How to Draw a Bow on Archery

Drawing, or pulling back a bow string, in preparation to launch an arrow takes practice. The tension of the bow may seem difficult at first, but it gets easier with each attempt. When practicing, make sure you never "dry fire" or release the bow without an arrow. This action is hard on the bow and can damage it with stress fractures. Drawing the bow allows you to sight your target and align the arrow with where you want it to go. Children should always have adult supervision in archery.

Things You'll Need

  • Bow
  • Arrow
  • Target
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Stand with your feet and shoulders parallel to each other at a 90 degree angle to the target. Grip the bow in the left hand (or in the right hand if you're left-handed) and nock the arrow with the right hand, aiming at the target.

    • 2

      Hold the bow with the arrow pointing at the target and with your forefinger above the arrow and middle and ring finger below it, pull the bow back steadily while holding your left arm rigid.

    • 3

      Pull the arrow straight back until your middle finger is even with the right corner of your mouth. This is called the anchor point. Hold the bow steady as you look straight down the arrow with your right eye. The tip of the arrow should be over the target in the spot you want to hit.

    • 4

      Breathe in deeply and hold your breath. Relax the three fingers holding the bow and release the arrow. Keep your hand in place until the arrow finds its mark.

    • 5

      Repeat steps 1 through 4. You will begin to see improvement as you focus more on your form.