A Traditional Journey #1 Introduction

When I was young, like many, I shot a recurve bow. Years after putting it down and becoming an “adult onset hunter,” I became intrigued by the simplicity of the stick and string again. The mental/physical challenge and the proximity you need to get within range of big game is a big hurdle. Currently I have yet to take any game with my traditional bow and it isn’t without misses or close encounters.

Alongside the self-exploration and navigation through primitive hunting I also became intrigued with self-bow & arrow building. Also something that has come with more failure than success. Breaking bows and wondering what I am doing throwing logs down range with 650gr wood arrows leaves me wondering why I bother. But there is something about the perfect shot with zero assistance that connects you even more to the slowed down moments experienced in hunting.

In 2024 I have set out with the goal to take a spring bear with an incredible group of local guys with my longbow. The arrows are built, the bow is strung, and now all that is left between that moment and I are the motions. Through these entries titled "A Traditional Journey,” I will go into more detail with my personal experience building, shooting, and hunting with traditional archery gear. I am no pro so you’re bound to get a few laughs at my expense.

As simple as it is, we have a way of making anything overly complicated. Wether its "point on" or instinctive aiming, sears or clickers, carbon or wood arrows, there is a never ending list of ways to make ths stick, string, and arrow equation both physically and mentally overwhelming. The best and the worst part is taking the time to find what works for you. These entries will always be bias to my preference and experiences at each time. They will always be subject to change.

There are many inspirations and incredible traditional hunters both current and passed that fuel motivation. I hope you enjoy following along the journey as I am excited to go off about many topics in the realm of primitive hunting. Feel free to send questions or share from your own experiences in the comments below.