If you’d like to get into archery as a hobby but you have no idea where to begin, we absolutely understand how you feel. A lot of people are really excited to grab a bow and start shooting, but are confused by all the terms and complicated equipment. After all there’s a lot to know! With that in mind, here are some basic introduction to help you get started!
Archery Bows
There are 4 main types of bows: recurve, compound, longbow and crossbows. Read about our article on the Beginners Guide To The 4 Types of Archery Bows. In summary, you are likely to see and use a recurve bows more often as they are simpler to use.
Arrows
In archery, a bow without an arrow isn’t a bow. They usually come in either aluminium, carbon, or wood. Each has specific qualities and specific uses:
- Aluminium Arrows are great for beginners, and they can be used by people who shoot from a recurve bow, as well as by people who shoot from a compound bow. If you go to the range, you’ll probably see a lot of aluminium arrows.
- Carbon Arrows are popular with hunters, and are very popular with people who use compounds bows (although you can use them with a recurve bow too).
- Wood Arrows are the OG arrows! If you decide to get into traditional archery, you’ll learn to love wooden arrows, and eventually you’ll learn how to make your own. You can use wooden arrows with a recurve bow. However, they’re more delicate than aluminium and carbon, so you shouldn’t use them with a compound bow, because they push arrows with incredible force, and wooden arrows can’t always withstand the pressure of a compound bow.
Rules You Should Know
Archery is enjoyed by both adults and kids all over the world. And when everyone follows proper safety precautions, it can be a very fun, very safe hobby! With that in mind, here are some rules you’ll want to keep at the front of your mind at all times.
- Always Follow the Rules of Your Range. Every range has their dedicated rules, and they’re set in place for a reason. You need to learn and follow them to ensure your and other’s safety!
- Always Shoot with Proper Form. Archery is a sport based on repetition, so if you’re shooting with a bad form, you can injure yourself over time.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing. In other words, DON’T wear clothing that can interfere with your shot, and injure you or others. Loose clothing, loose jewelry and open-toed shoes are big no-nos. Additional for ladies, keep your long hair tied up.
- A Damaged Gear is Dangerous Gear. If you suspect that your bow or arrow is damaged, report it and don’t shoot with them. Always conduct an equipment check on your bow to make sure it’s in good condition.
- Only Aim at the Target. Always operate with the idea that you’ll hit what you aim at, so only aim at the target, and never point the bow—drawn or not—at anything you wouldn’t want to hit.
Where Do I Go to Learn Archery?
The easiest way to get hands-on experience and professional guidance is to go to your nearest archery range. Many ranges require you to take an introductory safety class, where you’ll quickly learn the proper way to hold a bow, draw, aim, and so on. Alternatively, there’s Archery Tag! This is great for those who wish to try out the sport while having fun with your friends, family or even colleagues. Contact us today to book your slot now.