Living the American Dream
Blacktail Bow Company — past & future
Over the last 30 years, Blacktail Bows has developed into a traditional archery brand synonymous with elegant design, meticulous craftsmanship and top-end performance. The overwhelming support of loyal customers around the world led to an ever-increasing demand for our bows. This demand became both a blessing and a challenge—resulting in a growing backlog and longer wait times for custom bow orders (exceeding 22 months). On April 9th, 2013, Blacktail determined the time was right to address this challenge. A business partnership was struck when Norm Johnson (Founder) and Alan Pope (Co-Owner) embarked on an expansion initiative designed to take Blacktail Bows to the next level. Production operations were moved at that time from Oregon to Indiana. where, Alan Pope eventually assumed 100% ownership from his friend and business partner, Norm Johnson.
Building on our proud Oregon HERITAGE, the FUTURE is bright in Indiana!
Blacktail Bow Company's vision includes sustained investments in:
We feel blessed to be living the American dream and are excited to see the next chapter of our adventure unfold.
Over the last 30 years, Blacktail Bows has developed into a traditional archery brand synonymous with elegant design, meticulous craftsmanship and top-end performance. The overwhelming support of loyal customers around the world led to an ever-increasing demand for our bows. This demand became both a blessing and a challenge—resulting in a growing backlog and longer wait times for custom bow orders (exceeding 22 months). On April 9th, 2013, Blacktail determined the time was right to address this challenge. A business partnership was struck when Norm Johnson (Founder) and Alan Pope (Co-Owner) embarked on an expansion initiative designed to take Blacktail Bows to the next level. Production operations were moved at that time from Oregon to Indiana. where, Alan Pope eventually assumed 100% ownership from his friend and business partner, Norm Johnson.
Building on our proud Oregon HERITAGE, the FUTURE is bright in Indiana!
Blacktail Bow Company's vision includes sustained investments in:
- our Midwest workshop
- world-class artisans
- expanded R&D
- new product introductions
- expanded online presence
- global distribution
- shorter delivery times
We feel blessed to be living the American dream and are excited to see the next chapter of our adventure unfold.
The Adventure Continues Alan Pope, President
I'm truly honored and humbled to lead our company into the future, continuing the legacy established by my friend and mentor — the legendary Norm Johnson of Reedsport, Oregon. What a refreshing challenge it is to build upon the foundational company he started --driven to produce the finest custom bows in the world.
The concept of 'excellence' is hardwired into the DNA of Blacktail Bow Company — creating a work environment that elevates everything we do. Excellence inspires excellence and translates into people taking pride in creating exceptional products. Working daily with these talented people (sportsmen, artisans and craftsmen) is a special blessing. For me, Blacktail represents the highest level of artistry, craftsmanship and performance. When our customers hold a Blacktail bow in their hands, the quality speaks for itself. Being able to offer such exceptional bows is immensely satisfying! And, with a global customer base as passionate as we are about our products—the future is bright! Our Mission: Blacktail Bow Company is driven to create the finest traditional archery bows in the world. We seek to make the next bow better than the last, always improving and innovating; setting new and higher standards in design, craftsmanship, performance and durability. |
 Norm Johnson, Founder
While Blacktail continues its commitment to bring exciting new product introductions and benchmark innovations to the archery world, the primary commitment will always be quality first. — working hard to ensure the Blacktail Benchmark of Quality is held at the highest level.
As Blacktail moves forward into the next chapter, I’m pleased to have been able to pass the torch to a business partner and friend who shares my commitment to the high quality Blacktail Bow Company is known for. Alan Pope, of Bloomington, Indiana, is a lifelong sportsman (bowhunter, falconer, fly fisherman and former member of the Texas A&M University Archery team). His passion, creativity and vision will continue to be invaluable in advancing the mission of Blacktail. |
