Ray Fletcher is the man behind Riverbend Longbows. Ray grew up in New Mexico, but spent much of his adult life in Iowa with his wife, raising their children, and working as a tradesman for a couple of decades. In 2024, Ray and his wife made the bold decision to move to a former homestead in southern New Mexico. We all dream about, and perhaps romanticise a pivot to the simpler lifestyle….but lack the gumption to actually make the move. Well Ray is one of the few folks that took the leap and has since found peace and a newfound freedom while enjoying the Gila National Forest and beyond with his bride, now that their kiddos are grown. Ray is a skilled bowyer, and fabricates simple, yet elegant traditional bows. Take a peek at his work on Instagram and Youtube. Riverbend Longbows: Built with today’s technology, made with yesterday’s pride.  Find Ray at: Instagram: @riverbend_longbows  Youtube: @riverbendlongbowsoutdoors  Keep this podcast on the radio waves. Support our show partners: Polite But Dangerous Tools- Use discount code “bowyer” to save 10% off orders. https://politebutdangeroustools.square.site/ Vuni Gear- Use discount code “bowyer15” to save 15% off your order. https://vunigear.com/ Haven Tents - Use discount code “bowyer” to save 10%. www.haventents.com Selway Archery www.selwayarcheryproducts.com Organic Archery Bow Building School https://www.organicarchery.com/ Swiftwood Bows Bow Building Workshop https://swiftwoodbows.com/workshops