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)