We have all had a breakthrough moment when we thought we invented the next best, and greatest thing.
My Uncle Jim once invented a spark plug with a gauge on it to measure engine cylinder compression. Motors were still new 100 years ago, so his idea was patented and led to many other variations.
There are very few NEW IDEAS! Most paths have already been traveled. Others have experienced the same moments of solving the same problems. Once the Big Idea has been established, maybe cosmetic changes will work but generally, the Big Idea has already been developed.
Many ideas come from practical solutions. When I became a bow hunter, I needed a way to carry my compound bow. Recurve bows could be shouldered like a rifle sling but the cams on a compound bow prevented that. I went to my wife’s closet and pulled out an old Brown padded bra. She didn’t need the padding, but I thought the cushioning would hep hold my bow in place.
The bra cups fit perfectly over the bow cams. I attached the bra cups to an old adjustable rifle sling and added some stretchy straps to secure the bra cups to the bow and cups. I then added a skirt of camo material to the rig so that the bowstring would be protected and not chaff the string. The Big Idea worked perfectly.
Over the years, several friends, sport hunters, and celebrities saw my Bra Bow Strap. Primos and Cabelas now sell a knock off of my “Knocker inspired Bra Bow Strap”. Will Primos was the first to offer his version, and I met him at a few outdoor shows and marketplaces. I never made a dime but am glad that the idea was big enough to inspire others. He racked up some big sales.
It’s important to be creative and stay abreast of new ideas and inspirations. You don’t want to be a boob. How will you ever get to second base? I will never know exactly how the Bra Bow Idea was shared but, in my heart, I know that it was my wife’s Bra that gave birth to this Big Idea.
Invent Big, invent Bigger!
Montana Grant
