors Stealth Strips Muzzy Trocar Ti CBE Defy Micro

MARCH 2024 97 INSIDEARCHERY.COM is top-quality, cut-to-fit, peel-and-stick camouflage fleece material that can be used to cover climbing sticks, tree stands, camera arms, bicycles, thermos, bow arrow shelves, and all accessories—anything that needs to be dampened against accidental clicks or clanks that can spook game or camouflaged to better blend into the outdoors. Stealth Strips are quite durable and highly water resistant, and also work to insulate cold bow grips. Stealth Strips include a reliable adhesive and are available in a wide range of sizes, as well as custom cuts. Stealth Strips can also be used to patch tents or boat covers or to disguise camera gear. See stealthoutdoors.com. RHINO BLINDS ■ The new and improved 180 Pro FD pop-up blind from Rhino Blinds takes the company’s popular seethrough mesh blind to new heights. It is still constructed from super-tough 300D camouflage fabric, still maximizes situational awareness by allowing hunters to clearly see out while concealing interior movement, and still includes multiple silent-slide windows providing a 270-degree field of fire. Improvements come through an improved hub system, which was designed to create a solid exterior that keeps the shell tight and eliminates game-spooking flapping or noise in windy conditions. It sports a generous walk-through door to allow easy access and exit. They are offered in Realtree EDGE or Mossy Oak Country DNA and are made to hold three adult hunters. See feradyne.com/rhinoblinds. TETHRD ■ Tethrd’s new Ultralock Saddle offers more comfort and versatility. The Ultralock is a bit heavier than the Phantom Saddle, but what is gained in maximum comfort. The Ultralock includes an Ultralock Expandable Saddle, UtiliBridge and Comfort Channels, two Ultralock Haulers with IFS, Ultralock Modular Yoke and two sets of Ultralock Links. They are offered in Regular for 30-40-inch waists and XL for 40-plus inch waists. The Ultralock borrows the best features of the Phantom, like our UtiliBridge, Comfort Channels, and integrated lineman loops, and adds an Expandable Saddle Body with Ultralock Link construction. The new Ultralock Links prevent opening and flopping while walking. The new Ultralock Hauler with IFS (Internal Frame Structure) allows hauling more gear while keeping it organized. The new Yoke System is lightweight, modular and dependable. Finally, patented UtiliBridge boosts comfort and allows 360-degree shooting, while providing nearly 40 inches of adjustability. See tethrdnation.com. IA

98 INSIDE ARCHERY MARCH 2024 Five Questions with Stealth Outdoors INSIDE THE INDUSTRY INDUSTRY 5Q In bowhunting, silence is golden, and Stealth Strips® from Stealth Outdoors are all about hushing any surface that could possibly produce a click or clunk that might spook game at a critical moment. Stealth Strips makes a nearly automatic add-on sale to nearly any hunting item, the top-quality adhesive-backed fleece silencing everything from bow arrow shelves to handheld rangefinders. We talked to Stealth Strips’ owner Louis Butkovich to learn more. er service we have grown very organically (word of mouth). Over the past three years dealers have been reaching out to us. When they do that, that means they know our product and believe in it. That dealer will do well with them as an addon sale to many items, especially treestands/platforms, climbing sticks, camera arms, etc.—and don’t forget it is great at patching a tent, boat cover, ….or simply to have on hand for who knows what may come up. Do Stealth Strips have any future plans to expand its product lineup to better serve dealers and bowhunters? ■ We have never stopped expanding our offerings with new sizes and new patterns. Stealth Strips Rolls have taken on a life of their own and we built our dealer wholesale program around our three roll sizes in our six patterns, with three new patterns coming later this year. What programs or incentives does Stealth Strips have in place to help dealers maximize profits by selling your products? ■ We aren’t that complicated, we don’t really have incentives, but we did build a wholesale program around our rolls. We are easy to work with and have more than 14 years of providing a proven silencing product. It is neither overly expensive, nor is it cheap. We shipped more than 5.6 tons of packages last year direct to consumers and to our dealers. If anyone is interested in carrying our product, I am easy to get a hold of. Learn more about Stealth Strips at stealthoutdoors.com. IA platforms, camera arms, etc. Anywhere a metal-to-metal clank, or plastic click can get a hunter busted, that is our focus. Also, the versatility and uses for our product is endless. We have had customers wrap bikes, waders, their thermos, as a repair tape… There are thousands of uses for Stealth Strips. After 14 years of serving the mobile hunting market, it is time for the general archery community to join the party. Do you have any advice for retailers in conversations with their customers that have worked in the past to create an add-on sale opportunity for Stealth Strips? ■ We understand our place in the universe. We are not a major retail item, or a high dollar accessory. We don’t expect anyone to push our product as a bread-and-butter item. But Stealth Strips really are a simple sell, as every hunter knows they need to be quiet. Further, we started as a direct-to-consumer business. With our durability and focus on customow did Stealth Strips get its start in the hunting market and what inspired the launch of its products? ■ We were a startup back in 2008 and going nowhere fast. In late 2009 Dan Infalt reached out to us and asked us to make some cable silencers for his hang-on treestand due to a squeak from contact with his rubber boots. From there we listened to customer feedback—many wanted to wrap and silence their climbing sticks and treestands, especially the mobile hunting community. From there many different sizes of Stealth Strips were born. Besides applying Stealth Strips to the arrow shelves of new bows, what other hunting uses does your product offer? ■ Stealth Strips are similar to what many call moleskin and they can definitely be used to silence arrow shelves, but our main focus has been to provide a product to wrap and silence the mobile hunters climbing sticks, treestands, saddle H