Technology Keeps Making Everything Better

I am a bowhunter by choice and inclination. I like the challenge of mastering what—as crossbows gain popularity—is increasingly referred to as a “vertical bow.” I like having to get close to my quarry to make an ethical shot. I like how my legs still shake whenever a deer walks within range, whether I intend to take it or not.

And I really like that you can now turn your arrow into a bullet.

That’s right. With the Bow-Mag .38/.357 Arrowhead ($39.99 for six at racembac.com), you simply add your own cartridge to the arrowhead, twist to lock the casing threads, and shoot your regular arrow or crossbow bolt. When that sucker hits your target, it goes boom.

On Sportsman’s Guide, 16 reviewers rate this game-changing product 4.9 out of 5 stars. Some of them have even used it. Here’s an unedited review from Lawrence: “SHOT ONE FROM MY BARNETT GHOST 400 WITH A 357 MAG. IN IT AT A COYOTE AT CLOSE RANGE IN MY BACK YARD. SOME HOW I HIT IT IN THE HEAD. THERE WHERE SO MANY PIECES ON MY LAWN, I HAD TO GET MY REAR BAGGER LAWN MOWER OUT TO CLEAN UP MY Yard.” If blowing up a critter’s skull with an arrow doesn’t capture the essence of hunting, I don’t know what does.

Another reviewer, H. Clifford, gives voice to principled sportsmen everywhere, writing, “These are so cool. I always wanted tips for my arrows that could blow up the outhouse like Bo and Luke Duke. I don’t think these will do that, but they will make it hard on game.”

If you’re worried about safety, don’t be. As the product’s website states, “The Bow-Mag is designed with safety in mind, ensuring that rounds will not fire until they hit your intended target…”

From this, I infer that loaded arrows striking something other than your “intended target” will simply fail to detonate. I don’t know exactly how they achieve this—it’s probably over my head—but it is one impressive feat.

The Bow-Mag may not be legal in all states. But then, what is?

I think I speak for bowhunters everywhere when I say that the Bow-Mag .38/.357 is an unparalleled contribution to the ancient art and science of bowhunting. I look forward to the day when I can attach a small rocket-propelled grenade to my arrows. Until then, this will have to do.

Gentlemen, start your rear-bagging lawnmowers.