Salish Wolf

Rick Spicer is an outdoor educator, bow hunter, and amateur bowyer living in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He is a partner in Pack Rat Outdoor Center, an outdoor adventure gear retailer. Also he is director of Pack Rat’s annual adventure race known as Brewha Bushwhack, where participants complete a variety of survival challenges. And he is the creator and founder of Mallorn Gear, which makes rugged and functional quivers. Rick has been mountaineering for many decades and is obsessed with canyoneering in Southern Utah. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Rick Spicer.Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/packratbushcraft/ Brewha Bushwhack Packrat Outdoor CenterMallorn Gear⁠Project Quiver⁠ at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this conversation, Rick Spicer shares his extensive experience in traditional archery, bow making, and outdoor education. He discusses his role at the Packrat Outdoor Center, a community-oriented business in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and his passion for hunting and teaching others about traditional archery. Rick also delves into the craft of arrow making, the design of innovative quivers, and the Bruja Bushwhack, an outdoor skills adventure race he organizes. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the importance of community, environmental sustainability, and spending quality time outdoors with family.Show Notes: Rick Spicer has over 26 years of experience in the outdoor retail industry.The Packrat Outdoor Center is a community-oriented business in Fayetteville, Arkansas.Rick is passionate about traditional archery and has been shooting since he was 12.He emphasizes the importance of community and education in outdoor activities.Rick enjoys hunting whitetails and elk, primarily using a bow.He has a unique approach to bow making, focusing on traditional methods.Rick creates custom arrows and quivers, emphasizing craftsmanship and functionality.The Bruja Bushwhack is an outdoor skills adventure race that promotes woodsmanship and teamwork.Rick is committed to environmental sustainability in his business practices.Family time outdoors is a priority for Rick, who enjoys sharing his passions with his children.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Rick Spicer and His Background02:54 The Packrat Outdoor Center: A Community Hub05:53 Traditional Archery: Passion and Expertise08:56 The Craft of Bow Making: Techniques and Materials11:48 Understanding Primitive vs. Traditional Archery14:46 The Art of Arrow Making: A Personal Journey17:53 Quiver Design: Functionality and Innovation20:42 Challenges of Running a Small Business23:54 Balancing Family Life and Outdoor Passion43:38 Family Adventures and Outdoor Activities46:47 Project Quiver: A Father-Daughter Collaboration48:46 The Art of Bowcraft and Lifestyle55:41 The Bruja Bushwhack: An Outdoor Skills Adventure01:00:15 Community Engagement and Environmental Awareness01:04:05 Reflections on Health, Fitness, and Family Dynamics

Dan Nuttall is a master bowyer from South Devon, England, and founder of Devonshire Longbows. Dan shapes all of his bows with only hand tools using time-honored techniques. He also excels in leathercraft, making the handles for his bows and accessories such as arm bracers, calico longbow bags, and hip and back quivers.  Episode Links:https://www.instagram.com/devonshire_longbows Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:The conversation delves into the distinctions between English longbows and American flat bows, exploring the historical and cultural contexts that shape their definitions and classifications. Dan shares insights on bow making and personal preferences in bow design.Show Notes: In England, a longbow should indicate a rounded belly.American definitions of longbows include flat bows.Dan prefers the American identification of longbows.He makes both rounded belly bows and flat bows.Cultural differences influence bow classifications.Bow making is a blend of tradition and personal style.Understanding longbows requires knowledge of historical context.Flat bows are a significant part of American archery.Dan's insights reflect a personal journey in bow making.The conversation highlights the artistry involved in archery.

Phil Rockhauser is a bowyer based in southern Austria in Millstatter See, a beautiful rural lake. On clear days his cozy workshop offers views of the mountains of Slovenia and Italy. He is the author of two books on bow building, both entitled Bogenbau. He learned much of his craft from his mentor, Micha Wolf, including the benefit of carving planes and angles in the bow build process. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Phil Rockhauser. Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/rockhauser_archery/Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this conversation, Todd and Phil explore the journey of bow carving, discussing Phil's beginnings in the craft, the importance of mentorship, and the therapeutic nature of working with wood. They delve into the various types of wood used in bow making, the techniques involved, and the significance of sharing knowledge within the bowyer community. Phil reflects on his passion for bow carving as a hobby rather than a profession, emphasizing the joy it brings to his life and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation also touches on personal interests, family life, and future aspirations in the craft.Show Notes:Phil started bow carving 13-14 years ago.Bow carving has taught Phil patience.The therapeutic nature of bow carving is significant.Phil prefers bow carving as a hobby rather than a profession.Osage wood is Phil's favorite for bow making.Phil emphasizes the importance of mentorship in bow carving.He enjoys sharing knowledge with others about bow making.The beauty of the Austrian landscape inspires Phil's work.Phil's children are encouraged to explore their interests in the workshop.Future projects include improving skills in composite bow making.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Snowboarding Adventures02:42 The Journey into Bow Carving05:33 Learning and Mentorship in Bow Making08:18 The Connection to Nature and Craftsmanship11:16 Balancing Passion and Profession13:58 The Therapeutic Aspects of Bow Carving16:42 Exploring Wood Types and Bow Styles19:25 Innovative Techniques in Bow Carving22:09 The Art of Bow Design and Aesthetics26:15 The Journey of Bow Making Books28:46 Reflections on Bow Making Experience31:39 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge33:43 Influences and Inspirations in Bow Making35:45 Tools of the Trade37:53 Unique Woods and Sourcing Materials39:20 The Art of Bow Making41:06 Balancing Hobbies and Family Life44:41 Future Aspirations in Bow Making49:14 Connecting with the Community

Nacho Marco is a full-time bowyer based in Teruel, Spain. He is the creator and owner of Arcol, a traditional bow making school that blends craftsmanship and ancestral wisdom. He also carves custom primitive bows primarily of black locust, elm, and Osage orange for an international customer base.  Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Nacho Marco.          Episode Links: https://arcolescuela.com/https://www.instagram.com/arqueriaconmarco/Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this conversation, Todd interviews Nacho Marco, a bow maker from Spain, who shares his journey into archery and bow making. Nacho discusses his early influences, the teachers who shaped his craft, and the artistic aspects of bow making. He also talks about his workshop setup, teaching experiences, favorite bow designs, and aspirations for the future. The conversation highlights the unique challenges and joys of bow making, as well as the importance of continuous learning in the craft.Show Notes:Nacho's journey into archery began in childhood with wooden bows.He learned bow making from various teachers, including David Antolin.Bow making allows Nacho to live a lifestyle close to nature.He enjoys hunting with his dog and playing the drums.Nacho's first bow was made from a stave he purchased.He believes black locust is the best wood for teaching bow making.Nacho teaches bow making courses with a focus on hands-on experience.He prefers self-knocks for their primitive essence over horn knocks.Nacho aims to improve his skills by learning from other bow makers.He values the decision-making process in working with imperfect woods. Chapters:Chapters00:00 Introduction to Nacho Marco and Archery03:00 The Journey of Bow Carving05:56 Influences and Mentorship in Bow Making08:48 The Impact of Archery on Life11:41 First Experiences in Bow Making14:33 Workshop Setup and Tools17:26 Teaching Bow Carving20:21 Favorite Bow Designs and Techniques23:16 Sourcing Materials for Bow Making25:08 Exploring Unique Bow Woods27:26 Future Aspirations in Bowmaking30:23 Learning from Master Bowmakers31:56 The Art of Bowmaking Decisions38:39 Preparing for the Workshop Experience

Enrico Maraggi is a bowyer based near Lake Garda in Northern Italy who has been making primitive bows since 2018. Bow making to him is more than a passion; it is a mission. It has taught him a great deal in his life including patience, self acceptance and courage. Enrico shares his beautiful selfbows on his social media platforms and on his website under the name of Arcaica Bows. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Enrico Maraggi.          Episode Links: arcaciabows.comhttps://www.facebook.com/people/Arcaica-Bows/61553368888439/https://www.instagram.com/enrico.maraggiProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:Enrico Maraggi shares his journey into bow making, a passion that reignited after a survival course in 2018. Initially self-taught, Enrico delved into the craft through online resources before attending a workshop with a professional bow maker, Weylin Olive of Swiftwood Bows and of Project Quiver. He discusses the meditative nature of bow making, the importance of patience, and the philosophy behind his craft. Enrico emphasizes the collaborative spirit within the bow-making community and reflects on how this art form has profoundly impacted his life, leading him to create his brand, Arcaica Bows.Show Notes:Bow making is a meditative and philosophical craft.Enrico Maraggi reignited his passion for bow making after a survival course.The bow-making community is collaborative and open.Enrico is mostly self-taught, using online resources.He attended a workshop with professional bow maker Weylin Olive.Patience is crucial in the art of bow making.Enrico created his brand, Arcaica Bows.Bow making has profoundly impacted Enrico's life.He emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance in crafting.Enrico shares insights on the philosophy of bow making.Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:01:15 Enrico's Early Life and Background00:03:45 Discovering Archery and Bow Making00:07:30 The Impact of a Survival Course00:12:10 Self-Taught Journey and Online Learning00:17:05 Workshop Experience with Whalen00:22:40 Philosophy and Craft of Bow Making00:28:15 Creating Arcaica Bows00:33:50 Community and Collaboration00:39:20 Reflections on Teaching and Learning00:44:55 Enrico's Favorite Materials and Tools00:50:30 Challenges and Rewards of Bow Making00:56:10 Future Plans and Closing Thoughts

Paul Comstock is a legendary bowyer who began carving more than 40 years ago. Along with coauthors of The Traditional Bowyer’s Bible, he helped spark a resurgence in primitive archery and bow making. Prior to contributing to all 4 volumes of the Bowyer’s Bible, Paul wrote the popular book The Bent Stick. He has served as a mentor and role model for many of today’s most respected bowyers, and he continues to carve bows from his home in Ohio. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Paul Comstock. Episode Links: The Traditional Bowyer’s BibleProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this conversation, Paul Comstock shares his journey from a career in journalism to becoming a prominent figure in the world of archery and bow making. He discusses his early experiences with archery, the challenges he faced in his career, and the impact of the internet on traditional journalism. Comstock also delves into the creation of his book, The Bent Stick, and the significance of The Traditional Bowyer's Bible in the resurgence of wooden bows. Throughout the discussion, he offers insights into bow making techniques, the characteristics of different woods, and the importance of proper bow stringing methods. Comstock's passion for archery and his dedication to preserving traditional practices shine through as he reflects on his experiences and the future of bow making.Show Notes:Comstock has been involved with computers since the 70s.He started bow hunting in 1983 and began making wooden bows in 1984.His journalism career influenced his writing of The Bent Stick.The internet has significantly impacted the newspaper industry.Comstock emphasizes the importance of local journalism.He discusses the resurgence of wooden bows in the 1980s.The Traditional Bowyer's Bible has been a significant resource for bow makers.Comstock shares insights on the characteristics of different woods for bow making.He highlights the importance of proper bow stringing techniques.Comstock continues to make bows and experiment with different woods.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Technical Challenges01:13 Background and Early Life02:28 The Journey into Archery07:56 Transition to Bow Making10:29 Career in Journalism and Its Impact14:45 The Resurgence of Wooden Bows28:19 The Bent Stick Publication and Marketing33:15 The Birth of the Bowyer's Bible Community37:17 Challenges in Publishing and Distribution42:01 The Impact of the Bowyer's Bible45:52 The Process Behind the Bowyer's Bible51:41 The Legacy of the Bowyer's Bible58:29 Crafting Bows: Techniques and Experiences01:04:01 The Art of Bow Making: Techniques and Materials01:26:50 Unique Woods and Tools in Bow Crafting

Erich Streichsbier is a master bowyer and proprietor of Sparrow Bows based in Northern Austria. He lives in a 250-year-old farmhouse along the Czech Republic border and carves magnificent bows in a beautiful workshop that he built by hand. He uses digital methods to research and recreate historical bows, analyzing metrics such as vibration behavior, construction methods, and specific tensile weights.Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Erich Streichsbier.          Episode Links: https://www.sparrowbows.athttps://www.instagram.com/sparrowbowsProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this conversation, Todd interviews Erich Streichsbier, an archery enthusiast and bow maker from Austria. Erich shares his personal journey into archery, which began during a challenging period in his life. He discusses the therapeutic aspects of archery and how it led him to discover a deep spiritual connection with nature. The conversation delves into the intricacies of bow making, including techniques, materials, and historical research. Erich also highlights the importance of community and collaboration in the bow making world, as well as his aspirations for the future, including teaching others and exploring new bow designs.Show Notes:Archery can serve as a therapeutic outlet during difficult times.A deep connection with nature can enhance the archery experience.Bow making is both an art and a science, requiring precision and creativity.Historical research plays a crucial role in modern bow making.Collaboration with other bowyers enriches the craft and community.Teaching others about bow making can be fulfilling and rewarding.The choice of materials significantly impacts the bow's performance.Digital modeling can aid in understanding bow dynamics and performance.Exploring different bow designs keeps the craft exciting and innovative.Personal experiences and stories shape the journey of a bow maker.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Archery and Personal Journey05:56 The Spiritual Connection with Nature and Archery11:31 Bow Making: Techniques and Materials17:19 The Evolution of Bow Making and Historical Research22:51 Collaboration and Community in Bow Making28:27 Future Aspirations and Teaching Bow Making

Per Friden is a bowyer based in Sweden who has been carving bows for nearly ten years. He is also a forest manager tending to 3000 hectares of Swedish public land, and feels fortunate to spend so much of his time among trees. Per and his bows can be found on Instagram @nordic_selfbows.Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Per Friden.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/nordic_selfbows/Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this conversation, Todd and Per explore the journey of bow building, discussing its therapeutic nature, the learning process, and the community surrounding the craft. Per shares his experiences as a self-taught bowyer, the materials he uses, and the joy he finds in crafting bows. They also touch on the importance of archery in Per's life, his teaching experiences, and the connection between nature and craftsmanship. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of pursuing a passion for bow making.Show Notes:Per started bow building as a therapeutic outlet during a tough time in his life.Bow building combines Per's love for the outdoors and working with his hands.He learned bow making primarily through YouTube tutorials and trial and error.Per enjoys sharing his knowledge with others through teaching bow building classes.He prefers to carve bows for himself rather than taking commissions.The community of bow makers in Sweden is small but supportive.Per finds joy in the variety of materials available for bow making.He emphasizes the importance of focus and presence while crafting bows.Per's work as a forest manager informs his understanding of wood selection for bow making.The connection to nature is a significant aspect of Per's bow building experience.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Bow Building Journey02:45 The Therapeutic Nature of Crafting Bows05:37 Self-Taught Skills and Community Connections08:30 Materials and Techniques in Bow Making11:24 The Personal Connection to Archery14:17 Teaching Bow Building to Others16:55 Challenges and Learning in Bow Crafting19:41 Tools and Techniques in Bow Making22:43 Exploring Unique Woods and Materials25:48 The Therapeutic Benefits of Crafting28:09 Journey into Carpentry and Home Renovation28:42 A Career in Forestry Management30:59 Daily Life in Forestry32:45 Public Access and Wildlife Encounters34:48 Family Life and Outdoor Activities36:26 Seasonal Changes and Outdoor Pursuits37:59 Life in Gothenburg and Travel Plans39:56 Innovations in Bow Making43:20 Social Media and Craftsmanship49:24 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Workshops

Simon Kehl is a master bowyer based in Buhler, Switzerland. He has been making selfbows and laminate bows since 2014, blending physics with aesthetics to make increasingly faster and more beautiful bows. He sells his bows under the brand of Selfbow.ch.Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Simon Kehl.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/selfbow.ch/ https://selfbow.ch/ Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions

Jake Fenwick is a full-time bowyer based in Sackville, New Brunswick on the east coast of Canada. Jake has a long and diverse history of bow making, which dates back to 2011 and includes mentors from around the world. Through his family business known as Fenwick Bows, he specializes in historically-accurate English longbows and warbows.Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/fenwickbows/ https://www.fenwickbows.com/ Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this engaging conversation, Todd and Jake explore the fascinating world of archery and bow making, discussing their personal journeys, the significance of historical homes, and the unique experiences that come with working with different types of wood. They delve into the importance of bow societies and the camaraderie among bowyers, as well as the thrill of flight shooting and archery competitions. The dialogue highlights the craftsmanship involved in creating bows and the deep connection between the bowyer and the materials they work with. In this conversation, Jake and Todd explore the intricate world of archery and bow making, They also discuss the technical aspects of archery, the journey of crafting bows, and the spiritual connection that comes with the practice. They delve into the importance of teaching and sharing knowledge, the evolution of skills, and the impact of travel on personal growth. The discussion also touches on parenting, encouraging children to follow their passions, and the value of authentic experiences in life.Show Notes:Jake's journey into archery began with a deep dive into family history.The importance of community and learning from other bowyers is emphasized.Jake's passion for bow making led him to start his own business at a young age.The conversation highlights the significance of wood selection in bow making.Jake discusses the unique properties of various woods used in archery.The role of bow societies in fostering community and sharing knowledge is explored.Flight shooting provides valuable data for archers and bowyers alike.The conversation touches on the historical significance of homes and properties.Todd and Jake reflect on their shared experiences in the world of archery. Archery combines art and science, requiring precision and skill.Bow making can be a fulfilling lifelong journey.Teaching archery can enhance the experience for both teacher and student.Archery serves as a meditative practice, connecting body and mind.Traveling can provide invaluable life lessons and experiences.Parenting should focus on encouraging children's passions.Authentic experiences often come from discomfort and challenges.Resilience is built through following one's interests and passions.The craft of bow making is deeply rooted in tradition and personal expression.Community and collaboration are essential in the world of craftsmanship.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Connection03:40 Exploring the History of Homes06:37 The Journey into Archery09:23 The Evolution of Bow Making12:48 Traveling and Learning from Masters13:52 Building a Business in Bow Making18:34 Exploring Archery's Roots in Australia and New Zealand19:40 The Quest for Local Woods: Bow Making in Costa Rica21:43 The Endangered Lemonwood: A Bow Maker's Dilemma23:25 Harvesting Yew: Insights from the Bowyer's Journey26:04 The Economics of Bow Staves: Quality vs. Cost28:03 The Reverence for Wood: Harvesting and Crafting Bows30:28 Cultural Significance of Yew: Myths and Legends31:48 The Evolution of Bow Making: Techniques and Materials37:43 Building Community: The Canadian Warbow Society40:52 The Art and Science of Archery44:27 The Journey of Bow Making48:57 Teaching and Sharing the Craft55:22 The Meditative Aspect of Archery01:06:03 The Spiritual Connection in Archery01:08:25 The Meditative Art of Bow Carving01:12:02 Exploring Different Archery Styles01:17:08 The Journey of Bowyers and Community01:24:10 Traveling with Purpose and Passion