I am newly interested in longbows and would like to utilize everyone's expertise. Can I make a longbow with no experiance? What woods can I use? Could I experiment with woods like cedar or is it pretty well set what woods will work? Any other info would be greatly appreciated; suck as i would be better off buys a new or used bow. Does the price of a bow make a hugh difference?

Thanks,
Baker

Archery is one of those healthy obsessions. Unfortunately I can't shoot my .45 in my yard, but my bow is nice and stealthy. Nothing like launching a dozen arrows 4 or more days a week, especially before work. It helps me stay focused and relaxed.

Its almost become a disease: (I can't be the first to think of this one)
OCAD
Obsessive
Compulsive
Archery
Disorder

Its amazing that even only 15 minutes with bow in hand can help make the whole day better.

For those of you that fish, check out our web site and stop by if you are ever in the area.

Best,
Nacomis

http://www.depositchamber.com/hetackle.html

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

Went to the indoor Range today with MHealthDoc. We had a 10 round shoot and he whooped my by like 13 points. It was a good time. It really makes a big difference having other traditional archers to shoot with.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

Here are a few things that I have learned about arrow fletching from the advice of others. Please Post if you have more to add.

HELICAL Vs. STRAIT

Helical is to the arrow as rifling is to a gun barrel. Helical fletching causes more drag than a strait fletch and therefor slow the arrow down, but they stabilize quicker than strait fletching. This makes them necessary for stabilizing the instability that flat heads (Trade Points) cause. This makes helical fletchings perfect for the short shot, but limits the flight range of the arrow inhibiting it's use in flight archery.

NOTE: You can limit the degree of helical to get the arrow effect you want. (Smaller degree of helical means less drag, more distance, less stabilization.)

FEATHER LENGTH

Longer feathers create more drag than shorter fletching, but stabilize faster than shorter fletchings. The longer the fletch the more limited the distance of your arrow flight will be.

LEFT Vs. RIGHT HELICAL

Left-hand fletching (Helical) to a right-hand archer will eliminate feather burn and right-hand fletching (Helical) to a left-handed archer will do the same.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

Learned something new today as well....

The spine is different on different sides of the arrow shaft. So to get them to all bend the same; find where the grain points down and line the nock up with that point. Other wise the paradox will effect each arrow differently as the come off the bow.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

Took the arrows out to the range today. Played "H-O-R-S-E" with a friend on some 3D targets. It was a lot of fun. Missed a few targets, but no broken arrows this time. They held up pretty good. It really took some getting use to. The flight was really different. They were definitely not as fast as my carbons, but they feel so good.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

This was my Process.

1) Ordered the shafts to my bows spine weight

2) Stained the shafts

3) Used the Dip Tank to apply 2 coats of clear coat (Sanding between coats with 320 grit sandpaper)

4) Cut the arrows 2 inches longer than my draw length

5) Cut my feathers

6) Used pencil sharpener thing to cut my nock and tip

7) used archers glue to apply nock and tip

8) Fletched half of my arrows

7) Bare shaft tuned my arrows using the six fletched arrows and the 6 unfletched arrows

8) I had to take another inch off the length of my shafts for tuning so I heated up the points to take them off, cut off an inch, tapered them again with the pencil sharpener thing. Then re-glued on the points.

9) I fletched up the rest of the shafts, but still left two shafts unfletched just in case I needed to do some more tuning.

DONE!!!!!!

Oh!!!, Then I reheated the tips and pushed them on all the way using a 2 X 4 to push down on.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

I am in the process of making my first set of wood arrows. I have been using carbon, but I am going to give woodies a try. I am fully confident that I will do a decent job, thanks to the posts on this forum.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

First, these arrows fly better than any arrow I have ever used before. Awesome Flight!!!! However, I broke 5 arrows and lost 1 today. I highly recomend these arrows for the modern shooter or the indoor shooter. For an archer like me that shoots Traditional instinctive outdoor unmarked shoots; they are just too expensive to be breaking like that. Maybe when I get a lot more accurate. Again, I loved the arrow flight of these arrows. Amazing!!!

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

I have been using Gold Tip Expedition Hunter Arrows. I loved them because of their durability, but I have been having a serious problem with the inserts. Apparently, Gold Tip uses a special tapered insert. I was having trouble loosing my inserts (along with my field point) in the targets.

So I got some new arrows. They are Hit Beman MFX Classics. I have only shot them at home, but they seem to hold up pretty well. The insert actually sits deep into the shaft so that the field point rests evenly right on the edge of the shaft. Going to the range today to really give them a workout.

Hey everyone,

Anyone able to give me input to this bow? I am looking to get something more high end than my current recurve and this one looks to fit my wants and needs. I am sort of thinking 50 lbs in the taller of the 2 models. And I cant find info on limb replacements (aka, they can just be replaced with different weights, right?). In the past I have found most recurves to have excessive vibration and a bit twangy even with puffs, legs and/or pads on the limbs. My purpose would be hunting with a bit of target shooting as well, the take down isnt everything BUT I like the kit is comes with and portability is a plus.

Thank you my brothers in arms. Any input good or bad is appreciated.;)

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

WORST SHOOTING DAY EVER, We shot a Southwest Round from 20 to 65 yards. The shoot itself was a lot of fun, but I couldn't hit a thing. I couldn't decide weather I was going to gap or go instinctive. One shot gapped, the next shot instinctive. Almost every shot missed!!! I was so disappointed in myself.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

OK. I got my nock point tuned up to 10 yards. I will go further at the range tomorrow. A fletched arrow his hitting dead on, but my spine tuning still needs some work. I went from a 100 grain field point to a 125 grain field point and it is still too stiff. I will purchase some 150 grain field points at the range tomorrow. I hope that does the trick. My anchor is really getting there. I am still using my tooth as my primary anchor, but I had to move my secondary anchor from the tip of my nose to the side of my nostril. It's getting there.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

I removed the kisser button, but I still have to tune my nock point.
Started cutting down the shafts of my arrows (Gold Tip Expedition Hunters) from 26.25" to 23" without the nock. Shortening the shaft increased the spine strength so I went from a 100 grain tip to a 125 grain tip to lessen the spine strength. They are not tuned, but the shoot pretty strait so far.

My anchor is still wishy washy at most, but I will lock it in. We'll see how it goes. Anytime you change something it is a big deal.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

I just finished the Silver Dollar Shoot with the Las Vegas Archers. I came in second place, but at least there were two other Adult Traditional shooters to compete with. I more than doubled my score from last year, but still need to make some changes to my form.

1st. The Kisser button has served it's purpose in demonstrating the importance of multiple anchor points, but it puts the arrow to low and makes it hard to get a sight picture. (I use a gapping system). I will be going back to anchoring on the tooth and the mandible. Maybe the nose as well.

2nd. My arrows are tuned to my bow, but they are too long. I am going to shorten them about 3 inches so that there is only an inch left hanging out. Again, this will bring that tip closer to my face making it easier to get that sight picture. I may have to use a heavier tip because shortening the arrow length will stiffen the spine.

3rd. I am going to attempt to cant my bow. Right now, I shoot strait up and down which reduces my sight picture. That is a change that I am not sure of. We'll see how it goes.

4th. Right now I nock my arrow above the nock point. This allows the arrow nock to rise up at times. I will be going back to nocking under the nock point.

That's a lot of work right there. Wish me luck. I have another shoot in two weeks.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

I went to the Archery range today. I am shooting better than ever. I shot the Mini-Silver Dollar shoot last year and didn't do so well, but I was happy with the progress. Tomorrow is the Mini-Silver Dollar Shoot again and although I am shooting better than ever, I still feel like I am not ready. I am still going to shoot in the tournament, but I sure wish that I would have practiced more. I am good out to 50 yards, but this tourney will have me shooting out to 70 yards. I Don't know why I am feeling so intimidated. I will more than likely have no competition in my class anyway. I just hope that I can shake this feeling of inadequacy by tomorrow.

Gabriel grew out of his arrows about a month ago. He hasn't shot since. He is now shooting my arrows until I can afford to buy him his own.

I put a kisser button on Gabriel's bow today. We did some instruction drill, where he can't make a move until I tell him to. Draw, anchor this kisser, nose on string, aim, back muscles, and release. It really lets you know how poor his form and function have been. Lack of anchor, aiming, and not using his back muscles. I also noticed that his grip is wrong and he is plucking his string on release. It's going to take a little time for him to correct all the things he has been do wrong all this time, but we will get it done.

I worked on my release and aiming today, because they were inconsistent at last weeks tournament. I am still not following through on every shot. gotta get that down before this weekend tourney.

I have not been able to get on much lately to contribute and to learn. I just wanted to tell everyone bye now since I leave for bootcamp a week from today, and likely won't have much time to spend on here.

I will be back thought approximately 14 weeks from today, I also have to finish all the bow projects I have already started.

Hey everyone,

I'm new to traditonal archery and blogging as well. Just wondering if anyone has in information that would be helpful on purchasing a new recurve that is around $250. Just starting out so this year I want to stay cheap and before next deer season I would purchase a really nice one. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Originally Posted by stonepointak

Jason here is the two knives I promised you. Hope you like them. The cool thing is the guy I got the burl wood from sent me an email letting me know that the wood I used for your knives was 1 of 100 this tree was found in a lake years ago and no longer exists. so now you have a match set of one of a kind knives hand made with 1 of 100 wood.
[IMG][/IMG][IMG][/IMG]

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

OK, let me tell you a little about my coach. Rather, he is just a guy that I meet at the archery range who is continuously making himself graciously available to my interrogations. He and his son claim that he was on the 1980 Olympic Archery team for Bulgaria. I looked it up, but cannot find much information on this gentleman. I do not doubt that he is who he says he is, but I cannot confirm it either. I watched as he shot 30 strait x's using a Hoyt Olympic rig at 20 yards today. I know that he used a sight, but they were dead center. It was nice, plus the information he has shared with me has improved my shot like you wouldn't believe.

I asked him a series of questions today and I thought that I would share his answers with you.

1) The average draw weight of an Olympic Recurve Bow for men is between 32 and 42 lbs.

2) His training also included stretching, running, and weight training on a daily basis.

3) 5 days before a tournament he would train with his bow every day shooting between 150 and 250 arrows a day.

4) The days before that 5 day period he would pick a different aspect of his form to work on every day. For Example. One day would totally be dedicated to release, the next to aiming.... Still quite often he would put them all together and work on the total package.

5) He said that it takes 3 years of dedicated training to come close to Olympic Quality Archery.

The work he has done with me (For Free) drastically improved my shot on the very first day. And I am continually improving on a daily basis as I work on the things he has instructed me too. The training program he talked about above is close to my own with a couple difference so it wont take too much for me to adapt. Adapt I will. There is something about this man that I cannot help but want to aspire to his standards and for some reason he has taken a keen interest me. I am grateful.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

I have always wanted to anchor the way the Olympic archers do. I have tried time and time again, but it never felt right. Today I met an old archer out teaching his son how shoot. As it turns out this old archer shot in the Olympics 30 years ago for Belgium. He had so much information to offer, but we started with the anchor. I bought a kisser button and the lesson went on. That which felt so wrong before now feels more natural than ever. I am not grouping as tight as I was before the form change, but give it some time. I am very appreciative of the lesson and I hope that this long time coming form change will help in the long run.

In addition to the anchor point I switched from a finger glove to a calf hair tab. I nock my arrow over the nock rest so the split finger in the tab offers more consistency. Some time and practice and I am sure I will break this plateau I have been in for a while.

I would like to know everyones thoughts on the different shooting styles. I used to shoot 2 under I just switched to 3 under today and found a greater consistency in my groups. I am by no means a target shooter I like to hunt but I can stick em in there with the 3 under technique. :D

I am Lester Harper the owner of Stone Point Archery and Knives. We officially went into business this past year after I finished my last of 10 years in the Army. I started out with traditional archery at a very young age shooting my fathers old Bear recurve or his Browning recurve. I could never pull the bow back all the way but I had a blast shooting it. I joined the Army and started a family all in the same year it was crazy I know. I was just 17 when I left for Basic Training. I spent 6 years there getting deployed to Congo, Haiti, Kosovo and many others. I suffered some pretty bad knee injuries that caused me to end my service in 2001. I spent a couple of years trying to rehabilitate my body to go back in to the service but this time to support our country in its time of need. I got reinjured on a deployment overseas and learned that I will no longer be able to serve our country. 10 years of active service just to throw it all away. I decided to start making bows my last four years in the service. Now being married for 15 years and having 5 kids I wanted to start up a business that I could share with my family. So we started Stone Point Archery. I am very happy with how things have been going The Lord has blessed us. I am still alive after all these years fighting for freedom and now enjoying the fruits of the labor from all our soldiers fighting for all of us. God Bless our troops and our Disabled Vets like myself. May they all comeback unharmed. You can visit us at www.stonepointarcheryandknives.com

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

I got my new bow yesterday. 65#@28" - 64 inches long. Stringing it was hard, even with the bow stringer. It is a lot heavier than I am use to, but even without being tuned it is grouping 8 arrows at 10 yards in a 5" circumference. I am loving it.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

Gabriel and I went to the range today to train for tomorrows tournament. All was going well as we were invited to shoot the Phoenix. The Phoenix is a machine that tosses aerial targets into the air. It was so much fun!!! I felt like a kid again.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

Gabriel and I competed in the Pre Fresno Competition today, even though we have no intention on competing in Fresno. Again we had no competition so we took 1st place. To make matters worse we both shot absolutely horrible. 484 possible points. I shot 174. Gabriel shot a 64. I had trouble hitting anything over 40 yards. Shooting at angles are still hurting me and elevations, forget about it.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

Gabriel and I went to the range today to train for tomorrows tournament. All was going well as we were invited to shoot the Phoenix. The Phoenix is a machine that tosses aerial targets into the air. It was so much fun!!! I felt like a kid again.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

My wife just ordered my birthday present. A Hoyt - Fred Eichler Signature Series Buffalo Takedown Recurve. This will be my competition bow. She ordered the Wood grain model at 65# and 62" long. I am very excited. I love my wife!!!!

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

I have never shot a 3D tourney before, but my club is setting up a 3D shooting range now. Sounds like fun.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

Even if I decide to go Modern for tournaments, there will be no sights, no stabilizer, no nothing. Instead of a stick and a string it will be Glass and a String. Keep it simple! Keep it real! I love the challenge too much.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

I can't see myself ever going to a compound bow, but I am thinking about a fiberglass recurve from HOYTE. Just for competitions.

Hello Guys,

As a traditional hunter I wanted the opinion of my fellow trad hunters to see what they think of my new all TV web site. www.backlandtv.com If you have high speed internet you can watch all the full episodes in HD anytime you wish. Each week we have new shows, tips and more. When we air broadcast we also air on the web in full episodes.

See if the site www.backlandtv.com works for you, is it easy to get around, does it play well etc.

This week we air a bear hunt from the ground at 7 steps with a longbow, self arrow tipped in self knapped flint head. Nothing like a willow branch and a stone to go after a big black.

I also want to know if this is the type of programming you enjoy as a traditional hunter? Your opinion counts to me. Take a look and let me know if there is anything else you would like to see on a web site. Example in our hunters tools section we have weather, DNR listings, moon phase charts - anything else that might help you as a hunter for that page?

Thank you guys for your honesty. I have a saying I call it (HIP) Hunt with Honor, Integrity and a Purpose!

Hip To you my friends.

Scott Anderson

I love wood bows, wood arrows, flinknapping..... I am totally engulfed in the Traditional Archery experience. However; I also love target competition. The problem is that more and more competitions are excluding the Traditional classification. There is no mention of longbows or wood anything in these competitions.

Technology plays a big part of your success in Target Competitions. There is no way I can get the consistency I need to be able to compete with a wood bow, but that is where my passion is. I have no problem buying a glass bow to compete with, but how do I separate the two disciplines. For competitions you must practice with your tournament equipment, but what about my passion for the traditional.

It seems to me that I am going to have to choose between my two loves. A choice I do not want to make.

It's an age old saying, but oh so true. The smaller area you aim for, the smaller area you can miss by. I'm not sure who said it, but the center of an aspirin is the same size as the center of a target. So when you're aiming at a target, be it a paper target or dinner, find the smallest point you can to take your aim. You will find your shot group reducing greatly in size.
When practicing, practice with smaller sized targets. This way, when it comes time to shoot a standard target in a tournament it will seem like no problem at all. So aim small - miss small is more than an age old saying. It's advice that shouldn't be taken for-granted. A lesson for the ages - past, present, and future.

RANGE: Backyard
TIME: 2hrs
PARTNER: Gabriel
EQUIPMENT: (Jason) Whisper, Slinger Quiver, (Gabriel) Orne, Swift Quiver
NOTES:

Gabriel and I worked on several drills today for about 2 hours, To include form focus, grouping, form check, and aiming drill 1. This session was so bad that I stopped documenting the progress.

Gabriel wont believe me when I tell him that his bow is too heavy for him. He is willing to sacrifice his shooting for his horsebow. He is struggling with his anchor point and draw so I had him do three sets of the aiming drill 1. I worry about his string twist and height. Taking the string off each time makes it hard to keep the twist and height consistent. I will try to make a String Keeper for his horse bow.

My follow through is getting better, but still needs some work. My shot at 20 yards is still horrible. First chance I get I will go to "The Las Vegas Archers" range and practice at 30 & 40 yards. This should make the 20 yards feel like nothing. I believe that my problem with the 20 yards is my sight picture. That's nothing a few thousand shots can't fix.

RANGE: Backyard
PARTNER: Gabriel
TIME: 2hrs
EQUIPMENT: (Jason) Whisper, Slinger Quiver (Gabriel) Orne, Swift Quiver
NOTES: Gabriel needs to concentrate on his anchor and get use to shooting his new bow. I need to work on my gapping. (After Thought) I broke 3 arrows, trouble at 20yds, new grip loose.

Gabriel
Focus Training (Anchor)

Form Check
Jason
1) /
2) /
3) /
4) /
5) jerked bow arm
6) /
7) /
8) /
Gabriel
1) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
2) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
3) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
4) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
5) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
6) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
7) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
8) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
9) /
10) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
11) /
12) /
13) Jerked bow arm
14) /
15) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
16) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
17) didn't reach anchor, jerky draw
Changed form. arrow under nock, three fingers under
18) /
19) /
20) /
21) /

Shooting the Gap
Jason
1) 20yds - No Grouping
2) 20yds - Contradict 3" low
3) 20yds - Confirm 4" low
4) 20yds - No Grouping
Discouraged, calling it quits!!!!!

RANGE: Backyard
TIME: 1hr
EQUIPMENT: Whisper, Slinger Quiver
NOTES: While doing gapping drills focus on follow through (After Thought) Need focus training on follow through, need more time at 20yds, incorporate gapping into other training drills.

GAPPING DRILLS

Shooting the Gap
5yds - Confirm 4.5" lower
5yds - Confirm 4.5" lower
10yds - Confirm 3" lower
10yds - Confirm 3" lower
15yds - No Grouping
15yds - Contradict 1.5" lower
15yds - Confirm 1.5" lower
15yds - Confirm 1.5" lower
15yds - Confirm 1.5" lower
20yds - Confirm 4" lower
20yds - No Grouping
20yds - Confirm 4" lower
20yds - Confirm 4" lower

Pipping the Ace
5yds - 3 shots ---------- 8/10
5yds - 3 shots ---------- 8/10
5yds - 2 shots ---------- 9/10
5yds - 4 shots ---------- 7/10
10yds - 1 shot ---------- 10/10
10yds - 2 shots --------- 9/10
10yds - 1 shot ---------- 10/10
10yds - 1 shot ---------- 10/10
10yds - 2 shots --------- 9/10
10yds - 4 shots ---------7/10
TOTAL ------------------ 87/100 = 87%

RANGE: Back Yard
TIME: 1.5hrs
EQUIPMENT: Whisper, Slinger Quiver
NOTES: AGAIN - New form. No Bending at hips - Strait stance. (After Thought)Grouping Drills are working. Still need work on 15 and 20 yards. 1.5hrs = fatigue. Need more Drills for stamina. Need a reference point for string. Need focus training for follow through

GAPPING
Measuring the Gap
5yds - 4" high
5yds - 5" high
5yds - 4" high
10yds - 3" high
10yds - 3" high
10yds - 3" high
15yds - 2" low
15yds - 1.5" low
15yds - 1.5" low
20yds - No Grouping
20yds - No Grouping
20yds - 4" high
20yds - 4" high
20yds - 4" high

Shooting the Gap
5yds - Confirm 4.5"
10yds - Confirm 3"
15yds - No Confirmation
20yds - No Confirmation

RANGE: Back Yard
TIME: 1 hour
EQUIPMENT: Whisper, No Quiver
NOTES: New Form, New Finger Position - one over, Arrow over nock, single nock, new self made string, (After Thought) Need to work on Gapping!!! Need to set higher standards for Grouping Drill.
Form Drills
Grouping (0-35=4, 36-48=3, 48-60=2, 60-72=1)
Range----Measurement----Score
5yds------11.5"-----------4/4
10yds-----26"-------------4/4
12yds-----17"-------------4/4
15yds-----25"-------------4/4
20yds-----26"-------------4/4
TOTAL----------------------24/24

Hit or Miss (4higher=4, 3higher=3, 2higher=2, 1higher =1)
Range----Target Size----Standard----(+/-)----Score
5yds-------6"Circle----------2-----------(+3)
10yds------6"Circle----------2----------(+1)
15yds------6"Circle----------2----------(-1)
20yds------6"Circle----------2----------(-2)----2/4
TOTAL-----------------------------------------26/28

Take 'em Out
Range----Target----Hit----Score
5yds------3"circle----2------2/6
10yds-----3"Circle---1------1/6
15yds-----3"Circle---1------1/6
TOTAL--------------------30/46 65%

I saw a quiver in a magazine similar to this made out of the same material (Sued), so I tried to make one myself.

[IMG][/IMG]

It looked real nice and I love the big pocket.

[IMG][/IMG]

Unfortunately it was a total failure. The leather isn't strong enough to hold the weight of the arrows and they fall out.

[IMG][/IMG]

Back to the Drawing Board. I will attempt to add this pocket to the "Slinger" quiver in the future.

Just made some new flintknapping tools:




I made a pressure flaker:



and two different sized boppers:

Here is my newest quiver.
[IMG][/IMG]I am calling this model the Slinger. I hope to add it to the Rasher Quivers collection as a U-Finish Quiver.

OK, I made my string jig a while back.



I have been waiting for my Dacron - 50 to come in. I used several video recourses to figure out what I was doing.

The first attempt at a string was for Whisper; my hybrid reflex-deflex bow. It was a 6 strand 3 ply. That first string failed. The loop came undone when I strung it up on the bow.



My second string failed as well. It was a 6 strand 2 ply. It came out too short so I used it on Tugger (a 64" longbow) and again the end loop came unwound when I put it on the bow.



My third attempt worked out fine. At least so far. I strung it up and served it while it was on the bow. I will shoot it tomorrow. I do wish that I had matched the serving better to the colors of the string, but it was all I had.

BOW: Whisper
Partner: Gabriel
Range: Pacific Archery

Form Drills
Grouping
Range: 20 Yards
1) 61.5" ------------------------------------- 1/4
2) 41" --------------------------------------- 3/4
3) 49" --------------------------------------- 2/4
4) 44.5" ------------------------------------- 3/4
5) 32" --------------------------------------- 4/4

Hit or Miss
Range: 20 Yards
Target Size: 13.5"
Standard: 2
1) -2
2) +2
3) +2
4) 0 ---------------------------------------- 3/4

Take 'em Out
1) 0 --------------------------------------- 0/4
2) 0 --------------------------------------- 0/4
3) 1 --------------------------------------- 1/4

TOTAL 15/28 54%

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

Materials: Deer Hide, Sinew, Metal Snaps, Leather Stain, Leather Shene
Time: 5 hrs.
I know that I need some work on the tooling, but I really like the stitch work.

Originally Posted by Hillbillified

Gabriel has been having trouble with his anchor point so we went to a bow with a draw weight of 35# @ 23". when we started training with this bow his anchor problem was fixed, but the arrows would not penetrate the target. They just bounce off. Even at 5 Yards. This had never been an issue before, so why now??

I've been having problems with my anchor point so I went to a bow with a lighter draw weight.

Bow: Panther
Partner: Jason Albert

GAPPING DRILLS
Gapping Adjustment Practice
Incomplete Data. Arrows would not penetrate Target????

Bow: Wonder Bow

FORM DRILLS
Grouping
Range: 10 Yards
1) 39" --------------------------------------------------------- 3/4
2) 26.5" ------------------------------------------------------- 4/4
3) 46" --------------------------------------------------------- 3/4

Take 'em Out
Range: 10 Yards
1) 0/6 --------------------------------------------------------- 0/4
2) 2/6 --------------------------------------------------------- 1/4
3) 1/6 --------------------------------------------------------- 0/4

Hit or Miss
Range: 10 Yards
Standard: 1 out of 5
1) +1
2) +2
3) +2
4) -1 ---------------------------------------------------------- 3/4
TOTAL 14/28 50%

BOW: Whisper
Partner: Gabriel Albert

Form Drills
Grouping - 10 yards
1) 15"---------------------------4/4
2) 18.5"-------------------------4/4
3)24" ---------------------------4/4

Take 'Em Out
Range: 10 Yards
Target: Pokemon Cards
1) 3/6---------------------------2/4
2) 1/6 --------------------------0/4
3) 0/6 --------------------------0/4

Hot or Miss
Range: 10 Yards
Target Size: 6" X 6"
Standard: 4/6
1) -2
2) -1
3) -1
4) +1--------------------------1/4
TOTAL 15/28 54%

Bow: Wonder Bow
Range: Pacific Archery
Partner: Jason Albert

Note from Dad,
Today was a rough day for Gabriel at the range. During the Gapping Drills we noticed that he was still struggling with his anchor point. After several attempts to fix the problem, we decided we would try a clicker. This is a device that clicks when you are at full draw. It didn't fit his bow and started chopping fletching off his arrows. We ended up taking it off, but the problem still remains.

This ruined the fun we has planned and Gabriel got discouraged and decided to try again another day. we plan on starting at the beginning with mirror drills and video. I hope this works. We'll see.

Jason S. Albert

Gapping Drills
Gapping Adjustment Practice
5 yards = +3"
10 yards = -3"
15 yards = +2"
No Score - Incomplete data

BOW: Whisper
RANGE: Pacific Archery
Partner: Gabriel Albert

Gapping Drills
Gapping Adjustment Practice
5 yards = +4"
10 yards = 0"
15 yards = 0 "
20 yards = -4"--------------4/5

Form Drills
Grouping - 20 Yards
1) 35"---------------4/4
2) 44"---------------3/4
3) 45"---------------3/4
4) 43"---------------3/4
5) 42.5"-------------3/4
6)32.5"--------------4/4
TOTAL -------------24/29 83%

Bow: Whisper

Pattern Drills
Pattern Analysis
1) No Sight Picture
2) Very Good
3) No Sight Picture/ No Back tension
4) No Sight Picture
5) No Sight Picture/ Torque
6) Top Left - Moved Bow Arm
Top Right - No Sight Picture-------------------- 4/4
Tuning
No deficiencies. No need for Micro-Tuning because no adjustments were made.
Form Drills
Grouping - 10 Yards
1) 27" ----------------------------------------- 4/4
2) 18" ----------------------------------------- 4/4
3) 15.5"-----------------------------------------4/4
Hit or Miss Target - 6"X6" - 10 yards
Standard = 3 shots in target
1) -1
2) -1
3) -1--------------------------------------------3/4
Take 'Em Out
Target - Pokemon Cards - 10 yards
1) -3/6 -------------------------------------- 2/4
2) -3/6 ---------------------------------------2/4
3) -3/6 --------------------------------------- 2/4
TOTAL 25/32 78%

Prelimimary Adjustments
BOW: Wonder Bow
WEIGHT: 35# @ 23"
BRACE HEIGHT: 7 7/8"
ACCESSORIES: Metal Nock Point, Bear Arrow Shelf

Stance Drills
Alignment Check - 3 out of 3
Sighting Drills
Alignment and Aiming Mimic - 0 out of 3
Aiming Mimic 3 Spot - 3 out of 3
Gapping Drills
Gapping Adjustment Practice - 1 out of 5
Subtraction: 0 out of 4
Gabriel----------Dad
44-8=36 54-10=44
31-10=21 58-5=55
TOTAL 9 out of 18 = 50%

Gabriel was at school so I had no training partner. Time was an issue so I did not score my progress.

Gapping Drills
5 yards = 4" Gap
10 Yards = 0" Gap

Preliminary Adjustments
Bow: Whisper
Draw: 27"
Weight: 71#
Tiller:
Top: 3/8" Under Notch
Bottom: 5/8" Over Handle
Brace Height: 6.5"
Accessories; 2X Wool String Silencers, Double Nock Point

Stance Drills
Alignment Check 3/3
Sighting Drills
Alignment & Aiming Mimic 3/3
Aiming Mimic 3 Spot 3/3
Gapping Drills
Gapping Adjustment Practice 1/5
Subtraction:
Gabriel----------Jason
44 (-10) = 36----------54 (-8) = 44
31 (-5) = 21-----------58 (-10) = 55
2/4
TOTAL 12/18 66%

Fatigue played a big roll in this practice session with both myself and Gabriel. The sighting exercises really take a lot out of you.

I recently purchase a new bow from Crows Head Outfitters. It is a Hybrid Reflex-Deflex with a Hickory core and a Bamboo Backing. It is 73# @ 28" and as quiet as I have ever heard. The Draw is so smooth it makes the 73# feel like 50#. I absolutely love this bow. The only thing I added to the bow is a string serving, two self made wool silencers, and a double string nock.

When shooting traditional bows; if you use your stiff arm to aim high or low you are changing your draw length in the process. Compound bows don't have this problem as they are always at full draw.

As a traditional archer you should always draw your bow strait out keeping your stiff arm strait at all times. To aim high or low you should bend at the hips. This keeps your draw length the same with every shot and keeps you consistent with your shots at different ranges and elevations.

What you do before you set up your shot is just as important as what you do as you are taking your shot. I call this my pre-shot ritual. Yours and others are different I'm sure, but here is an example of my pre-shot ritual. Another way to keep my shots consistent.

1)Clear your mind. Forget about all of life's struggles. Forget about that grocery list. Most importantly; forget about the last shot you took. Nothing matters except the shot you are taking right now.

Before I even prepare to take my shot I imagine/visualize a peace of white paper. This clears my mind of everything else except that white peace of paper which is so boring I can turn it off when its time to look at the target.

2) Before I start to draw the string back; I focus on the smallest part of my target until the outer edges of the target become a blur.

3) I continue focusing on the target as I draw and take aim.

4) "Relax", I tell myself as I let my entire body get comfortable.

5) I let muscle memory do the rest as I release the arrow.


Some folks may have a pre-shot ritual and not even know it. Some rehearse theirs over and over again. The point is..... What you do before you take your shot is just as important as your shot itself. Consistency is the key to a good shot.

One of the best ways to make the right adjustments to your form is to evaluate your shot group. Three arrows shot using the same reference points. If you are high, low left or right you know you need to make adjustments somewhere. If your shot group is all over the place then you need to go back to the basics and correct what ever may be the problem.

Too many arrows will make it difficult to analyze what's wrong. Too few arrows make it hard to see if it was a jerked shot or a real problem. Keep it simple. Three arrows shot using the same reference point. If it's good enough for the U.S. Army it should be good enough for an archery application.

We all know how important it is to have the right equipment for the job. Archery is no different. Not only do you need the right equipment, but you need to make sure it is the right equipment for you.

Draw Weight

We all want that power, but too much power can be devistating to your form and accuracy. Too little and you are not maximizing your potential. If your bow has a draw weight higher than you can handle, your stiff arm may shake or may fatigue after a few a shots. If your draw weight is too low it may make those long shots harder to hit or not penetrate enough for a hunt.

Draw Length

Most bows are set with their draw weight at 28". If your draw length is longer or shorter than 28" you can add or subtract 2 to 3 pounds per inch over or under 28". Some bows have a maximum draw length. If your draw length is longer than that of the max on the bow you are taking a huge chance on the bow breaking on you. This puts you in a very dangerous situation. If you draw length is beyond that of the max on the bow the most you can do with it is a possible wing shot.

In conclusion...
...know your limits and know your equipment.

Today we will be discussing The Archers "T". Now I know all you veteran archers out there are thinking how basic this is, but Traditional archery is growing everyday. That leaves a lot of newbies out there who are lacking the basics. Trust me, I was there not long ago.
The Archer "T" is the foundation of your form and technique. Without a good foundation the rest of your technique will crumble. The Archers "T" is the basis of which your stance, aim, pull, release, and follow through derive.

Stand with your feet shoulder length apart. Stretch out your arms to the side so they are parallel to the ground. Now draw an imaginary line down the center of your body to the ground. Draw another imaginary line from the tip of one hand across the body to the tip of the other hand. These imaginary lines make up your Archers "T". All of your actions will move along these lines.

OK, position your feet so that your stiff arm will be pointing at the target. Turn your head so that you will be looking strait down your stiff arm. Pull your string back so that you are following the imaginary line you made from one arm across your body to your anchor point. When you release your string your follow through should continue along the same imaginary line.


Any adjustments that need to be made to your form or technique all start here, with the Archers "T". Deviating from this basic starting point may result in many more problems later on.

In last weeks "Tip of the Week" we discussed the process of gapping. This week we are going to talk about how to find your gaps for establishing a physical reference. It is a simply process, but may take some time.

1) The first thing you need to do is tie a rubber-band or some elastic material to the upper arm of your bow. I used one of my wife's hair bands.

2) Next, find a reference point on your bow to take the measurements from. I used the paint line on mine, but it can be something as simple as the arrow rest.

3) Now figure out what range you are going to be shooting at. You will have to do this at several ranges, but you have to start somewhere. I suggest starting at ten yards.

4) Pull your elastic marker up or down to a point you think would be your gap for the range you are shooting.

5) Take aim. Line that elastic marker up with the center of your target. Then line up the tip of your arrow to adjust for left and right. At this point your arrow should not be pointing at the center of the target.

6) Shoot!!!

7) Adjust your elastic marker as needed until your shot group of three arrows hit where you want them.

8) Measure from your reference point to your elastic marker. Write your range and measurement down for future reference.

9) Now move to a different ranged shot and repeat the process. Repeat this process for all your ranges.

10) Take off your elastic marker and measure out your gap for each range and mark them on your bow so that it is easily visible. I used a paint pen, but you can use tape or anything you think will help.

This process takes away some of the instinctive element of your shooting, but regulates your shot group for added consistency. It's going to take some time getting use to using the added reference points, but I believe that it is worth it.

NOTE: Putting these markings on your bow may disqualify you from competing in the traditional Archery classifications at tournements and competitions.

Those of us that shoot traditional bows don't have the luxury of a high tech-hundred dollar sight to pinpoint our shots to the target. Gapping is one of the methods we using in our aiming process. Lining that arrow up with the center of the target isn't all that hard, but the arrow arcs differently at different ranges. Gapping is the method we use to measure that arc at different ranges so that the arrow hits the target what ever it may be.

For instance; if you are shooting a target at 10 yards you may line the tip of the arrow one inch below the bulls-eye. If you are shooting at a 20 yard target you may line the tip if your arrow a half an inch below the bulls-eye and so on as the yardage increases.

Whether it be an instinctive process for you or not; gapping is a must for the traditional archer. It may take some time to get the process down, but it will definately improve your shot in tournaments and hunting.

Here is another unique idea I got from Outdoor U. It was so original that I had to post it. If you are looking for a little edge then this would be a simple way to go.

You can reduce wind resistance in your arrow flight by waxing your arrows. Applying a high quality car wax to your arrows can reduce wind resistance, increase arrow penetration, and make it easier to pull your arrows out of the target. I know it sounds crazy, but the physics are there if you think about it.

Fatigue comes in many shapes and forms. There is mental fatigue, fatigue caused by lack of sleep, muscle fatigue, and more. We wont go into the causes, but the effects can be devastating to your archery form and accuracy.

Muscle memory plays a huge roll in your form. By shooting while you are fatigued in any way you may be building bad habits. Bad habits that may carry on to your next shooting session and take more time to fix.

When fatigue sets in - STOP. Take a break. Relax those muscles. Clear your mind. Get your second wind. Then you can go back and practice the right way. You can shoot as many arrows as you want, but if you are shooting wrong you are only hurting your form, accuracy, and consistency.

Can you put your bow arm strait out and pull the string back to your anchor point. If not, your draw weight is too high. If you have to point at the sky to draw your bow back, again, your draw weight is too high. Remember, archery accuracy is about form. If you are drawing to the sky then your form is wrong. If your form is wrong then so will be your accuracy.

I read in a forum that an 11 year old bow shooting a 20 pound recurve in Carson City, NV hit the target at 80 yards. Accuracy over Power all day long.

I have to thank Outdoor U for this tip. It was so helpful to me that it couldn't go without mentioning on my blog too.

While aiming, it can be difficult to see the your arrow as you are lining it up with the target. Your arrow may appear to be blurry or simply blend in with the environment. An easy remedy or fix is to wrap brightly colored tape around the tip of the shaft. You can even add brightly colored cresting stripe if you want to go one step further. I took a paint pen and painted the tips of my arrow heads. It really makes it easier to line up your shot.

Most of us have heard the phrase, "Aim small - miss small". That is what makes this next tip of the week too cool. Some folks spend a lot of money on their targets. Others print out different versions of targets on their computer. Walmart has an answer to our target issues. That little sticker the greeter puts on our bags as you enter the store. It's small, it's very visible, and it's free. If you want more than just a Walmart smiley face I am sure you will find something in the sticker isle that will fit your needs.

When people go to the range they are there to concentrate on building their skills. That takes time and concentration. There are a few things that can happen that could ruin the range for everyone and have you loosing face among your peers.

The first issue is your children. We know you need to work on your skills as much as the next person and you should not be inhibited because you have a responsibility to your children. Remember, you may have learned to shut out the annoyances of your children, but others are not so lucky. Your kids are not their problem and they should not be expected to understand. All they see are little ones who didn't pay range fees putting a strain on their concentration and progress. If you do bring your kids to the range with you, make sure they are well behaved and quiet. Or even better, schedule a time when you can go to the range alone.

The second issue will be the guy that brings 100 arrows and has to shoot every one every round. Three, count them , Three arrows are all you need per round to evaluate your progress. Heck, I can even see shooting six to eight, but anymore than that and you are holding everyone else up. Pay attention to your surroundings. If you see that all six of the lanes are waiting on you to finish - then back off the line and call "clear". Don't be the guy that holds everyone else up from their progress just because he has to get in those few more shots.

The third issue is the guy that starts his round late. Everyone else on the line is down to their last shot and here they come. He/She starts their round as everyone else is ending theirs. This forces everyone else to stand and watch him/her shoot their entire round. Go ahead. Jump in when you are ready. Once again watch your surroundings. If you are the last man shooting then back off the line and call "clear". It is just plane rude to make everyone else sit, wait, and watch your entire round just because you were unable to start with the rest of them. It takes less time for them to retrieve their arrows and get back to the line than it does for you to shoot two arrows.

These are just a few things that any person can do to make the archery range more accommodating for everyone. These are not rules or regulations. They are just everyday common courtesies. You don't have to listen to these three issues if you want to be - That Guy.

OK, maybe not a legend, but definitely a name worthy of mention. Justin Huish brought home the gold for the U.S. in the 1996 Summer Olympics. Not only did he win the gold medal in individual archery, but he also helped bring home the gold for the team competition as well. You can view Huish's 1996 performance on YouTube. It has been said that it was his performance at the 1996 Summer Olympics that inspired Geena Davis to take up Archery.

Justin had a position ready for him in the 2000 Summer Olympics which were to be held in Sydney, Australia. However; on February 15, 2000, Justin Huish was arrested for possession of marijuana. He resigned from the Olympic team and pleaded , "No Contest" to the charges and sentenced to 120 day in jail.

Justin would try out for the Olympic team again in 2004, but come up short. We hope to see him in action again soon.

A fun way to practice hitting a moving target is to get a few old tires. Tape some paper or a target to fill the holes. Have a friend roll them down a hill as you take aim and shoot. You and your friend take turns shooting and rolling. Make sure you have a backdrop or you will spend a lot of time searching for your arrows. Keep it safe and Have fun

“Fred Bear, walk with me down the trails again
Take me back, back where I belong
Oh, Fred Bear, I'm glad to have you at my side, my friend
And I'll join you on the big hunt before too long”

The previous is a chorus from a song called, “Fred Bear” made famous by Ted Nugent to pay homage to the late -great Fred Bear. Fred Bear was an American bow hunter, but was probably more famous for his work as a bowyer which was inspired by a documentary on the bow hunting adventures of Art Young.

He was born march 5, 1902 in Waynesboro, PA, but didn’t start bow hunting until he was 29 years old. Regarded as a pioneer in the bow-hunting community; he was a film producer, world traveler, and founder of an outdoor company called Bear Archery which still exists today. Mr. Bear was an expert marksman proven three times over as he won the Michigan state's target archery championship in 1934, 1937 and 1939.

Fred Bear was the first president of Michigan's oldest archery club called the Detroit Archers. There is a small collection of his memorabilia still held at their clubhouse. The Fred Bear Museum which was originally in Grayling, Mi. and founded in 1967 was sold to the Bass Pro Shop and is currently displayed at their headquarters in Springfield, Mo.

Captured on a YouTube video Fred Bear tells bow hunters abroad to not measure their success by the number of kills, but rather by the quality of the hunt. He tells them to take pleasure in being in the woods and the companionship of your partners in the hunt. Take pleasure in color of the leaves and the sounds of the birds and animals.

Fred Bear passed away on April 27, 1988. His knowledge and wisdom passed down via his generous sharing with those he came in contact with. Ted Nugent said it well in his song about Fred Bear…..

“In the wind he's still alive
In the wind, I hear, I hear Fred Bear”

I recently ordered another "You Finish" longbow from G.I. Bow. Normally I shoot a 45 pound bow, but this time I ordered a 60 pounder. I went to shoot it yesterday at the Pacific Archery range. Wow! What a difference 15 pounds makes. It only took an hour before my arms started feeling fatigued. I took a short break because of the fatigue and went right back to shooting. She is going to take some getting use to, but she flies strait and hits hard. Because of the draw weight I named her Tugger. I think it fits. Another great buy from G.I. Bow.

The Clark County Archery Range was hard to find at first, but if you can find the Old SilverBowl you can find the archery range. They have signs all over directing you to the archery range. It is run by the Clark County Parks and Recreations Department.

Their website needs to be updated as to target amenities, but all in all we were very happy with this range. There we no fees and you're not packed in like sardines. There targets range from 10 to 100 yds. increasing from left to right in 10 yd. increments.

The targets at the main range are bails of hay securely set up at their respective ranges. There are no targets available, but Rasher Quivers offers Free Download Targets from their website which are printable strait to your home computer. You can get these targets at http://www.rasherquivers.com/

The Clark County Archery Range also offers a moch 3D range which is set up just to the west of the primary range. This range is also free to the public, but sometimes has scheduled tournaments. Bring plenty of water as there are no facilities offered here.

We met many nice people who were more than willing to offer advice and share stories. All in all it was a fine day for target practice.

Clark County Archery Range
Sam Boyd Sports Complex
6800 E. Russell Rd., Las Vegas, NV
Phone: 702-367-1505 for league information

The first thing you notice when you walk into Silver State Archery is how clean it is. The staff are very friendly and their patrons are as well. Boomer Salgado, manager of Silver State Archery, is very knowledgeable of all things archery in the Las Vegas area. He advised us of upcoming leagues and tournaments. That information seemed to be hard to come by for us.

This truly is a cool indoor range. The lanes are separated very clearly. There are ten lanes marked out at the 10, 15, and 20yd points. They don't skimp on the air conditioning either. It was probably the most comfortable shoot this summer. They offer several leagues on various days of the week and a Shoot Down competition on Sundays offering money and prizes to the winners.

They have rental equipment and you can even test drive some equipment before you buy. They have a full service pro shop on site and are always willing to assist. All in all this was a great experience for us and we highly recommend this range.

Silver State Archery
6250 Mountain Vista St Suite D-2
Henderson, NV 89104
Phone: 702-586-1847
Fax: 702-586-1854
http://www.silverstatearchery.com/
rsalgado@SilverStateArchery.com

For weeks I have been shooting wild and I couldn't figure out what was going wrong. My stance was good. My anchor point was on. I was following through. Everything seemed to be perfect. So today, at the range, I went through my checklist one by one to make sure everything was on point. It was, but I was still inconsistent.

Well there was one thing that was not on my checklist. The grip I had on my bow. My grip was so tight on the bow that it was torquing it all over. My shots were everywhere. The more I thought about how bad my shoots were, the tighter I would grip the handle of the bow. I'm talking about white knuckles.

It took some practice, but I had to adjust to a new griping technique. I tried just using the forefinger and the thumb and the middle finger and the thumb. Both of these were uncomfortable. I finally ended up with a loose grip where both the forefinger and middle-finger meet the thumb. This was OK, but too easy to grab after I shot.

I now have a grip that works. I don't grip the bow at all when I draw. I leave my hand open. Once I am at full draw and aiming, I very delicately place my finger tips (Ring and Middle finger) on the front of the bow. No pressure. They are there just for balance.

It seems like such a small detail, but it really made a huge difference in my accuracy. Another thing to add to my checklist.

Prior to today my method of aiming at the target had been 100% instinctive. I would draw to my anchor point, look at the target, and release. I was getting pretty good at it too. My shot groups were inconsistent at best, but my average shot was relatively good. I just figured that I was doing what I was suppose to. Today at the range; I was taught to use three points of reference. It wasn't easy. I had to make a lot of adjustments.

First was my anchor point. All that time I spent building up that muscle memory was all waisted. I use to draw to my mandible, but as it turns out, that type of draw takes the string out of the picture. Literally. Now I draw until the arrow nock is in the corner of my lip. This allows me to put the center of my nose right on the string. Point One. Now, no matter where I look, that string is the center point.

Next, I look down to the tip of the arrow. Point Two. It sounds easy, but it really takes some getting use to. While you are looking for the tip of the arrow you are trying to see the string. Remember, you don't need to see the string. It's there. Right where you put it. Right between your eyes on the tip of your nose.

Finally, line that arrow tip up with your target. Point Three. It takes some getting use to, but after a few dozen shots you should really start to see the difference. A huge difference. You will have so much more control and the difference in your consistency is amazing. Your shot groups will be tighter and your accuracy improving quickly.

A simple concept, but a lot to remember while you are trying to maintain the rest of your form. It all comes down to three points of reference. String - Arrow - Target. Line 'em up and knock 'em down.

There are several things that may alter you shot and make you inconsistent on the target. By learning these points and how they affect your shot, you can identify the problem with your shot and fix it.

Stance

You may find yourself in many situations where your stance will have to change, but the one thing that must stay consistent is that your stance should be solid. A wavering stance is no different than a shaky hand. Practice shooting in different stances to stabilize your shot in each stance. Doing this will prepare you for any awkward position you may find yourself in.

Draw

When you draw your bow everything should move in a strait line. From the tip of your stiff arm hand to the elbow of your string hand. Don't let that elbow get too high or low. Don't jerk that string back, but pull it smooth and easy. Keep those shoulders lined up as well. It's like your doing Tai Chi with a bow in your hand. One single, smooth, strait line.

Anchor Point

This is probably the most important part of your entire form. If your anchor point isn't consistent then nothing else about your shot will be either. If your anchor varies from front to back the arch on your arrows travel will be inconsistent. If your anchor point varies from side to side so will your shot. Muscle memory plays a large part of finding your anchor point. If you practise often (With or Without a bow) your muscles will remember that point and it will become instinctive.


If you need more information on your anchor point you can refer to another article on my blog...
Aiming - Three Points of Reference

Grip

Make sure you are not gripping your bow to tight. This causes the bow to torque in strange and unusual ways. If your grip is too tight there is no telling where your arrow will go. So many strange and inconsistent things can happen if you torque your bow.


If you need more information on your grip you can refer to another article on my blog...
Torquing the Bow

String Finger

Too much finger on your string can send your arrow flying left or right. Too much pressure on your arrow pushing up on the nock pin can send your arrow flying up or down. Use just your the tips of your fingers as you pull the string back. Less surface area mean less chance for variance in your release. Let the arrow nock do the work. Place your fingers under the arrow, but don't put any pressure on it.

Aim

Three points of reference are needed to perfect your aim. You need to line up the string, the tip of your arrow, and the target.


If you need more information on aiming you can refer to another article on my blog...
Aiming - Three Points of Reference

Follow Through

Your follow through covers both hands. If your bow hand moves before the arrow clears the stave then the arrow will kick in the opposite direction of which you moved your hand. I use a simple counting method to insure this doesn't happen. "Release - 2-3-4". I count this out in my head like a rhythmic drum as I let the arrow fly. I don't move a muscle until after that four count.

Your string hand shouldn't be in the same spot after you release the string. Much like bowling you should follow through with your shot. You do this by smoothly pulling your hand under your ear as you release the string. This too is muscle memory. Learning to do this instinctively adds more consistency to your form.

Even with mapquest this range was hard to find the first time. When we finally got there, our first stop was the gun range. There was a small shop to buy targets, drinks, and purchase your $7.00 line pass. The line pass was good for the whole day, but no one came out to the archery range to check it. Some of the staff were very pleasant, but others were just downright rude.

From the gun range they told us how to get to the archery range, which we had passed a couple miles back down this winding road. We were told to turn into the shotgun range and urn down a smaller unmarked road to get there. It sounds more complicated than it really is.

The archery range was out doors, but you shoot from under a huge canopy. There is a soda machine there if you get thirsty. They did say that they were going to eventually build a shop closer to the archery range.

There was only one other person there shooting when we arrived. He was sighting in his compound bow for a big hunting trip he was going on. We shot for about three hours and he was still there sighting in that contraption of a bow when we left.

This range has multiple targets ranging from 10 yards to 90 yards. the ground is covered in gravel with a gravel hill as a backdrop. Heaven forbid you miss a target. You usually end up chasing your arrow up and over that damn hill hunting for the flash of color from your fletching.

We shot for a few hours as we tried the different ranged targets that we had never shot before. We sure did have to chase down a lot of arrows. When the day was done we broke several arrows. We lost half our nocks and ruined most of our feather fletchings in the gravel.

This range is in no way set up for beginners, and if you like your arrows, I wouldn't try shooting from ranges you are not accustomed to. Don't get me wrong, it was a lot of fun. It was just expensive with the range fees and broken arrows. We just need more practice before we go back.

Clark County Shooting Park
11357 North Decatur Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89131
702-455-2000

The Bass Pro Shop is located in the Silverton Hotel/Casino. The staff at Las Vegas' Bas Pro Shop are very friendly and professional. The archery range is a really nice range with only one very small problem. It's hard to escape the corporate feel of the range with it's glass walls and the glass door that locks allowing only those inside to open it without a key. You have to check your gear before you enter the store and check it again before you enter the archery range so they can unlock all the security devices. It requires you to do the reverse as you leave.

The climate controlled range is located upstairs by the Bass Pro Shop's archery sales department. The location makes it easy to get what ever last minute items you may need to enjoy your time at the range.

Archery lessons are offered on Sunday mornings, but the Bass Pro Shop does not rent equipment.


Bass Pro Shop offers a 6 lane indoor range with target ranges at 10 and 20 yards.
$5/ hour
Rentals are not available
Lessons available on Sunday

Bass Pro Shop
8200 Dean Martin Dr.
Las Vegas, NV 89139
702-730-5200

The Stick and String forum is a Traditional Archery Forum designed as a haven for traditional archery enthusiasts to learn and discuss their passions for traditional archery. Longbows, recurves, and horsebows are main stream for this forum. They discuss bow building, arrow making, and all things connected with traditional archery.

The members of the Stick and String forum range from beginners to bowyers. You can post your bow hunting stories, submit articles for the Stick and String administrators to post in their online magazine, or post pictures and videos for your latest archery adventures. Stick and String also has a podcast that covers interviews and hunting stories and new up-n-comings for Stick and String. They even have a classified section where you can sell your archery related items.

If you are new to traditional archery; Stick and String is a great place for you to learn and share your experiences as you progress. If you are a veteran to traditional archery; this is a great place to share your knowledge with a new up-and-coming generation of traditional archers.

Stick and String

Primitive & Traditional Archery - Bow Hunting - The Art of Bow & Arrow Making

http://<div style="text-align: cente...ring.com</div>

Pacific Archery was established in 1969. I wasn't born yet, but I have been told that it was truly a great year. There isn't enough you could say about this little shop. The staff are friendly and personal. Their knowledge of all things archery is impressive.


This is not the usual customer service that you would get in a Las Vegas environment. You (the customer) are not just another number. You are not just a dollar sign. The staff at Pacific Archery truly love what they do and that shows in their service to their guests. It doesn't matter if you are five years old or fifty; The staff at Pacific Archery are here to serve, educate, assist or just shoot the bull.

This is a very comfortable range. You wont be disappointed.


Pacific Archery offers a 6 lane indoor range with target ranges at 10 and 20 yards.
$13 to shoot the range all day.
Bow rentals are available.
Lessons Available

Pacific Archery
4084 Schiff Dr.
Las Vegas, NV 89103
702-367-1505

I have two sons that are starting archery this month. This is Brandon.

Also... the number of tags you can put on posts seems to be messed up. Is it 0, 2, 3, or 5?

http://threebk.blogspot.com/2010/09/...hat-was-i.html