10/30/2024
Brian Hower, Owner
What is your archery experience/story?
I started shooting a bow my dad bought me at 3 years old and I have loved it ever since. I got pretty good at it (or at least I thought I was good) relatively young and that helped keep me interested. Then, once I was able to buy my own archery products and gadgets, I really went wild. The thing about this industry is there is always something new and exciting coming along. I'm the kind of person that is always looking for better results! For example, if a new sight just came out and it will guarantee better accuracy? I'm gonna have it! My wife has not always been as excited about it as I have but she's pretty tolerant.
How many years have you been involved in archery?
Well, I got my first bow at 3 so that puts it at 32 years now. Saying that makes me feel pretty old.
What is your specific archery expertise?
The winter of 2018, I had professional training at PSE Shooter and Technical Archery School. I had the honor of learning from the legendary, Alexander Kirillov, PSE’s Master Coach. My experience with him has really helped my form and in turn my accuracy. I received my Shooter Certificate, Technical Certificate, and Instructor Certificate. I've also shot at a few 3D ranges and things like that but until I got involved in indoor target archery, everything I'd done with my bow was strictly for hunting preparation. I do now shoot some tournaments during indoor season, and it is an incredible experience and I definitely suggest anyone interested in doing that should do it! I hear a lot that people think they "aren't that good" but there are people at all skill levels at those tournaments, and you can learn a lot from the people that have been shooting these tournaments for years. In all of my interactions with the indoor guys, they are always more than willing to give tips or pointers because they want everyone to do well, continue to improve and most importantly have fun!
Favorite part of archery/work?
My favorite part would have to be helping people with their accuracy in the range. I love when someone comes in and is willing to take pointers on how to shoot tighter groups. The feeling I get when they start slapping their arrows together is very rewarding!
Archery/hunting Protip?
Consistency is the most important thing you can do when it comes to archery. If you are holding your bow hand in different spots or anchoring in different spots on your face you're going to have inconsistencies in your shots. Also, making sure your feet and body are positioned correctly.
Favorite archery product (right now)?
My favorite archery product right now is the Ultraview Thumb Button release! I have never shot a release that has as smooth of a trigger as this. There is a reason that there are so many people that love their releases and swear by them. They are doing a great job!
If you could meet anyone living or dead, who would it be?
It would have to be Fred Bear. I would love to just sit with him and listen to hunting stories. I would ask for tips for shooting a recurve because that's something I'm not great at but I love because it's a lot of fun!