by Jackson | Feb 23, 2015 | Archery Education
Doesn’t it always seem like there’s a tiny piece of equipment that you need to get for your bow, but for some crazy reason, they don’t have it anywhere near you? It’s not always the case and there are normally good archery shops for “most” of the different archery things you could want, but what about when you’re trying to do something different or you want to build a bow.
Where do I find archery supplies?
I know from personal experience that it can really feel like a challenge to go look for all the little parts that can go on a bow and so I just wanted to put together a small list of some ideas and places you can go to find archery supplies near you.
Search the internet correctly
Since I’ve been able to spend plenty of time working on this website, I’ve learned a fair amount about searching online. Sometimes it’s as easy as just knowing the right words to look for.
Instead of typing into a Google search “archery store” you could try typing in something more general such as “sporting goods store” or “outdoor store.” You have to remember that when you’re using a search engine to find parts, to try and search for it in their terms and not yours. I know it’s pretty annoying and downright stupid at times, but ultimately it’s just a machine and you kinda have to work it to get the right results.
The place I normally start is at Amazon, and then I go from there. There are lots of good websites to go to and some sketchy ones. I like using Amazon because there is a seller feedback tool so you can see how that particular seller does business. It’s not perfect, but it’s a million times better than going blindly.
There are only 4 other places that I go really. Mostly to look but here ya go.
- 3 Rivers Archery – Hands down the best for any traditional items you need
- Cabela’s – An amazing supply of choices and information, they have great reviewers
- Bass Pro Shop – They normally have a great selection as well
- Gander Mountain – A little smaller, but much more dedicated to the outdoors
So that’s my list and ideas for looking for archery supplies online.
Look locally
Don’t forget that you can always find a hunting or fishing shop locally that will have lots of options and choices. It’s a much better thing when you need to actually try something out before you buy it. Most of the shop owners are pretty helpful too so they can order special parts for you. They can’t get everything, but they normally can find a really good substitute if they don’t offer exactly what you’re looking for.
The other part of looking for archery supplies is that sometimes you’ll just either have to change what you wanted or make it yourself. It’s perfectly okay to change your mind and try something else and it’s also perfectly fine if you decide that you want to make your own change and build something yourself.
Anyways, I hope that this helps you in your hunt for the right archery supplies for you.
by Jackson | Feb 9, 2015 | Reviews
I’m a huge supporter of taking care of your equipment. This means that you need to get the best broadhead case you can to take care of your arrows and broadheads. These things are super sharp and you don’t want them to accidentally cut someone. That would be an awful thing to happen.
You’re going to have to keep your broadheads somewhere. You might as well just put them into a case that will protect them and keep them safe from damage and accidentally hurting others. Most of these cases are really cheap and what you get is easily worth the price. Seriously, how about no cut fingers for $7. Not a bad deal is it?
The Best Broadhead Cases
MTM Broadhead Box (Clear)
– Probably the best box for the money. At about $6 you get a box that can hold up to 16 broadheads. The case also has a clear lid so that you can see what’s in it and make sure everything is good with only a glance. The only thing you need to be aware of is to make sure that your broadheads will fit before you buy. At 2.7″ most broadheads will fit, but be sure to measure yours to make sure.
Rage Cage Broadhead Case (Holds-6), Red
– This case is specifically designed for Rage mechanical broadheads, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t be used for other ones that also fit the same dimensions. This case is a solid and nice small package that protects your arrow heads. It is made to fit the specific rage broadheads so if you want to try a different broadhead, be sure to check dimensions to see if it will fit. Priced around $9, it’s a good price either way.
Plano Archery Accessory Box (Camo)
– A toolbox that will hold all of your arrow accessories including broadheads, this case features a tray that lifts out and has a foam insert to securely hold your broadheads. You’ll be able to fit more than just broadheads in this box which makes it easier to keep everything you’ll need. Especially if you are using over size broadheads or need to keep extra gear together. Priced around $19, it’s a good deal.
MTM Arrow Plus Case (36 Arrows, Black)
– While not only a broadhead case, many arrow cases have a section for broadheads and that’s a nice feature in this arrow case. It’s made for up to 36 arrows and has compartments to hold extra gear, like broadheads. You can put the broadheads in as it is, or you can put your broadhead box in this case. Priced around $32-35, it’s a great way to keep all your arrrows and accessories together.
Plano Broadhead Box
– This broadhead box is really handy becuase it features the benefits of a larger box with a handle and liftout tray, but for a much smaller assembly. It has space for your broadheads and then has a tray that goes on top that you can put in other parts and accessories. If you had large broadheads, then you could just takeout the tray if you needed. Priced around $8, it’s a great value price.
I hope that you’ll seriously consider protecting your gear. If you protect your gear it will help protect you. I’m not selling any of these, but I am trying to help you stay safe and enjoy all the different aspects of archery. The products are linked to Amazon so that you can look at all the other reviews and decide which one is best for you. The links are affiliate links and if you choose to make a purchase, then I will make a small commission but this won’t change the price and the profit will go to helping make this site a better and more useful resource.
by Jackson | Jan 5, 2015 | Archery Accessories
I’m pretty self-sufficient when it comes to taking care of my equipment, but sometimes you don’t have the right tools or even know where to go. Here are a few archery tools that you need to have to make sure that you can take care of your bow yourself. Any of these will help a bit, but all of them together will give you the ability to take complete care of your own equipment and fine tune it to your needs.
I’m not mentioning all the little parts that you might need with these tools. I’m focusing on the main tool that will do most of the work. For example, you’ll need to get glue and vanes to fix your arrow, but it will be a waste of money if you don’t make sure to buy the fletching jig to install them.
The archery tools
Please click on the pictures to see the reviews of them at Amazon.
The Real Avid Bowsmith Multi-tool is an excellent all in one that takes care of a majority of your gear needs. It has 28 different functions built-in that will take care of prepping arrows to be fixed, installing nocks, to sharpening broadheads. You’ll find that you can do a lot with this one tool. Priced around $40, it’s worth every penny for its usefulness.
The Martin Bowmaster bow press is the tool that you use to make any and all string, cam, or tension adjustments on your bow. This is a really handy version that you can take with you if you need to make a repair while your out in the field. Priced around $47 to 55, it’s a super value for all your needs.
The Arizona Rim Country arrow fletching jig is a very easy to use and works great for fletching all the vanes on your arrow at one time. This makes fixing an arrow extremely easy and eliminates most problems involved with fixing your own arrows. Be sure to get the fletching jig that matches what you want on your arrows. There is right helical, left helical, and straight. Priced around $50, you’ll save tons of money fixing your own arrows.
This Carbon Express pro bow square helps you to line up your arrows on the bowstring. You can then place a nock in the right spot and you’ll consistently get higher quality shots than you would by just placing the arrow in a random spot each time. A very simple and extremely useful tool. Priced around $12, it makes life easier for a low price.
The BCY Bearpaw serving tool makes installing a serving on your bowstring very easy. It’s much better than the Bohning red tool in my opinion. The rollers and adjustable tension make it easy to have a secure serving protecting your bowstring from wear and tear. Priced around $29, it will save you lots of money on replacing bowstrings.
All of these tools are very important in taking care of your own equipment. Each one will need to be used in conjunction with the right parts so be sure to pay attention to that. For example, if you buy the serving tool, then you will also need to buy serving thread to use on the serving tool. I hope this helps you figure out what archery tools you’ll need to take care of your equipment.
I wish you the best of luck and hope you get to go shoot more often.
by Jackson | Dec 1, 2014 | Archery Accessories
Finding the right archery gift can be challenging at times. Many people might not have a clue on what to buy or get that would be a nice and thoughtful gift for avid archer. I’d love to help you out by sharing some small easy gift ideas that can let someone know that you care and that you’ve spent time and effort choosing the right gift for them.
Archery Gifts to check out
Bushnell H2O 10×42 Waterproof/Fogproof Binocular w/Roof Prism
– You need to be able to see with great clarity and these rugged binoculars are just the answer. They’re tough, small enough to take with you, and the two different models will offer great crystal clear vision to help you get an up close look from a distance. You can find them for $75 and up
Real Avid Bowsmith Archery Multitool (Red/Silver)
– The multi tool is an essential tool for a compact and easily carried tool that you can take with you so that you’ll have all the things you might need to work on your bow when you’re away from home or out in the field. The real avid bow smith is around $35.
The Bone Collector 400 F.P.S. Target by Morrell
– This is a top of the line archery block target. An archery can always use another target to go practice on. This one can handle pretty much anything you can throw at it. It’s able to handle bow speeds up to 400 fps which is higher than many compound bows. It’s a great gift for about $55.
BERRICLE Sterling Silver AAA Cubic Zirconia CZ Bow and Arrow Women Fashion Pendant Necklace
– This sterling silver necklace makes a great gift. It’s made with sterling silver and cubic zirconium stones that make it look like a professional work of art. An excellent gift that can have different meanings for the one that you care about. Priced around $45.
Garmin GPSMAP 64 Worldwide with High-Sensitivity GPS and GLONASS Receiver
– This handheld GPS device can make being out in nature a better experience. You can load different maps and use the tracking feature to make sure that you know exactly where you’ve been and how to get back. The 64 also boasts an increased memory from earlier models. Priced at $250 and up depending on what you want.
Smith & Wesson Galaxy 13 LED Flashlight (10 White LED & 3 Red LED)
– Be able to see where you are with this bright flashlight from Smith and Wesson. It has 10 white LEDs and 3 Red so you can see brightly or in low light situations. The flashlight is made for a battery life of up to 60 hrs. The metal housing protects the flashlight and keeps it working when you need it. Priced around $30.
Outdoor Edge Game Processor PR-1 12-Piece Portable Butcher Kit with Hard Side Carry Case
– For the hunter out there. Being able to deal with an animal after it’s been harvested is extremely important. This 12 piece set will give you everything you’ll need to process the animal as efficiently and effectively as possible. The knives are made of hardened stainless steel and a rubberized handle keeps you grip secure. Priced around $60.
The Traditional Bowyer’s Bible, Volume 1
– For the traditional archery fan or anyone looking to build a traditional bow, this is the book to get. There are 3 books in the set and all three are extremely good, but the first book is the one not to miss out on. There’s a lot of information, how to, and history in this book and you can look at the series if you want even more information. Priced around $15 for just this book and around $55 for all three together.
Stealth Cam G42 No-Glo Trail Game Camera STC-G42NG
– This game camera gives you great 10 megapixel shots and uses a “black infared” system that keeps your game camera stealthy and able to be triggered from up to 100 ft depending on the configuration. You can use the burst mode to get multiple shots at a time or have video be triggered to record in HD instead. Priced near $130.
Coffey Marketing Gorillagrip Arrow Puller
– The best stocking stuffer for anyone who shoots arrows. You’ll find that many arrows get stuck in target and it takes a little extra help to get them out. This arrow puller is the answer for you. It makes it very easy to grip the arrow and holds onto the arrow very well. It’s made of natural rubber and is priced around $9.
As a courtesy to help you find the best archery gifts for you during these holidays, I’ve provided links that go to Amazon for each product so that you can look at all the reviews and decide which item will work best for your needs. I do hope that these have been helpful and give you some good ideas.
photo credit
by Jackson | Nov 24, 2014 | Reviews
When you start setting up your bow, you’re going to need a solid arrow rest to keep your arrow secure and allow it to be fired without affecting its flight performance negatively. There are lots of different arrows rests out there. I’ve spent time trying out and looking around for the best whisker biscuit bang for your buck out there.
What is a whisker biscuit?
A whisker biscuit is an arrow rest that uses stiff bristles to form a ring around the arrow. The bristles hold the arrow in place and when the arrow is released, the vanes pass through the bristles. The rest was designed to securely hold the arrow on your bow until it’s shot. Don’t forget that they come in different sizes and you’ll need to decide which one is going to be the right fit for your arrows.
I’m sure you’re so happy to read all this, but let’s get down to the good stuff shall we? I’m a fan of Trophy Ridge and normally, I try to focus on more than one brand, but for some reason Trophy Ridge is about all I can find and know of that really gets things taken care of when it comes to whisker biscuits. Perhaps it’s because they made the original?  Now there are partial whisker biscuits called capture rests and some of them do work well, I’ve found one that was alright, but I’m not a fan of that style most of the time.
The 5 best whisker biscuits
Trophy Ridge Sure Shot Pro Whisker Biscuit Arrow Right Hand Rest (Black, Medium)– I believe this is the best whisker biscuit made by Trophy Ridge. This one is made from aluminum and it’s adjustable to make it super easy to get perfectly lined up on your bow. The rubber housing on the tips keeps things quiet and this is the most rugged, adjustable, and durable whisker biscuit rest that I have found. Priced around $55-65 you’ll get the top of the line secure capture rest.
Trophy Ridge Quick Shot Whisker Biscuit Arrow Rest, Medium – Another great Trophy Ridge rest, the original quick shot rest is for both right and left hand. It has some decent adjustability to help you get it tuned properly. If you’re looking to get a good rest at a good price, this is a great value. It can be found at a price range around $35-45 which gives you a pretty good rest for a good price.
Trophy Ridge Whisker Biscuit Kill Shot Arrow Rest, Medium, Black– The third Trophy Ridge rest that really takes the cake for value and quality of whisker rests is the Kill Shot. You’re arrows will be secure and fly great with this rest. Heads up that this is cast aluminum on this model and that means you shouldn’t over tighten it. There’s also plastic on the bristle housing, but you’ll find that this is a pretty good compromise on price and value. Priced around $35-55 for a great value full capture rest.
Buffalo Whisker Biscuit Kill Shot Arrow Rest Brush Whisker Medium Arrow Rest Right and Left Hand for compound bow Camouflage – The best features of this rest is that it can hold up to more expensive rests but for a fraction of the cost. The full capture whisker biscuit will hold your arrows securely and it’s right and left-handed so you can put it on your bow and get it set up quickly and easily. Priced around $25 for a decent rest that will cover almost all of your shooting needs.
Medium Arrow Rest Right and Left Hand – Camo – If you just want to get a basic whisker biscuit arrow rest that will take care of most of your shooting needs, then this is the rest for you. It will take care of your arrow and get you down the range more accurate than any off the shelf shot would be. Priced around $20, you’ll get a decent rest and it’ll make for a better shot.
There are many different types of arrow rests out there and the whisker biscuit is just one of many choices. I hope that these help you decide the best whisker biscuit if that is the route that you choose to go on.
The links in this post are to amazon. I really appreciate you reading this post and I want to help you in your archery efforts. I wish you the best of luck and hope you get to go shoot more often.
 photo credit
