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Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: KentuckyTJ on August 29, 2016, 10:26:00 PM

Title: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: KentuckyTJ on August 29, 2016, 10:26:00 PM
Those that know me and my short draw length know I really like shorter bows. I hunt in some thick tangled nasty stuff and I really don't like a very long bow. On top of that I just prefer the asthetics of a shorter bow.

Now as you know finding great performance, a smooth draw cycle all while having decibels similar to a longbow are almost too much to ask for. Well let me assure you, that is no longer an allusive goal.

At 56" this was #2 of 2 of a new offering of the River Runner model from Chad Holm at Holm-Made bows. I have a 58" version of this River Runner that is amazing, but when I pulled this bow from the tube I felt a deep connection to it and I hadn't even shot it yet. My draw length is 26-1/2" and this bow doesn't start gaining excess weight until about 29".

Once I got all my different shafts laid out and started shooting it, it was immediately apparent that this bow had everything I have always looked for in a bow. At 51@28 it likes my 150 carbon expresses (.500 spine) and my 60-65 woodies.

Now this is kind of a tease thread and for that I am sorry, but I am having trouble controlling my excitement. Chad has been very busy building bows and is about to begin his day job again so he won't be taking orders for this model until later this fall or early winter. But if you have been searching for a great performing short stick I assure you this one is the end of the rainbow.

52" string with a 7-3/4" brace height.

   (http://i64.tinypic.com/9sfd44.jpg)

   (http://i66.tinypic.com/2u4j9td.jpg)

   (http://i64.tinypic.com/1z5kn4n.jpg)

After about two dozen shafts through it I was so impressed with how straight it was shooting I thought what the heck, lets do the ultimate test and shoot a shaft with a broadhead on it. Here is a short very unprofessional video of that first shot at 15 yards.

   https://youtu.be/XB91euO6Quk
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: KyStickbow on August 29, 2016, 10:45:00 PM
That is a beautiful bow Tom! Hopefully you get to draw blood with her this Saturday!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Buckeye1977 on August 29, 2016, 10:49:00 PM
One of the best looking bows I've seen in awhile. Looks to have pretty good speed also. I'm in the same boat as you as far as hunting thick stuff. Kinda tough sometimes but makes for some real close encounters!

Nick
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: doubleo on August 29, 2016, 10:51:00 PM
Sweet bow TJ! I also have a short draw 26". I have a 56" Stalker Coyote that fits me just fine. I'd sure like to try one of those River Runners some day!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: on August 29, 2016, 10:55:00 PM
Good lookin' stick, TJ!!!

I wish I could get along with short bows. There are a myriad of situations where a short bow would sure come in handy. There is just something about me and my 29" DL that makes short bows not like me!!!

Bisch
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Steelhead on August 29, 2016, 11:06:00 PM
Very handsome and very functional in tight quarters.

Good luck with it!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: SC Bowhunter on August 29, 2016, 11:06:00 PM
That is one beautiful bow!
Enjoy!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: jt85 on August 29, 2016, 11:11:00 PM
TJ, the next time I buy a bow I'm just gonna have you pick out the woods for me.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: KAZ on August 29, 2016, 11:13:00 PM
Very nice! Put me in the short bow camp too...  :goldtooth:
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Pheonixarcher on August 29, 2016, 11:19:00 PM
Sweet! That is a tease though dang you! Lol
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: nek4me on August 29, 2016, 11:31:00 PM
Very nice natural camo with that limb color contrast. I'm also drawing 26" and recently picked up a 56" Chekmate Attila recurve on here. Those numbers go well together. Added a GN quiver from the classifieds matching your set up and plan to take it into the thick cover as well.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Holm-Made on August 29, 2016, 11:48:00 PM
Thanks.  Kinda glad I got talked into this project.  I ran into a couple puzzlers that I had to think my way through in the process and it helped me grow.  

This little Kodiak River Runner is very appealing in style and has beautiful lines, just a very pleasant bow.

I want to build a few more of these over the course of the Fall before I take any orders.  I need to get some jigs built to help in the process.  Besides, TJ needs to kill something first before it gets the "seal of approval".   Chad
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Jwilliam on August 30, 2016, 02:31:00 AM
Great looking bow !!!     :thumbsup:    I'm sure Tom will be breaking her in soon enough Chad. He is usually puts some nice ones on the ground.   :notworthy:
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Possum Head on August 30, 2016, 05:18:00 AM
Very nice! Is that a Phenolic I=beam? Having both would you recommend the 56 or 58 for a 28" draw?
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: PICKNGRIN on August 30, 2016, 06:34:00 AM
Chad does it again.  A fine looking bow!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: J. Cook on August 30, 2016, 07:36:00 AM
Awesome looking bow!  I love that you moved a deck spindle for the shot!!!!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Bowwild on August 30, 2016, 07:56:00 AM
Nice looking bow!  My draw length is 26". My favorite bows are 56 and 58" (both blacktail sitka).

Good luck this year!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: 1/4 away on August 30, 2016, 08:52:00 AM
Just when I thought my bow buying days were over..    :banghead:     :biglaugh:
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: 2nocks on August 30, 2016, 09:07:00 AM
nice looking bow! Love short bows
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: ron w on August 30, 2016, 09:24:00 AM
As always......nice stuff!!   :thumbsup:   I'm on the list again......but for a long one with a dual shelf!   :cool:
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Carcajou on August 30, 2016, 10:09:00 AM
That's a beauty, Tom
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: TradBrewSC on August 30, 2016, 10:17:00 AM
Very Nice!

Coming from a short draw guy myself!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: tim roberts on August 30, 2016, 10:28:00 AM
Nice looking bow, TJ!
Thanks,
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Petrichor on August 30, 2016, 10:34:00 AM
Man that is a fine stick.  I have really been looking into getting a short longbow.  I like you have a short draw mine being 26 inches.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: twigflicker on August 30, 2016, 11:01:00 AM
Quote
Besides, TJ needs to kill something first before it gets the "seal of approval".   Chad [/QB]
Hope I don't jinx Tom... but if history repeats... I'd say that won't be long   :D

Jonathan
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: KentuckyTJ on August 30, 2016, 11:39:00 AM
QuoteOriginally posted by J. Cook:
Awesome looking bow!  I love that you moved a deck spindle for the shot!!!!
Yeah, my wife gets on me when I don't put it back.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: nineworlds9 on August 30, 2016, 01:02:00 PM
QuoteOriginally posted by 1/4 away:
Just when I thought my bow buying days were over..     :banghead:       :biglaugh:  
brother, you and me both!!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: KentuckyTJ on August 30, 2016, 01:48:00 PM
QuoteOriginally posted by twigflicker:
   
Quote
Besides, TJ needs to kill something first before it gets the "seal of approval".   Chad [/b]
Hope I don't jinx Tom... but if history repeats... I'd say that won't be long      :D    

Jonathan [/QB]
Great thanks Jonathan, the Jenkins clan will now be eating beans all winter! Haha
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Keith Zimmerman on August 30, 2016, 06:54:00 PM
I thought you were in a birdcage   :biglaugh:

I like short bows too.  I pull 30 inches and settle at 29.5".  My 54in Wild Horse Creek Mariah is super smooth past my draw.  Your new bow is a looker.  Me like.  Cant wait for you to post a pic of a beautiful buck on your garage floor or in the back of your truck.  Or maybe on a 4wheeler:)  Already gutted too!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: medic77 on August 30, 2016, 07:01:00 PM
That is a great looking bow.  I may need to start looking for one to try
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Jayrod on August 30, 2016, 09:21:00 PM
Beautiful bow brother and I hope you have alot of success afield with it and as always look forward to the pics!!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: KentuckyTJ on August 30, 2016, 09:34:00 PM
QuoteOriginally posted by Keith Zimmerman:
I thought you were in a birdcage    :biglaugh:  

I like short bows too.  I pull 30 inches and settle at 29.5".  My 54in Wild Horse Creek Mariah is super smooth past my draw.  Your new bow is a looker.  Me like.  Cant wait for you to post a pic of a beautiful buck on your garage floor or in the back of your truck.  Or maybe on a 4wheeler:)  Already gutted too!
I'm taking one for sure just for you Keith. Haha.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: BRITTMAN on August 30, 2016, 09:49:00 PM
Very nice! I'm really loving my 58 in. PCH , best short recurve I've ever shot .
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Hopewell Tom on August 31, 2016, 06:18:00 AM
I'm not sure you're sorry for teasing us!

What a beauty, nice work. I have a 1970 56" Grizzly that I really like. A modern 56"er would be a nice addition. Get 'er perfected, Chad.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Sawpilot 75 on August 31, 2016, 08:19:00 AM
Tom,

Good choice once again! Very Very sharp. I can't wait to get mine in a couple weeks! Thanks for all the help. Good luck with your new Stick.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Charlie Lamb on August 31, 2016, 08:22:00 AM
I've always loved the look of short bows but with a 30" draw they never worked that well for me. Now with advancing age and accumulated injury my draw is getting down into the normal range.

I need to check one of those out. I find 58" works real well now that I'm down to a 28" draw.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: kybowman on August 31, 2016, 11:46:00 AM
Sweet looking rig TJ!!!

Real nice curves like a pretty woman...............

  :bigsmyl:
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Paul Cousineau on August 31, 2016, 03:02:00 PM
Man.... I have a bad case of the wanties right now.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Friend on August 31, 2016, 06:12:00 PM
Mighty purdy and built for the task...congrats!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: KentuckyTJ on August 31, 2016, 08:05:00 PM
Thanks guys. Shot again tonight. This is a lifetime bow for me.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Cyclic-Rivers on August 31, 2016, 09:42:00 PM
Nice bow TJ. Good luck this season.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Stump73 on August 31, 2016, 11:17:00 PM
Beautiful bow. Congratulations!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Holm-Made on August 31, 2016, 11:32:00 PM
I'm going to glue up number 3 this weekend for Karl V in Michigan.  He was the one who hounded me to start this project.  He did some research for me and was an inspiration.  We wanted the bow to have the look of the 1959 era 56" Kodiak but with my limb design.  I have never held a 1959 56" Kodiak as there are not many around and the ones that are are guarded closely.  When I hold this bow it has a very simplistic feel to it that takes me back about 60 years.  I am playing with bow number 1 right now.  I made that with bear brown glass on the back, Carmel colored glass on the belly.  Bolivian Rosewood riser wth birds eye maple sight window.  I couldn't resist duplicating Fred's color scheme for the first one.  I'll try to get a picture posted soon.  
Thanks for the nice words.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Pheonixarcher on September 01, 2016, 03:43:00 AM
Chad, your work gets better every time I see it! Keep up the good work! A pass around bow might help you in making those final tweaks ... hint, hint! Lol
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Guru on September 01, 2016, 05:22:00 AM
Beauty!!
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: NittanyRider on September 01, 2016, 02:24:00 PM
That's a nice looking bow - thanks for posting the pics!  

Are the limb veneers bocote?
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Holm-Made on September 02, 2016, 12:34:00 AM
Yes, Bocote.
Title: Re: For Short Bow Lovers Only! Holm-made River Runner
Post by: Sixby on September 02, 2016, 02:34:00 AM
Chad, Congrats Bro. That is a winner. Absolutely fine , fine , fine!!!
God bless, Steve