Trophy Ridge

October 28, 2010 By Jon E. Silks

By Jon E. Silks

Trophy Ridge was born out of innovation when founder Chris Rager introduced the archery and bowhunting world to vertical pin technology in 2000. In 2007, Trophy Ridge has unveiled several new products including a rock solid broadhead, two new sight configurations and a lightweight quick-detach quiver.

Bunker Buster Broadhead

In an effort to fortify the interface between the arrow and broadhead, Trophy Ridge designed their new three-blade Bunker Buster broadhead with "over-the-shaft" technology.

The Trophy Ridge Bunker Buster broadhead features "over-the-shaft" technology designed to produce a bomb proof assembly. After driving his new invention through the rib of an African bull elephant, founder Chris Rager said the broadhead was unharmed and ready for the next challenge.

This system features a flared aluminum ferrule that slides over the arrow shaft combining the strength of the insert, shaft and ferrule sandwiched together as a single unit. Further adding to the strength is the case hardened solid steel tip, which extends through the ferrule and threads into the insert.

Approximately half way along its length, the tip's shaft flares to a larger diameter that matches the inside dimensions of the insert providing enhanced support at the arrow's end. Another component of the Bunker Buster head is a large locking collar that pulls the entire assembly together once in place.

The collar is knurled for easy handling. Together, the large diameter collar and flared ferrule reduce drag on the shaft. In assembly, the collar is placed on the shaft followed by the ferrule and then the tip, which is loosely threaded into the insert.

The blades are then "hooked" into the ferrule and secured when the tip is tightened down. This procedure alone creates a solid connection, however, the reverse threaded locking collar further enhances the assembly. Blades are replaceable and each pack of three heads comes with two sets of collars in 100- or 125-grain versions. The Bunker Buster comes in two sizes to fit almost every carbon shaft.

The new Outfitter-X features Trophy Ridge's new Hidden Horizontal Obstruction Technology (HHOT) pins, which are individually adjustable and protrude either up or down from the top and bottom plane of the sight ring. Pins on both the Outfitter-X and Outfitter-AX are made through a metal injection molding (MIM) process creating a durable steel structure.

Innovation abounds in the two models. The X model is equipped with Trophy Ridge's new Hidden Horizontal Obstruction Technology (HHOT) pins that are individually adjustable and protrude either up or down from the top and bottom plane of the sight ring.

A single vertical column results consisting of five bright aiming points (optional sixth pin available). The 'A' in the AX model name refers to the angled pin configuration. Rather than approach the aiming point directly from one side or the other, each pin angles either up or down opening up the center region where the body of an animal usually appears in the sight ring. Pins on both models are made in a metal injection molding (MIM) process creating a strong case hardened steel structure.

The versatility of this process allows Trophy Ridge to limit bends on the pin to a .67-inch diameter causing less light to be lost and in effect increase brightness. So bright in fact that only a .019-inch diameter pin is offered as the prototype .029-inch diameter pin's brightness was overwhelming. Adding to the brightness is approximately 2.5 feet of fiber optic wrapped around a spool built into the pin. Jutting "ticks" on either side of the aiming point are designed to allow sighting--even in shadows.

Common to both models is a bubble level, reflective sight ring, new Ridge Camo finish, threaded LED port and Harmonic Dampers.

Drop Zone Addition

Trophy Ridge improves on their already popular DropZone arrow rest with the addition of the new Guide Series. The launcher arm is now built with a sharper bend to enhance performance for release and fingers shooters alike. A lower profile, which contributes to a weight reduction of 22-percent, allows mounting on even the most space restricting bows.

Lightweight and ready for a long adventure back-in, the new Ridge Hunter Light quiver features aluminum frame construction to lighten the load and an all new Super Snubber Strap that will see to it that your arrows stay intact from start to finish.

Along with familiar Guide Series features, such as micro-tuning and DHD (Dual Harmonic Dampening), the new DropZone includes a Whisper Kit and sports the new film dipped Ridge camo.

Ridge Hunter Light Quiver

Trophy Ridge builds on their Ridge Hunter Quiver series with the introduction of a new one-piece "Light" model. Instead of the traditional wide connecting bracket on most one-piece quivers, generally stationary once attached, the new Light model utilizes a thin aluminum rod, which reduces weight and provides adjustability.

Changes to the position of the quiver body in relation to the attachment point are made possible by the Quick Draw quick detach system. Critical to this system is the hexagonal post that is attached to your bow, tree stand, ATV, belt or tree. Together, with the receiver that is attached directly to the thin rod on the quiver, the post shape allows the quiver to be positioned at six different angles to suit the user's needs.

The quick-detach receiver features a spring-loaded push button for ultra simple and fast attachment and removal. Five holes cut into the insert allow a broadhead to be placed deeper into the hood for additional retention and security. Attached to one end of the replaceable arrow grabber is Trophy Ridge's own Super Snubber Strap, which acts as a seat belt for your arrows on long backpack hunts or for outings in thick brush.

To learn more about Trophy Ridge innovativ

e archery accessories contact: Trophy Ridge, Dept. PB, 664 Cruiser Lane, Belgrade, Montana 59714; (866) 444-7483; www.trophyridge.com