Beginner’s Guide to
Archery
By: Audrey Thomas
Note from the Author
Table of Contents
Dear Reader, In this beginner’s manual, you will find all of the basics and ‘secret tricks’ of shooting archery. I have included in this book all of the things I wish I had known when I started shooting.
History
Best of luck and shoot straight!
Organizations & Programs
Audrey Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Heather Breshears Cover Photo Courtesy of Audrey Thomas
Equipment Choice Mechanics of Shooting Types of Shooting
Additional Resources
Prehistoric people used bows to hunt game. Pictographs depict people using bows 1567-1320 B.C. Favorite Sport of Egyptian pharaohs.
1027-256 B.C. 1st tournament in China during the Zhou dynasty
1200 B.C. Hittites and Assyrians shot from chariots in battle.
1509-1547 A.D. King Henry VII’s reign. -Last accomplished archer in battle -People required to practice archery 1900; 1904; 1908; 1920 Archery is temporarily an Olympic Sport 1972 Archery is a permanent Olympic Sport
History Archery dates back to prehistoric humans and can be seen in pictographs. All of humanity seems to have discovered the use of bows and arrows around the same time, with the Far East slightly ahead of the rest of the world. Some historians claim that archery is the second most vital discovery of man, the first discovery being fire. Archery is even mentioned and used in the Bible. Genesis 27:3 “Now then, please take your gear, your quiver and your bow, and go out to the field and hunt game for me.” In the 18th dynasty (1567 – 1320 B.C.) archery was the favorite sport of Egyptian pharaohs. By 1200 B.C. the Hittites and Assyrians shot from chariots in battle, making them a force to be reckoned with. Later in the Zhou dynasty (1027 – 256 B.C.) China had the first tournament. All of the nobility attended the event. The last accomplished archer in battle before the invention and use of guns was King Henry VIII of England. During his reign (1509 – 1547 A.D.) all citizens were required to practice archery. The king himself practiced daily, shooting up to 200 yards using a warrior’s shield as his target, rarely missing. Archery made its debut in the Olympics in 1900, reappearing in 1904, 1908, and 1920 before becoming a permanent event in 1972.
Equipment Choice Bow There are many different options and brands of bows to select from depending on the shooter and the intended purpose for the bow. Long bow, recurve, compound, and crossbow are all different disciplines available. The most common dicipline is compound. These bows allow for more adjustments to the individual.
Photo Courtesy of Pat Thomas
They also have a let off. A let off is the percent of the pull weight that the bow holds for the shooter when the bow is at full draw. Compound bows are specific to the shooters draw length and pull. Draw length is the distance from one shoulder to the other hand. The pull is the weight that the archer pulls back until they hit the break point. A bow has a specific range of pull set by the manufacturer. As the archer practices and can pull more, the bow allows the shooter to adjust or increase the weight until they reach the maximum pull weight.
Photo Courtesy of Luke Tschantz
Crossbow Crossbows are a viable option for hunting. They may be used during the Alternative Methods season or during the Archery season if the shooter has a special permit. They are also an alternative for shooters that have physical limitaions or restrictions.
Photo Courtesy of Pat Thomas
One feature crossbows have is the option to add a crank. A crank is a devise that attaches to the string and pulls the string back as the shooter ‘cranks’ the handle.
Sights Much like all equiptment in archery, sights are specific to the shooter and the event. Indoor shooters with more experience often like to use a “dot” sight. These sights have a magnifying lense and a single dot. Using this sight allows the shooter to see the target better and make a more precise shot. Outdoor shooters often opt for a sight with multiple pins, with each pin set for a different distance. Some traditional shooters choose to shoot without sights. This is also called shooting by instinct.
Release There are three basic types of releases: your fingers, a trigger release, or a back tension release. Using fingers is typically for traditional shooters. Photo Courtesy of Brandon Zurowski
A trigger release is a good option for beginners.
Rest The rest is attached to the bow and holds the arrow during the shot. There are several options, a whisker biscuit is the most common rest. It is a circle with bristles that holds the arrow during the shot. Other common rests include a pronged rest or a fall away rest.
Stabilizer The purpose of a stabilizer is to help balance the bow during the shot and the follow through. Stabilizers vary in length and how many are used based on the type of shooting. Outdoor shooters often opt for one small (roughly six inchs long) stabiliizer, where as indoor shooters sometimes opt for three longer stabilizers.
Photo Courtesy of Brandon Zurowski
Arm Guard Arm guards vary in length and material. The sole purpose of an arm guard is to protect the shooter from getting ‘slapped’ or hit by the string. Which guard a shooter chooses is solely up to personal preference and what best works for the shooter. Some traditional shooters prefer a leather arm guard because it is more historically accurate. As a shooter becomes more experienced an arm guard may not be necessary.
Finger Saver Finger savers are typically only used by traditional shooters. A finger saver goes over the fingers to protect them if the shooter chooses to use their fingers as a release. Finger savers can be a modified glove or little pads that cover the bends of the fingers used to shoot.
Photo Courtesy of Archerycoach.wordpress.com
Photo Courtesy of Audrey Thomas
Sling Slings help ensure that the shooter holds the bow consistantly. Slings can go around the shooter’s wrist or fingers.
Binoculars and Range Finders Binoculars serve a purpose for indoor and outdoor archers. For indoor archers it allows checking shots or the score of an arrow during the shooting period. When shooting outdoor it allows the shooter to see the kill zone without having to go up to the target. Range finders are used to find the distance between the shooter and the target when shooting outdoor. However, range finders are not typically allowed in competition.
Arrows The shaft of an arrow can be made out of several different materials from wood to aluminum to carbon. The type of arrow chosen may be based off of the type of shooting and the durability required of the arrow. Wood is a good material and is used by traditional archers, however it can splinter or shatter easier than other materials. Aluminum is light weight and may also be used. The last option is a carbon compound. This option is the most common choice. Another option is a shaft that is made of both Aluminum and Carbon. These arrows are both light weight and durable. The fletching of an arrow, or the veins, is that part that effects how accurate the arrow flies. Fletchings can be made from feathers or plastic materials. Feathers are more commonly used by traditional shooters than by shooters that use a compound or crossbow. Fletchings are either parallel to each other or wrap
around the shaft in a spiral pattern. At the end of the arrow with the fletchings is the knock. The nock is the part of the arrow that connects it to the string. Nocks are typically made out of plastic and come in a variety of colors, some even glow in the dark.
Point/Tip The point or tip of the arrow is the part that pierces the target. There are several types of tips based on what the intended target is. Blunt Blunt tips are used strictly for practice. Target, Bullet, Rabbit Target, bullet, and rabbit tips are all similar and are classified in the same category. These tips may be used on targets or small game. JUDO JUDO points are used solely for small game. Fish Fish point is used when bow-fishing. The tip pierces the fish and the wires hold the fish on the arrow while it is pulled in. Broadhead/Mechanical Broadhead arrows are used when hunting larger game. These tips have blades that ensure a humane harvest. Mechanical tips are broadheads that have blades that expand when shot/upon impact.
Quiver A quiver holds the arrows while they are not in use. There are many different types of quivers
Photo Courtesy of Archery Talk
made of many different materials. Different quivers are made to go over the shoulder, attach to a belt, attach to the bow, or freestand on the ground. Pick the quiver best fit for the intended discipline.
Choosing the Right Gear Choosing the right gear can seem intimidating with so many different brands and options available. The key is to focus on the manufacturer standards and the settings of the gear. Bow When picking a bow think about how much the bare bow weighs. What is the warranty? The best thing to do is to research different bows and companies to make sure the bow that you purchase is the best fit bow for you as a shooter. Draw length Your draw length is the distance from one shoulder to the opposite hand. When buying a bow make sure that the bow will accommodate your draw length. This is particularly important for men. Let off The let off on a bow varies based upon how new the bow is and the manufacturer. Let off can range anywhere from 50 to 80 percent. Ladies, if possible get a bow that has a higher percent let off. It will make shooting multiple rounds more comfortable. Accessories Picking the right release, stabilizer, quiver, etc. can be challenging. Think about the level of experience as a shooter you have and what kind of archery you want to partake of. Are you shooting indoor? Maybe you want a back tension release, two longer stabilizers, and a quiver that attaches at the waist or a freestanding quiver.
Are you shooting outdoors? Maybe you want a trigger release, one short stabilizer, and a quiver that attaches at the waist or on the shoulder. When you know what your goals are picking gear becomes more simple.
Man vs Woman vs Child Choosing the right equipment varies from person to person. It is important to consider the range of the pull weight, draw length, let off, and other standards of the gear when purchasing. Gear manufacturer standards vary based upon the intended archer.
Photos Courtesy of Pat Thomas
Man Gear that is made for men typically has a heavier pull weight range and a longer draw length range as compared to bows made for women or children. These bows also usually weigh more. The pull weight can range anywhere from 30 to 80 pounds depending on the bow and purpose. Woman Bows made for women usually have lighter pull weight ranges (30 to 50 pounds) and shorter draw lengths. These bows are typically the lightest. Child A bow made for a child is sometimes similar to one made for a woman. These bows have lighter pull ranges and shorter draw lengths. How much adjustment the bow has and the specifics depend on the type of bow. If it is an introductory bow the pull weight will be lighter and the draw length will vary. If the bow is not an introductory bow the settings will be more specific.
Photo Courtesy of Archerycoach.wordpress.com
Mechanics of Shooting
Photo Courtesty of Archerycoach.wordpress.com
Etiquette Indoor When shooting on an indoor line it is important to think about the other shooters on the line. While on the line make sure that your gear does not hit other shooters or their equipment. During an active line make sure that you wait until the shooter in front of or behind you has completed their shot before entering or leaving the shooting line. Being quiet is also respectful of other shooters and their routines. Outdoor When shooting outdoors it is important to constantly think about safety, unlike indoor shooting there are not clearly marked lanes for shooting. Outdoor shooting is about knowing the limits of your gear and knowing where other shooters are. Being quiet during shots is polite. Photo Courtesy of Audrey Thomas
If a shooter loses an arrow consider offering to help them look for the arrow after everyone has shot.
Anchor Point Anchor points vary from person to person. Common anchor points are string to nose, behind the ear, back of the head, or the cheek. Peep sights are also a good option. A peep sight is a small circle that is attached to the string. When the shooter is at full draw and is in the proper position they can see through the sight to their front sight. This ensures that the shooter is aligned the same way every shot. The key is to find one or more anchor points that work and make sure that they are consistent for every shot.
Stance Stance is another important factor. When shooting archery the shooter’s feet should be shoulder width apart, facing sideways toPhotos Courtesy of Luke Tschantz wards the target, the front elbow should be very slightly bent, and the front hand should be relaxed. When shooting the shooter should “T up”, or make sure they are standing straight and tall and their back and front arms are both level. If the front fingers are pointed outward, make sure they are together and out of the path of the fletchings to avoid injury. While shooting do not forget to breathe. Ladies, for comfort consider turning slightly inward when shooting. Also consider bending the front elbow slightly more or turning the front wrist slightly inward.
Shot sequence A shot sequence is the steps that it takes to make a successful shot. Each orgnization’s list of steps varies a little, but the core concepts are shown in the chart to the left. 1. Stance Make sure that your stance is correct. Check your feet, make sure you’re standing up straight, and make sure your shoulders are square. 2. Nock Nock the arrow. 3. Set the draw hand Make sure that the release is on correctly. If using a trigger release make sure that the release is completely attached. 4. Set the bow hand If using a sling check that it is on. Make sure that the bow is sitting in the front hand in the right position and the hand is relaxed. 5. Pre-Draw Look at the target. Think about the shot. 6. Draw Draw the bow back in a smooth motion. 7. Anchor Check to make sure that all of the anchor points are correct. 8. Aim Aim at the target. First look at the sights and then focus solely on the target. 9. Shot Set-up Don’t forget to breathe. That is important. Think about the shot. 10. Release Breathe out and release. Keep looking at the target. 11. Follow Through Continue looking at the target. Do not let Photo Courtesy of Erika Cooperman the bow hand fall. Think about the shot, what improvements can be made?
Sighting in Sighting in a bow is very different from sighting in a gun. For a gun you run from the bullet, or move the sights the opposite direction from the way of correction to adjust. With a bow you chase the arrow when making adjustments.
Run from a Bullet and Chase an Arrow...
To sight in focus on the center of the target and shoot. Aiming at the same place shoot two more arrows. Evaluate the group and adjust the sights accordingly. Adjust the sights by using an Allen wrench to loosen the sight knobs. Move the knob an appropriate number of clicks or turns in the correct direction. Group three more arrows. Repeat this process until the group is where it is supposed to be. Do not forget to use the Allen wrench to retighten the sights when sighting in is finished. As the archer becomes more experienced the adjustments can be made after each arrow is shot.
Photo Courtesy of Audrey Thomas
Types of Shooting Single/One Spot A single spot target is on the back side of a five or three spot target. Depending on which target it is with the color may be blue and white or yellow, red, and blue. This target is perfect for beginning archers or sighting in. Once the shooter becomes more skilled it is reccommended to prevent ‘robinhooding’ or shooting their own arrows.
Five Spot Five spot is commonly used in leagues. These targets are blue and white. Each arrow can score up to ten points and an x. The arrow is scored based upon what line on the target is broken.
Three Spot/Vegas Three spot targets may be used in league. These targets are also called Vegas targets because they are used at the World Archery Tournament in Las Vegas, Nevada. These targets are yellow, red, and blue. The targets also are scored more precisely than a five spot target or single spot target.
Bags Bags are targets that can be carried and moved as needed. They come in several colors and patterns from different companies. They may also be made out of different materials. Some bags are ‘self healing’ meaning that when shot the material ‘heals’ itself when the arrow is pulled out. Bags are ideal for practicing at home or when travelling. These targets can have either a spot target on it or the kill zone for an animal. Some of them have both on the same bag, one on the front and the other on the back.
2D 2D targets are flat versions of animals with marked kill zones. 2D targets may be made of paper or foam. These targets may be shot indoors or outdoors.
3D 3D targets are three dementional, foam versions of animals with marked kill zones. These targets are shot outdoors. Typically 3D targets are placed on courses, or a path in the woods or a field with the targets set at different distances. Each target will have either one or two shots marked that the archer must take. Stakes mark where the shot or shots should be taken from. Often the stakes are colored based on the class or competition group that the shooter is in.
Photos Courtesy of Audrey Thomas
Competition Leagues Leagues are a weekly commitment. Each week a shooter and their team shoots for score. These scores are kept on reccord and at the end of the league the running totals are compared. At the end the most improved team and individual are awarded.
Indoor Indoor archery competitions can be anything from league to State, Nationals, or the World Archery Competition.
Outdoor Outdoor archery competitions are usually 2D or 3D, but may also be targets.
YHEC Youth Hunter Education Challenge is not a solely archery competition, but contains a segment of archery.
State The state shoot is an annual indoor shoot for archers all over the state. This competition could be individuals, schools, or club teams.
Nationals/Kentucky Nationals is an annual indoor shoot held in Louisville, Kentucky. Shooters come from all over the country to compete. This competition also could be individuals, schools, or club teams.
World/Vegas The World archery competition is held every year in Las Vegas, Nevada. People come from all over to compete.
Organizations & Programs NASP The National Archery in Schools Program helps to implement archery into schools. This program helps schools to form teams and organizes competitions.
YHEC Youth Hunter Education Challenge tests the skills of archery, rifle, muzzleloader, orienteering, wildlife identification, hunter safety, and more in a two day event. This organization allows clubs/teams to compete in all of the different subjects.
Missouri Bowhunters Missouri Bowhunters is a club that bowhunters can join. They host 3D tournaments. Other states have similar programs as well.
Archery Clubs Several places or towns have established clubs that organize leagues either indoor or outdoor.
Leagues Leagues are a way to compete in various disciplines of archery depending on what archery season it is. Leagues are typically organized by a club or association.
Programs in Schools NASP National Archery in the Schools Program is an opportunity for students to get the chance to shoot. The NASP program also has grants that schools can apply for to help with the start up cost of a school team. There are three shooting divisions: Grade School (4th - 6th), Middle School (7th - 8th), and High School (9th - 12th). NASP has its own specific guidelines for shooters. Only stock TM Genisis bows may be used to compete. No sights or sight lines may be used. Camo bows are allowed if the camo pattern on the riser is covered to prevent the pattern from serving as sight lines. No stabilizers are allowed. Easton aluminum 1820 arrows are to be used. These arrows may have a NASP or Genesis TM sticker on them. Only three veins are allowed on arrows. During competition the whistle system is observed. Five or more whistles for an Emergency, two whistles to get bow, one whistle to shoot, and three whistles to go get arrows. During competitions there will be shooting flights A and B. NASP does have a dress code. Shooters must wear closed-toed shoes and follow the dress code established for their school.
Olympics Olympics As mentioned earlier archery made its debut in the Olympics in 1900, reappearing in 1904, 1908, and 1920 before becoming a permanent event in 1972. The Olympics has its own set of rules and dress code that must be observed.
Photo Courtesy of Olympics.org
The most accomplished archer to ever compete in the Olympics was Hubert Van Illniss from Belgium. Van Illniss competed in 1900 and 1920, winning six gold metals and three silver metals, the most metals any archer has ever received.
Paralympics The Paralympics are scored the same as the Olympics. There are four basic divisions. W1 are shooters that have a disability that affects both their upper and lower body and use a wheelchair for mobility. W2 are shooters that have a disability that affects only their lower body and use a wheelchair for mobility.
Photo Courtesy of Paralympic.org
W3 are shooters with a disability that are able to shoot standing with some form of support. Compound is the last division. This division is for individuals qualified for any of the W divisions that choose to shoot comound bows with mechanical releases and sights.
Chart Courtesy of Missouri Outfitters
Hunting Seasons On the left hand page there is a chart of the general season. For more information look at the Department of Conservation website or get the app. Remember when hunting that it is important to be aware of the surroundings and keep in mind the effective range of the equipment. A range finder is a great way to ensure that the animal is within the range of a humane harvest.
Blinds Blinds are good for bowhunting. Being in a blind allows the shooter to remain level with the animal while still being hidden from sight. One helpful tip while in the blind would to be a comfortable, quick access place to store the bow for the duration of the hunt. The strings that tie the blind to the structure may be a good option. By using a quick release knot the bow remains easy to access and out of the way.
Treestand Treestands are great for going undetected. When using a treestand remember to bend at the waist. A great way to store a bow while in the stand is to put a hook for a backpack either on the stand or the tree. This keeps the bow out of the way and secure.
Photo Courtesy of Bowhunter.com
Additonal Resources Archery by USA Archery Archerycoach.wordpress.com ArcheryTalk.com Beginner’s Guide to Traditional Archery Bowhunter.com Bowhunting.com Bows and Arrows of the BIBLE Disabledsportsusa.org Naspschools.org NRA Hunter’s Guide Olympics.org Paralympics.org Shooter’s Bible: Guide to Bow-hunting