Archery Recurve Instructions

The bow and arrow is a primitive weapon that has evolved over thousands of years. Originally constructed from available woods and animal parts, the overall mechanics of the bow as of 2011 have remained the same. A recurve bow has limbs that curve away from the shooter when the bow is unstrung. This feature imparts more forward kinetic energy onto the arrow when fired. Shooting a recurve bow requires skill and knowledge developed over time and practice.

Things You'll Need

  • Bow and arrow
  • Target
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Instructions

    • 1

      Stand facing your target. Square your bow-shoulder and lead hip with the target plane. The bow-shoulder is your shoulder/arm that you hold the bow with. The lead hip is the leg/hip closest to the target.

    • 2

      Draw an imaginary line from the target bull's-eye to your position. Place your lead foot's toe on this line. Place your feet shoulder-width apart. Keep your lead foot's outer edge parallel to the target plane.

    • 3

      Nock an arrow onto the string. Hold the bow out straight. Ensure that the arrow is parallel to the ground when nocked on the string. Hold the grip in such a manner that you apply pressure onto the meaty part of the palm.

    • 4

      Pull the string and arrow back to full draw. Anchor your draw just below the ear near the cheek. Note that some recurve shooters choose to anchor the string directly onto the tip of the nose.

    • 5

      Aim at the target bull's eye. Note that all recurve bows have different sight capability and all of these sights vary in use. Consult your sight manual for specifics.

    • 6

      Release the string to fire the arrow. If using a release assist, depress the trigger on your assist to release the string. If using your fingers, fan your fingers open to release the string in one fluid motion.