Post by: Gen273 on December 28, 2021, 01:08:06 PM
Post by: Gun on December 28, 2021, 01:53:58 PM
Post by: Amberjack on December 28, 2021, 02:31:52 PM
Dunno - to me archery is a damned cost-effective way to have fun. If I could get my bow rescue habit under control it'd be just about free!
We go days or weeks between posts in the TGMM forum and that was a daily visit for me for years.
:dunno:
Jack
Post by: ron w on December 28, 2021, 04:16:35 PM
Post by: M60gunner on December 28, 2021, 04:41:43 PM
This isn’t the only site that has lost activity, I can think of a few more plus one or two that went bye bye.
Post by: Bowguy67 on December 28, 2021, 05:41:26 PM
There was a local traditional archery shop owner by me. He once said a few things will always draw boys. Fire, knives and bows. I think he was right. So as guys wonder where are all the trad forum guys, is it a dying breed? Are you helping that by not offering a chance to learn to every boy ,,, and girl you can? How bout the old folks? Maybe they’re divorced, widowed and would just love company on some warm afternoon to learn this shooting thing. I could relate many instances but fairly recently a woman walked into a class I teach. I taught her to shoot, helped her prepare for hunter ed and become both a hunter ed and archery instructor. I also took her hunting teaching her things to help her recreate the events even if alone. She does real well. I’m proud of her but this is what it’s about.
In case you didn’t notice the old ways are gonna get lost. It’s already happening in how even trad guys hunt. But who’s gonna teach the new guys? What mark will you leave behind?
In life we can accomplish things or just do them easy. Teach them how to accomplish and at least some will. Than more will be around to frequent forums and I bet they have lots of questions and interest.
So find someone who could have that interest. You’d be surprised who says yes. As they ask all kinds of questions answer them but you could mention trad gang as a place with all kinds of fellas with ideas to help. Remember to truly pass it on you’ve got to teach how to teach so that student could progress things along. Up to us boys. Become a mentor anyway you can and help everything including the forum. I know that’s not exactly what was asked but that’s exactly the answer imo.
Post by: JonCagle on December 28, 2021, 06:37:27 PM
Post by: Baylee on December 29, 2021, 12:47:20 AM
Post by: Bowguy67 on December 29, 2021, 04:55:22 AM
From what I’m seeing the “New” crowd of traditional bowhunters spend most of their time listening to podcasts about saddles and lightweight climbing sticks etc. or high tech water proof pants lol. They are not interested in wood arrows or the history and adventure of the hunt. It’s phone mapping apps and what’s your FOC and where can I get a 350 grain titanium insert for my micro shafts lol. A lot of the old school crowd is aging out of the sport and the new crowd are on a different path. Maybe they don’t have wheels on their bows but they about as close on every other level.
You bring up good points but as I stated earlier are we offering another path? We need to teach them. Someone knows nothing isn’t grabbing a podcast and saddle.
I do understand what you’re saying, everything my buddy does is Buck Rogers but he kinda taught himself. Turkey techniques I taught him, he’s almost a clone in a sense of methodology.
Guys I’ve taught archery too aren’t jumping over either. Maybe I’m just getting lucky but I’ll keep trying to be lucky
Post by: Roy from Pa on December 29, 2021, 05:45:45 AM
But "right now" there are at least 1,000 guys logged into pow wow.
756 guests of who have not yet joined trad gang.
At the very bottom of pow wow is a list of who all is active right now.
Roy from Pa, R. Fletcher, Brokefarmer, Ryan Rothhaar, modr, chefrvitale, pokeanhope, Twoblade shooter, 8upbowhunter, achigan, Bowguy67, JonCT, CroMagnon, ROSCO, Steelhead, Deno, Fredjake1, beendare, sheephunter, Chris04, Quentin VanPelt, old_goat2, tradflags, Baylee, huntsfairchase, FITTER, Dkpeppers, BlkDog, madmaxthc, Barry Wensel, Bisch, dragonheart, kskickapoo, Sky-chief, stik&string, Squirrel Hunter, Ronnie Newell, Phrogdrvr, MnFn, MrBadExample, woodchucker, Herdbull, shankspony, Hot Hap, DNewer, HARL, Mike Bolin, Chuck Jones, evgb127, Flbowhunter, 4dogs, Keuka, Orion, spotteddog, Whiteoak63, Trenton G., CR, mec lineman, SteelyDan, Drumstick63, Gun, Blackcow, InFamousElGuapo, Gen273, JDunlap, Rob5589, Darrell M, Jeff D. Holchin, arrow30, CDR, Yooper-traveler, ESP, TooManyHobbies, gregg dudley, parr, preaching archer, PICKNGRIN, 1Longbow, trad_bowhunter1965, Ghost Dog, Wyoming Chief, MCNSC, Mschmeiske, Rebel Bowhunter, yleecoyote23, Jbreak, GCook, jhinaz, duck85, ron w, doubleo, Mongo77, Jayrod, greg fields, Silvertip Marc, Seeker, elkhunter45, meathead, mikewcap, motorhead7963, tradgreenhorn, Anyminutenow, twobows, degabe, ksbowman, Possum Head, Dave Lay, twigflicker, Dennis Allman, Justcut, kadbow, J. Cook, lunatic11, Kenny Henderson, Cory Mattson, Dave Pagel, jdbbro, vaguely, MikeNova, idahojtg, Matagorda, JonCagle, bobm, algstick, SlowBowKing, ShooterF150, recurvericky, goingoldskool, Adirondack Bowman, Kmaddox2a, 9 Shocks, TwistedHollow, Friend, Buckeye1977, Alexander Traditional, Sean B, Jim Brennen, TimDougan, durp, bswear, Tater John, PrestonTaylor, Charlie Lamb, Bwilliams7, CedarSwamp, LC, Mike Mecredy, N Schraft, G.C., TradFan, Bernard Bjorklund, gee whizz, BAK, PrimitivePete, pinky, UncasUK, SuperK, cecilm, Jgill0056, mahantango, Flingblade, WPA nate, Kevin Winkler, digicon, Pete McMiller, Magilla, dnovo, Jim Wright, ivoryhunter, Preston Lay, Pack, CAPTJJ, Wdfox, youngarcher1, JakeD, bowcrazybrad, Bullchaser1, 1Arrow1Kill, Tyler Worstell, KyKid, Otis55, Elkchaser, TwoThumbsUp, knobby, non-typical, freeman, DV of WI, hessian, electricstart, M60gunner, Miikka, waterlogged, Stringwacker, chinook907, MGH, Vesty, kopfjaeger, twist_off, smokin joe, NBK, 10point, frassettor, NANUK, JR Williams, ranger1, birddog75, ohiodoeslayer, Pat B, ssoden, ontariohunter, TIM B, Zmonster, flntknp17, bulldog18, samr, happy1, DonJon, Ryan Sanpei, Deertaker, last arrow, Retired, ozy clint, lefty4, rastaman, Wilderlife, Fuzz Nuttz, dsturgissr, RI Red, Bighornangler, J. Holden, stagetek, Fatboy, Dsturgisjr, Cyclic-Rivers, mike1210, Ninnescah Hog, Basinboy, Arrowstorm, Hoss, mnbwhtr, stikbowshooter, Ruttinghard, John/Alaska, Hunter74, Bill Leeming, NY Yankee, kevsuperg, Cool Springer, BUCKY, Ben Pinney, TradBrewSC, Brokearcher, Bkirk, Tom, streamguy, Skwerl58, George Tsoukalas, SPRAYM, JohnV, larry f, elk nailer, Ahorn, 3arrows, David Mitchell, thumper-tx, skookuminak, Will Telluteyrd, huntmaster70, Hawkeye, Pete Patterson, brian wagar, Carpdaddy, bluegill, foxbo, Steve P, outbackbob48, Mighty Big Country, Wile E. Coyote, IAHWF, Lrworkman, DWinVA, Fallguy, murph60, billstick, BO-R, black velvet, George Vernon, South MS Bowhunter, Car54, JBrown, Cocklebur, Part Time Archer, Keefer, KAZ, hawkeye n pa, Green, keng, anchorman, bowmaster12, huckbuck, Ray Lyon, Diane.A, stocker56, Terry Lightle, Mike Manassa and 756 Guests are viewing this board.
Post by: Rob DiStefano on December 29, 2021, 06:28:12 AM
I have not been very active on Trad Gang for a few years.
I think you already know yer personal answer to yer own question. It's all good, for sundry reasons. Ebb and flow - the tides of time and circumstance are all a major factor of life. What was new yesterday is old today, and what was old yesterday is suddenly new today. Life is chock fulla fickleness. Go with the flow and do what makes you most happy, that's what should matter most. Enjoy the Trad Gang ride while it's still here for you and others.
As Terry and I have said many times before, Trad Gang is what you make of it, what you contribute and share, because you are Trad Gang.
What Michael (Bowguy67) posted is quite apropos. Sports such as traditional archery/bowhunting aren't exactly mainstream, and getting others involved is the only way the sport will perpetuate. It's easier when there's a general public interest in trad archery, typically via the movies ("Robin Hood", "Hunger Games", etc) it's kinda up to us to lend a hand and get the newbies into the game and hopefully addicted. But starting a local club, even if it's only a handful of archers, is a good step forward. Archery, particularly the traditional kind that has historical connotations, isn't (so far) annexed to firearms, and thus might be a sport better adopted at schools and scout programs. Working up a free trad archery "summer camp" with the cooperation of a local school or scouts is great way to get the young'uns into the sport - I know that from personal experience as an archery instructor.
Post by: Roy from Pa on December 29, 2021, 06:44:19 AM
That made my efforts all worth it:)
Post by: Bowwild on December 29, 2021, 08:42:46 AM
Like so many here I've been at this archery thing for a long time.
I was glad to be turned on to this forum many years ago by a good friend. I used to be much more active than I have been the past couple of years. My passion for archery continues and I'm still able to and enjoy hunting with my recurves. I hope (if it His will) that I will do so for a while longer.
I still check in here about once per day and occasionally post.
I've picked up other interests over the past couple of years such as air rifles (that's waning now) and rimfire rifles, which I'm going full-bore in these days. I've always loved squirrel hunting with my Rimfires.
The pandemic has had zero impact on my interests although it did cause me to retire about a year earlier than I had planned, but it was time. I now enjoy 6 Saturdays and a Sunday every week.
This will actually be a 2-bow year for me what with Felix's wonderful Snakebit and the new Widow PAX Carbon I have on order.
Post by: electricstart on December 29, 2021, 09:28:48 AM
Post by: McDave on December 29, 2021, 09:59:43 AM
Our local archery club grew quite a bit during the pandemic, and a lot of that growth was in traditional archery. For about the first 30 years I belonged to the club, the membership was about 90% compound shooters and 10% trad shooters, but I think the new members we gained during the pandemic have been more like 60/40. A lot of the reason people decide to do things has to do with the emotional appeal of the activity. Earlier, the majority of people were fascinated by the compound bow, and viewed traditional equipment as “quaint.” Now, people are more likely to view the compound bow as merely a more efficient means of hunting, but of course nowhere near as efficient as a rifle or shotgun. The emotional appeal for many new archers has shifted over to traditional equipment, probably because it seems almost magical to be able to learn to hit something at a distance with something so simple and beautiful as a traditional bow.
So the audience is there, but it is up to TradGang to learn to adapt to the modes of communication that appeal to it. Unfortunately, I can't be of much help with this, as I like TradGang just fine the way it is.
Post by: PrimitivePete on December 29, 2021, 10:20:49 AM
I feel the patience part of the sport has lost it's ground.
Post by: Rob DiStefano on December 29, 2021, 10:26:31 AM
I have asked a few questions on here was even thinking becoming a contributor. All I ever get is one maybe two responses ,so I figure maybe there dumb questions so don't ask anymore .
Frank, I looked at all 109 of your posts and saw no dumb questions and lots of good replies. I don't get where yer coming from, sorry.
I have been in Tradition a long time .Hunter 50 plus years . I still learn a few things from the site .which is good .
That's what this forum is all about - and you've shared some really good stuff that we've all appreciated.
This a getting to be a boring site hate to say it . I check everyday not much going on . With the so called lock down you think more people would want to post .
Start posting stuff and end your boredom. YOU - and every other registered user - ARE Trad Gang. YOU dictate the conversations. They ain't gonna happen by themselves.
I don't even think I saw a Merry Christmas or Happy New year .
Well, yes you and I have, on the "Merry Christmas" thread where we both posted on it.
Many things besides hunting can be discussed in pow wow but rarely see it and if you do post it no one responds .
Again, if you don't see it, POST IT - start a conversation, that's what this forum is all about!
Also the site could use updating maybe a like or thank you or agree icon .
"Great minds think alike". Last week I looked into adding a "Like" button to all posts ... I started a trial on the Trad Gang sister forum, if it goes well I'll try to implement it here at Trad Gang.
Also maybe a notification that someone responded to your post .
That's already been part of Trad Gang since day one - email notification of replies to a thread you've posted on ....
Got to your Profile, click on Modifications, check at least the box for "Turn notification on when you post or reply to a topic."
You may also wish to update some of the other notification settings on that page.
I will continue to check in and hope it gets better.
To at least some degree, that's gonna depend on you, too.
Post by: Rob DiStefano on December 29, 2021, 10:32:24 AM
.... So the audience is there, but it is up to TradGang to learn to adapt to the modes of communication that appeal to it. Unfortunately, I can't be of much help with this, as I like TradGang just fine the way it is.
I've yet to see ANY social media platform that's better than a forum.
Social media is linear instant gratification that is difficult if not possible to search. It's not meant for the long haul and is not as interactive as forums. Forums make it easy to both see and keep track of all conversations. If there was something better than forums, we'd be on it. Hasn't happened ... yet!
Post by: Rob DiStefano on December 29, 2021, 10:38:15 AM
For my opinion is that the sport has been bit the same as every other. There is more effort being made to talk about the new bow with all the extras attached to it, rather than enjoying a day out in the woods hunting. People are more fascinated these days about what you shot and killed rather the work you did to get there. Add to it that with todays modern materials and creations the sport isn't exactly cost effective either. I also see new bowhunters who have still not figured out how to shoot and hit what they are shooting at, strive for an expensive bow rather than start with something a bit less costly yet still effective. In the end they don't get to where they want and the bow goes in the closet.
I feel the patience part of the sport has lost it's ground.
I agree on all accounts. So what do we do?
Post by: arrow30 on December 29, 2021, 11:10:15 AM
used to be 2 full pages of pics and stories. (guess nobodies killing anything :dunno:)
Post by: J. Cook on December 29, 2021, 11:10:27 AM
I do laugh at the one response on here that eludes to being annoyed by the "new" types of discussions and methods people use. THAT is ONE of the reasons fewer people post right there - I've seen a "boom" of the trad elite type responses that seem to think there was is the only way. That turns off new people really fast. An example I see is someone asking about FOC or micro arrows as the above poster notes, and that person gets 10 responses from people saying they shoot wood arrows. How does that help or encourage that person to post or further the discussion he or she was interested in? The other thing that has bugged me (on all forums) is when the response is "do a search." What's the point of a forum if everyone is supposed to find all answers from prior discussions... that means the new forum is of no value and it's now a database rather than a forum. I digress...
I can speak to my personal situation and why it lends to sometimes not being as present here as I've been in the past at times. I work to darn much. Our world expects 50-60 hour work weeks as a base now, many work much more than that. It's such a constant pressure that I often have very little down time to do anything other than the bare necessities. I bet many are in that same cycle so sometimes our hobbies have to fall off a bit. Along with that... because of the demand on my times, when I do get a free day I'd much rather be actually in the woods or on my boat, that posting about it or reading someone else's report on it. I think that has an impact as well.
I think the site is fantastic and I'll continue to use for as long as it's available. From what I can see, the folks that run it are hunters at heart and love the site they produce - that shows in the results and I, for one, appreciate that greatly. The country has had it's share of struggles this past 18+ months and I'm sure that's reflected in participation here. But all in all, the site is great and I love the community. Even as a relatively young guy, I still remember and miss some of the folks that use to post here often and had many stories to share and discuss. Many of them were the constant contributors that you knew would post something great weekly. Most of those folks (you can fill in the blank of who you think they are for you) haven't been replaced and I think that is a big thing we see... I don't know these men personally and have only shared their adventures through their writings here, but the Giants like Charlie Lamb, Ron LaClair, and countless others can't be replaced. When those guys were super active this place was amazing as they lived the lives many of us in this hobby wish we could - so we tuned in regularly to hear their stories.
Again, I love the site, and I do believe it's a cycle and reflective of the crappy last year + we've all endured. But there is no forum I'd rather be a part of. And to Rob's point... if you don't like what you see, make a post and get the campfire going.
Post by: foxbo on December 29, 2021, 11:39:09 AM
I realize that in the old days there were people who cheated others and the mods had a tough time dealing with it all. Still, those were the days when lots of people came here just to shop for used bows and arrows. It was one of the first things I'd do. Now that I don't pay to be a member, I don't have access to the classifieds. Even when I did pay, it was nothing like it used to be, so I let it slide.
All the lost photo bucket pics didn't help things either. Not the Tradgang's fault, but just another nail...
Post by: Wudstix on December 29, 2021, 12:01:43 PM
:campfire: :coffee: :archer2:
Post by: Gdpolk on December 29, 2021, 12:12:59 PM
I became an administrator of the site specifically to help with the St Jude auctions annually and I get push notification emails from the site multiple times a day of new members joining. The site is indeed continuing to grow in both volume of members and written content.
I also think there are an awful lot of people who come to read and learn but don’t necessarily post. For many it’s used more like a magazine subscription than like an interactive experience. This notion could be why we see so many “guests” logged in at the bottom and even is something that I tend to do myself. I read here daily but don’t necessarily POST daily unless I have something notable to add to the conversation.
I’d encourage more participation by simply asking that people think about and share a fond memory with the gang sometime over the next week. I’ll do the same.
Post by: gregg dudley on December 29, 2021, 12:14:15 PM
Post by: gregg dudley on December 29, 2021, 12:31:32 PM
Post by: electricstart on December 29, 2021, 01:00:14 PM
I have asked a few questions on here was even thinking becoming a contributor. All I ever get is one maybe two responses ,so I figure maybe there dumb questions so don't ask anymore .
Frank, I looked at all 109 of your posts and saw no dumb questions and lots of good replies. I don't get where yer coming from, sorry.
I have been in Tradition a long time .Hunter 50 plus years . I still learn a few things from the site .which is good .
That's what this forum is all about - and you've shared some really good stuff that we've all appreciated.
This a getting to be a boring site hate to say it . I check everyday not much going on . With the so called lock down you think more people would want to post .
Start posting stuff and end your boredom. YOU - and every other registered user - ARE Trad Gang. YOU dictate the conversations. They ain't gonna happen by themselves.
I don't even think I saw a Merry Christmas or Happy New year .
Well, yes you and I have, on the "Merry Christmas" thread where we both posted on it.
Many things besides hunting can be discussed in pow wow but rarely see it and if you do post it no one responds .
Again, if you don't see it, POST IT - start a conversation, that's what this forum is all about!
Also the site could use updating maybe a like or thank you or agree icon .
"Great minds think alike". Last week I looked into adding a "Like" button to all posts ... I started a trial on the Trad Gang sister forum, if it goes well I'll try to implement it here at Trad Gang.
Also maybe a notification that someone responded to your post .
That's already been part of Trad Gang since day one - email notification of replies to a thread you've posted on ....
Got to your Profile, click on Modifications, check at least the box for "Turn notification on when you post or reply to a topic."
You may also wish to update some of the other notification settings on that page.
I will continue to check in and hope it gets better.
To at least some degree, that's gonna depend on you, too.
I am sorry Your right on some subjects I am forgetful and an old grouch . I just found like button(Thank You ) ,How about an agree and thank you button LOL . Even you have to admit site has been slow especially during hunting season .I agree it is our fault for not posting more .I will try to post more . When I said notification i meant when we go on site there will notification that someone has liked or respond or quoted you on your post .Then you would click on it is goes right the post and your comment .I will try turning on notifications that you speak of . I do get the emails which is great .Some of my posts get a few responses but some not so much . I love the site do not get me wrong just trying to make it better. I have learned a lot on here and will continue to use and if things brighten up a little I will contribute .
Thank You
Frank
Post by: Joey Ward on December 29, 2021, 01:58:27 PM
Post by: Archie on December 29, 2021, 02:34:34 PM
I think less traffic on this forum started when the classifieds started charging to list an item for sale. I paid the fee for maybe three years, but noticed there were far less adds as time passed by. I lost interest.
I realize that in the old days there were people who cheated others and the mods had a tough time dealing with it all. Still, those were the days when lots of people came here just to shop for used bows and arrows. It was one of the first things I'd do. Now that I don't pay to be a member, I don't have access to the classifieds. Even when I did pay, it was nothing like it used to be, so I let it slide.
All the lost photo bucket pics didn't help things either. Not the Tradgang's fault, but just another nail...
I agree. I did not buy and sell much, but I found it very enjoyable to peruse the classifieds just to see what was going on. When I lost access to the classifieds, I no longer had a motivation to go to TG so often. I'd start with the classifieds, and then end up all over the forum... it's like the classifieds were the blinking sign that drew me in from the highway of life. Now I find that there are trad archery Facebook groups that generate a lot of activity, and I can buy and sell there. I still visit TG occasionally though, to see if there are any new hunting posts that I can enjoy.
Post by: Kevin Dill on December 29, 2021, 06:22:41 PM
Post by: Tim Hoeck on December 29, 2021, 06:37:53 PM
Post by: Rob DiStefano on December 29, 2021, 06:50:34 PM
Post by: ronp on December 29, 2021, 07:00:43 PM
At this moment of posting, this thread alone has over four dozen members viewing it (not necessarily posting), along with 40 guests.
I've been watching it.
Post by: Rob DiStefano on December 29, 2021, 07:13:50 PM
To many are using all the facebook groups
Instant gratification, with content that's here one minute and gone the next due to its linear format.
Even if I did find a valid use for social media sites, I will not support the radical ideologies behind them.
Post by: MCNSC on December 29, 2021, 07:38:27 PM
Post by: Rob DiStefano on December 29, 2021, 07:53:55 PM
Post by: Flbowhunter on December 29, 2021, 08:26:59 PM
Post by: Rooselk on December 29, 2021, 08:42:56 PM
To many are using all the facebook groups
In my opinion that's exactly what's happened. And the problem being discussed is not only evident here at TG. I've noticed the same lack of participation at many other message boards that were very active a decade ago.
Post by: Cyclic-Rivers on December 29, 2021, 09:47:40 PM
I get approximately 15 minutes of Internet time each day. Combine that with a slow phone and you have a recipe to miss a lot.
I do love what trad gang offers and if I ever get good at hunting maybe I will post something with substance.
Daily internet allotment exceeded. G'nite.
Post by: Nomadstalker on December 29, 2021, 10:43:39 PM
Post by: Sam McMichael on December 29, 2021, 11:43:31 PM
Post by: Roy from Pa on December 30, 2021, 06:48:46 AM
Come on guys catch up:)
:wavey:
Post by: bowkill146 on December 30, 2021, 08:09:43 AM
Post by: Dave Lay on December 30, 2021, 08:27:53 AM
I do know I’ll always be a member here and there’s some great folks that are and really do contribute some great stuff.
Post by: Rob DiStefano on December 30, 2021, 08:30:32 AM
Several people have commented on the fact that having to pay for the classifieds is part of the reason that they have lost interest. I have no idea if it's even feasible, but is there a way to make the classifieds open to viewing to all but if you want to post on there, either buying or selling, you need to pay your fee? This would still eliminate a lot of the scammers, etc. but people would be able to see what's out there and decide if it's worth the extra money to buy it or interact. Like I said, I don't know how much work it would be or if it's even a possibility. Just an idea.
A very good suggestion. We've thought of that more than a few times in the past but always came to the same conclusion - there's nothing to stop a read-only member from contacting a seller to make a purchase. While this opens up greater possibilities for a sale it also creates two problems - the buyer could be a scammer (this happened a LOT in the past when the classifieds was totally public and free) and it lessens the seller's value for using the classifieds. Tough choices.
Post by: Gen273 on December 30, 2021, 08:36:00 AM
Post by: BruceT on December 30, 2021, 08:58:41 AM
I have sold two bows in the classified section . Each in the range of $500-$600. I am happy to pay $35 per year knowing that , what I am selling is somewhat protected from scammers . Both of my bows sold quickly and went to a couple of our neighbours to the South. Basically clean and easy !
I look forward to threads like ; Show your traditional hunting cabin.
Shooters form board with McDave and J Casto .
My thought is $35 is a small price to pay fo what we’re getting .
Keep it coming !!!
Bruce T
Post by: Kevin Dill on December 30, 2021, 09:47:51 AM
I belong to a couple of motorcycle forums. Each is unique and they are quite different. But they do have some commonalities. Things like:
1) An open sub-forum where anything controversial goes. 2) Wide ranging topics. 3) Free classifieds. 4) Member of the month. 5) Bike of the month. 6) Tech sections. 7) Adventure sections. 8) Emphasis on superb photos. 9) A sub-forum for new member introductions and welcoming. 10) Trip planning sub-forum. 11) Loads of how-to knowledge freely shared.
Did I say free classifieds? Yes. I don't know anything about how or if they address possible scams, but it doesn't seem to ever be an issue. Forum members view free/open classifieds as a huge bonus and they are drivers of traffic to websites and forums. I understand why TG went to closed/pay-to-play classifieds, and I'm not arguing the point. I think doing so removed a perceived benefit for many and contributed to an eventual loss of momentum there.
And speaking of momentum, I see it as a critical thing for TG or any forum to keep watch on. When mass (people) and energy (their inputs and contributions) fall off over time....momentum suffers. If the message becomes one of 'X forum isn't what it used to be'....people drift away and, as Rob has m/l stated, TG is people....is us. I hope my comment is viewed in the spirit of hoping this site figures out the issue and works to address it. The world has a short attention span and a member lost is often lost forever.
KD
Post by: Broken Arrows on December 30, 2021, 10:36:05 AM
I do visit this sight daily and have learned so much. I don't post much because any and or most question are answered before I have time to reply. I also don't need to ask questions because they have been asked and answered.
Post by: Lowrider on December 30, 2021, 12:46:16 PM
Post by: Nomadstalker on December 30, 2021, 04:52:39 PM
2012....5980 posts
2020....188 posts
What year did the fee for the classified section start?
The other trad site, LW runs the classified without a fee and seems to be as vibrant as ever.
It's a shame, I learned most of what I know about recurves and trad hunting here. I hate to see it fall off.
Post by: Deno on December 30, 2021, 06:34:41 PM
Honestly as a 17 year old I think a lot of my generation 1) doesn’t know enough about archery to be interested. When they think of a bow they think of a compound. A lot of my friends have had an interest in archery, got a compound and just never connected with it, because of this they become disinterested in archery in general. 2. A lot of my generation is so timid they might have an interest in something like archery but won’t express it. Almost a “can’t fail if I don’t try” mentality. There’s been a lot of effort to push traditional archery, but if my uncle hadn’t put my first longbow in my hand when I was 5 I don’t know if I’d be still shooting traditional now. Another issue is parents who think anything that shoots a projectile is a weapon of mass destruction and evil.
Flbowhunter
Great post. You are the future of Trad Gang. Most of us older guys have had the same experience you have. Back in the 60s and 70s, NONE of my friends would ever think of walking in the woods, especially with bow in hand. Most of them have been couch potatos for 60 years. I have Grandsons your age and find it hard to get them to put down their phones and get out in the woods. You're a special breath of fresh air. Keep postin'. With more young guys like you, the Gang has a good future.
Deno
Post by: GCook on January 02, 2022, 01:50:45 PM
Look at the posts in the "highlights" section:I think it was last year when Terry asked us to post kills in the powwow.
2012....5980 posts
2020....188 posts
What year did the fee for the classified section start?
The other trad site, LW runs the classified without a fee and seems to be as vibrant as ever.
It's a shame, I learned most of what I know about recurves and trad hunting here. I hate to see it fall off.
Post by: GCook on January 02, 2022, 02:04:22 PM
Mr. Green and crew have done a good job the last couple of years shutting down such stuff. But there have been threads started bashing Bisch and others for posting "too many kills" they've had to squash. It's amazing how the community can turn on it's own.
We're our own worst enemy all too often. Which stinks because there are some good people here who do some awesome hunting and tell some great stories.
But I see it on a couple other websites as well where folks are told glove shooters and instinctive shooters aren't accurate enough to be shooting or hunting or . . .
Unless a person has thick skin they will find another outlet. Now I don't know much about pod casts and such but I know there are guys out there attracting a lot of people to the sport by providing detailed online instruction and feedback on getting started and getting better. They find community on facebook and forget this bickering here.
Here should be as much about community and enjoyment of the daily ins and outs of our archery addiction as anything.
Post by: kennym on January 02, 2022, 02:18:05 PM
Post by: Rob DiStefano on January 02, 2022, 02:45:09 PM
Look at the current thread with guys ridiculing others for choosing to own camo or multiple bows or use scent control or have multiple stands as money wasted on hunting and you'll see why people are turned off to this site at times.
Mr. Green and crew have done a good job the last couple of years shutting down such stuff. But there have been threads started bashing Bisch and others for posting "too many kills" they've had to squash. It's amazing how the community can turn on it's own.
We're our own worst enemy all too often. Which stinks because there are some good people here who do some awesome hunting and tell some great stories.
But I see it on a couple other websites as well where folks are told glove shooters and instinctive shooters aren't accurate enough to be shooting or hunting or . . .
Unless a person has thick skin they will find another outlet. Now I don't know much about pod casts and such but I know there are guys out there attracting a lot of people to the sport by providing detailed online instruction and feedback on getting started and getting better. They find community on facebook and forget this bickering here.
Here should be as much about community and enjoyment of the daily ins and outs of our archery addiction as anything.
I hear ya, Sir.
The hardest task with any GOOD online forum is moderation, and weeding out "troublemakers" in order to keep the focus and goals of a site on course is no easy task. This is not a cop out on my part, just stating the fact for what it is. We DO acknowledge that good folks can sometimes create a questionable topic or post - heck, I've done that, so has Terry and many others! - and those topics/posts are moderated and removed, like any other public post that doesn't fit in with our trad bowhunting agenda. What we're looking to stop is someone "going off the rails" too often.
Maybe once a month at best I'll get a "Report Post" from a member with questionable post and 9 times outta 10 it was really a post that needed removing and the poster was contacted and explained just why. Add to this that we try to keep a record of just who did what in case it happens again, because that's the only way we can weed out - ban - real troublemakers that don't get it about the "Trad Gang family".
In essence, all Trad Gang members can make a report post about a concern they have with a topic or post. We really Really REALLY appreciate those who do, doesn't take a lotta time, and helps everyone at Trad Gang. If yer not sure whether what you think is a topic or post that needs reporting, send it off anyway ... Please. Thank you.
Post by: Alexander Traditional on January 02, 2022, 04:19:02 PM
I have seen a number of people who didn't ask one bit for a bunch of ridicule,and that's what they got.
One guy posted on a jig he made for cutting arrows down to get them precise. It was super overkill,but he was stoked for it,and all he got were people running him in the ground about it. He has never posted again.
Another Oxnam I believe posted something that I can't remember,and got totally jumped on,and has never been back.
I know myself for instance posted a squirrel kill I made. Someone posted is that in season,and it was but I think the response on a traditional bow forum should have been more like good shot.
I made a bow target out of old tires,and someone said you should be using those tires on your tractor instead of neat target or just not saying anything at all.
I'm not going to get run off that easy,but there are other people that just have better things to do.
I think people need to think longer before they post. Would you like someone saying about you what you are saying about them?
There are probably many more that I can't think of,but those are a few,and looking at old post I think I miss that guys post.
My dad always said people see things in others that they don't see in themselves!
Post by: Rob DiStefano on January 02, 2022, 04:28:58 PM
I agree totally with G. Cook
I have seen a number of people who didn't ask one bit for a bunch of ridicule,and that's what they got.
One guy posted on a jig he made for cutting arrows down to get them precise. It was super overkill,but he was stoked for it,and all he got were people running him in the ground about it. He has never posted again.
Another Oxnam I believe posted something that I can't remember,and got totally jumped on,and has never been back.
I know myself for instance posted a squirrel kill I made. Someone posted is that in season,and it was but I think the response on a traditional bow forum should have been more like good shot.
I made a bow target out of old tires,and someone said you should be using those tires on your tractor instead of neat target or just not saying anything at all.
I'm not going to get run off that easy,but there are other people that just have better things to do.
I think people need to think longer before they post. Would you like someone saying about you what you are saying about them?
There are probably many more that I can't think of,but those are a few,and looking at old post I think I miss that guys post.
My dad always said people see things in others that they don't see in themselves!
This is why a Report Post of those "someones" would be beneficial to all. We will take to task those kinds of posts. Period.
Post by: Gdpolk on January 02, 2022, 07:50:14 PM
Frankly I joined this site a long time ago because of the stories and vast wealth of knowledge available to learn from here and I liked participating in the St Jude auctions. TradGang seemed like a place with mostly good people who are mostly looking for honest conversation about a sport that I'm passionate about. I still seem to find the site mostly filled with honest people conversing about traditional bowhunting.
Post by: Sam McMichael on January 02, 2022, 09:28:54 PM
Post by: Gdpolk on January 02, 2022, 09:49:54 PM
Just a thought... How often, when discussing trad archery to an inexperienced archer, have we recommended Trad Gang specifically as source of information? Do we actively recruit?
I do!
Post by: GCook on January 02, 2022, 10:51:03 PM
[/quote]
This is why a Report Post of those "someones" would be beneficial to all. We will take to task those kinds of posts. Period.
[/quote]
You know Rob I'm usually more willing to just say my piece to someone on a thread than report. I mean I will report but some times I think pointing out the what I see askew might enlighten them. Probably naive or ignorant I know.
But sometimes what I think I perceive as the intent or the spirit of the thread or post could be wrong too.
So if I throw my two cents in and get shown I'm off base I can learn something.
Post by: huntsfairchase on January 04, 2022, 12:39:08 AM
I used to post a lot on another site and some here, but admittedly, I believe this is my first post since the pay to play classifieds. I may have paid the first year, but also saw the drop in activity and moved on. As mentioned earlier, I always started in the classifieds then the PoWow and so on. Actually just came back on a few days ago hoping the classifieds had opened back up as I was in the market for another bow to replace one that just gave up the ghost. It wasn’t, so I posted on another site and have a bow coming in the mail. Bought and sold hundreds of bows now without any major incidents, but I also haven’t done a deal without a phone conversation prior to finalizing anything. I understand the reasoning, and I’m guessing the site understands ours…
Post by: mgf on January 04, 2022, 05:58:48 AM
When I'm in fishing gear I don't spend much time on the archery forums.
Post by: BigJim on January 04, 2022, 07:34:43 AM
I want to give an honest angle on what I see.. and feel. It may not be received as well and may not be completely accurate, but is what I feel.
I prefer this site, but it is difficult for me to navigate. I haven't lately, but in doing a search, it just doesn't respond as I think it should. No rhyme or reason to the info coming back. The age of the posts in the search seems to be mixed up so I get frustrated. I also still have problems posting pictures... I'm sure these problems are related to my techno handicaps, but I can't be the only one.
This is a much friendlier place than LW. I go there frequently as there seems to be much more traffic and that is what I need for business. I go back to check in and bump up the post when I'm doing sales as it falls off the page hourly even with frequent replies from viewers. ... Again, I'm there mostly for business reasons. It can be a hate full place! Very little respect over there. Having said that, I think that is what keeps people interested in checking back. So many just love to see a wreck that they can't take their eyes off of it.
I post every sale/event here on this site and even without responses, it won't leave the front page for weeks. I wish the opposite were true as I don't care for all of the negative responses on LW..
Also... Trad is alive and maybe even better than ever. The social media B.S. has in part taken over and divides the numbers somewhat. If you are an archery retailer and doing poorly at this time, you should consider a change .. maybe golf?
I used to maintain between 300-400 used bows in stock. Currently I'm down to under 50! In the last 7 days I've taken 14 custom bow orders.. and while that is exceptionally high, the orders are constant.
Shop orders are the same. Yes, we are having some supply issues, but are selling things as fast as we get them in.
Having conversations with other trad archery vendors and bowyers, they are experiencing the same.
I once had to read a book written to help business people.. "Who stole my cheese?!" If you are not familiar with it, the jist is that the when one doesn't grow and change with the times, the times leaves them behind.
A response to loosing hunters.. I'm sure that some of the influx here must be related to guys/gals moving in and out of hunting due to loss of hunting opportunities or just finding more joy in other sports, but how is this new?
If the loss of your hunting opportunities makes you move on, you might have been looking for something different anyway, but someone else is picking up opportunities and appealing to them would be the goal.
Sure, the climate is growing toward crossbows and compounds or guns, but that is how "we" became traditional archery in the first place. If everyone just stayed with longbows and recurves, we would just be known as archery!
It's a challenge to gain and keep viewers/members. If it's boring, well...____ you fill in the blank.
BigJim
Post by: Al Dente on January 04, 2022, 11:06:08 AM
TG is still an awesome site, with great people manning it and contributing to the content.
Post by: Ghost Dog on January 04, 2022, 11:14:40 AM
I had a lot of friends on TG, and a lot of interaction with those friends. Inevitably TG became more and more popular, eventually attracting tens of thousands of members. It just became too big for me, too diluted, and the posts became too repetitive.
And this; I'm starting to feel like a relic. I still shoot bows in the mid 50#s, which apparently is now considered "macho", I still shoot wood arrows and selfbows, as well as glass bows. These days I see a lot of mass market, cheap, god awful offshore bows being purchased, in low 40# or less draw weights. And then there's Lars Anderson who seems to have become a hero to many. I have to wonder what Dean Torges would think about him. Being a weenie and shooting a child's bow as if it were a slingshot has become the new badge of honor in social media.
But here I am, back on TG. I miss the place.
Post by: trad_bowhunter1965 on January 04, 2022, 01:02:20 PM
Post by: JakeD on January 04, 2022, 01:19:33 PM
Something else that I'd like to see more of is people's hunting seasons, not just their success. KennyM is a good example. He started a thread about his season, and there was quite a bit of interaction and conversation. If anybody else is wondering if they should do the same, DO IT. I love seeing those things and seems that others do as well. Pictures help too (I know, sounds like a little kid). I really enjoy the small amount of living vicariously through everybody elses pictures and descriptions of their hunts. I have a 1 year old at home, so it's hard for me to add a whole lot at this point in time, although I need to try harder. I still feel that this is as wonderful of a site as the day I joined, and hope that others continue to add their experiences and knowledge to keep it that way.
Post by: Kevin Dill on January 04, 2022, 01:43:47 PM
If this website and forums is dealing with lagging contributions, active members, and overall activity, what is the root cause? How are other traditional bowhunting forums performing? Is it a problem across many forums and indicative of forums (overall) going into decline? Is it anything specific to TG forums? Whatever is happening, I don't think it can be attributed to any decline in traditional bowhunting interest or practice. If anything, it's a matter of figuring out where the customers (members) are going to get their needs met and why they went there. Maybe it's an aging-out thing and forums are destined to be obsolete for all except those (like me) who still see some value in them. I just don't know.
Post by: Todd Cook on January 04, 2022, 03:35:07 PM
I think it's just the way the world is now. Not a bad thing nessesarily. I'm enjoying the ILF stuff myself. People don't have as much patience as they used too about learning new skills, mostly because they don't have too anymore. So much more info out there now days.
Maybe we just need to speak their language better.
Post by: danbow on January 05, 2022, 11:19:19 AM
Post by: saburai on January 05, 2022, 03:26:45 PM
Post by: Rob DiStefano on January 05, 2022, 06:15:56 PM
I've dabbled in traditional archery since childhood and now at 60 I've decided to get serious. I've on and off, have been a lurker here for at least ten years. In regards to "what happened?" I’ll echo what has been said about social media killing forums. Facebook groups, Instagram, Twitter as well as things like Signal groups and the like are for reasons unknown to me, what people seem to be gravitating towards. The liner, stream of consciousness un searchable nature is not for me. A good forum is indexed and searchable. This is in addition to also being a community! I guess the real time instant gratification is where it's at for most people today. While YouTube and videos certainly have great value, often I would like to immerse myself in reading about whatever the subject of study is before watching a video. Sadly today, it seems that there's often no option other than watching video or listening to a podcast. I would much rather read than listen, I guess I'm becoming another old grouch! I've experienced the "use the search!" Response on many forums, here included. Yes, I know that I can search! I can read a book or an article too. In posting a question, I was hoping to start a more organic dialog, learn and perhaps make some friends and become part of the community! Lastly, and I'm not complaining since I'm very happy to be here but I've definitely been on other forums with a more user-friendly interface, especially when viewed from my android phone. I was wondering why there was not a like button. I don't thumb type quickly and with a like button I can give the author a bit of positive feedback easily. Maybe it doesn't show up on the Android mobile app of Tradgang.com but I still can't find it!
Good to have you getting more serious about trad archery as well as posting and using the forum interactively. If I can be of any help, please PM or email me directly.
Almost every newbie to traditional longbow/recurve archery will benefit by one-on-one mentoring by a qualified archery teacher trained in the use of traditional archery tackle and instinctive shooting. Barring that, it'll be hit or miss for developing a solid basic form that one can personalize. Developing bad habits can be hard to break out of, and too heavy a starting bow is the leading culprit. Can't achieve good form whilst struggling to come to a good full draw.
Everyone will have their personal views as to what computing device works best for them. This ranges the spectrum from a desktop to a smartphone and a gaggle of devices in between. As a loooong time computer user, both professionally and otherwise since the days of "the pong game" (that will have the young'uns scratching their heads), if I can't type on goodly sized keyboard I won't use it. I use cellphones for talking and maybe some text messaging using voice-to-text input. Still, I'd rather have a nice keyboard. To each their own.
You are using the mobile Trad Gang theme and the "Like" app won't work on that - it's a quirk of the mod hack since the mobile theme is yet another mod hack. Change the moblie theme back to the default theme and you'll see the "Like" button on yer phone. I've used both the mobile and default themes and still prefer the default theme if I have a need to access the forum via the phone, which is almost never.
Pretty much all forum software will have their quirks and it's impossible to please everyone. When I first built this forum back in 2003, that software was the best around and it was a "flat file" type. Time marched on and that software became legacy and no longer supported. To get off that manner of software and on to current relational base software was nothing short of a nightmare. The only software app that had a chance of surviving a migration was what we have today, SMF - and believe me, I worked with all the big forum software brands and they all threw their hands up. With great help from an independent software guru, and from our server manager, the conversion was made. It's not the best software, but it's not all that bad either, and world's better for functionality than our old forum software.
Post by: saburai on January 05, 2022, 06:27:00 PM
I'll shoot you a PM as time allows...
Post by: Possum Head on January 05, 2022, 06:57:20 PM
Been here since 2004 with only 195 posts. I find I’m-better off listening than talking. I get in less trouble that way. I also learn more.
Yep!
Post by: Wudstix on January 05, 2022, 07:11:23 PM
:campfire: :coffee: :archer2: