I went to the Iowa Deer Classic this afternoon with the intention of seeing Byron Ferguson and maybe buy a knife sharpener. Ended up putting down a deposit for a custom made Striker. My son Aaron alerted me to a booth filled with beautiful longbows. Rick Ellis had his Striker Bows on display. I struck up a conversation with Pow Wow moderator and Striker salesman, Rabbitman. He put a few bows in my hand one of which was a Stinger. Right away I loved the way the bow felt in my hands and after a conversation with Rick he had me shooting the bow in a little range room. I was sold as soon as I shot the first arrow! What a great bow! I ordered a 58" Stinger 45 lbs. red elm limbs, bocote riser with osage accents. These bows shoot fast and hard, and the grip fit me perfectly! I'm pumped! :bigsmyl:
Rick sure seems to be a nice guy, and it was fun to meet a Tradgang Moderator.
Ordering a custom bow was not in my plans this morning, but I know I won't regret it.
btw, Byron Ferguson's show was great.
I like his bows and his non pushy demeanor when you try out his bows. I almost picked one up at ETAR this past summer. I think in a few years he will be getting top dollar for his bows.
Rick does make a great bow. I have owned two and unfortunately, I just sold one that was just to light in poundage for me. I'm sure I will have another, probably one of his takedowns Longbows.
Shot one of his bows last year at the Mod melt...very, very nice!
I've only shot and owned entry level bows up to this point. So shooting it was a real thrill. It was like driving a Corvette when all you've driven was Chevettes! I think there will be a lot more traditional archers turned on to Strikers in the next couple of years.
I did have a moment of sticker shock when I looked at the final price. Yet, my son reminded me that the total price including taxes, a bow sock, a couple of strings and shipping is still going to be less than what I would have paid if I had bought a brand new Hoyt, Matthews or Bowtech compound bow even without all of the sites, stabilizers, and gizmos etc. It's just a matter of perspective. He's a good boy, that son of mine!
I own a Striker SlapStik which is my primary hunting bow. Striker bows shoot very smooth, fast and quiet. Rick Ellis is great to do business with. I believe you will be very satisfied. Enjoy!
I too have have a 58'' Stinger on the way. I told Rick to make it arround 47lbs @27" draw. It will be made of figured walnut with red elm cores.
I never met him in person but he is a pleasure to talk too. Now don't go calling and e-mailing him, it is getting close to my delivery time! He needs to be in the shop. Not on the computer!
Brant