Guidelines for the safe practice of archery

If running through the woods with a bow in hand and a quiver of arrows on your back sounds like fun, archery might be the sport for you. As invigorating and challenging as this hobby can be, it also comes with some risks. Follow these safety rules and guidelines to avoid injury.

Basic Checklist

Before using a bow, the archer should go through a basic checklist to make sure the equipment is ready and safe to shoot.

1. Inspect all equipment to make sure it is working properly before shooting. Look for signs of wear on the string or abnormalities in the wood sections. Check the arrow feathers to make sure they are secure. Then check the bolting points and tighten if necessary. Replace the plastic nocks if you find cracks. Never use equipment that shows signs of wear.

2. Remove any loose clothing or jewelry such as a watch or bracelet that may interfere with the arc.

3. Visually inspect the stove to make sure that people and animals are not present.

shooting guidelines

Follow all posted rules and regulations of the venue.

1. Never point a bow at another person, even when you are not drawing. This rule is fundamental and is considered basic etiquette.

2. Never shoot into the sky, as it is impossible to predict where it will go.

3. Never draw when there are people between you and the target.

4. Look immediately behind you before drawing to make sure no one is too close.

5. Direct the bow towards the ground when stringing.

6. Never fire a dry bow. Dry shooting involves pulling and releasing the string without seating an arrow. Dry shooting can cause injury to the archer and damage to equipment.

shoot and retrieve

At an archery range, a group of people may be shooting at a target at the same time. In this situation, everyone should shoot at roughly the same time and in the same direction. After completing the shots, wait until everyone is done before retrieving the arrows.

1. Walk slowly towards the target.

2. Do not remove another person’s arrow without asking permission.

3. Check the field to make sure no one is preparing to shoot when you retrieve your arrow.

4. Pull the arrows out to avoid damaging them.

5. Inspect the ground if some arrows do not hit the target. Step carefully to avoid stepping on them and damaging them. To avoid possible accidents, inform others that you need to move behind the target to search for the missing arrows.

last minute precautions

Keep a first aid kit on site at all times when participating in archery. Have a cell phone to call for help if an emergency occurs. Don’t forget to follow the posted rules of the venue. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or experienced, follow these etiquette and safety guidelines.