Archery hunting is the most classic and intimate way to hunt. When the bow and arrow were invented, this weapon became the superweapon of the time.
Some cultures made it stiffer and shorter so the arrow would travel faster. Other cultures made the bow longer and stouter to launch arrows further. Arrow heads became metal and bladed which became mechanical. Archery hunting has come a long way.
My first archery experience was with wooden and fiberglass long bows. Later I bought a Ben Pearson recurve. Eventually, I made it to several compound bow variants until I settled on my Bow Tech.
My most unique bow was when I made my own bow from Osage Orange wood. The string was made from deer sinews, and the arrows came from alders with feathers from my spring turkey. The arrowhead was knapped from a chunk of chert. I shot a spike buck at 18 yards using this vintage replica gear. The arrow passed through the buck. I wear the arrowhead for good luck and as a reminder of that special hunt.
Montana does not yet offer a specific crossbow season, but it may be in the future. Other states allow crossbows to be used in dedicated archery seasons. This mechanical wonder increases speed and accuracy of the arrow or bolt. They also mount scopes onto the rig. These mechanical bows do all the work and are easier to learn how to use.
There are many crossbows to choose from. Back east, crossbows have become extremely popular. My only complaint is that the bolt, even though it is faster at over 300fps, does not penetrate and pass through the way a more traditional arrow does. Many of the crossbow hunters I have talked to have told stories about wounding and losing deer.
If I were to go with a crossbow today, I would look at the Ravin LR. This amazing weapon has dual cams and is very compact. The easy to load bow can throw a bolt at 450 fps. The bow is only 34 inches long and weighs in at less than 9 lbs.
LR stands for Long Range. This bow feels more like a rifle or gun than a traditional bow. The bow can be shot accurately at over 100 yards. This takes away the intimate part of archery hunting which is generally around and under 20 yards.
For older hunters or folks with bad rotator cuff shoulders, this weapon allows them to archery hunt. For others, it may be an advantage that is not necessary. I still prefer the Fred Bear traditional archery hunt. Like using primitive Black Powder weapons, it requires hunters to be better hunters and use vintage gear. This challenge is inviting to most dedicated sportsmen and women.
My final choice about getting a crossbow was decided when I looked at the price. My current compound Bow Tech, loaded with arrows and accessories cost me about $1,000. My old Ben Pearson compound bow from the late 1970’s cost less than $300.
The LR Ravin will cost you over $2,500! Instead of buying a new bow, maybe I will just visit the local meat shop and load up with ribeye’s and already cut prime meat.
Hunt hard, Hunt smarter!
Montana Grant
