Hunting always seems to be evolving, in particular the weapons used to hunt game. Prior to 1966, longbows were all the rage, but that year things changed when Holles Wilbur Allen applied for the first compound bow patent. By 1974, eight companies were manufacturing compound bows and more would soon follow. By the early 1980s, as more states allowed their use during archery seasons, the compound had become the predominant hunting bow and was largely responsible for elevating bowhunting to its current popularity.
In 1985 Tony Knight introduced the MK-85, the first modern inline muzzleloader. Due to its simple, user-friendly design, accuracy and reliability, the inline concept elevated the interest in hunting with muzzleloaders to new heights. Throughout the 1980s and early '90s, inlines continued to be the hottest ticket going, and nearly four decades later, remain the most popular muzzleloader design in use today.
In more recent times, the crossbow has been making its mark. Although controversial in some quarters, there is little doubt that horizontal bows have increased in use. Presently, every state except Oregon allows crossbows for some form of hunting, at least 30 during archery deer
