Trad. Setup S. King/Pierce Recommendations

[Fl0und3rz]

I have picked up a vintage Bear Tigercat (50# 58") and vintage Damon Howatt Cavalier (26# 62").  I am new to archery, and while I have read a bunch on strings, arrows, form, tuning, etc., I am looking for shop recommendations in my area.  I would like to become proficient with the DH, before moving to a heavier bow.  Whether I end up hunting the Bear or another trad bow, I still want to learn and be able to pass this on to my now young sons.

I would need bow inspection, strings, arrows, and possibly other gear.  I might even take lessons and join a club.

Any feedback on Skookum Archers?

Other recommendations in my area?

Book/article recommendations are appreciated as well.

Thanks.

[scotsman]

Unfortunately there really isn't a true Archery Shop in western Washington that specializes in traditional equipment since Northwest Archery closed its doors. The closest trad shop (one of the best in the world) is Raptor Archery in Hood River. That's not to say there may be an employee of a modern archery shop who knows trad equipment but most of 'em haven't a clue.

Your best bet would be to contact the Traditional Bowhunters of Washington www.tbwonline.org and find a member near you. Any of us will be glad to meet and get you started right.

If you prfeer a book, Anthony Camera's book Shooting the Stickbow is a great resource. It covers everything from history, setting up your bow, different shooting styles, etc. you can find it on Amazon.

I'm in the Tacoma Gig Harbor area - if convenient for you Send me a pm.

[Boss .300 winmag]

If you are willing to travel north Jason at Riverside Archery shoots traditional and knows his stuff.

He set me up with my bow in December.

Here is my thread one trad I started.

http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,165811.0.html

[Fl0und3rz]

Thanks, guys, for the links and suggestions.  Right now, with two under three, it is kind of a part-time, work towards it when I can, type of thing (mainly reading and researching).  I will definitely seek out people once I have more time for a commitment, and, I will likely join a club or at least head to a range to meet like-minded people.


So my immediate needs are bow inspection, strings, arrows and a small amount of ancillary gear (tab(s), armguard, etc.).  A bunch of that stuff I can find online.  But often it is easier to ask the questions at a knowledgeable shop. 

Right now, I am looking for specs on both bows (brace height, string lengths (the Tigercat was sold to m by an experienced trad shooter with a string)), so I can get a string for the DH. 

I will likely give Riverside a call and perhaps make a trip up for arrows and/or string if I cannot find anything closer.

I will give

[Old Dog]

  I'm at Sportsman's Warehouse in Federal Way, and I can help you out with the basics.  I build Flemish twist bowstrings, and the store has everything else you will need.  253-835-4100 ext. 7, ask for Larry.

[Fl0und3rz]

Thanks.  I may pay you a visit. 

Are you comfortable (from a professional perspective) with inspecting the DH and giving an informal/non-binding safe-to-shoot assessment?  I have looked it over, and there are no obvious-to-a-noob red lights. But there is some wear on the finish near the tips and the string notches.  I would feel comfortable having an experienced archer take a look before I do something stupid and catch a limb in the face.

The DH also needs a rest (probably a Bear hair rest).

DH Bow Specs:
Damon Howatt Cavalier
hc3886
AMO-62"
26# @ 28"
My draw length is probably around 28-28.5" as measured by a noob.
I would like to start with a split finger draw with a tab if that makes a difference on string construction.

If things can get that far (inspection, string, and rest), I would likely need at least a half dozen arrows fletched and set up (cut, inserts, nocks, field points) to begin.  I'd prefer sticking with an aluminum arrow.

If you can at least handle the inspection, string, and rest, the FW Sportsman's would be a convenient stop for me.  I'll call and figure out a time.

[Old Dog]

I can do all that, except the aluminum arrows.  I'll take a look at it, and if I don't see anything obvious I'll string it up, and we can throw a few arrows.  I would normally put a 12 strand string on that bow, but all I have made up are 14 strand.  It's a little bit of overkill, but it will work until I can make a different one for you.

  My schedule is different every week  so, make sure you call ahead.  Check in with customer service in the front, archery is all the way in the back.

[Band]

You asked about Skookum Archers.  I go to that range fairly often and have seen tradional archers competing in events from time to time so there must be some organized stuff you can get involved in.  Maybe someone can chime in with specifics.