Some say that hunting becomes an entirely different experience with a bow – using a primitive weapon allows you to engage in primal urges, facing an animal up close when you are about to vanquish it.

Indeed, archery may be quite challenging, but it has fascinated man since prehistory. Right now, this sport is gaining a following in the U.S., and it’s no surprise. Archery is extremely fulfilling, and it can be mastered by anyone regardless of physical build.

As long as you are willing to put in the time, you can become a master at hunting with a bow.

Bowhunting is an addictive sport for some, but without the right equipment, it can be too difficult to be appreciated.

Hunting enthusiasts have a choice as to what type of bow to use. There are two main options for manual draw: traditional and compound bows. This should serve as your first major decision when choosing a hunting bow.

The traditional bow can be a longbow or a recurve bow. A longbow has the standard bow shape – like a capital D – and is usually as long as an archer’s height. Meanwhile, a recurve bow has limbs that curve away at the ends. This distinct shape provides more speed and power to each shot compared to a standard longbow.

Compound bows are the modern versions of the equipment, mechanically designed to deliver more precision. The most distinct characteristic of the compound bow is that it has wheels, or cams, at the end of its limbs. These cams allow the string to store more energy when drawn, releasing compound force, hence the name.

This allows “let-off,” which is described as the effect of the decrease in forces when the archer doesn’t hold all the taut force in the bow, but still gets an accelerated speed when the string is released.

Compound bows are more accurate, powerful, and compact, which is why many hunters prefer these to traditional bows. Still, there are skilled archers who swear by recurve bows when hunting.

Bowhunting is a great challenge even for expert archers, but it’s extremely rewarding as well. Whether you choose a recurve, longbow, or a compound bow, the right fit and release will give you ease of control, comfort, and killer accuracy.

To get started on your adventure, here are key things to consider when picking the right bow for hunting:

Speed refers to a bow’s capacity to release an arrow in a flat trajectory. Speed enables a faster learning curve for an archer, which is why it’s an important feature for bowhunting.

In terms of bows, it’s a fact that compound bows are much faster and more accurate than recurves or longbows. Manufacturers have consistently produced compound bows that shoot arrows at great speeds, and newest ones promise to be faster and lighter.

Because of the compound bow’s longer strings, the archer can pull back further and drive up the speed for each shot.

A traditional bow, on the other hand, has a much slower arrow speed, because the bow itself tends to be heavier, and there’s no let-off that enables good speed with less manual tension.

Traditional bows generate an average speed of under 100 FPS (feet per second), while compound bows launch arrows at about 350 FPS.

Even though compound bows are undisputedly faster, this speed comes with a big tradeoff: durability. Faster shots can damage the bow easily, which means the bow parts (string, limbs) will have a shorter lifespan. Some models need replacement after just a year!

Hence, when looking for a hunting bow, think about its shooting speed. Quicker shots equal more precision, but it will also mean more damage to your bow.

Let-off is particularly relevant for hunting, because you can wait for your prey for longer while in a stationary position. Holding the bow at full draw won’t be too straining, and you will generate a lot of power when you release the arrow.

Let-off makes the compound bow a go-to piece of equipment for many hunters.

Added to any compound bow, sights are attached to the riser, right above the grip. The circular opening is where small, colored pins are fixed on the center, to serve as guides in line with the arrow and bowstring.

Sights can be likened to what you’d see on a rifle. Combine this with the let-off feature, and you will find it easier to place your arrows optimally. The bow will virtually do most of the work for you.

These features are not present in a recurve bow, even in a decked-out model. It rests on the archer to maneuver the bow, get the aim right, and time the release. It requires more skill from the archer to be able to land the same quality of shots as the compound bow.

Accuracy doesn’t necessarily depend on the bow as much as it does on the user. What separates the two are the ease with which an archer can wield the equipment and the inherent learning curve required to master it.

For most bowhunters, the ideal specification stands at 30–33 inches. Even just an inch of deviation will usually be considered a specialty bow that requires more expertise. The market preference is so strong that manufacturers usually add the axle-to-axle length in the model name (e.g., Bow Madness 32) to attract buyers.

Of course, longer doesn’t always mean more accurate, as there are a lot of other factors that can make a bow more or less accurate. Especially with minute differences in axle-to-axle length, there will be little effect on your shooting accuracy.

In terms of weight, compound bows are considerably lighter than traditional recurve or longbows.

But the story doesn’t end there. A light bow can be both a good thing and a bad thing.

Let’s start with the good: lighter bows are more portable and provide more mobility for the archer. Being nimble with a bow makes a tremendous difference when hunting, as you can move about stealthily without alerting your prey.

But having a very light bow affects your stability. This is because weight helps in steadying your shot. Bows that are a bit heavier can keep your stance and draw consistent.

Of course, fans of lightweight compound bows will gladly tell you that stability can be achieved with enough shooting training. You don’t really need weight to learn how to shoot steady.

Lastly, the weight placed in front of the bow means that stabilizers can resist the torque generated from the bowstring, again boosting stability.

As with other bow features, it depends on the archer how long (or short) the stabilizer will be. The key tip to remember is that longer stabilizers combat torque more effectively.

So if you are shooting targets farther, say, 40 yards, you could benefit more from the steadiness of a longer stabilizer.

For ground-blind bowhunters who aim at just about 20 yards, a shorter one will be enough.

The technical makeup of the compound bow, along with its moving parts and assembly, gives it a higher price range than the simpler recurve bow.

The great news is that today’s mid-priced bows showcase quality performance. In fact, paying for really expensive models won’t give you too much of a difference. Sure, you’ll get a bit more speed and a smoother draw, but not so much accuracy. This will ultimately be down to your skill level and training.

This is not to say that price is immaterial when it comes to quality; there’s a reason why expensive bows are the way they are. What’s clear, though, is that mid-priced models will prove to be just as worthwhile as very pricey ones.

Bowhunting is an exciting sport that requires the most efficient tool.

Looking at the key features of both compound and traditional bows, it’s safe to say that compound bows will be more reliable in giving you a good hunting experience. While you still need a whole lot of training to do well in archery, a compound bow’s speed, let-off, and wieldy nature will help guide each shot.

As for a traditional bow like the recurve, it’s less mechanical, yes, but it can also teach you so much about the art of archery. If you are after the journey more than captured game, using a recurve may be more fulfilling.

As always, the most important thing is to choose the kind of bow that completely suits your hunting needs.

But in case you still are not sure, here are 20 reasons why archery is an awesome sport for your kid to learn—whether from you or from an instructor.

Despite the fact that a bow is a weapon and arrows are pointy, archery is surprisingly safe. Just take a look at this:

Fewer than one in every thousand people who participate in archery ever get injured by the sport. Other sports like football, basketball, and baseball which parents more traditionally consider for their children are actually far more dangerous.

Of course, archery is only safe when it is practiced safely by a responsible person. For that reason, it is critical that your child understands and follows the rules to the letter.

Archery gives the body a fantastic workout. It targets core muscles, leading to improvements in not only strength but also stability. This also can improve performance for muscles in the arms and legs as well.

Additionally, strength and flexibility in the hands and fingers is also easy to improve with archery. At the same time, it is possible to build eye-hand coordination.

Last but not least, archery burns around 140 calories per half hour. Many people who enjoy the sport spend much longer than that practicing. That means that it is an excellent way for kids to maintain a healthy weight or lose weight.

Sports, in general, tend to help kids feel good about themselves. But archery is a particularly great option because it is undeniably “badass.” The days when archery was a vital skill for survival or self-defense are long gone, but the association with these things remains.

In some cases, this also can be a selling point with kids who may be hesitant to try other sports. You may be able to get them onboard with the idea without even trying. They may just picture all the badass warriors they’ve ever seen firing arrows in historical or fantasy films and jump right in.

You may worry about your child’s safety while shooting, but there is a flipside. Because safety is so important while practicing archery, it is an ideal chance for children to learn to be more responsible.

The end result will be the child who is safer and more responsible all around. You will end up worrying less as a result all the time. On that note, this is an excellent opportunity for you to put trust in your child. This can improve your relationship and give your kid a chance to prove he or she deserves that trust.

Kids are of course notorious for their impatience. Some children indeed are exceptions, but the vast majority could use some improvement in this area. Archery can help kids develop patience. This trait is essential for success, which is something that every child will discover as he or she practices.

Just think how that could pay off the next time that you need your child to wait patiently for you to do something. It could result in better behavior in day-to-day life and fewer hassles for you.

Team sports tend to be emphasized because they help children to learn certain social skills. But not all children prefer them. Those with a more introverted nature may be happier with a solo sport like archery.

But that does not mean that kids who practice archery are doing so in isolation. On the contrary, when they visit the archery range, they have the chance to meet other children who enjoy the same sport. They may end up developing many of the same social skills, just in a different context.

Does your child take constant breaks while doing homework? For kids who have a hard time focusing, archery can help to sharpen concentration. At first, this may be confined to the range. But over the long run, do not be surprised if you see that same focus applied to schoolwork and other pursuits.

If you have a child who is underconfident, archery may help change that. The change probably will not happen right away. Such a child may struggle at first unless he or she has natural talent.

With time and practice, even those who have poor eye-hand coordination in the beginning can develop strong skills. In the process, they can learn to tolerate their failures, because many failures are needed in order to eventually shoot with accuracy and precision.

When children learn not to get down on themselves for their mistakes, they become more confident. They realize that confidence does not reflect knowing how to do something now, but rather recognizing that they can do something eventually.

If you have a hard time getting your kid to set down his or her console controller to go outside, archery may be just what you're looking for. Sometimes it is easier to convince a child go outside without actually saying, "go outside and play." Just having the chance to pick up the bow and arrows may be enough.

It is common for kids to take an interest in archery if they have already taken interest in history. But sometimes it happens the other way around. A child who takes the archery they want to learn more about its history. This may lead to improvements in academic performance.

Hopefully, there will never be a zombie apocalypse. But in case there is, you can rest assured knowing that your child will be able to hunt for food and defend his or herself against the ravenous hordes. Bows and arrows are perfect for this—just ask any kid who has played The Last of Us.

All kidding aside, children do think this way. This goes back to what I was saying earlier about archery being “badass.” Anything that motivates your kid to exercise, right?

For some children, archery is a chance to participate in sports where other opportunities may not exist. If for example, a disability prevents your child for participating in a sport which involves running, that may not stop him or her from participating in archery.

This is something I touched on already while talking about confidence. But the ramifications go further than that. Not only can children become more confident through this process of learning, but they may also face challenges with more level-mindedness. The perspective they gain may also help them to develop greater risk tolerance as well.

For some children who struggle with sports, the problem isn't a lack of coordination or physical ability. It is difficulty related to executive function. A sport like football or dance could be overwhelming to such a child.

Archery, by contrast, is about as simple as a sport can get. Once a child learns the signals at the range and the basic steps to shoot, he or she should be good to go.

Kids who play sports like football or soccer may be frustrated during the wintertime when harsh weather keeps them from going out to enjoy their sport. While your child can practice at an outdoor range, there are indoor archery ranges as well. That means that it is a sport which can be enjoyed in all seasons.

You probably know that some kids get to go to university on sports scholarships for games like football or basketball. But did you know that archery scholarships are offered as well? If your child becomes a skilled archer, there's a chance that it could help pay for his or her college education.

Is your child a frequent rule breaker? If so, teaching him or her archery may seem counterintuitive. After all, following rules is vital for safety for all participants. Nonetheless, this may be the perfect reason to do it.

The key to training discipline is often motivation. Your child may have a hard time following rules at home and school because he or she is not adequately motivated by something exciting.

But if archery becomes that something, it may be enough to compel even the most problematic rule-breaker to start doing what he or she is told. After all, rule breaking will result in a loss of archery privileges. That is not worth risking.

Once a child learns to follow rules while shooting at the range, it may only be a matter of time before that discipline starts paying off in other areas. Discipline becomes associated with reward.

Even archery is not a team sport, it is a competitive one. Children with a competitive streak will enjoy challenging themselves to best their peers.

What is great about individual sports like this, however, is that they have a certain contemplative aspect. While focusing on a target and trying to perfect one’s aim, one usually is not focused on one's opponents, but simply upon improving performance over one’s previous shot.

Ultimately, this is the only measure of success that really matters. People who learn to stop comparing themselves to others ultimately will end up happier and more well-adjusted in their personal and professional lives. There is no better time to begin than in childhood.

This is also something which I mentioned briefly before, but it deserves to be highlighted. If your child wants to learn archery and you say “no,” the message in your child's brain probably translates to, "My parents don’t trust me or believe in me.”

This is not to say of course that archery is appropriate for every age. But once your kid is old enough, saying “yes” sends a much better message. At that rate, “When you are a little older” is also a supportive response.

What age is appropriate? It is actually a lot younger than you may think. A child as young as three or four can actually get started with a toy set that includes suction cups instead pointed tips on the arrows.

Around age five, your child can probably graduate to arrows without suction cups. Older children and teens should be able to handle arrows with pointed tips without any issues. You or another adult should supervise any child who is new to archery, however, regardless of age. 

When you do hand your child a bow and arrows, the message your child receives is, “My parents trust me to be responsible. They believe in my ability to learn how to handle the bow and arrow safely.”

Never underestimate what this can do to nourish your relationship. And if you take up archery as well, it may be a chance to share an activity which you both love.

If you are hesitant to hand your child a bow, don’t be. Yes, archery requires discipline and responsibility, but it helps to build those things. That is precisely why it is a fabulous sport for younger and older children alike.

Once your child discovers archery, he or she may bloom with greater confidence. Tackling challenges on the range can help kids tackle challenges in the classroom and in life. Consider giving the sport a try yourself as well if you haven’t already. You may discover it becomes an integral part of your life and your child’s, bringing you closer together.

How many calories can you burn shooting arrows? You are just standing in place, right? So it can’t be that many … can it?

According to Prevention magazine, if you spend half an hour on archery, you should burn around 140 calories. This fact actually is not that surprising when you think about it. Not only is it hard work to pull back a bowstring, but you also do a lot of walking back and forth to retrieve your arrows.

Here is a chart from The Economist which puts some perspective on this:

As you can see, archery comes in right behind running a marathon in terms of the calories you can burn.

So the sport is a great way to burn unwanted fat and stay in shape. In fact, I have dropped more than a few pounds myself since I started the sport. I have certainly lost more than I ever did running. Some people love to run, but not everyone gets into it. Archery suits me much better.

Stress relief is obviously important for psychological health, but did you know it is also essential for your physical well-being? Chronic stress can lead to the development of mental illness. Psychological illnesses such as depression can in turn adversely impact physical systems, worsening heart disease and other conditions.

So it is in your best interest to try and alleviate stress in your everyday life. You probably cannot hit the archery range each day, but even if you just do it once a week, it can make a big difference.

I have noticed he gets down on himself less now for his mistakes. He understands that success is the result of repeated errors and failures. This process no longer intimidates him quite so much. He just sees it as part of learning.

When you pick up a bow, in a way, you carry on at least a part of that tradition. You may not be facing enemy soldiers, but you do always face yourself on the range.

Anytime my son talks about archery, his whole face lights up. It is clear he proud of his accomplishments and loves to be a part of this world. His entire disposition and outlook on life seems brighter since we started.

When I say “common,” I mean “nearly ubiquitous.” Doctors here regularly recommend their patients take supplements to make up for the inadequacy.

Now, archery is like our vitamin D supplement, at least when it isn’t raining. We get out for an hour or two at a time, and we have a blast. We enjoy the sunlight and the fresh air.

I’m currently meeting people I have more in common with and can hang out with on the weekends.

It’s easy to overlook the importance of socializing for health, but it cannot be understated. It isn’t just that you stress less and relax more—it goes much further than that. Scientists have even started to discover evidence that socializing may help to ward off dementia.

If that isn’t a fantastic reason to get out more and enjoy socializing around a cool sport like archery, I don’t know what is.

Archery, however, works great! When I am really focused on my aim and am striving to get my arrows closer and closer to the center of the target, I can forget about everything else going on in my life. I am 100% present.

Mindfulness definitely isn’t just for monks. Among its health benefits are reduced anxiety, improvements to mood, and less stress. It can even help with the compulsive thoughts which characterize OCD. For some, mindfulness may combat chronic pain. It can even assist with recovery from addiction.

That is a lot of health benefits just from one aspect of archery. This really serves to illustrate how archery is a sport which is good for body, mind, and spirit. In short, it is a holistic choice for total health.

You now are acquainted with some of the benefits of archery. Archery is a wonderful way to spend more time outdoors, socialize more, and improve strength, flexibility, and stability in your core and throughout your body. It has numerous benefits for psychological health as well, enhancing concentration and even offering an opportunity to practice mindfulness.

There is one more fantastic health benefit of archery which I haven't mentioned, and that is that almost anyone can practice this sport to improve their well-being. It does not matter if you are young or old or what your body type is. Even many disabled people are able to pull back on a bowstring and shoot an arrow into a target. This all-inclusiveness makes this sport one of the most accessible ones out there.

So if you have been trying to decide whether or not to give archery a try or to enroll your child in archery lessons, hopefully learning these health benefits has helped you make up your mind. Go for it. Those who make archery an ongoing practice in their lives can cultivate greater physical and psychological health over the many years that they enjoy the sport.

What’s even more confusing when experienced archers talk about the draw length is figuring out whether they ask about your draw length or your bow’s. I already explained what the former means and how to measure it in a previous article.

Today, it’s time to speak about the draw length of your bow. Read on to find out more about it.

If the two values don’t match, the bow is inappropriate to use and, depending on circumstances, it can be either dangerous or detrimental for your progress.

In fact:

But how do you know your bow draw length?

This question should have a simple answer. Manufacturers specify the draw length on their bows. So, why should you bother measuring it?

Well, there are several reasons:

The old abbreviation is still used by some manufacturers, but regardless of how they call it, it means the same thing.

Now, although ATA could have made things straightforward and provide a simple measurement, they decided to actually use a calculation instead of it. Therefore, if you want to find out the ATA draw length of your bow, you’ll have to use the following steps.

1. Pull the string at full draw.
2. Measure the distance from the throat of the grip to the part of the string where the arrow is nocked.
3. Add 1.75 to the number achieved.

Check this number against your own draw length and see if it’s suitable for you.

Luckily, there is more than one you can use.

Archery pro shops, for instance, use bow draw boards that allow you to place the bow on a marked board and check the string extension. However, this method may give inaccurate results unless you’re indeed an expert.

The simplest method is measuring your bow draw length with a draw arrow.

A draw arrow is a simple device similar to a regular arrow but marked with measurements in millimeters and inches. The end of the arrow that comes in contact with the string has a peculiar shape that grips to the line for a more accurate and hazard-free measurement.

All you have to do is to fix the arrow on the string and pull to maximum extension. Read the measurement on the arrow at the throat of the nock and add up 1.75 inches to get an accurate ATA draw length value.

Things get complicated if you’re using a compound bow. Due to the construction of this type of bow, the weapon allows fine adjustments of the min and max draw length but allows no margin of error. That’s why it is relevant to measure both your draw length accurately and determine the real draw length of the bow you’re using.

Identifying the right bow draw length is essential if you want to get the most out of your archery experience. The process is uncomplicated, and now you should know all the steps to take to find the right bow for you.

A poorly-chosen arrow will only bring about the worst consequences: zero accuracy, zero durability, and zero safety. Your safety is at stake because that arrow will just fly erratically, hitting the wrong target more often than not. No archer wants that.

If you’re thinking about exploring archery as your major sport, hobby, or even a serious venture, then you deserve the perfect arrow to go with that majestic bow. Like any sport, archery has its own set of rules and objectives that add to its complexity. These require strategy, and a good strategy includes choosing the right tools and equipment.

It may seem like one of the most basic, seemingly negligible aspects of archery, but as with all other shooting sports, the ammunition is in fact one of its most vital elements. Here’s your guide on how to choose the right type of arrow that will best suit your needs.

First, let’s talk about the basic parts of an arrow. It is important to know the basic parts to able to foresee the quality of the arrows you pick and if they truly are appropriate for the kind of bow you have.

There are several options when it comes to arrowheads, each one with a specific function. These include: 

Now that you have an idea about what the basic parts of an arrow are and what type of arrowhead you should go for, here are some key things to consider when choosing the most suitable arrow for your shooting activity.

1. Arrow Material

The material can be wood, carbon, aluminum, or fiberglass. Each will have different benefits and drawbacks depending on the specific activity you’re interested in.

However, these are less durable—they’ll bend, break, and splinter after a few uses. And they’re not exactly uniform, which means each one could fly differently than the others. This is why wooden arrows are rarely used in professional circuits.

Plus, in case an aluminum arrow shaft gets bent, it can still get straightened provided the warp is not too severe.

However, when a carbon arrow does break, it can shatter, which makes it quite dangerous for the archer. So always check for cracks when you use them.

Depending on the type of material they’re made of, arrows will have different measurement systems. Check if your retailer has an arrow chart, or if the manufacturing brand provides a guide on their website. This will make it easier for you to scale your arrow according to your bow type, draw weight, and such.

There are two aspects in arrow spine: static spine and dynamic spine.

The former is how much bend an arrow has when weight is placed on its center, while the latter is the way an arrow reacts to the energy stored in the bow when it is released. You can adjust the dynamic spine through its weight, point weight, length, and other elements.

Spine also depends on the bow’s features. A bow with a higher draw weight would need a stiffer arrow, as these bows release more force, which would cause a weaker arrow to wobble too much and miss the target.

To determine the right arrow spine for your bow, you can use a spine selection chart or, better yet, get a test kit.

The weakness of an arrow depends on its length, and the weakest ones are always the longest ones.

The diameter is just as important in making sure the arrow successfully strikes the target. For example, penetration would be the main priority in bowhunting, so arrows that have a smaller diameter would best suit this purpose. Worry not in case the head is slightly larger than the shaft diameter, but always remember that it shouldn’t be smaller. This often leads to poor accuracy, light penetration, and less to no attachment to the target.

The rule is: the straighter the arrow, the more accurate your shot. There’s a straightness tolerance in +/- metrics. For instance, an arrow with a straightness tolerance of +/-.001 inches will be straighter than one with a +/-.003-inch tolerance.

Fortunately, nowadays, arrows sold on the market are quite straight, with minute differences in straightness across varieties.

It’s also important to note that straightness will affect the price—the straighter the arrow, the more likely it’s going to be expensive.

Always consider your target. For example, if you will be hunting small animals, a faster arrow will get you the results you want. Meanwhile, if you will hunt larger game, you should be less concerned about the speed and more focused on the penetrative quality of the arrow. A heavier arrow can increase the force of the arrow.

As with many aspects of archery, every shooter will have their opinions on the optimal weight for your shooting.

It’s recommended that you check if your retailer can weigh arrows on a specialized scale, so that you get an idea what weight is indicated in the standard weight system.

Aside from the shaft, the weight of your point also impacts the arrow flight. A heavy arrow point that isn’t proportional to the shaft can cause wiggling, so check the arrow chart when selecting points, and try a variety of points to find the best combination.

​There are a lot of things to consider when picking an arrow. And if you are just beginning to learn archery, remember that there’s really no such thing as a perfect arrow!

Although manufacturers will try to convince you otherwise, there’s actually no reason to break the bank (especially if you are a beginner) just to be on the quest for the perfect arrow.

Getting the right kind of arrow ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences. Also, with each feature, there will be a tradeoff. A lighter arrow may be faster, but it’s not going to penetrate as much as a heavier one. Wooden arrows are affordable, but less durable.

Always think about what type of activity you’ll engage in, and that will keep you informed on what to look for.

And as with most things in life, experience will be your best guide as to what features you should prioritize.

In this guide, I aim to teach you the basics of shooting with a compound bow, to help you master the skills.

When choosing the string, also assess how much draw pressure you can handle.

This part is particularly important for the novice who could not be used to shooting a bow. If archery is new to you, get used to the bow first. Learn how to hold it and how to draw the string without the arrow.

For your first shooting attempts, I recommend using a compound bow you’re familiar with or that you’ve used before. Alternatively, ask an expert archer to pick the bow for you instead of buying it yourself; this will guarantee the bow is the size you need.

Then, pick your trainer with care. Make sure whoever is teaching you to shoot the bow has a host of experience in using compound bows, not another type.

You must keep a straight stance with your feet resting firmly on the ground with the toes facing the target and parallel to one another, positioned at least 17-25 inches apart. Like you could expect, you should face the target, but should look at it an angle of about 45 degrees.

When approximating the angle, have someone watch you or record a video of yourself. You’d be surprised to find how many people estimate a much larger or narrower angle is assuming it’s 45°.

Maintaining such a stance guarantees an easier drawing, a better aim, and a higher chance of hitting the target.

From an expert’s point of view, I can tell you there is no reason to be ashamed for using these slings. The point is achieving accuracy; shooting a compound bow is not the easiest task on earth and whatever you do to attain it is perfectly fine.

One thing to keep in mind is that you should never shoot with an open hand, as this could lead to fatal errors or severe injuries.

If you want to achieve the highest level of archery, make sure to anchor the string at the corner of your mouth or under your chin.

When the bow is aligned, just release the string smoothly by relaxing your fingers gradually until you completely release the string. A tensioned release can disrupt your aim and result in inaccuracy.

A mechanical release aid can help at first, but make sure your first attempts are assisted by an experienced archer.

And now that you know how to shoot a compound bow, all you have to do is get out there and start practicing.

Like with anything else, opinions are divided. Some bow hunters claim they would never start a quest with a recurve in their hands. Others praise the recurve’s capabilities. What’s the truth?

A question that lacks a universal answer. It depends. Is wine good for drinking? Is a cordless lawn mower good for your purpose?

But if you choose the right bow, the recurve comes with many advantages over all other types. The foremost important, it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver. Two things that ensure portability and shooting speed, both of which are important when wandering the wilds.

That said, a good recurve bow for hunting must come with essential features. Here’s what to look for.

The most important thing when picking a recurve bow for hunting is the draw weight. This weapon is built with the novice in mind and is really easy to use, but it also comes in multiple draw weights ranging from as little as 10 pounds to over 60 pounds.

But just because you selected a 40lbs bow, it doesn’t mean you can hunt all game. Before hitting the forests learn your weapon’s limitations. A 40lbs bow is only suitable if you’re going for small game like turkey or rabbit, but it’s improbable to kill an elk with it.

Larger prey needs larger draw weight. For versatility, a minimum of 50lbs is required. But in this case, you should make sure the bow is not too heavy for you to handle.

Every individual in this universe sees better with an eye than with the other. This is called the dominant eye and determines whether you need a left- or right-hand bow.

The triangle will align with your dominant eye, letting you know what type of bow you need.

A hunting bow has to withstand adverse weather and harsh environments. That’s why it is essential to invest in a weapon made from resilient materials.

Most recurve bows on the market are made of maple wood coated in fiberglass. However, pay attention to the product’s description before buying. Some manufacturers advertise their bows as maple and fiberglass, but the fiberglass has a decorative role solely.

You should also check the raiser. The best recurve bows for hunting come with a metal raiser that lasts years of use. But again, you should pay attention to how reliable the material is for your purpose.

Check the metal to have an anti-rust coating. Steel is your best bet, although galvanized aluminum can also work well.

Another thing to check regarding the construction is the flexibility of the bow. Rigid limbs can easily break, so you should make sure the bow can withstand bending without getting damaged.

On no bow are the accessories more critical than on a hunting recurve bow. And you’ll need plenty of them. Luckily, the market is full of bow hunting kits comprising the weapon and a bunch of needed accessories which are great for beginners.

If you also like the idea of bow fishing, make sure the weapon you choose is compatible with your preferred model of fishing reel and line, to ensure a positive experience.

So, are recurve bows good for hunting? I believe they are. Couldn’t advise though on what may or may not work for you. But since most archers start with this type of bow, my advice is to give it a try. If it doesn’t work for you, at least you can say you’ve tried.

That’s why I’ve roamed the market and identified the best models for beginners. Find out how to choose one and check my top picks below.

There are many determinants that you may have to consider when buying a crossbow irrespective of whether you're a target shooter or an everyday hunter. Of course, the prime factor is the purpose - what you intend to do with your crossbow.

This is because our litigious society has provided us with many different types of crossbows and each one primarily works best at specific tasks. If you already have an idea of what is in the market, the next step is checking the following:

When hunting, the amount of noise you make dramatically determines your hunting success. Recurve crossbows tend to be more silent than reverse crossbows or compound crossbows. Therefore, if you're a hunter looking for a crossbow, just keep in mind that silence comes with a price as it typically impacts the speed of the crossbow.

The noise from the crossbow is usually brought up by the massive short power stroke when discharged.

Another essential aspect of crossbows for hunters. While the weight is a limiting factor, a noteworthy point to take home is that how heavy your crossbow is can only be determined by you.

Your physical weight or strength can limit you from performing well in your hunting or shooting games. A heavy crossbow may take a longer time to aim than a lightweight crossbow but steadier when shooting.

Lighter crossbows are usually compact and more comfortable to navigate with through the woods. The rule of the thumb should be; the hunter or shooter who is stationary should purchase a more massive crossbow for accuracy, while hunters who run across the forest need a lightweight crossbow.

Most crossbows are built for the average person. The average height is virtually between 5.4 to 5.8 feet tall. You may wonder how your shortness or your tallness is related to crossbows, here is the simple explanation.

Bringing the string into the cocked position may be quite challenging for a short person even with a rope cocking device. Fortunately, there are shorter crossbows available in the market today made primarily for the youth. Mechanical cocking gadgets are also available but are noisy for hunters.

Most crossbows are made up of similar designs. Well, for a target shooter it doesn't really matter, but when hunting, the draw weight of the crossbow and the arrow weight should correspond and increase accordingly. If you're a hunter, it is essential that you find a crossbow with appropriate weight for that particular purpose.

This is primarily one of the most critical elements that hunters look for. When hunting there is no time to waste as a single second wasted can cost you a delicious meat stew for dinner. 

Velocity is quite essential for the big gamers, and it goes hand in hand with momentum. Most target shooters, however, do not really pay attention to the speed but the shot—you only win for hitting your target not aiming faster than your opponent.

Finding the right crossbow that won’t break the bank is far from easy. This tool is complex, and manufacturers justify the overall higher price due to the difficulty to build a reliable weapon. Nevertheless, whether you’re an expert or a novice, you now know which are some of your best options.

Self-taught archers can attain proficiency if they are willing to practice and learn. Here, we will share some of the best tips to help beginners who wish to become accurate with a longbow. 

The easiest way to approach archery as a beginner is to work through a set of steps. This breaks down the act of shooting into a series of small actions which can be practiced and perfected over time. The main steps in archery can be broken down into the following: stance (or posture), nocking and aiming, release and follow through. We will take a close look at each step in turn.

Turn your head towards the target. This will bring your chin over the shoulder of your bow arm (the arm which is holding the bow). Feet, hips and shoulders should all remain at an angle of 90 degrees to the target.    

Your back and knees should be straight, and shoulders should be kept down. The idea is to allow the shoulders to move freely and fully as you begin to draw. Do not allow your lower back to arch, or thrust your chest or hips forward; doing so can put you off balance and reduce your ability to aim accurately.

Beginners often find that the correct posture initially ‘feels wrong’. This is because it is unfamiliar and uses muscles in ways they are not used in everyday life. It will take some time and effort to sustain the stance; try to be aware of your posture at all times until your muscles begin to learn the movements. There are exercises which can help to tone the correct muscles and make handling a bow slightly easier; practicing at home and strengthening your core will also help. 

Once you are sure of your posture, it is time to nock the arrow and begin your draw.

The odd-colored fletching, also called the index vane, should be placed so that it is facing you, away from the bow.

When the arrow is placed correctly, the nock will ‘click’ into place. It the arrow falls off or slips, it might mean that the nock is too large.

Three fingers should be placed on the string: index finger above the arrow and middle and ring fingers below it. If the arrow is nocked correctly there will be no need to hold onto it; your fingers should grip the string only. Beginners may start with three fingers below the arrow if it makes drawing easier. Your thumb and little finger should both be tucked in towards the palm of your hand, away from the string.

Your other hand will hold the bow. A correct grip will have your arm, wrist and finger all in alignment, pointing at the target. The grip of the bow will rest on the fleshy part of your hand, below the thumb, and your wrist should remain relaxed and not bent back. Fingers should relax and bend, and the grip should remain consistent throughout the draw and release stages.

If you find yourself needing to reposition your bow hand while drawing or aiming then you should relax the bow and start again. Once it is in the correct position, your hand should not need to move around on the bow at all until after you have released the arrow.   

At this time, take a few minutes to find a comfortable point to draw the string towards. Most archers will have a point on their face – chin, cheek or jaw – which is known as their ‘anchor point’. This point will not be the same for everyone but once you have found it, you should bring the arrow back to the same point every time you draw a bow. Your anchor point can make a huge difference to your aim so consistency here is key.

While your string arm is drawing back, your bow hand is moving forward. Do not over-straighten the bow arm; there should be a slight bend in the elbow at all times. This keeps tension in the shot even after you release the arrow and allows your arm to ‘push forward’ with the bow rather than spring back.

These big movements will feel strange to new archer and you might find yourself overcompensating for untrained muscles by adjusting your stance. Common problems at this point include tilting your head or pulling up your shoulders so it is worth taking a second or two to check your posture again. Keep your shoulders down while you draw the bow; your head should stay up and facing forward.  

When drawing, take care that the string is not able to get behind your armguard. You may need to twist your bow arm at the elbow to avoid being hit by the string but check your posture first: bending or slouching body can mean that the string is ‘aimed’ at your arm when you release it.

Aiming a bow requires focus. The best way to aim accurately is to look along the shaft of the arrow and find a point on the target to aim for. Try to focus on one tiny point rather than the whole target and take the time to line up your shot. Some archers worry about whether to close one eye while aiming. This will be a personal choice, so feel free to try both ways and follow your instincts.

Common beginner mistakes at this point involve moving the bow down or away before the arrow is fully released. Moving too soon can affect your aim and is a very bad habit to get into so do not be tempted to drop the bow, or move it to one side or the other so that you can watch the arrow in flight. Keep your bow up and your posture steady. A good rule is to hold your position until the arrow lands (hopefully in the target).

There are a lot of steps to learn and your muscles will need time to get used to the new demands archery will put on them. But practice need not be restricted to the archery ranger; there is plenty you can do whenever you have some spare time.  

Work through the shot in stages; picturing how each stage should look and feel before trying it. This can be practiced at any time, not just on the range. Get a friend or instructor to watch you and check your actions against your list. If you can, have someone film you so that you can watch yourself later.

New movements and muscles will soon become more familiar and, with practice, you will soon find that you have mastered the basics and are ready to tweak and improve your archery technique. 

When checking the draw length, there are two variables to consider. The first is your draw length, which determines the right size of the bow. The second is the bow’s draw length, which determines its suitability for the purpose.

This guide is dedicated to the former and aims to teach you how to measure your draw length in the comfort of your home.

Measuring the draw length is easy, and luckily there are various methods to use. Each archer ultimately develops their own approach. I find it really easy to determine this number with the method below.

As I said, there are several ways to measure your draw length. However, there is this one method that has been used for years and that I find quite simple. It also returns accurate results, which is essential for this purpose. The technique is called the ‘arm span’ and is just what it sounds, measuring your arm’s span.

There are a few things you’ll need:

Here’s how to determine your draw length with the ‘arm span’ method.

1. Look for a buddy. You’ll need someone to help you with the measurements for an accurate result. For all you DIY guys out there, trust me, rely on a partner for this one.
2. Stand upright holding your back straight against the wall and open your arms with both palms open. Your arms must be parallel to the ground and aligned with your shoulders, while the back of your palms must stay against the wall.
3. Ask your partner to mark the end of your hand on the wall by applying duct tape where your middle finger ends, on both sides of your body.
4. You can now step away from the wall and measure the distance from one duct tape to another.
5. Divide the number by 2.5 and voila! You have your draw length!

Now, you’ve got the draw length! How lovely is that? But perhaps you have no idea what to do with this number. Keep reading to find out what size bow you need.

For any aspiring archer, the fun part is about to begin. With your draw length, you get to choose your first bow. Use the table below to find the right size for you.

A side note for kids. If you measure your child’s draw length, don’t forget that kids grow. You’ll have to re-measure it regularly to make sure your kid has not outgrown the bow size they are using. When this happens, just move up one bow size.

In this regard, investing in a recurve bow for beginners with interchangeable limbs could be your best bet, as you’ll be able to only replace the limbs instead of the whole bow as the child grows.

Assessing your draw length with the method above is super easy, but some factors can have a negative impact on your measurements. The foremost important is an incorrect posture. Paying attention to where your partner sticks the duct tape is also important.

Inaccuracies translate into either a shorter or longer draw length that comes with subsequent negative points.

• Shorter draw length: If you don’t align your arms and shoulders perfectly, your measured draw length may result shorter than it really is. This results in picking a too small bow which may cause injuries due to its short string. Make sure your arms and shoulders are perfectly aligned and parallel to the ground to avoid unpleasant surprises.

• Longer draw length: This often happens because the duct tape has been attached too far from the tips of your middle fingers or because your posture was incorrect. Make sure you keep your back against the wall in a relaxed position and that your partner takes the correct measurement. If the resulted draw length is longer than yours, you could end up using a too large bow. This means you’ll be unable to pull the string all the way to the end, jeopardizing your accuracy. A larger bow is also heavier and harder to maneuver, especially by an inexperienced beginner.

Besides the above, there are many other factors which can influence your measurement. For instance, if you keep your back arched and not straight against the wall, this incorrect posture will affect your results. So will the palms of your hands if they are not open, or your wrists if you don’t keep them straight.

• Besides the size, it’s vital to choose the right weight of the bow, which will be determined by the strength of the individual who’s going to use it. This is especially important for beginners, so they don’t develop wrong shooting skills.
• When trying your new bow, remember to keep your chest open and place yourself in the shooting position, so that you can acknowledge the right scenario with your new equipment.
• Safety is crucial, so don’t let go of the string without an arrow, because this could cause damage to your body and to the bow.
• There are several kinds of bows that will work in different ways according to their material and weight. Choosing the right one will depend on your needs and coordination.

Target practice, bow hunting, and even bow fishing are all amazing recreational activities. But practicing them in the right way is crucial. Determining your draw length as accurately as possible is key to choosing the right bow, and this can make or break the deal.

Don’t forget that archery can be dangerous. To minimize hazards and prevent risks, you need to choose the right equipment.

When practiced wisely, archery comes with endless benefits; so measure your draw length, pick the right bow, and get out there to start exercising.