Ernie Root's First Bows, The "King" Longbows

Ernie Root's Kings 

Target King, Field King, and Game King Longbows

by Larry Vienneau 

Root Target King, longbow mid-late 1950s

" All King Line Bows are straight end reflex limbed bows with oriental center shot handles, featuring extremely high stability for smooth accurate shooting" 

Since 2012, I have written 59 posts about Shakespeare and Root Archery. When I began this project, little was known about Ernie Root, his bow designs, the history of Root Archery, or the myths surrounding his relationships with Shakespeare Archery. Despite this, I have managed to pen detailed descriptions of each Root and Shakespeare bow. However, this particular post has been the most challenging to write, as information on Ernie Root's early "KING" bows has been scarce. While I had hoped that new data would emerge with time, the opposite has happened, with many traditional forums archiving their older posts and removing photographs. Fortunately, with the help of Larry Root, Ernie's son, and supportive Root collectors, I believe this is the most reliable source of information on Ernie Root's early bows. According to Larry Root, Ernie named his dog "King" after his King Longbows. 

Ernie Root worked at American Archery before WWII. When he was drafted into the army, he was an equity owner in the company, but he sold his shares back to the company/other owners before heading off to war. After the war, he moved back to Iowa with his wife and returned to American Archery. Eventually, he started making his Root Bows commercially in his basement while still working at American. He later left that company to start Root Archery, a family business in suburban Chicago in the early 1950s. After outgrowing a couple of small spaces, he moved out of the city and eventually settled in Big Rapids, MI.

 

1957 Target King

Ernie Root was an exceptional tournament archer who achieved a remarkable individual score of 836 in 1947, a record that stood unbroken until 1959. During his first major competition in the early 1940s, Root came close to achieving a perfect score. According to a sports article from that time, Root had only been pulling a bowstring for 16 months but had already developed deadly accuracy. His score of 800 was the first ever achieved in that competition and was one of the few scores ever shot in the entire nation. While no one had ever shot a perfect score of 810, the closest anyone had come was 808. Despite having only 13 months of target shooting experience, Root had crafted most of his own equipment, including his bow and arrows.

So, at 22 years old, Ernie Root had only been shooting for 16 months and he was a rising star. He was already making his target equipment!!

 During the mid and late 1950s, the longbow was the staple of every bow manufacturer, but the recurve was becoming an important part of modern archery.  In the mid-1950s most longbows were built with the riser behind the back of the bow similar to the Howard Hill bows. Bear was building both longbows and recurves in this style.

late 1950s Root Target Master with riser forward riser.

mid-late 1950s Bear Alaskan
dual shelf longbow, riser at the back of the bow

Though Fred Bear was a true innovator in bow design, his bows were like many other bows of the period, riser backward. Fred was an avid hunter and most of his bows were designed with the hunter in mind. Ernie Root had a different approach to the longbow. His extensive experience as a tournament archer influenced his designs. A longbow of 66-70 inches is very forgiving. It tends to be very accurate. Bear's bows were shorter while Root's were longer. Root bows were also very innovative because of the riser-forward design. A forward riser and long limbs design help eliminate limb stacking. Root would use the forward riser design in both longbows and recurves.

 

"Sight Window on the King Line are the same width for their entire length, assuring the hunter or target archer the same view at any distance. All Root Bows feature handcrafted arrow shelves with felt hair contact points" from early promo material

pre- 1957 Field King $45.00

• AMO 66 inches and 68 inches
• 5" sight window
• Draw weight? Likely 30#-50#
• Brace 7 ½ ? (based on Target Master)
• Limbs 1 ½
• Riser: Maple, or Exotic Hardwood
• Fiberglass: White, Brown, Light Green, or Dark Green
• Left hand and heavy draw weights were special orders

pre- 1957 Target King $45.00

• AMO 68 inches and 70 inches
• 6" sight window 
• Draw weight? Likely 30#-50# 
• Brace 7 ½ ? (based on Target Master)
• Limbs 1 ½
• Riser: Maple, or Exotic Hardwood
• Fiberglass: White, Brown, Light Green, or Dark Green
• Left hand and heavy draw weights were special orders
• I haven't been able to find any information about the Game King bow. I did come across a post in a traditional archery forum that mentioned it, but it was an old post and the photo was no longer available. However, since there were Field and Target King bows that later became Field and Target Master bows, it's possible that there was also a Game King. Additionally, there is a Game Master bow that exists.

I have just completed my 60th post, which documents all the Root and Shakespeare bow models. However, I intend to update each post as new information and photographs come to light.

During Ernie Root's heyday, I was just a youngster and only recall shooting a Shakespeare bow at summer camp because of the famous playwright's name. It wasn't until the 1990s when I lived in Alaska that I discovered Shakespeare Archery. While on a moose hunt, I stumbled upon a Shakespeare Parabow that had been left behind by a hunter four decades ago. Although it wasn't a Root bow, it sparked my fascination with the brand. Subsequently, I developed a profound appreciation for Ernie Root's bow-making skills, but finding reliable information was challenging. Thus, I believe that documenting his contributions to modern archery is crucial to preserving American Archery's history. 

As time passes, we lose archers, collectors, and designers from the Golden Age of American Archery, eroding knowledge, memories, and stories, which could be lost forever. Therefore, we owe it to future generations to preserve as much knowledge as possible. Through my research, I have gained a wealth of information and forged many friendships, and I hope that my work will foster a deeper appreciation for the vanishing history of American Archery.

Jeff Freeman shared photos of  Target King, Thank you, Jeff!! 

This post is "in Process", I am still looking for examples of these bows, and I am looking for stories or observations about them too. Please contact me through this blog or via email at shakespeare.archer@aol.com

if you have anything to add to this or any of these posts. Thanks in advance!!

copyright (C) Larry Vienneau

Ernie Root's Kadet Longbow and Recurve Bow

Kadet and Kadet X154

The Root Kadet bow had a longer production run than any other Root or Shakespeare bow. It was first introduced as a longbow in the Root Archery line around 1956-57 and later became a recurve in 1958. It continued until 1970 as the Kadet X154 and was marketed by Shakespeare Archery.

 Kadet 62" and 64"

In the late 1950s, Ermie Root partnered with Shakespeare to create high-quality and affordable bows. By 1963, all Shakespeare bows were based on Root's designs. Shakespeare eventually acquired Root Archery, which had been a supplier for many years. Root sold some of his designs to Shakespeare, which were modified and given new names. For example, the Root Warrior was renamed the Necedah X26, the Brush Master became the Kaibab X27, and the Field Master was renamed the Ocala X17. In 1968-69, Shakespeare purchased Root's factories and production facilities, forming "The Root Archery Division of the Shakespeare Company." The first bows produced after this merger featured the name "ROOT BY SHAKESPEARE." Eventually, the "Root" name was phased out completely.

1969 Root Kadet

1967 Root Kadet

Shayne Efaw shared photos of his excellent Lefty 1966 64-inch Kadet with red glass, thanks, Shayne!

Joseph Spallone's Root Kadet, Thanks, Joseph!

" I’m a right-handed shooter, but I have recently started shooting left-handed. I love the bow, it shoots fantastically, has no hand shock, and arrows seem to go exactly where I want them. It seems to have a very smooth draw" Shayne Efaw

Kadet was promoted in the 1958 Catalog:

"In its price range, this modified working recurve is in a class by itself. Note the many features usually found in a bow twice its price. Selected maple overdraw type handle section, center shot, full 6" sight window, laminated nock refinement. 1 ½ wide limbs. The workmanship of this fine weapon makes it an outstanding value. 25- 55 lbs. $29.50"

Late 1956-57 Root Kadet Longbow

The Kadet bow was designed as an affordable option for beginners. While typically available in lower draw weights for young archers, it was also capable of being a powerful hunting tool with a maximum weight of 55 lbs.

Kerry Stout took this turkey with a 1956-57 48# Kadet Longbow

Throughout its history, this bow has undergone several modifications. Initially, it was a longbow, but later transformed into a recurve. Between 1958 and 1970, it measured 64", while from 1959 to 1964, it was 62" long. Made from Native maple, this bow has proven to be exceptionally durable and dependable. Its unique design has even influenced the aesthetic of the Shakespeare Yukon X24 and Custer X22.

comparison Root Kadet with Shakespeare Custer and Yukon

Kadet and Kadet X154

• ·         Years: Kadet 1956-1969, Kadet X154 1970-71
•         Longbow 1956-57, recurve after 1958
•          Limb 1 ½
•          Sight window 6"1957-65 & 1968-71, 5 ½" 1966-67 only,
•          Brace 7 ½
•          1958, 1960, 1962, 1965-70 it was a 64" bow
•          1959, 1961-64 it was a 62" bow
•          Weights 25- 55 lbs., 45lbs after 1966
•          Brown, Red, Grey, Black, and Green Fiberglass
•          Riser wood: Maple
•          Sight window:  6 inches, 5 1/2 only in 1966
•          Brace height: 8 inch
•         Leather rest 1957-1964, Red feather arrow rest, calf hair or leather strike plate after 1965

copyright Larry Vienneau 2018 (C)

Root Sporter Recurve

ROOT SPORTER RECURVE, A HANDSOME ECONOMY BOW

By Larry Vienneau

Looking into early Root bows can be challenging due to the limited availability of written descriptions. Ernie Root didn't publish many catalogs, and not many have been preserved. Thus, tracing the lineage of each model can be a daunting task. Nonetheless, we've gathered the most reliable information on the Root SPORTER Recurve, which first appeared in a 1957 Root catalog. This intermediate bow was priced in the medium range.

1959-60 Root SPORTER, 43#, 64"

"SPORTER 5’ 4" This high-performance bow features deflexed limbs with fully working recurves, an attractive, rigid handle section, a full 6" sight window, limbs full 1 ¾ wide, available 25-60 lbs. $49.50" from 1958 Catalog.

Although it was not marketed as a low-end bow, it was priced similarly to the tournament SCORE MASTER bow. This bow was crafted for eight years using exquisite exotic woods and adorned with wood tip overlays, with the riser crafted from either solid exotic wood or exotic laminated wood. In contrast, Root's more affordable bows were made using sturdy yet cost-effective native woods. Despite its lack of recognition, this bow is a hidden gem, with stunning examples available online.

1964 Root Sporter, solid riser

One intriguing aspect of the SPORTER is its draw weights. From 1958-1966, it was the sole Root bow available at 60 lbs. (unless a special order was placed). After 1968, Root began offering hunting weights up to 65 lbs. without the need for special orders. Ernie Root designed this bow specifically for hunting purposes. 

1963 SPORTER with Zebra Wood lamination.

The 1963 SPORTER is a stunning bow, with a riser made of laminated zebrawood. This exclusive wood was reserved for only the finest bows by Root and Shakespeare Archery Divisions. The SPORTER was discontinued by Root after 1966 and replaced by the 66" RANGE MASTER in 1965. Once Root dropped the 64" SPORTER in 1966, the RANGE MASTER was available in both 64" and 66" AMO versions. Root essentially merged the RANGE MASTER and SPORTER into one bow, resulting in a loss of five pounds of draw weight. This bow would make a fantastic addition to any vintage bow collection.

Jacki Clauson shared his Root Sporter in outstanding condition.

During the summer of 2019, I stumbled upon a remarkable Root Sporter. This unique left-handed bow was a rare find, and it was impeccably preserved. The bow, which dates back to 1962, features red glass on the back and white on the belly, making it an excellent addition to my collection. I enjoy shooting it immensely!

My beautiful LH Root Sporter

It is a beautifully grained Zebra wood riser with red and white glass.

ROOT SPORTER RECURVE specs:

• years 1958-66

• Limbs 1 3/4 inch, white, red, or green glass

• wood overlay tips

• riser: exotic woods laminations or solid

• draw weight 25-60lbs.

• Brace height 8 inches

• 64" AMO

  
  

copyright Larry Vienneau 2018 (C)

Root Score Master Longbow

ROOT SCORE MASTER

by Larry Vienneau

Ernie Root is in the right back row. Bob Bitner, National Champion 

in front right 

From the Root Archery 1959 Green Catalog: "This outstanding 4-man indoor team from Big Rapids Archery Club uses the "Score Master" Straight end bow because of its extreme stability."

Ernie Root crafted straight limbed, and recurve bows in the mid-1950s. Among his early creations were longbows such as the Target Master, Score Master, and Kadet. However, by 1959, only the Score Master remained a longbow in Root's lineup. Eventually, in 1960, Root ceased production of the Score Master model.

1958? Score Master Custom 68" with green glass.

 When I wrote my post on the Target Master, I found very little online information.( https://shakespearearchery.blogspot.com/2018/05/ernie-roots-target-master.html ) During my research on this particular model, I was unable to find any useful information on archery forums or in printed materials from that period, except for two catalogs that I personally own - one from 1957 and one from 1959. As a result, this particular bow is one of Ernie Roots' more obscure models. Before 1956, Root offered two lines of bows: the "Master" line - which included the Game Master, Field Master, and Target Master - and the "King" line, which included the Field King and Target King. The Field King and Target King were only produced for a brief period and are very rare, with little information available about them.

pre-1958 Root Target King, 68" 39#

I enjoy using a longbow and have crafted numerous fiberglass, wood laminate, sinew-backed, and self-bows. When wielded by a skilled archer with proper arrows, a well-made longbow can surpass a recurve in accuracy. Although a recurve may offer faster speeds, a longbow can still hit a bull's eyes from a distance. While living in Alaska, I trained to make long shots using a 74# longbow at ranges of 40-65 yards. This practice paid off in field competitions and hunting moose and caribou. Through my longbow experience, I have gained a full understanding of its advantages in tournament settings. A stable platform can launch an arrow with substantial force. However, in the late 1950s, the trend shifted towards recurves, and Ernie Root may have needed to adapt by phasing out his Score Master.

1958? Score Master Custom, 70" 38#. note the slightly reflexed tips.

1959? Score Master Custom70" 36#. 

I rarely review a bow without first shooting or inspecting an example of the model. Unfortunately, due to scarcity, I will have to rely on Ernie Roots' description from his 1957 red catalog. 

Larry Root found this in 1957? Score Master Custom in his garage!! Thanks, Larry !!

SPECS: SCORE MASTER

• Years- 1956-59?
• two lengths- 68" and 70" (custom)
• weights: 25-50lbs
• Glass: woven white
• sight window: 7 inches
• left hand (custom)
• straight limb
• 2-inch-wide limbs 
• brace height- 7- 8 inch

copyright Larry Vienneau 2018 (C)

Ernie Root's Target Master

ROOT TARGET MASTER

by Larry Vienneau

1957 ad

Ernie Root, a renowned bow maker, gained popularity for his unique naming convention of using "Master" on his bows. He crafted bows with names such as Score Master, Target Master, Field Master, Range Master, Game Master, and Brush Master. Ernie began his career at American Archery in Chicago during the late 1940s before starting his family business, Root Archery, in the early 1950s in suburban Chicago. As the business grew, it relocated a couple of times before finally settling in Big Rapids, MI. Ernie was also a skilled tournament archer who set a record for an individual score of 836 in 1947, which remained unbeaten until 1959. During the 1950s, Ernie focused on crafting straight-limbed target longbows. Although not much information is available about his Target Master, it is known that it started as a longbow and eventually evolved into a recurve by 1957. However, dating most of his earlier bows is difficult as Ernie did not publish many catalogs, and the ones available lack dates.

a young Archery Champion Bob Bitner with his Target Master

1957?

The Target Master bow came in various lengths during its production period. Between 1956 and 1959, it was available in 67", 68", and 70" sizes. However, after 1960, it was solely produced as a 68" bow. Additionally, it could be customized to a 70" length with extra wood on the riser for over-draw purposes. The primary focus behind the creation of the Target Master was accuracy and performance, with careful attention given to weight distribution for optimal balance. Its lightweight design allowed for a smooth draw and release, making it a preferred choice among archers of its time. Besides, it was also known for its durability, making it a long-lasting option.

1958? ad with a description of the overdraw

1959

TARGET MASTER SPECS:
• Before 1956: 68” and 70” six-inch sight window. Two-inch limbs Longbow
• 1957: 68” and 70” 7 ½ sight window Two-inch limbs recurve
• 1958: 67”, 68”, and 70” 7 ½ sight window Two-inch limbs recurve
• 1959: 68” and 70” 7 ½ sight window Two-inch limbs recurve
• 1960-65: 68” and 8-inch sight window Two-inch limbs recurve
• 1966-69: 68” 7 ½ sight window Two-inch limbs recurve
  
• Brace height 7 ½ to 8 ½ inch
• Draw weight 25lbs- 55lbs, heavier weights custom ordered.
• Left-handed bows custom ordered
• Glass teal green, Dark green, and/or white
• Wood tip overlay

1960-63? 

I own a vintage Target Master longbow that dates back to pre-1957. Despite its weight of 53#, it shoots accurately with minimal hand shock. However, I have been on the lookout for a left-handed Target Master recurve but haven't had much luck so far. Some of the bows I've come across were either too light or too beaten up. The mid-1960s Target Master is a more affordable option as compared to the Root Pendulus, but the design of both bows became similar in the late 60s. I am a proud owner of a Pendulus and it is one of my most favored target bows. I anticipate that the Target Master will offer a similar shooting experience.

1965-69? 

Joey Zoppa's bow serial D5202....1965?

1966-69? 

I have a Shakespeare Model 100 from 1960 that closely resembles the Root Target Master of that era. This target bow has a length of 68 inches and a draw weight of 55 pounds. It's the smoothest and most enjoyable bow to shoot that I own. The riser and limb designs are similar enough to indicate a likeness in shooting performance. It's worth noting that all of the Shakespeare bows produced between 1959 and 1970 were designed by Ernie Root.

comparison Target Master

vs. Model 100

my restored Target Master pre-1957 longbow 53#

any additional information will be appreciated 
copyright Larry Vienneau 2018 (C)