Barber Ranch Two-Day Archery shoot set for June 16-17

June 16-17, the Bear Paw Bowmen Archery Club will be hosting its 20th annual Barber Ranch Two-Day Archery Shoot in the Bear Paw Mountains, south of Havre.

The Barber Ranch Two-Day Archery Shoot has become one of the most premier archery events in the state of Montana.

With the concept of family sport and fun in mind, the shoot has become the annual “family reunion” for far more than 300 shooters and families and continues to grow every year. In fact, the shoot has become somewhat of an international event, with equal amounts of Canadian shooters as well as shooters from several neighboring states.

The Barber Ranch shoot is unique in that it is hosted on private land, 25 miles south of anything that closely resembles civilization, by Frank and Bettie Barber. There are no phones, limited cell service, electricity or amenities. Once there, the site becomes a “mini city,” with all families becoming one.

The shoot has 80 targets set over four courses that cover approximately 4 miles of mountain terrain with several fun shoots for all to participate in the evenings. Shooters include all classes and all styles, from all ages 3 years to 80 years and everything in between.

The shoot has competitors, families and friends shooting together and all enjoying a free brisket dinner on Saturday night, provided by the club and donors.

Sunday afternoon, following the competitions and awards, the club offers raffles, door prizes and bonus prizes. Each year club members attempt to solicit as many local and national donations as possible in order to try to ensure that most leave with at least one prize. Although this is a tedious and labor intensive effort by club members, it is well worth the time as most local merchants are more than eager to donate something, no matter how small.

All contributions are acknowledged in the shoot program and banners around the course site. Proceeds from the club’s shoots are donated to local charities, scholarship funds and community improvement issues voted on by the members.