Shakespeare Supreme X16

Shakespeare Model X16 and 
The Supreme X16
by Larry Vienneau 

Shakespeare Model X16 1963-65

Ernie Root oversaw the production of exceptional competition and target bows by Shakespeare. One such bow was the Model X16, which was introduced in 1963 as a top-quality target bow. This 66" bow featured exquisite Benge hardwood and ivory-white fiberglass and included a feather rest and calf hair arrow plate. Available in right or left hand, it could be purchased in weight options of 30-50 lbs. The new Supreme X16 was released in 1966 and had a consistent design throughout its production from 1966-1971. Competition bows from 1960-70 had longer AMOs and lower draw weights, allowing for smoother draws, less string pinch, and a stable release. The AMO was 66 inches but reduced to 64 inches in 1970 before returning to 66 inches in 1971. Draw weights varied from year to year and ranged between 20-50 pounds.

Shakespeare Supreme X16 1967-71

 The Shakespeare Supreme X16 was an exceptional tournament bow available at an affordable price point. Shakespeare crafted three models of competition bows, with the Professional X10 being their top-of-the-line option, the Titan X15 as their mid-level choice, and the Supreme X16 serving as their entry-level model. All three models were expertly designed with exquisite craftsmanship by Ernie Root, earning admiration from even the most discerning archers. The Supreme X16 was available in seven different draw weights, ensuring it could meet the needs of any archer. It boasted incredibly stable shooting ease and pinpoint accuracy, outperforming other bows in its price range. Notable features include its exotic and maple wood risers, white glass, and three-layer exotic and maple wood construction. The Supreme X16 was originally designed in 1970 for the Junior Olympics, with lower draw weights and shorter draw lengths.

There is limited information available about this exceptional bow. Typically, Competition Bows are sold through auctions and tend to fetch a higher price point than hunting bows. I believe that traditional shooters can benefit from practicing with a competition bow during the off-season. Although it is on my "Want List," it has been challenging to find a desirable left-handed option to add to my collection. Therefore, I am living vicariously through my right-handed friend, Lewis Kent, who possesses an impressive collection and skillfully restores bows. Recently, he acquired a stunning Supreme and generously shared it with me. I am grateful for his kindness and enthusiasm for archery. 

Lewis Kent's Supreme X16

UPDATE: March 2015
This piece was initially written back in May 2013. Recently, I managed to come across a left-handed Supreme X16 - a rare find for a competition bow in good condition. What's more, it was a first-year production model from 1966 and was in pristine condition. Although it required a new rest and string, it still shoots exceptionally well at 40#. Interestingly, it matches my 1966 Professional X10 and performs just as well as a target bow. It's lightweight yet stable upon release, and I've noticed no major differences between it and the Professional X10. With consistent groups and arrow flight, it's now one of my top competition bows.

My lucky find: a Lefty Supreme model X-16

1966 Catalog

Supreme X16 1966-1971

66” AMO (1966-69)

64” AMO (1970)

66” AMO (1971)

Draw weights:

25-50 pounds (1967)

25-45 pounds (1968, 1969)

20-40 pounds (1970)

25-40 pounds (1971)

Limbs:

1 ¾ inch (1967)

2 inch (1968-1971)

Sight window:

 7 inch (1967-1970)

6 ½ inch (1971)

Arrow rest:

Vertical feathers, calf hair plate (1967-69)

Adjustable Plate and Flipper rest (1970-71)

Brace height: 8 ½

Riser:

Benge and Maple wood Riser (1967)  

Maple, Bubinga, and Rosewood (1968- 1971)

Fiberglass: White

Triple tip overlays:

1967 Benge and Maple,

1968-1971 Maple and Bubinga

M16 Stabilizer mount- 1968-1971

© Copyright, Larry Vienneau Jr.

All rights reserved.