Fred Bear, born in 1902 in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, is widely regarded as a pioneer in bowhunting and modern archery. From humble beginnings, Bear transformed a personal passion into a legacy that continues to shape the archery industry today.
After leaving home at 21, Bear initially worked in Detroit’s automotive industry, but his fascination with archery led him to pursue hunting with a bow. In 1929, he embarked on his first hunting adventures with primitive equipment. Despite early misses, including a notable instance when he failed to hit a snowshoe hare with all six of his arrows, Bear’s dedication never faltered. By 1935, he had successfully taken his first deer with a bow, cementing his commitment to the sport.
In 1933, Bear co-founded the Bear Products Company in Detroit alongside Charles Piper. Initially, the company produced silk-screened goods and advertising materials for the automotive sector. Recognizing a growing interest in archery, Bear began crafting bows with skilled woodworker Nels Grumley by 1938. By 1940, the business had fully transitioned to archery and became known as Bear Archery.
Fred Bear was not just a manufacturer but also a strong advocate for bowhunting. He lobbied for the creation of archery hunting seasons, successfully influencing Michigan to open its first dedicated archery season in 1937. His innovations included the development of the composite bow and other technical advancements that helped modernize the sport. Bear also brought archery to a wider audience through films, television appearances, and magazine articles, showcasing the sport’s potential and inspiring generations of hunters.
Throughout the mid-20th century, Bear Archery grew steadily under his leadership. In 1968, Bear sold controlling interest in the company but continued serving as chairman, ensuring that his vision remained influential. The company later relocated to Gainesville, Florida, and went through several ownership changes, reflecting its adaptation to a growing and evolving archery market.
Bear Archery Today
Today, Bear Archery continues to honor Fred Bear’s vision while embracing modern innovation. The company produces a full range of bows, from high-performance compound bows to traditional recurve and longbows, combining advanced technology with classic craftsmanship. Their products now feature modern materials, precision engineering, and customizable options designed to meet the needs of both new archers and seasoned hunters.
In addition to manufacturing, Bear Archery maintains a strong presence in the archery community through sponsorships, events, and educational initiatives. The company emphasizes quality, reliability, and performance, reflecting the standards Fred Bear established nearly a century ago. By blending tradition with innovation, Bear Archery ensures that Fred Bear’s legacy continues to influence the sport he helped pioneer.
Through decades of growth, Fred Bear’s name remains synonymous with archery excellence, and Bear Archery continues to be a leading force in the industry, offering equipment that respects the past while preparing hunters for the future.
Learn more at beararchery.com
