52 INSIDE ARCHERY SEPT / OCT 2023 MARKET TRENDS GEAR REPORT M BY PATRICK MEITIN Thorn Broadheads OG Mechanical Broadhead WebXtra ■ For a closer look at this product and many others, check them out at insidearchery.com. have appeared since mechanicals really took hold in the 1990s, with maybe three to four successful patterns emerging to narrow the field down to recognizable themes. To the list of viable approaches can be added Thorn Broadheads’ deadly OG design concept. The passionate tournament shooters and avid bowhunters of Thorn Broadheads devised the OG while seeking a broadhead that provided true pin-point field-point accuracy, while also proving deadly on game. Those goals gelled in 2017 in the form of Hidden-Blade Technology, the plunging Rip-Tip, and Sheer Pin blade retainment. Thorn Broadheads has developed other broadhead models in the years since, but the original OG remains hugely popular and big game deadly today. While nearly all other successful mechanical broadhead designs include blades that are exposed to some small extent—some showing only deployment spurs, others narrow swept-back exposed blades—OG blades are 100 percent buried inside the orange-anodized, 7075 milled-aluminum ferrule while riding in the quiver (no dulled edges) and during flight. This is Hidden-Blade Technology. echanical broadheads have undergone continuous refinement since the 1950s, when models such as the 1953 Red Bow Star Point 1956 Mohawk Swivel Action, and 1957 Geronimo were launched to inevitable failure. Those primitive designs lacked the materials, engineering, or even energy generated by bows of the era to work as envisioned, making most of them valuable collectors’ items today due to poor sales and limited production runs. During the past few decades, materials, better engineering, and more available bow energy have transformed mechanical broadheads into bowhunting favorites. They provide more streamlined in-flight profiles and generally cut much wider wound channels to spill more blood for easier follow-up after the shot. Many design approaches A synthetic Sheer Pin extends through the ferrule and opposing twin scissoring blades (0.032-inch thick, 440 stainless steel) to anchor them securely in flight, even when launched from the fastest compound or crossbows. The blades are positively deployed after impact by the stainless steel RipTip, which plunges into the ferrule and physically forces the blades open after sheering the retainment pin. The two blades open from the rear to create a devastating 1 ¾-inch cut. The 7075 aluminum ferrule and stainless steel parts makes the OG ruggedly dependable, while the Rip-Tip deployment system is foolproof, no matter the conditions or the target medium encountered. Bowhunters get a precision aerodynamic package that provides sure-enough field-point flight characteristics, wrapped around 1.75-inches of butcher-blade destruction. The Thorn Broadheads OG is available in 100- and 125-grain weights, and each three pack comes with six spare Sheer Pins and a Practice Clip, which allows shooting the OG into foam targets without deployment, saving the razor-sharp blade edges and Sheer Pins for hunting. Note that 125-grain weights are not compatible with 100-grain broadheads, so specific-weight heads must be ordered. We encourage you to visit thornbroadheads.com to learn more about the OG and peruse this innovative company’s other accurate and deadly broadhead designs. IA
54 INSIDE ARCHERY SEPT / OCT 2023 A s much as some bowhunters hate to admit it, there is no way to avoid technological advances in archery. Even the modern traditional bowhunter benefits from technology, modern recurves and longbows backed with cutting-edge fiberglass and even carbon laminates and held together with the latest epoxy formulas, not to mention the optics every bowhunter carries around their neck. The bent-stick primitive archer is not immune either, making use of space-age string materials, as making a bowstring from squirrel hide, sinew or woven plant fibers is infinitely more difficult than carving the bow itself. Also, few of us venture into the woods today without at least a few items of synthetic clothing to wick away sweat or turn away wind and rain. Let’s be honest, the modern bowhunter is eager to take advantage of every edge provided by technology, as time away from work or other responsibilities has become ever more precious as most blue-collar archers live paycheck to paycheck. With increased popularity has come more highly pressured animals, making big game success more hard won. I am always struck while reading classic Fred Bear stories, how often he relates receiving multiple shots at a single animal. That happens only rarely today, as big game animals have become increasingly savvy. No matter how efficient our bowhunting gear becomes, the critters we pursue will invariably stay one step ahead. B Y P A T R I C K M E I T I N Today’s high-tech gear takes things to extremes.
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56 INSIDE ARCHERY SEPT / OCT 2023 To follow are some of the high-tech gizmos we feel offer conventional bowhunters an edge in the field—save laser rangefinders, which we delved into in great depth in an earlier issue. These are items that will help your customers become more efficient bowhunters in today’s more challenging atmosphere. Cutting-Edge Bow & Crossbow Sights Few things are more important in bowhunting than efficient sighting, after first getting the range down to the yard. Some of these options offer both, though all provide a more streamlined approach to getting the right pin on the mark during the moment of truth. It is important to understand that these products may not be legal in all states, so check local regulations carefully before stocking. BOW SIGHTS TROPHY RIDGE n In the world of digital bow sights, Trophy Ridge’s Digital React One (one-pin) and Trio Pro (three-pin) options have proven big hits with performance-minded bowhunters. Digital React technology makes for exceptionally efficient sight-in and setup, a patented system that mathematically adjusts each pin/yardage indicator to be spot on at any reasonable distance. The Digital React One Pin features a vertical React mover pin with the customer’s choice of 0.010- or 0.019-inch diameter fiber optic aiming point. The Trio Pro includes an aperture holding two 0.019-inch top horizontal and a 0.010-inch bottom vertical pin. Right- and left-hand options are available. React Technology is the fastest and most efficient way to sight in any bow, requiring less than 10 minutes to precisely dial in all pins/yardages from 20 to 100-plus yards in half-yard increments and in three easy steps. Users then know all pins/yardages are on the money when needed. New Trophy Tech technology powers the Digital version, while resulting in a sight that weighs only 12 ounces. The newest Digital React One Pin model provides Mathews Bridge-Lock compatibility. All retail for just $399.99. Customizable screen colors, brightness, distance increments, and up to five arrow profiles can be introduced during programming. The 3rd-axis feature ensures accuracy across angled terrain. A 6-foot USB cord charges the internal lithium ion battery, and optional backup sight tapes and yardage indicators, a quick-start guide, and detailed manual for custom setup are provided. Check it out at trophyridge.com. GARMIN n The latest Xero A1i Pro by Garmin is a further refinement of the company’s Xero series bow sight. The ultra-efficient Xero A1i Pro provides micro adjustment features and Auto Calibration for faster, more efficient sightin and setup. This sight also includes Dynamic Level capabilities, Flight Apex indexing and XD Mode, which enhances accurately. The redesigned mount allows fast and precise .35 MOA adjustments for elevation, windage, pitch and yaw. It also offers 2nd-axis correction. The quick-detach dovetail mount makes for easier setup and storage. The sight also includes customizable arrow profiles, a laser locate feature to mark target location, dual-color LED pins for instant identification, silent ranging up to 100 yards on game and 300 yards on reflective targets, plus an ambient light sensor that adjusts pin brightness to available light. Check it out at garmin.com. BURRIS OPTICS n Burris Optics’ original Oracle bow sight proved an instant hit with bowhunters via accuracy and ease of use, the newer Oracle 2 Rangefinding Bow Sight an improvement on that design and incorporating more refined and expanded features. It now includes auto brightness detection that adjusts the 0.019-inch-diameter pin brightness to prevailing lighting conditions, an improved manual brightness override feature, refined micro windage and elevation adjustments, and more accurate Trophy Ridge Digital React Pro Garmin Xero Ali Pro Burris Optics Oracle 2 Huskemaw Crossfield Crossbow Scope Omega Sights Omega III
SEPT / OCT 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM arrow-drop calculations. A level embedded in the peep-alignment ring keeps shots plumb. It is also more water resistant and shock proof than the original, a plus for those who frequently hunt in wet conditions or are rough on their equipment. The mounting plate can be flipped for left-hand shooting. The glass-free sight picture eliminates potential glare, fog or debris collection that could hinder a shot. The built-in laser range finder, activated by a grip-located pressure switch while at full draw, includes ranging capabilities of 200 yards on game, and 500 yards on reflective targets—just in case a barn must be shot at such ranges. A single CR123 battery powers the unit for up to 2,000-plus cycles, while the overall sight weighs just 20 ounces and includes 2nd- and 3rd-axis adjustments. Better yet, Burris has just announced lower pricing for the Oracle 2 Rangefinding Bow Sight, now with an MSRP of just $599, made possible by streamlining production. Check it out at burrisoptics.com CROSSBOW SIGHTS HUSKEMAW OPTICS n Huskemaw’s remarkable Crossfield 4x40mm Crossbow Scope gives modern crossbow shooters wielding 450-plus fps models the ability to accurately reach out to 150 to 200 yards. It accomplishes this through a precision custom turret system calibrated to any crossbow speed and actual bolt weight. The custom turret is quick and easy to dial in the field—what Huskemaw tags as an efficient “Range It, Dial It, and Send It” approach. The 20.1-ounce scope measures 9.7 inches in length, making for a compact and unobtrusive package. The 40mm objective lens provides clear viewing in low light, the 36mm ocular lens making it easy to get on target fast. The 30mm tubed scope provides 4.3 inches of mounting latitude, while providing a 31.4-foot field of view at 75 yards. Each click of the exposed turret provides 2 MOA of movement, applied 60 clicks per revolution and 120 MOA total. The turret system includes a zero stop for quick returns to sight-in zero after major Burris Optics Oracle X Sig Sauer BDX Scope and Rangefinder Combo Kit Ozonics HR500 Scent Crusher Ozone Base Camp Generator Garmin Xero X1i
58 INSIDE ARCHERY SEPT / OCT 2023 corrections. The scope comes with flip-up dust caps and a microfiber cleaning cloth. Check it out at huskemawoptics.com. OMEGA SIGHTS n The Omega III by Omega Sights offers crossbow shooters an all-in-one unit that combines a precision sighting system, accurate laser rangefinder and an HD video camera to record every shot. The unit provides scan-made ranging out to 500 yards, while also offering quick and intuitive elevation and windage adjustments for any crossbow setup. The unit is highly water resistant. The HD video recording feature provides instant playback capabilities in the field, for quick shot-placement review. For all this, the Omega III weighs but 13 ounces. The sighting system includes five independently adjustable aiming dots which also move laterally for precision zeroing. The 1.5-by-2-inch LCD screen includes a five-position dimming feature, and the rangefinder includes an integrated True Distance Calculator that applies automatic compensation on angled shots. The Omega III comes with a 12- hour Rechargeable Power Bank, improved mounting bracket with refined adjustments, 32GB micro-SD card, two 3-volt batteries, two-button remote control, sunshield, and anti-glare LCD screen. It carries a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty. Check it out at omegasights.com. GARMIN n Garmin’s Xero X1i electro-optic crossbow scope includes an integrated laser range finder. Other key features include 3.5x magnification with digital overlay to automatically measure the distance to a target—250 yards on game and up to 500 yards on reflective targets. The stout aluminum housing and nitrogen purging make it hugely dependable, while interactive aiming makes shooting more automatic. The unit provides clear images and edge-to-edge clarity, while a multicolor digital display provides aiming points, compass, horizontal level, string counter, roll at shot, impulse duration, and flight apex. It even includes integrated instructions, which allows sight-in and setup in less than 20 minutes. Set the 20- yard aiming point and an auto-calibration feature uses the bow’s speed and the sight’s integrated algorithms to provide the remaining aim points out to 80 yards. Increased ranges can be calibrated if desired. Garmin also recently announced Xero X1i crossbow scopes will be paired with Ravin Crossbow’s precision-based platforms—preloaded with the technical specifications of all Ravin Crossbow models and adjusted aiming solutions based on each model’s specifications. This provides hunters with unparalleled out-of-the-box accuracy and quick setup times. Check it out at garmin.com. BURRIS OPTICS n Burris’ Oracle X Crossbow Rangefinding Scope holds a built-in laser rangefinder that is engaged using a wireless remote. A push of a button displays distance to target and instantly provides a bright aiming point correlating to HME Portable Ozone Air Cleaner ScentLok BE:1 OZ 8k Ozone Bag plus Radial Nano Combo Wildgame Innovations ZeroTrace
SEPT / OCT 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM the distance ranged. Point of aim remains consistent across the unit’s 2- to 7-power zoom range. The laser rangefinder is accurate to 200 yards on game and up to 500 yards on reflective targets. One CR123 battery fuels the unit, which weighs 30.8 ounces. Check it out at burrisoptics.com. SIG SAUER n Sig Sauer’s BDX Combo Kit includes a crossbow scope and rangefinder, programmed to pair automatically and prove 100 percent compatible with the industry’s latest high-performance crossbow models. The SIERRA BDX scope includes BDX technology that provides holdover aiming points provided by the connected laser rangefinder. It can be operated without the app, or taken to the next level by unleashing the power of the Sig Sauer app. Even if purchased separately, the laser rangefinder is easily paired to the scope without undue effort—though buying the kit offers automatic pairing. The rangefinder holds eight preinstalled ballistic group options, while the scope provides SmartBDC reticles for precise holds to 500 yards. Check it out at sigsauer.com. Space Age Scent Control Bowhunters have been at war with their own scent as long as bows and arrows have been used to collect big game for sustenance. All manner of lotions and potions have followed in this pursuit, transforming into a multi-billion-dollar industry. As we entered the new millennium, ozone and ion technology were added to that bag of tricks. Ozone and ion technologies kill human odors by actively seeking and attaching themselves to odor molecules—including sweat, soaps, food, perfume, smoke, and other unwanted scents— and transforming them into inert, odorless compounds. OZONICS n First in the ozone game and still a powerhouse in this arena, Ozonics deserves serious consideration for any dealer or customer considering investing in this technology. The Ozonics HR500 is the latest model, which was given significant performance enhancements—largest among these a conspicuous reduction in noise while set to Boost and Hyperboost modes, which also produce the highest concentrations of odor-killing ozone. The HR500 system is controlled by a Pro-Tracker Recovery System
INSIDE ARCHERY SEPT / OCT 2023 smartphone app, which allows remotecontrol adjustment and mode manipulation. The phone app also allows monitoring remaining battery life, current local weather conditions and more via the Ozonics app. Users can also adjust ozone output to suit prevailing conditions. A remote key-fob can be added to the HR500 to facilitate increasing ozone output. Check it out at ozonics.com. SCENT CRUSHER n The Scent Crusher Ozone Base Camp Generator was founded on NASA research and is a serious contender in our quest to effectively eliminate odors on clothing and gear. It was created with versatility at its core, proving portable and lightweight while producing up to 750mg/h of odor eliminating ozone. It is ideal for use any time or anywhere, eliminating odors fast in closets, vehicles, totes, RVs and more. This on-demand, compact and batteryoperated unit includes a convenient carry handle and rear mounting bracket, while measuring approximately 9-by-7-by-3.35 inches. Operation is highly intuitive, with two-button settings to select high to low ozone output settings and adjust between 30- and 60-minute, 2- or 4-hour cycles. All info is displayed on an illuminated LCD display. The whisper-quiet circulation fan lasts up to 12 hours on a single charge. Each unit includes a 110v AC wall plug, USB-C charger cable and vehicle power adapter with USB port for convenient charging at home or on the go. Check it out at feradyne.com/scent-crusher/. HUNTING MADE EASY (HME) n HME’s Portable Ozone Air Cleaner removes unwanted odors in a small and lightweight unit, so it is easy to pack for any trip. It is ideal for hunting duffles or sports and gym bags, as the unit is rated for up to 160 cubic feet. HME says the unit will not damage clothing. It is rechargeable via a micro-USB and the 500mAh battery allows 18-hours of continuous operation. Check it out at hmeproducts.com. SCENTLOK TECHNOLOGIES n The ScentLok BE:1 OZ 8k Ozone Bag Plus Radial CenterPoint Archery Carbon Crossbow Arrows Lumenok Lumen-Arrow Bolts Kirsch Outdoors Bloodhound XTN Tracking Nock
SEPT / OCT 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM Nano Combo provides a ready-to-roll scent-killing package. The 8,000 cubicinch bag measures 32-by-16-by-16 inches to hold everything needed for a weekend or week-long hunting trip. It is offered in BE:1 Gray or Mossy Oak Terra Gila camouflage patterns. The BE:1 OZ 8k Ozone Bag includes tough, water-resistant construction and multiple carrying options. The bag is lined with ScentLok’s proven Carbon Alloy odor-adsorbing technology, which combines treated carbon, activated carbon and zeolite for a multipronged scent-eliminating approach. Odors inside the bag are destroyed using ozone via the included OZ Radial Nano portable ozone generator. The OZ Radial Nano is rechargeable and runs up to six hours on a single charge. Check it out at scentlok.com. WILDGAME INNOVATIONS (WGI) n Wildgame Innovations’ ZeroTrace Portable uses charged ions instead of ozone, which many point out is easier on certain materials, such as elastics. The unit is recharged using standard outlets, USB ports and 12-volt vehicle plugs and fits in most vehicle cupholders. When activated the unit creates a consistent flow of charged particles called plasma ions that attach themselves to airborne particles, bonds and converts odor molecules into inert, odorless substances. The unit comes with a 110V adaptor, 110V DC power cord, USB cable and vehicle charger. Those looking for a larger field unit will gravitate to the WGI ZeroTrace Pureion. It is designed for field use, reducing scent around stands or blinds, while remaining lightweight and highly portable. It is also rechargeable and comes with two rechargeable batteries, collar lock mounting bracket and charging cable. Check it out at wildgameinnovations.com. High-Tech Tracking Systems There is nothing more devastating in bowhunting than inadvertently making a bad hit on coveted game following a string jump, unseen deflection, or just uncontrolled nerves and/or target panic. Too, unexpected rain or snow can greatly complicate traditional tracking approaches, even when tracking dogs are available. Technology has arrived to help avoid the heartbreak of losing game after a bad hit. PRO-TRACKER n Customers hungry for a more efficient and sure-fire way to recover game in difficult conditions or following a marginal hit will undoubtedly find the Pro-Tracker Recovery System intriguing. The Pro-Tracker system provides a means to locate mortally wounded animals after traditional search methods have come up blank. The Pro-Tracker Recovery System utilizes radio frequency to home in on hit animals, starting with an arrow-attached transmitter deployed as the shaft passes through the animal. A specially designed and rugged double-barbed hook system firmly attaches itself to the animal’s hide and remains anchored even as the arrow exits the animal or as it passes grabbing vegetation. The transmitter provides 18 to 20 hours of battery life, providing ample time for recovery. The complete package includes one tracking radio frequency receiver with backlit LED screen (which reveals if the animal is moving or stationary), one YAGI antenna, one radio frequency transmitter alpha, one practice dummy transmitter alpha (only compatible with certain targets), two aluminum carriers, one dual charger for transmitters, one USB charging cable, one USB to Edison plug, a carry case, 30 retainer clips and 30 securing bands. Check it out at pro-tracker.com. KIRSCH OUTDOORS n Kirch Outdoors’ lightweight and streamlined Bloodhound XTN Tracking Nock offers another option for recovering wounded game following wet weather or a poor hit. The integrated and super-bright LED nock is activated following release, providing an indication the system is activated. During pass-through penetration of game, the transmitter pulls off the arrow and secures itself to the
INSIDE ARCHERY SEPT / OCT 2023 animal’s hide. This transmitter interacts with the handheld Tracker receiver up to 400 yards away. Up to six Bloodhound transmitters can be handled by a single Tracker receiver. A magnetic device is used to turn the XTNs off following recovery to save battery power. The Bloodhound XTN system is compatible with various diameter arrows and bolts through multiple bushings that are provided with every kit. Bloodhound XTN nocks are milled from aircraftgrade aluminum and rechargeable. Check it out at kirschoutdoors.com. ished weight) and 22 inches (341 grains), holding flat or Lumenok Crescent (halfmoon), and Bohning 2-inch Blazer or 3.5 X Vanes. The factory-installed brass inserts help boost F.O.C. for straighter flight and improved penetration on game. Each nock is Lumenok’s Lighted Crossbow Bolt Ends. Lumenok lighted nocks require no magnets, glue, or switches. This is a proven design that has been around since 2002 and is made for more than 40 popular bolt models. Lumenok’s Lighted Crossbow Bolt Ends are compatible with past and current production crossbolts, the new red version sized to fit inside diameters measuring up to .300-inch. Lumenoks include a simple circuit that depends on the conductive material of the bolt shaft, automatically activated when the bolt is launched. Lumenok’s color selection has continued to grow, including HD Orange, Green, Pink, and new for 2023, HD Red. The new Red Bolt Ends are offered in both flat-back and Crescent styles. All colors are superbright, exceptionally durable, and long lasting. If you manage to exhaust a Lumenok battery, replacements are available and easily installed. Check them out at lumenok.com. CENTERPOINT ARCHERY n CenterPoint Carbon Crossbow Arrows come in three packs and include preinstalled lighted nocks. They are designed to withstand the high-energy demands of today’s modern crossbows, and each includes a 400-grain finished weight when combined with a 100-grain point. The lighted nocks are designed and tested to fit perfectly into .300-inch diameter carbon shafts. The bright green nocks Lighted Nocks Idaho was the last to fall, making lighted nocks legal in all 50 states today. Lighted nocks have become an indispensable tool in helping hunters understand exactly where an animal has been hit following release, thus, how to follow up, as well as more quickly recovering arrows after every shot. Both factors equal more ethical bowhunting. LUMENOK n Lumenok offers Lumen-Arrow Bolts measuring 20 (321 grains finBuck Rub Gear Lighted Switchnocks Doubletake Archery HALO Lighted Nocks Nockturnal Shift FIT Lighted Nocks
SEPT / OCT 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM are bowstring activated but will not accidentally turn on while clicking an arrow to the bowstring, no matter how hard the arrow is pushed on. The nock will only activate after leaving the bowstring. This innovative design also eliminates a delayed release caused by “forward slippage” during the shot. Installation is simple with no assembly required. They activate automatically during release and can be turned off easily without tools. The clean design includes no open holes to collect blood, hair, or other debris after the shot to affect future function and reliability. Look for them in red, green, blue, and pink, with 3-packs retailing for $34.99. An included multi-fit kit allows fitting to .204-, .233-, .244-, and .246-inch diameter arrows, while a MICRO .165/.166 option is also offered. Check them out at doubletakearchery.com. NOCKTURNAL n Nockturnal’s latest Shift FIT lighted nock is easier than ever to switch off after the shot. Nockturnal Shift FIT lighted nocks are the epitome of simplicity and reliability. Thanks to the external on/off switch the process of turning an ultra-bright, string-activated Nockturnal lighted nock off has never been easier. No more tools. No more hacks. With 20-plus hours of longlasting battery life and a durable design LOWDOWN VIEWER n Unfortunately, most SD card readers on the market today offer little more than disappointment and frustration. The LOWDOWN Viewer solves those problems. The LOWDOWN was created by hunters who had had enough of what was available, loading the LOWDOWN Viewer with useful features that make it faster and easier to review a full SD card of images or video. The newest version includes a zoom feature to enlarge still images for a closer look and to save, and SnapShot, which allows freezing video and saving individual frames. Easy Scroll allows running through hundreds of videos or thousands of images with the swipe of a finger in about 20 to 30 minutes. The 9-inch screen provides superior detail and can be set up for three different viewing modes to preferences. The Viewer can now also be used to format SD cards to keep them functioning better. The built-in navigation help system makes getting started fast and easy. It includes an HDMI port, two SD card ports (one for data, one a save card) and a USB port. Check it out at lowdownviewer.com. light on release and are designed for use with crossbows utilizing 20-inch bolts and include a non-proprietary half-moon nock. The bolts include a straightness tolerance of .003-inch and hold 2-inch vanes. Check them out at centerpointarchery.com. BUCK RUB GEAR n Buck Rub Gear Lighted Switchnocks offer a quality option that also comes with an affordable price tag. They include ultra-reliable and durable construction that stands up to a lot of abuse. The external on/off switch is easy to manipulate with a fingernail, while the throat tab results in automatic activation during release. The shank of each nock includes fitting ridges to provide a more universal internal fit for .224- to .246-inch S or GT nock shafts, while the throat was designed to ensure a reliable hold on the bowstring serving while waiting or stalking. They are available in red, green, or orange, and sold individually (MSRP $9.99) or in three packs (MSRP $29.99). Dealers can also purchase Switchnocks in bulk jars for point-of-sale display. Check it out at buckrubarchery.com. DOUBLETAKE ARCHERY n Doubletake Archery HALO Lighted Nocks offer an advanced and streamlined design engineered to never fail. HALO Lighted Nocks
64 INSIDE ARCHERY SEPT / OCT 2023 these nocks are built to last. They feature an ultra-strong, impact resistant polycarbonate casing to protect the superbright LED. The patented, string-activated linear switch triggers the nock to illuminate immediately when the string is released. Shift FIT Nocks fit X, GT, S and H diameter arrows with the use of the included nock collars. Each waterproof and shock proof Nockturnal lighted nock weighs about 25 grains. They are available in green, red, and red/ green strobing options. Shift FIT Nocks retail for $29.99 per two-pack. Check it out at feradyne.com/nockturnal/. Hunt-Ready E-Bikes Whether striving to be more ecologically friendly, stealthier or save some hiking in vast country, e-bikes have become the next big thing in bowhunting. They get whitetail hunters into distant stands and blinds more covertly, or into gated elk country more effortlessly. They do this while easily toting all the gear needed to function in today’s bowhunting fields. QUIETKAT n QuietKat’s new collection is made up of four key models, starting at the pinnacle with the APEX Pro. QuietKat took their top-of-the-line APEX and gave it a bevy of upgrades to elevate it to the pro level. It includes an upgraded front suspension fork to provide superior control, comfort, and performance. QuietKat also added a 16ah integrated battery for more power and an estimated range of up to 48 miles with pedaling assistance and 24 miles throttle unassisted, plus the same burly four piston hydraulic brakes for superior control and stopping power. The mid-drive 1000-watt motor and 9-speed SRAM gearing provides the ultimate power and utility to handle the most rugged and demanding trails. This is QuietKat’s top-of-the-line hunting ebike for a reason; it’s superior strength, performance, and capabilities. Check it out at quietkat.com. QuietKat APEX Pro Rungu Dualie XR Bakcou Kodiak AWD Rambo Megatron 2.0
SEPT / OCT 2023 INSIDEARCHERY.COM RAMBO n The Megatron 2.0 by Rambo is an e-bike built like no other, as this beast knows no hill or terrain it cannot handle. This is an e-bike meant to push further into the deep woods and up the steepest rocky hill. The Megatron comes equipped with two powerful hub drive motors. The e-bike’s on-demand power provides the ability to switch between front wheel, rear wheel or all-wheel drive to best match riding needs. Simply cruise around in rear wheel drive to conserve battery when on flat terrain, and with the quick click of a button, switch it over to AWD, and engage all the torque needed to pull up steep grades or tow a heavy load in a cargo cart. The Megatron 2.0 is powered by an integrated 20ah battery, with an additional 17ah battery on top, for a total of 37ah of available power, providing additional power and the ability to range up to 80 miles. Check it out at rambobikes.com. BAKCOU n Bakcou’s Kodiak AWD features state of the art, on demand front, rear or AWD with the flip of a switch to effortlessly navigate the most demanding trails. The Kodiak AWD includes Bakcou’s biggest, baddest, battery, an extended distance 48v 25ah powerhouse that ensures enough gusto to get through the toughest conditions. The dual, 500-watt motors combine to provide more power and capability than ever before in a hub-driven bike. The dual hub-drive motors work simultaneously to push and pull the tires through sand, mud, and snow. Key features include a Bafang LCD display, Tektro quad piston hydraulic brakes, BCEB RST coil spring 75mm fork, 6061 aluminum alloy frame, Maxxis Minion 12-by4-inch tires and Shimono Alivio HillClimbing 9-speed gearing. The 68-pound e-bike includes a 40-plus mile range and 35-plus mph top speed. Available in Realtree Edge, Matte Black and Matte Army Green. Check it out at bakcou.com. RUNGU DUALIE n Rungu Dualie e-bikes are more stable and will take customers places that would leave other e-bike designs struggling. They include two front wheels positioned 9 inches apart to provide unmatched stability off road and help eliminate washouts and wipeouts. Rungu’s longer wheelbase moves the center of gravity away from the handlebars for easier handling in rough terrain, the independent suspension offering a smooth ride. Most e-bikes include a 90/10 weight distribution placing most of the rider’s weight on the back tire and leaving the front end extremely light. Rungu’s 75/25 weight distribution places more weight on the front tires to grip the ground while turning or riding up steep inclines. The Dualie design also provides better control in soft sand, deep snow (up to 9 inches or more), mud, or over rocks and logs. Ackerman Steering means each of the wheels follows its own pivot path, eliminating tire slippage and adding additional control. These e-bikes include a modified step-through frame for easier mounting and standing comfort. Rungu Extra Range (XR) models also feature a dual/parallel battery system providing twice the total battery life and dramatically extending effective range, usually up to 32 miles without peddle assist. Check it out at riderungu.com. IA TACTACAM n The Tactacam 6.0 offers customers seeking a weapon-mounted camera system one of the best options in the business. This point-of-view camera was crafted with durability and performance as priorities. It features an 8X zoom, refined image stabilization, and captures 4K footage at 60 fps. It includes a screen, generates Wi-Fi, is remote compatible, and is waterproof up to 30 feet deep. Check it out at tactacam.com.
66 INSIDE ARCHERY SEPT / OCT 2023 Five Questions with PRADCO/Summit Treestands INSIDE THE INDUSTRY INDUSTRY 5Q Summit Treestands has remained a gold standard in the industry for decades due to safe and solid designs created with hard-core bowhunting in mind. Summit Treestands continues to innovate to bring bowhunters cutting edge stands made for the way they hunt. Inside Archery chatted with Jake Nelson, Product Manager of PRADCO/Summit Treestands, to learn more. tands apart from the competition? ■ Summit Treestands have various unique and patented features as well as a design that stands the test of time. We are happy to offer an industry leading five-year warranty on our aluminum climbing treestands. We stand behind our products and the warranty is proof of that. What role does a passion for archery, hunting, and the outdoors play in Summit Treestands’ everyday operations? ■ Summit is truly engineered by hunters for hunters and has been for the past 40 years. Intimate knowledge of how treestands are used in the field is key to making the right decisions on new innovations and product enhancements, as well as making sure we are manufacturing a product that is safe to use. What programs or incentives does Summit Treestands have in place to help dealers thrive in today’s challenging marketplace? ■ Engineering, Marketing, and Sales work closely together to represent the Summit Treestands brand and provide dealers with education, materials and special pricing when available. Our promise to dealers is to supply them with high-quality, durable, and safe stands that customers know and trust. Summit is the leader and will continue to have bestselling treestands because we’ve held that standard. Learn more about Summit Treestands at summitstands.com. IA manufactured in the Woller home by John and his sons in the early ‘80s in rural Alabama. Now owned by PRADCO Outdoor Brands, Summit Treestands is still operated out of Alabama to this day. What factors would you say were most important to the company’s longevity in an arguably saturated treestand market? ■ Commitment to safety has been the key factor in Summit’s longevity in the treestand market. This has been achieved by having a design that is safe to use, as well as never cutting any corners during the manufacturing process. The number one goal is to build a treestand that will allow a hunter to safely hunt at elevation and return to his or her family at the end of the hunt. With that foundation combined with the innovative designs and features that Summit Treestands offer have given Summit the ability to maintain its powerhouse position in the treestand market. In addition to innovative treestand designs, what factors help set Summit Treesan you share a brief history of Summit Treestands, how it started, and what the early days of operation were like? ■ Like so many great American innovations, Summit Treestands started in a garage. John Woller, the Founder of Summit Treestands, made his first treestand in the 1960’s while he was employed at NASA working on the Saturn Rocket program and learning how to design structures out of aluminum. Summit Treestands was a true family operation with the stands being C