Bamboo Scorpion Bow

I find it interesting to sometimes watch YouTube videos of people who made their own bows and look for design faults.

The screenshot on the right is an example of a scorpion bow design, but made of bamboo and using slingshot rubber instead of springs.

However if you are at all familiar with proper bow design you will notice a large number of design faults the bow shown on the right.

1. The arrow rest is on the wrong side for a right-eye dominant shooter. It should be on the left side of the bow. (The only exception to this would be someone shooting Asiatic horsebow style, in which case they would be shooting off their thumb and not using an arrow rest at all.)
2. The bow is really small and short and cannot store much power, but also will be unforgiving in terms of accuracy. The general rule for bows (and compound bows) is that longer bows are more forgiving when it comes to accuracy. The shorter and smaller a bow is the more unforgiving the bow is. This is easily rectified however by making the riser significantly longer, and also possibly making the limbs longer.
3. When watching the video it is pretty clear that this bow isn't very powerful, and the creators of the video don't bother to cite the poundage. So it is probably pretty weak. If they are using slingshot rubber to store power it would be nice to know what kind of slingshot rubber being used, and how much poundage the bow actually has. Otherwise anyone attempting to make this bow may be very disappointed*.

* Also if they're going to use slingshot rubber for the source of power, why not just make a harpoon gun or a spear gun instead?

There are other issues going on if you watch the video:

• The arrow has no fletching.
• The person is gripping the arrow's nock the way a child does, using a weak pinch grip. This is another clue that it is a very weak bow.
• They're holding the arrow on the arrow rest using a finger, displaying that they don't know how to make a proper arrow rest.
• The arrow rest is just a L shape cut out of the bamboo, no fur, felt, metal or other material on it.
• The bow is surprisingly loud and would startle any prey before it can even be shot.
• The tips of the limbs are just holes for the bow string, not proper tips.
• The arrow rest and hand placement is too low.
• The handle is not a comfortable design. Something more like a Howard Hill handle or a pistol grip handle would be better. 
• There really isn't any benefit to using bamboo to make this bow when wood would be better, bend less and break less easily. Making the bow out of bamboo instead of wood is a poor decision as the vibrations going through the bamboo will eventually break it.
• In the video the person deliberately dry fires the scorpion bow, something that a normal archer would never do.
  

I wouldn't be surprised if this bamboo scorpion bow breaks after less than 50 shots.

In short, it may look interesting, but it is a bad bow design.

And sadly this is often the case with scorpion bow designs.

Regardless of whether the bow is made out of wood, metal, plastic, fiberglass or bamboo, scorpion bows tend to be poorly designed.

Yes, they look interesting, but they're not the pinnacle of bow design.

I suspect this is because nobody with any true engineering skills has ever made a serious attempt to make a really good scorpion bow design.

Including Joerg Sprave (from the Sling Shot Channel), who is more of a German mad scientist than an engineer.

Easy DIY Survival Bow

Want to learn how to make an easy yet powerful survival bow?

Watch the following video on how to make a DIY Penobscot style survival bow.

Fast Way to turn Wood into Arrows

Note to self:

See if the following technique can be used to make arrow shafts out of scrap wood. Also a handy way to make dowels of any size.

12 Tips for Bowhunters

Going bowhunting this Autumn? Bowhunting season in Ontario lasts from September to December. Here are 12 tips if you are new to archery and/or hunting.

Practice Consistently:

Regular practice is crucial for bowhunters to develop and maintain their archery skills. Dedicate time to practice shooting techniques, accuracy, and distance judgment. Practice under various conditions, such as different weather and lighting conditions, to improve your adaptability. If you're not already skilled at archery then you should definitely consider getting archery lessons.

Know Your Equipment:

Understand your bow and its specifications, including draw weight, draw length, and arrow selection. Ensure your bow is properly tuned and in good working condition. Familiarize yourself with the different components of your bow, including sights, rests, and releases, and make any necessary adjustments.

Master Stealth and Concealment:

Bowhunting requires getting close to your target, which demands exceptional stealth and concealment. Learn to move quietly and efficiently, avoiding unnecessary noise and sudden movements. Utilize camouflage clothing, scent control measures, and natural cover to blend into the environment.

Study Animal Behavior and Patterns:

Gain knowledge about the behavior and patterns of the game species you are pursuing. Understand their feeding, bedding, and movement patterns to increase your chances of a successful hunt. Use trail cameras and scouting techniques to gather valuable information about their habits and preferred locations.

Choose the Right Hunting Stand or Blind:

Select a hunting stand or blind that suits your hunting style and the terrain you will be hunting in. Whether it's a tree stand, ground blind, or elevated platform, ensure it provides good visibility and concealment while offering a comfortable and stable shooting position.

Practice Shot Placement:

Understanding shot placement is vital for ethical and effective hunting. Study the anatomy of your target species and practice shooting at various angles and distances to become proficient in making clean and humane shots. Focus on vital organs and avoid taking shots that risk wounding an animal.

Be Patient and Persistent:

Bowhunting requires patience and persistence. Be prepared for long hours of waiting and stalking without guarantees of immediate success. Avoid rushing shots or taking unethical shots due to impatience. Stay focused, maintain a positive mindset, and embrace the process of the hunt.

Plan for Shot Opportunities:

Anticipate shot opportunities by positioning yourself in areas with high animal activity. Set up near trails, feeding areas, or known bedding locations. Be aware of wind direction and other environmental factors that may affect your shot opportunities.

Understand Hunting Regulations:

Familiarize yourself with local hunting regulations, including season dates, bag limits, and any specific requirements or restrictions for bowhunting. Adhere to ethical hunting practices and respect the laws and regulations governing your hunting area.

Track and Recover Game Ethically:

After making a shot, be patient and wait for a sufficient amount of time before attempting to track the animal. Use blood trailing techniques and follow sign indicators to track wounded game. Ensure you have the necessary skills and tools to recover and process the harvested animal properly.

Stay Physically Fit:

Bowhunting can be physically demanding, requiring endurance and strength. Engage in regular physical exercise to improve your overall fitness level. This will help you navigate challenging terrain, carry gear, and draw your bow effectively.

Continuously Learn and Improve:

Embrace a learning mindset and continuously seek knowledge and improvement. Stay updated on the latest hunting techniques, equipment innovations, and conservation practices. Participate in workshops, seminars, and connect with experienced bowhunters to expand your skills and understanding of the sport.

...

Remember, bowhunting is not just about the harvest but also about immersing yourself in nature and enjoying the challenge and connection with the environment. By following these tips, you can enhance your bowhunting experience and increase your chances of success while maintaining ethical and responsible hunting practices.

Why Archery Lessons Are More Cost and Time-Effective

Archery is an ancient and captivating sport that has been practiced for thousands of years. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, taking archery lessons is a smart decision that can save you time, money, and ensure an enjoyable and rewarding experience. 

Below we will explore the various issues related to archery, such as the costs of broken or lost arrows, selecting the right equipment, saving time, and the positive impact of professional guidance on one's overall archery journey.

1. Costs of Broken or Lost Arrows

One of the significant concerns for archers, especially beginners, is the cost of replacing broken or lost arrows. Without proper guidance, learning to shoot accurately can be challenging, resulting in frequent errant shots that may lead to damaged arrows. Archery lessons provide expert guidance, ensuring you learn proper shooting techniques, reducing the likelihood of breaking or losing arrows. Additionally, professional instructors can teach you how to maintain and repair your arrows, prolonging their lifespan and saving you money in the long run.

2. Making Sure You Purchase the Correct Equipment

Investing in archery equipment can be overwhelming, especially for beginners who may not fully understand the intricacies of the sport. Purchasing the wrong equipment can lead to frustration and subpar performance. Archery lessons come with the added benefit of expert advice on choosing the right equipment that suits your skill level, physique, and goals. Instructors can guide you through the process of selecting the appropriate bow, arrows, and accessories, helping you make informed decisions and preventing unnecessary expenses on equipment that may not be suitable for you.

3. Save Yourself Time

Learning archery on your own can be a time-consuming process, filled with trial and error. While it's admirable to be self-taught, archery lessons significantly expedite the learning curve. Skilled instructors can identify and correct your mistakes, ensuring you progress more efficiently. They can also introduce you to advanced techniques and strategies that may have taken you months or even years to discover independently. The guidance and structure of lessons enable you to make consistent progress, ultimately saving you valuable time.

4. More Fun and Less Likely to Get Frustrated

Archery lessons not only enhance your skills but also make the learning process more enjoyable. Instructors provide a positive and encouraging environment, which can boost your confidence and motivation. As you achieve small milestones, the sense of accomplishment increases, making archery more fun and fulfilling. With the right guidance, you're less likely to get frustrated with slow progress or difficulties that could have otherwise led you to give up on the sport entirely.

While learning archery on your own may sound like a cost-effective approach, the benefits of taking professional archery lessons far outweigh the initial investment. By avoiding the costs of broken or lost arrows, purchasing the correct equipment, saving time through guided learning, and experiencing the enjoyment of progress, you'll find that archery lessons offer a more efficient and rewarding path to becoming a skilled archer. 

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced archer seeking improvement, enrolling in archery lessons in Toronto is an investment that yields lasting rewards in terms of skill, enjoyment, and personal growth. So, don't hesitate to seek out qualified instructors and embark on your archery journey today!

William Folberth's Recurve Bows: A Timeless Archery Marvel

In the world of archery, few names have achieved the legendary status and enduring impact of William Folberth. Renowned for his mastery of recurve bow craftsmanship, Folberth's creations have become synonymous with elegance, precision, and unmatched performance. This article delves into the fascinating history of William Folberth's recurve bows, exploring their origins, innovations, and enduring legacy in the world of archery.

See also:

10 Recurve Bows every Collector should Want and Why

Early Years and Passion for Archery

William Folberth developed a deep passion for archery at a young age. Inspired by his father's craftsmanship and the artistry of traditional archery, he dedicated himself to perfecting the art of bow making. Folberth's early experiments involved refining the designs of existing bows, studying the physics of arrow flight, and exploring innovative techniques to improve performance.

Recurve Bow Revolution

During the 1930s and 1940s Folberth patented various recurve designs that utilized fibreglass on the belly and back of the bow limbs. By using a combination of wood and fibreglass together he was able to attain both durability and greater flexibility in his bow designs, which lent to greater FPS speeds of arrows and bows that were less likely to break from common wear and tear. By patenting his creations his competitors (eg. Fred Bear) had to come with their own patents using alternative designs (eg. Fred Bear used a combination of aluminum and fibreglass in his Bear Grizzly Static).

In the 1950s, Folberth revolutionized the archery world by introducing his recurve bow designs. The recurve bow features limbs that curve away from the archer when the bow is unstrung, which allows for storing more energy and providing greater power and accuracy upon release. Folberth's bows incorporated this design concept, resulting in bows that were not only visually stunning but also offered superior performance.

Innovative Designs and Technological Advancements

Folberth's recurve bows were characterized by their exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and continuous pursuit of innovation. He experimented with various materials, such as laminated woods, fiberglass, and carbon fiber, to achieve optimal balance, strength, and flexibility. By combining traditional bow making techniques with cutting-edge materials, Folberth achieved a perfect harmony that translated into enhanced shooting experiences.

The Folberth Signature Series

With time, Folberth's bows gained immense popularity among archers and hunters, attracting a dedicated following of enthusiasts. In recognition of his artistry and expertise, Folberth introduced the Signature Series—a limited edition line of bows crafted entirely by his hands. Each Signature Series bow was meticulously crafted, showcasing the pinnacle of his skills and embodying the essence of his craftsmanship.

Worldwide Recognition and Legacy

As word spread about the exceptional quality and performance of Folberth's recurve bows, his reputation transcended national boundaries. Archers from around the world sought out his creations, appreciating not only the functional excellence but also the works of art that his bows represented. His bows were used by professional archers in national and international competitions, securing victories and cementing his legacy in the annals of archery history.

Teaching and Mentorship

Beyond his bow making prowess, William Folberth was a humble and generous teacher. He shared his knowledge, skills, and passion with aspiring bow makers, ensuring that his legacy would be carried forward. Many of his apprentices went on to establish their own successful careers in the world of archery, with some even becoming renowned bow makers themselves.

Legacy

William Folberth's recurve bows stand as a testament to his unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Through his mastery of design, he elevated the art of archery and left an indelible mark on the world of bow making. Today, archers and collectors cherish his bows as both functional tools and timeless pieces of art. William Folberth's recurve bows continue to inspire a new generation of bow makers and archers, ensuring that his legacy will endure for years to come.

DIY Turkey Broadheads, Part I

So I went on Amazon.ca today and decided to browse Turkey Broadheads. Which are... ahem... Expensive. As shown in the image below.

 

And if someone has lots of money to burn, sure, why not.

But consider this...

During December 2022 (the holiday season) the average turkey in Canada was selling for $1.89 CDN per pound.

So for $70 CDN you could get approx. 37 lbs of turkey from the grocery store, which is way cheaper than even the cheapest of the three options listed above from Amazon.

Are there cheaper options available on Amazon? Yes.

Are there cheaper options available in hunting/fishing stores? Yes.

But an idea had been sparked so I decided to do some research. What about DIY turkey broadheads? That would certainly be way cheaper.

Yes, turkey broadheads are waaaaaaay bigger than normal broadheads, but if a teaspoon can be turned into a regular broadhead, certainly there are ways to make a turkey broadhead out of something else?

Certainly someone else has made their own DIY turkey broadheads? After all, what did people used to use before the advent of mass production? They made their own, or hired a blacksmith to make them.

There are unusual broadheads out there in this topic too, but the only ones I seem to be able to find are those made in factories

I haven't been able to find a single DIY / homemade turkey broadhead.

As far as I can tell nobody is making them, or if they are making them, they're not bragging about them and showing them off online.

Plenty of fancy ones to choose from, but I haven't found a single example of a homemade DIY turkey broadhead.

So I guess I have no choice. I need to make one myself.

The good news is I do have some cold chisels with which to do the job. I just need the metal and to come up with a suitable design for cutting and then sharpening my own DIY turkey broadhead.

So stay tuned for Part II, because this may take awhile before I have something worth showing (and bragging about).

Making a Horsebow using bamboo and a coat hanger

Not my video, but I did particularly enjoy watching this video because it showed all the steps needing for making a horsebow using bamboo, glue, a coat hanger and a few other things.

Definitely helps to have a sander, a band saw and various other tools too. It isn't a very heavy poundage bow, but it looks nice and shoots well.

Researching Vintage Bows = Research Fee

I was recently contacted by someone asking me to research their recently purchased vintage Browning recurve bow for them. Specifically they wanted to know what year it was made.

Right away I realized what they were asking would take hours of my time and I frankly do not have the time right now to be researching other people's stuff for them. I have my own stuff to do, a toddler, deadlines, work, a wife, a social life, and I don't have time to waste on researching other people's stuff unless I am being paid for it.

Due to time constraints I explained to the person that I would need to charge a research fee ($40 CDN) for my time and effort on this, and all I could really promise them is that it will be a date range (eg. "circa 1975" or circa 1973 to 1978). There is no guarantee I would be able to pinpoint the exact year it was made despite the hours of research required.

If paying someone a research fee for their time is objectionable to you then you can research it yourself and I wish you luck in your search.

Have a good day!

Sincerely,
Charles Moffat

ProjectGridless.ca

 

PS. There is a wonderful search engine called "Google". I recommend people try using it. Otherwise when you contact someone and you're asking them to research something for you then you should just immediately mention MONEY* and explain that you don't want to waste their time and are happy to reward them for their time.

* Payment in advance. I am not running a charity.

Project Gridless YouTube Channel Tops 100 Subscribers

The Project Gridless YouTube Channel recently surpassed 100 subscribers.

Woot!

Below is our most popular video in which Gary from Basically Bows Archery shows how to build a traditional wooden arrow. The young woman in the video is one of my archery students from years ago.

Gary liked the video so much he used it on his website and later decided to build his own YouTube channel... His channel currently has a whopping 34,900+ subscribers. See Gary Chynne for more details.

Canadian Tire Archery Equipment / Solar Panels

Okay, so here is the thing.

Canadian Tire does sell a variety of archery equipment, but what they have available varies a lot in terms of quality and supply. Most of the time the equipment you are looking for isn't even in the store, and you can only order it online via:

https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/sports-rec/hunting/archery.html

However there is a further complication.

Recently due to COVID and increased demand on Canadian Tire's online sales they sometimes suspend online sales completely, which means you have to go to the store in person just to order what you are looking for.

At which point sales staff at the help desk are somewhat annoyed that you are bothering them in the first place and are wondering "Why don't you just order it online?"

At which point you have to explain: "The Canadian Tire website says online sales are suspended due to too much demand, and it says we should go to the store."

So there you are... At the store, trying to order something from online, which should have just been available online in the first place. Or even better, it should have been available in the store in the first place.

If you've ever tried to buy certain things at Canadian Tire you may have noticed a discrepancy. Certain items that are available in the online store can never be found in the physical stores. You can ONLY order them online for delivery / pick up at the store.

https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/outdoor-living/solar-panels-accessories.html

Which is really annoying.

What if you have questions about installation. There is literally no staff in the store who know anything about installing solar panels.

What they really need is:

1. A display aisle dedicated just to solar panels.

2. A sales person behind a desk in the aisle who is available to answer questions regarding both solar panel and wind turbines. They can also answer questions about battery power and power inverters.

Honestly, why would any beginners wishing to install solar panels bother to go via Canadian Tire for buying the gear? The only source of help is the website. They don't even sell an installation guidebook or anything like that, beyond any documents that come with the individual parts you are buying. So you really have to do all the research yourself and there is no guidance.

How to Make an Inexpensive Children's Bow and Arrows

Q

"Hello!

Do you know where I can find an archery range near Toronto that rents archery equipment suitable for a 5 year old? I am trying to find a place that rents equipment so my 5 year old son can learn archery.

- Lisa T."

A

Now there is a challenging problem.

The problem is there is no archery ranges that rent archery equipment. Let alone equipment that is suitable for a 5 year old. It is generally accepted that most archers have their own equipment.

The Toronto Archery Range has no age limit, but anyone under the age of 16 must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times, so that is certainly an option. However it is a free public archery range and it doesn't rent equipment.

There are private ranges outside of Toronto which may allow archers that age, but they will certainly have similar restrictions with respect to supervision and they are not free. Expect to be paying $10 per hour just to use private ranges, and that doesn't include the cost of renting equipment.

There is a 3rd party company that rents sports equipment (+ a damage deposit), but it is a bit of a racket because beginners are much more likely to lose arrows / damage equipment so they are really expecting you to end up damaging equipment and losing part of your damage deposit. Also I wouldn't recommend their smallest youth bow for a 5 year old because it is really designed for a 10 to 14 year old.

https://sportrentals.ca/Archery-Equipment-Rental-Ontario.html

There are some archery instructors like myself who provide equipment during archery lessons, but such lessons are more for people who are very serious about learning archery and are certainly more expensive. Maybe put a pin in that idea and come back when your son is older / more serious about the sport.

Canadian Tire, Bass Pro and similar stores sell youth archery equipment which is reasonably priced.

https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/sports-rec/hunting/archery.html

There is a $69 bow on Canadian Tire for example that would be suitable for your son.

https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/barnett-centershot-recurve-bow-youth-2759983p.html

You would also need to buy about 6 arrows and a shooting glove or shooting tab, so overall you might be spending closer to $150+ on equipment, but at least the equipment is reusable and you can always sell it all later on Craigslist if your son ever loses interest in the sport.

Lastly I suppose you could just make your own equipment.

1. Just buy wood dowels from Canadian Tire, 5/16th dowels is a good size for making arrows.
2. Cut the dowels to an appropriate length for your son's draw length (24 to 28 inches is probably more than enough), notch the ends to make nocks for the arrows.
3. Adding feather fletching to the arrows is optional and unnecessary since this is just for a youth bow, but as you get better at making arrows over time you can practice fletching arrows in order to improve accuracy over longer distances.
4. Find a piece of oak or similar hardwood that is 4-5 feet long and tiller it into a bow. There are plenty of youtube videos on the subject of tillering a bow evenly if you need help.
5. Paracord makes a decent bowstring for a cheap selfbow.
6. Your first bow will probably suck horribly, but it will still shoot. Don't worry about it. As your son gets older you can make more bows together and you will get better at it.
7. If you have some scrap leather you could make a shooting tab. Cut the following shape out of the leather. It doesn't need to be perfect, but you will need to size it fit your son's hand.
8. Encourage your son to use the shooting tab whenever shooting so he doesn't hurt his fingers. Some archers suffer nerve damage to their fingers by shooting without protection.

Alternatively you could buy the bow I mentioned from Canadian Tire and then make the wooden arrows and shooting tab yourself. If your son likes making things this is something fun you could do together.

There are also archery themed summer camps in the GTA / Ontario, but I believe they are all currently closed due to COVID. That is something to consider in future years when COVID is behind us.

http://www.archerytoronto.ca/Toronto-Archery-Camps.html

Likewise Beaver Scouts and Boy Scouts sometimes do archery, but again COVID.

https://www.scouts.ca/programs/canadian-path/beaver-scouts/overview.html


Best of luck! Happy shooting!

How to Make a Bow Trap

For your amusement.

Worried about the Coronavirus Pandemic?

Are you worried about Coronavirus?

Well you should be, but not because of the health hazards. The virus typically only kills people over the age of 50, and even then only kills roughly one in ten people over the age of 50.

The bigger issue seems to be the economy which has currently gone into a tailspin nose dive.

Eg. In the past 26 days the Dow Jones has fallen from 29,551 to 23,581. A drop of over 20% in less than 1 month. Other markets are also similarly effected.

If the economy also continues to head in this direction and the virus becomes a widespread pandemic we will see global economic chaos.

In which case there are some things you should probably do to prepare.

#1. Double Check your Bug Out Bag

Now is a good time to double check your Bug Out Bag. If the economy collapses, wars break out or other problems that cause a societal collapse now is a really good time to make sure your Bug Out Bag is full of everything you need to escape from the rest of society and go off grid completely.

See my older post on Filling Your Bug Out Bag.

If you don't have a Bug Out Bag maybe it is time you finally prepared one?

You will also want a tent, transportation, a plan for getting out of the city (eg. a route and possibly backup routes), and a heading so you know where you are going. Eg. I know a swamp where the deer and wild turkeys are plentiful. Plus it is a swamp, so privacy should be assured.

#2. Self Defense and Hunting

"Speak softly and carry a big stick." - Theodore Roosevelt.

You should have multiple options for self-defense in the event you need to leave the big city and head to the countryside to wait out the chaos. The preppers have the advantage here, many of them have been ready for this sort of thing for years. Still you should definitely invest in something to protect yourself.

Having more than 1 weapon or skill to potentially protect yourself is beneficial, as certain weapons/skills are more suitable for certain situations.

For example:

• Archery is quieter and stealthier than rifles.
• Arrows can be reused, but bullets are one time (the shells can be recycled however).
• Black powder rifles are less likely to run out of ammo because it is easier to make your own.
• Martial arts is more portable than swords.
• Axes and knives are both tools you will end up needing in the wild and to protect yourself.
• Your best defense is to stay hidden. Nobody can threaten someone who cannot be seen.

Archery has an advantage as it is both quieter and can be used for both bowhunting and defense, but an archer is unlikely to run out of ammo as they can easily make more arrows once they know how.

The real trick to archery is that a person really needs lessons to get good at it. In the video below for example a new archery student hits a target ball at a distance of 37 yards/111 feet, and she manages to do it on her first lesson.

An amateur trying to teach themselves archery would struggle to hit a similar sized target at HALF that distance. So getting archery lessons makes a big difference.

Toronto Archery Lessons

Someone who chooses to arm themselves with a bow, axe, knife, and learns some martial arts / how to be stealthy will have an advantage over people who are using rifles and are not stealthy. The rifle hunter will eventually run out of ammo. The exception to this of course is the black powder rifle or anyone who knows how to recycle/make their own bullets, but those are very rare skills.

And even if Coronavirus doesn't become pandemic at least you learned archery and other useful skills. We can always hope that the economy doesn't collapse and everything turns out just fine.

#3. The Five Meter Rule

If possible try to stay at least five meters away from strangers and avoid public places. Why five meters?

Cough droplets carrying the coronavirus can float in the air up to five meters and infect people who are 17 feet away.

Health officials have been telling people to keep a distance of 2 meters, but this is very difficult to do on sidewalks, public transportation, in stores, etc. Let alone 5 meters, which is more ideal.

Worse, the coronavirus can survive on surfaces for up to 1 hour. So if you touch something and then touch your face you could become infected by someone who coughed into their hand, touched an object, and then you touched it less than an hour later.

So you really want to stay 5 meters away from strangers / anyone possibly infected, and if going anywhere public you should avoid touching anything that hasn't been cleaned first. This whole fist-bumping / elbow-bumping idea is actually too risky.

#4. Soap, Soap, Soap

Ironically Purell and similar anti-bacterial products don't actually kill the coronavirus. What you really need is good old fashioned soap and water.

#5. Stop touching your face so often

The average person touches their face at least 20 times per hour. It isn't bad if you are at home all day, but if you go out to a public place you should avoid touching your face.

10 Birch Bark Quiver Designs

Want something fun to make for doing archery? Why not make a quiver? Want to make something more traditional? Make a birch bark quiver!

Below are 10 different birch bark quiver designs for you to choose from.

Dating a Bear Grizzly Static

Q

"Wondering about age and value I believe it's a 1948 from the bits and pieces I have found so far on the internet.

Jim W.

 

Fyi Discovered Bow in our attic in  Port Sanilac Michigan "

27523 serial number

53# poundage

A

Hey Jim!

I have nearly the exact same bow, just the serial number is different and the pattern of the fibreglass is different, and mine has aluminum in it. Mine is from 1949 and still shoots perfectly.

Judging by the serial number, the decal and the fibreglass pattern (no crossweave) your bow is a Circa 1952 Bear Grizzly Static. There is also no aluminum in the limbs so it could be a late 1951 model, but most likely it is from 1952.

Value might be $150 to $200 USD. Depends on the condition of the limbs, handle, tips, etc. I would need to see about 12 to 16 photos of every part of the bow to make a detailed guess as to the value.

Have a great day!

Sincerely,
Charles Moffat

ProjectGridless.ca

 

 

 

BACKGROUND INFO

 

The small Running Bear decal on the left was used by Bear from 1948 until 1953, with the larger Standing Bear decal replacing it in mid-1953 and lasting until the 1955-56 model years. Beginning in 1955-56 Bear began using the silk-screened logo shown on the far.

 
The Grayling Era bows of Bear Archery

Beginning in 1947, Bear Archery moved into a new plant in Grayling, Michigan. Bow sales were now beginning to soar as new archers and bowhunters entered the sport in record numbers due in large part to the successful promotions of Fred Bear.

Fred realized that he could not meet the demand which would come from these new recruits by making bows one at a time like Bear had been doing since it's inception almost 15 years earlier. So he came up with a new method of mass producing bows, finally allowing his company to meet this demand. But Nels Grumley would not accept that quality bows could be made by any other manner than one-at-a-time, so Nels left the company to go out on his own.

Upon Nels departure, Fred moved another employee by the name of Bob Meeker over to supervise the manufacturing of the new bow lines. Even though bows were then largely the result of machine work, Bob came to be considered a fine bowyer in his own right.

The Aluminum Laminated Bows

The first new bow model which was introduced in 1949 after Nels’ departure was the Grizzly. The Polar and Kodiak were introduced in the following year, 1950.

These bows of 1949, 1950 and early 1951 can be recognized by the lamination of aluminum in the limbs. This aluminum was scrapped from B-17 bomber airplanes of WWII, the purchase of which was arranged from the government by Glen St. Charles. The aluminum lamination on the Kodiak and Grizzly is found only in the inner lamination, surrounded by layers of maple and glass. However, on the Polar, the aluminum is found both under a layer of maple and glass, and on the outside lamination.

In 1949 and 1950 Bear was using a bi-directional glass on their bows which looks somewhat like a basket weave pattern. Then in 1951 Bear began using a new Uni-Directional glass in which the glass fibers all ran lengthwise to the bow limbs. This is a good way to tell the difference between the 1949/50 and the 1951 models. The 1951 Grizzly also began production with the aluminum lamination, but very early in 1951 the aluminum was dropped due to the high reported breakage problems of these aluminum bows.

The Kodiak was introduced in 1950 with the bi-directional glass and the aluminum lamination. Then in early 1951, just as with the Grizzly, the new uni-directional glass was introduced but the aluminum lamination was still present. This glass change apparently occurred around serial number 5000. Then in mid-1951, the aluminum lamination was dropped. So for 1951 you will find Kodiaks with aluminum and bi-directional glass, aluminum with uni-directional glass, and no-aluminum with uni-directional glass.

This aluminum laminated caused two problems. First, the bows had quite a bit of handshock when shot, and as a result were not comfortable to shoot. Secondly, the large amount of shock contributed to a large number of bows delaminating. This warranty problem caused a substantial strain on the companies finances, but Fred insisted that all bows be replaced if returned broken.

 

Wanted - A Sliver of Land to Rent in the Vaughan / Woodbridge Area

To Anyone in the Vaughan / Woodbridge Area / North GTA

Do you have a tiny sliver of land you are not using? Say about 50 to 60 yards long, but only about 5 to 10 yards wide? The land could be in a corner of some farmland, a section of unused wooded area, with a backdrop that isn't near any residential area.

Myself and a group of GTA archers are interested in renting a small space to make a private archery range for our personal use. The range would be maintained by us and only used by archers who are members in our group.

Ideally we are looking for a sliver of land that is located next to farmland or a wooded area that is simply not used for anything else and won't be disturbing anyone.

Say for example if you owned a 100 acre farm, but not all of the farm was arable. Say only 80 acres was arable land and there was a section of trees at the back of the property that takes up 20 acres of the total property. We would like to rent part of that 20 acres. We don't even need the whole 20 acres, just enough space to put up four targets at the following distances:

1. 20 yards
2. 30 yards
3. 40 yards
4. 50 yards

The targets would be relatively close together, width wise, with a cleared space where archers can walk back and forth from a shooting line.

So the space could potentially look like the photo below, but with 4 targets spaced at different distances.

We would also need enough space to park up to 3 vehicles.

The space would be used by the individuals of our group roughly once per week for a few hours at a time, during daylight hours, mostly between the months of April and October.

The size of the space needed is actually quite small. Only about 1/10th or 1/12th of an acre. 20 acres would be a huge space and we only need a tiny fraction of that. 1 acre is 4840 square yards. We only need a space that is approximately 250 to 600 square yards, long and narrow, plus space for parking.

Larger spaces, obviously, would be nicer, but we really don't need a giant space.

eg. Lets say for example you have a section of woods on your property and there used to be railway tracks that ran through your property in a nice straight line. Or an old laneway that is no longer used. That nice straight piece of non-wooded area would make a very good archery range.

The rental price is negotiable and the burden will be shared by the members of our group.

The good news is that unlike a rifle range, which is quite noisy, archery ranges are extremely quiet. So we wouldn't be disturbing you or your neighbours with any loud banging noises from gunfire.

Contact Info

Email me at projectgridless {atsymbol} gmail .com to discuss possible rental rates and the conditions of your space.



And the Backup Plan...

Failing this, should it prove difficult to find someone close to Toronto willing to rent such a space, I have given thought to setting up a similarly sized private archery range in the region of Bruce County (further north of Kitchener-Waterloo).

I would personally only be able to visit it 3-4 times per year, to both practice there and maintain it, but on the plus side the sliver of land I would be using would be owned by my family and free for me to use.

An Alternative Pin Setup for Compound Bow Sights

Whether you are using a 3 pin sight, a 4 pin, or a 5 pin sight on your compound bow a common theme is to setup the pins in the following order, with 20 yards being the pin most often used:

1. 20 yards
2. 30 yards
3. 40 yards
4. 50 yards
5. 60 yards

Even though most compound shooters when bowhunting rarely use the 40, 50 or 60 yard pins because it is generally accepted to be unethical to take a shot at long distances when you cannot guarantee the accuracy. It is more likely for a bowhunter to end up needing a 10 or 15 yard pin setup as bowhunters often end up being that distance from the deer (or similar game) when hunting anyway.

The general rule of thumb is that an ethical hunter should only be shooting at any distance they know they can consistently hit a target the size of an apple (roughly the size of a deer's heart).

Thus a more useful (and ethical) pin setup is:

1. 10 yards
2. 15 yards
3. 20 yards
4. 25 yards
5. 30 yards

The 3 distances most likely to be used are marked in a dark bold green.

Thus the bowhunter gets added accuracy by setting their target pins to the distances they are more likely to be using.

If someone actually had 6 or 7 pins they could potentially add 35 and 40 yards to their pin setup, but with the realization they might never use them.

Any experienced bowhunter will also tell you that you usually first see the deer at 25 yards or less anyway. At further distances they are usually obscured by brush or trees.

And once they are spotted you still have to wait until you have a clear shot at its heart and lungs, so they will usually end up wandering closer to the hidden bowhunter who needs to be patient to get a good shot at the heart area, which means the deer might only be 5 to 15 yards away by the time they take the shot.

Rambo Last Blood - Uncertain Feelings

September 12th 2019.

Back in May 2019 the trailer for Rambo Last Blood came out and at the time I was excited. Now, 4 months later, and 8 days until the film is released in theatres on September 20th, I am less excited.

I am not even sure if I will even bother to see it in the theatre. Might just wait until it comes out on Netflix/etc.



Now I admit I love the whole Rambo and Rocky franchises.

But I dunno. Something about this newest offering... feels off. I am sure I will watch it regardless, but spending $$ on a film that feels off and gives me feelings of uncertainty... I just don't know.

Maybe I need to read the reviews. (Except in my experience film reviewers suck and I often disagree with them, and therefore they cannot be trusted.)

As films go one of the draws for me is that the movie has archery in it...

Except there has been other recent films which contained archery that I refused to go see too.

eg. The 2018 film "Robin Hood" which had the main character doing backflips, parkour and shooting a horsebow.

It looks nice in the trailer, but the lack of realism in archery always annoys me.

What Do I Look For In An Archery Film?

#1. Gritty Realism.

Think Die Hard. The hero should get injured often. Glass in his feet, beat up and bruised. The whole shebang.

#2. Realistic Archery.

Any real archer watching movies these days will often have a long list of complaints about the lack of realism in the film.

#3. A Good Plot.

An easy to follow plot with only a few twists to make it interesting. Too many twists and weirdness and the plot becomes derailed with too many plot holes.

#4. The Film Should Stand On Its Own

Do you know what makes the first Matrix film so good? It stands on its own. It doesn't require sequels. Same with Die Hard. Stands on its own. Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark... stands on its own. You could potentially never watch another Matrix, Die Hard or Indiana Jones film after watching the first one, and you would still think the first films in their franchises were great films because they simply are. The film makers didn't set out to make a franchise. That happened by accident.

Take a film like Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves. Awesome film. My personal favourite of all the Robin Hood films. Worthy of a sequel, but they never made one. It stands on its own as a great film.

#5. A Good Lead Actor.

Fat Russell Crowe? Bad actor. I wish he could be banned from acting entirely.

Taron Egerton? I find him annoying. He should be relegated to B movies.

Kevin Costner? Great actor. I enjoy every film he is in.

Errol Flynn? The original Robin Hood from 1938. I admit I haven't seen him in many films, but those I have seen have been very good.


And I am not alone, clearly as the last two flops show.

The last two big budget Robin Hood films, Russell Crowe in 2010 and Taron Egerton (2018) were both HUGE flops. The 2010 film managed to double its production budget in profits, which means it basically lost money by overspending on advertising. The 2018 film only earned back 84% of its production budget, which meant its advertising budget and 16% of its production costs was all flushed down the drain.



To find a Robin Hood film that actually does well at the box office you have to go back to 1991 - 28 years ago:

Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves.

It did so well at the box office it made back its production budget times 8.

And it led to a toy line which sold successfully.

You can go on eBay today and search for 'robin hood prince of thieves toys' and find a robust bidding market of 279 action figures for sale.

Why? Because it was a popular film back in 1991. Still popular today.

Also trust me when I say nobody wants an action figure of Fat Russell Crowe.


So what about Rambo Last Blood ?

Well, the film should qualify for 3 or 4 of the 5 bits of criteria I consider for a good archery film. Gritty, realistic archery and a good lead actor. Whether it has a good plot or can stand on its own is a matter of debate.

I don't know. I don't want to completely pass judgement on a film I haven't even seen yet.

Even if it only has a half decent plot and manages to half decently stand on its own that would make it a 4 star film in my book.

Or maybe it does both well, in which case it deserves 5 stars. I won't know until I watch it.

So maybe I will go see it in the theatre after all. We shall see.

For Sale - Traditional Hickory Longbow

FOR SALE

35-40 lb Traditional Hickory Longbow - $180

Design wise it is a Eastern Woodlands Flatbow, a style of bow popular amongst Native Americans on the East Coast.

Bow and bowstring in mint condition.

Inquiries from Toronto, Canada welcome. I am selling it locally. I have no interest in shipping it.

Note

I am selling this bow and possibly several other bows, including a vintage longbow from 1952, because my wife won't let me buy any new bows until I sell some of the bows I don't use that often. And since I don't use this bow that often, or the vintage bow from 1952, I have decided to sell them both to make room for new bows on my wall rack.

The 1952 bow is a black "Roy Rogers" collectible longbow for children. It really is meant for a kid who is between 5 to 10 years old. I am selling it for $100. No photos yet. That is on my To Do List for later.