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)