Bowhunters love whitetailed deer because they’re a challenging, widely available target that looks great on the wall. Archery retailers love them because bowhunters can’t get enough hot new gear promising increased whitetail success. See much of the latest and greatest deer gear in the September/October issue of Archery Business—from ground-breaking new scents and lures to minerals, hang-on treestands, and much, much more.

The Sept./Oct. issue also holds what is annually one of the most-popular features of the year: North American bowhunting license sales numbers, broken down state-by-state and province by province. Of course these numbers—assembled as part of an extensive survey—provide the basis for “best-guess” estimates of actual bowhunter numbers. These are numbers many factions of the archery industry find invaluable—especially gear manufacturers aiming to develop accurate production forecasts, and more, to optimize business performance.

More interesting business news is the recent purchase of Muzzy Products Corp.— by Muzzy Outdoors, a division of Feradyne Outdoors, which also owns Rage Outdoors, maker of the Rage line of broadheads. Michele Musacchia Eichler, CEO of Muzzy Products, commented, “My family is pleased to pass the reins to Feradyne’s President and CEO Rich Krause. Rich is a bowhunter and recognizes and will continue Muzzy’s dedication to producing the number 1 fixed blade broadheads and bowfishing equipment in the industry.”

It’s likely that a bowhunter’s largest purchase will come in the form of a bow. But as all bowhunters know, their arsenal of gear is just beginning. Increasing “add-on” accessories sales should be a goal for every pro shop owner, which is why Archery Business asked several veteran shops their favorite add-on strategies—highlighted in the latest installment of the award-winning “Behind The Counter” column.

Look for these stories and much, much more in the Sept./Oct. issue of Archery Business!