Shooting a compound bow properly is an incredibly rewarding experience, both in the physical and mental aspects. Whether you are a novice to archery or seasoned pro, understanding the basics and fundamentals of shooting a compound bow is important in getting the most out of your equipment and setting yourself up for success. In this guide, we’ll explore all the must-know details to get you ready to shoot a compound bow.
Table of Contents
Gearing up with Compound Bow Equipment
Having the right gear while shooting a compound bow is key. Knowing the attributes of each piece of equipment and how they work together is the foundation for a successful shot.
Bow
The compound bow itself is typically the most expensive piece of equipment for any archer and the most important in terms of performance. Not all bows are created equal, and it’s important to understand the specifications of your bow and what makes it unique.
Arrow
Arrows come in a variety of sizes, weight, and materials. The correct size arrow for your compound bow is critical for long-term accurate shooting. Choosing the right arrow based on your specific bow is of utmost importance, including the type of arrow rest and the arrow’s spine.
Release Aid and Wrist Strap
Release aids and wrist straps provide comfortable shooting and greater accuracy. Many modern release aids, both wrist straps and hand-held devices, feature adjustable tension so they can be fine-tuned to your preference.
Bow Sight
Bow sights are the devices used to gain an accurate reference point for aiming. They come in all shapes, sizes, and materials and are typically the most important for long-range target shooting. The correct bow sight for you will depend on a few different factors, including the shooting style and the type of bow used.
Broadhead
Broadheads are typically only used for hunting and engaging with a target such as a big game animal or a specific target for recreational shooting. Broadheads are designed to make a clean, deep cut in a target, making them ideal for hunting but also dangerous for practice shooting. Knowing the correct size and category of broadhead for your needs is important.
Establishing Proper Form
Good shooting form is key to success when shooting a compound bow. Proper form allows fluid motion and can be fundamental in influencing the magnitude of the shot.
Anchor Point
The anchor point is the base of your shot, and it should be consistent in order to increase accuracy and minimize fatigue. It’s important to find an anchor point that is comfortable as it will determine the success of your shot. The anchor point is typically found just below the jawline and it is important to ensure that it is not changing from shot to shot.
Stance
The correct stance can lead to improved accuracy by providing a solid foundation for a shot. The feet should be about shoulder-width apart, the knees slightly bent, and the shoulders perpendicular to the target. This allows for a comfortable and consistent shooting posture.
Draw Length and Draw Weight
Draw length and weight are important to consider for optimal shooting performance. Draw length is a measure of the amount of force needed to draw back the bowstring, and draw weight is the amount of pressure on the bow string. Having the right draw length and weight is critical to the accuracy of your shot and should be customized to the individual.
Aiming and Executing the Shot
Once you have the proper equipment, established your form, and determined the proper draw length and weight, you’re ready to aim and shoot.
Aim
When beginning to aim, you want to keep the bow parallel to the ground and begin to pull back, ensuring the correct draw length. As you pull further back, the bow should roll, or arc, upward slightly. This will cause the target to stay in your peripheral vision and help ensure you maintain a consistent anchor point.
When you have reached your desired draw length, release the string while ensuring your elbow and shoulder remain parallel. Be sure to maintain the same shot form throughout the aiming process in order to achieve the best results.
Execute the Shot
When executing the shot, the primary focus should be on maintaining control, as your form and technique will determine the accuracy of the shot. After the correct stroke and follow-through, you should be able to accurately hit the target without too much effort or noise.
Learning to shoot a compound bow correctly is a rewarding experience, both physically and mentally. Having the proper gear is the first step, and once you have set up the bow based on your skill level, the core of the technique is based on having a consistent form. Knowing the correct draw length and weight is essential, as well as having a proper stance and anchor point. Lastly, the aim and follow-through are key components in ensuring an accurate shot. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an expert compound bow shooter and enjoying the sport like never before.
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Last update 2021-01-05. Price and product availability may change.