Archery Types: What Kind Of Archer Are You?
Are you interested in archery, but unsure which type of archery is right for you? Do you want to explore the different styles of archery and find your perfect fit?
Look no further, as we dive into the world of archery types and help you discover what kind of archer you are!
From traditional longbows to high-tech compound bows, and from Olympic recurve target shooting to 3D archery in the great outdoors, there are many different styles and disciplines of archery to explore.
Be with us on this interactive journey and discover your true archery passion!
Let us first discuss different types of bows in archery.
Different Types Of Bows
There are several different types of bows used in archery, each with their own unique characteristics and advantages.
Here are the most common types:
Barebow
A barebow is a type of bow that does not have any additional accessories or attachments, such as sights or stabilizers.
The archer must rely solely on their own skill and ability to aim and shoot the bow. Barebows can be used for both traditional and modern archery, and can come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Recurve
A recurve bow is a type of bow that has limbs that curve away from the archer when unstrung.
This curvature allows for a greater amount of energy to be stored in the limbs, resulting in a faster and more powerful shot.
Recurve bows are commonly used in Olympic and target archery, and can be used with a variety of accessories, such as sights and stabilizers.
Compound
A compound bow is a type of bow that uses a system of pulleys and cables to reduce the amount of force needed to hold the bowstring at full draw.
This makes it easier for the archer to hold the bow steady and aim accurately.
Compound bows are typically used in modern archery and hunting, and can be customized with a variety of accessories, such as sights, stabilizers, and arrow rests.
Check The Battle of the Bows: Compound vs Recurve Bows!
Longbow
A longbow is a type of bow that is characterized by its simple design and long, straight limbs. Longbows have been used for centuries, and were historically used in warfare and hunting.
They require a high degree of skill and strength to shoot accurately, as they do not have the added advantages of modern accessories or equipment.
Each type of bow has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right type of bow depends on your personal preferences, skill level, and intended use.
Whether you prefer the simplicity of a barebow, the speed and power of a compound bow, or the traditional feel of a longbow, there is a type of bow that will suit your needs as an archer.
Here is a useful video for different types of bows
Let’s discuss different types of Archery now;
Field Archery
Field archery is a popular form of archery that involves shooting at targets set up in a natural environment, such as a forest or a field.
Unlike other types of archery that involve shooting at stationary targets from a set distance, field archery requires archers to navigate a course and shoot at targets set up at varying distances and angles.
Field archers use equipment that is similar to that used in other types of archery, including a bow, arrows, and protective gear.
However, field archery bows tend to be longer and heavier, which makes them more suitable for shooting at longer distances.
Additionally, the arrows used in field archery tend to be thicker and heavier, which makes them more durable and able to withstand the impact of hitting targets set up in a natural environment.
Field archers tend to be outdoorsy types who enjoy spending time in nature. They are often skilled at navigating uneven terrain and shooting at targets set up at varying distances and angles.
Field archers also tend to be very focused and disciplined, as hitting targets at longer distances requires a great deal of concentration and control.
One of the advantages of field archery is that it provides archers with the opportunity to improve their shooting skills in a natural setting. Shooting at targets set up in a forest or a field requires archers to adjust their shooting technique based on the environment, which can help them develop their skills and improve their accuracy. Additionally, field archery can be a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, as archers are often required to walk long distances to navigate the course.
However, there are also some disadvantages to field archery. For example, it can be more challenging and physically demanding than other types of archery. Additionally, the uneven terrain and natural obstacles can make it difficult to shoot accurately, especially for novice archers.
Target Archery
Target archery is a form of archery in which archers shoot arrows at a stationary target placed at a specific distance. The target consists of a series of concentric circles, with the center of the target being the highest point value and the outermost circle being the lowest point value.
Target archery can be practiced both indoors and outdoors, and the distances at which the target is placed can vary depending on the skill level of the archer and the type of competition being held. Indoor competitions typically involve shorter distances, while outdoor competitions can involve distances up to 90 meters.
Archers typically shoot a set number of arrows at the target during each round of competition, with the exact number of arrows and the scoring system varying depending on the rules of the competition. In most competitions, archers shoot in a specific order, with each archer taking turns shooting their arrows.
In target archery, archers use a variety of equipment to help them aim and shoot their bow, including a bow sight, which is a device that attaches to the bow and helps the archer aim at the target, and a stabilizer, which is a rod attached to the bow that helps to balance the bow and reduce vibration during the shot.
Target archery is a popular sport that is practiced both recreationally and competitively. It requires a combination of physical and mental skills, including strength, endurance, focus, and precision.
Target archery is the most popular form of archery and is included in the Olympics in recurve form.
Traditional archery
Traditional archery is a timeless form of archery that involves using traditional equipment such as longbows, recurve bows, and arrows made from natural materials like wood, feathers, and animal sinew.
Unlike modern forms of archery, traditional archery emphasizes a deeper connection with the natural world, and the use of traditional equipment that has been used by cultures throughout history.
The equipment used in traditional archery is often made by hand, which can add to the personal connection that archers feel towards their equipment.
Traditional archers use longbows, recurve bows, or other traditional bows that are often made from wood or other natural materials.
Arrows used in traditional archery are also made from natural materials, including wood, feathers, and animal sinew, which is a tough, elastic tissue found in the tendons of some animals.
Traditional archers are often characterized by their strong connection to the natural world and their appreciation for traditional archery techniques and equipment.
Traditional archers typically value the experience of shooting and the connection that they feel with their equipment and the environment around them.
Traditional archers are also known for their focus, patience, and discipline, which are essential qualities for mastering the technique and accuracy required in traditional archery.
One of the primary advantages of traditional archery is its simplicity.
Traditional archery equipment is often made from natural materials and requires a great deal of skill and technique to master, which can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for archers.
3D archery
3D archery is a form of archery that involves shooting at three-dimensional targets that simulate real-life hunting scenarios.
Unlike other forms of archery that involve shooting at stationary targets, 3D archery requires archers to navigate a course and shoot at targets that are set up at varying distances and angles.
The targets used in 3D archery are often made of foam and are designed to look like animals such as deer, elk, and other game animals.
The equipment used in 3D archery is similar to that used in other forms of archery, including a bow, arrows, and protective gear.
However, 3D archery bows are often more compact and maneuverable, which makes them easier to use in tight spaces and when navigating uneven terrain. Additionally, the arrows used in 3D archery are often heavier and more durable, which makes them better suited for shooting at the foam targets used in 3D archery.
3D archers are characterized by their love of the outdoors and their passion for hunting and shooting.
3D archers often have a strong sense of focus and discipline, as hitting targets that simulate real-life hunting scenarios requires a great deal of concentration and control.
Additionally, 3D archers are often skilled at navigating uneven terrain and shooting accurately at targets that are set up at varying distances and angles.
One of the primary advantages of 3D archery is that it provides archers with a realistic hunting experience without the need for live animals or the associated ethical considerations.
Additionally, 3D archery can be a great way to improve shooting skills and practice in a variety of hunting scenarios.
3D archery can also be a fun and social activity, as archers often navigate the course in groups and compete against each other to see who can hit the most targets.
However, there are also some disadvantages to 3D archery. For example, 3D archery can be physically demanding, as navigating the course and shooting accurately requires a great deal of upper body strength and endurance.
Additionally, the cost of equipment and access to courses can be a barrier for some archers.
3D Archery with Horsebow and Thumbrelease
While 3D archery is typically associated with compound or traditional archery, it is also possible to practice this discipline with a horsebow and thumb release.
Horsebows, which are also known as Mongolian or Korean bows, are a type of recurve bow that were historically used by mounted archers in Central Asia and East Asia. They are characterized by their short length, high draw weight, and distinct shape, which allows for a smooth draw and a fast release.
Thumb release, on the other hand, is a technique used to release the bowstring using the thumb instead of the fingers. This technique is commonly used in traditional archery, particularly in Asian archery styles such as Korean or Mongolian archery. It involves hooking the string with the thumb and using a pulling motion to release the arrow, which results in a smoother and more consistent release than using the fingers.
In addition to 3D archery, some archers also practice barebow or traditional archery with a Mediterranean release, which is a technique used to release the bowstring using the first three fingers of the hand. This technique is commonly used in Western archery styles, such as English longbow or American flatbow.
While the equipment and techniques used in 3D archery with horsebows and thumb release may differ from those used in traditional or compound archery, the basic principles of accuracy, consistency, and focus remain the same.
Clout archery- A form of Traditional Archery
Clout archery is a type of archery that involves shooting arrows at a target placed at a long distance away, typically between 125 and 180 yards.
The target used in clout archery is a small white flag or marker, which is placed on the ground rather than a traditional archery target. The archer stands in a designated shooting area and must aim their arrows so that they land as close to the target as possible.
Clout archery is typically practiced in an outdoor setting, as it requires a large open space for the archers to shoot their arrows. It is considered to be a traditional form of archery and is still practiced in many parts of the world today.
Clout archery requires a great deal of skill and precision, as archers must accurately judge the distance and trajectory of their arrows in order to hit the target.
It is also a challenging and physically demanding form of archery, as archers must shoot their arrows over a long distance and often under adverse weather conditions.
Compound archery
Compound archery is a form of archery that involves using a compound bow, which is a modern bow that uses a system of pulleys and cables to provide a mechanical advantage to the archer. The design of the compound bow allows for greater accuracy, power, and ease of use compared to traditional bows.
In compound archery, the archer stands at a designated shooting line and shoots arrows at a target placed at a specific distance. The target is typically a series of concentric circles with different point values assigned to each circle.
The archer uses a release aid, which is a device that attaches to the bowstring and allows for a clean release of the arrow. This results in greater consistency and accuracy in the shot.
Compound archers use a variety of techniques to aim and shoot their bow, including using a sight, which is a device that attaches to the bow and helps the archer aim at the target, and a peep sight, which is a small hole in the bowstring that the archer looks through to align the sight with the target.
In competition, compound archery is divided into different categories based on age, gender, and skill level. The archers compete in a series of rounds, with each round consisting of a set number of arrows shot at the target. The archer with the highest total score at the end of the competition is declared the winner.
Recurve Achery
Recurve archery is a type of archery that involves the use of a recurve bow.
Recurve bows are characterized by their curved limbs that bend away from the archer when the bow is not strung. This curvature allows the bow to store more energy, resulting in faster arrow speeds and greater accuracy.
Recurve archery can be practiced for both competitive and recreational purposes. Competitive recurve archery is often divided into two main categories: target archery and field archery.
Recurve archers are characterized by their precision, focus, and discipline.
They must be able to shoot consistently and accurately from long distances, while also remaining calm and focused under pressure.
Recurve archers also typically have a strong sense of dedication and commitment to the sport, as it requires a great deal of practice and training to achieve a high level of proficiency.
Recurve archery can be practiced in various forms of shooting, with each discipline requiring different skills and techniques.
While many archers dabble in multiple disciplines, most tend to have a particular form of shooting that they are most passionate about.
Here are some of the main forms of recurve archery:
- Recurve Target Archery: This discipline involves shooting at a stationary target from a set distance. It is the most popular form of recurve archery and is practiced in both indoor and outdoor settings. In international target archery, archers shoot at a distance of 70 meters, while in indoor target archery, the distance is typically 18 meters.
- Barebow Indoor: This is a form of target archery that involves shooting with a recurve bow without any additional sights or stabilizers. It is typically practiced in indoor settings and requires a great deal of precision and consistency.
- Barebow Field: Similar to indoor barebow, this discipline involves shooting at targets placed at various distances and angles throughout a course. However, it is typically practiced in outdoor settings and requires archers to adapt their technique to different terrains and lighting conditions.
- Field Recurve: This discipline is similar to field archery, but specifically involves the use of a recurve bow. Archers shoot at targets placed at various distances and angles throughout a course, which can be set up in a variety of terrains.
- Field Longbow (Flatbow): This discipline involves shooting at targets placed at various distances and angles throughout a course, but with a longbow or flatbow instead of a recurve bow. It requires a different set of skills and techniques than shooting with a recurve bow.
Overall, each form of recurve archery offers a unique set of challenges and rewards. Whether you prefer target archery, field archery, or hunting, there is a discipline that will suit your interests and skills.
Instinctive Recurve and Instinctive compound Archery
Instinctive archery is a form of archery where the archer relies on their instincts and muscle memory to shoot without the use of sights or other aiming aids.
This style is typically used in traditional archery, and can be practiced with a recurve or a longbow. Instinctive archers typically focus on consistent form and release, as well as developing a keen sense of awareness of their surroundings and the target.
While instinctive archery is traditionally associated with recurve and longbows, some archers have also adapted this style to compound bows, resulting in what is known as instinctive compound archery.
In this style, the archer uses a compound bow without the use of sights or other aiming aids, relying solely on their instincts to shoot accurately.
This style can require a higher degree of strength and accuracy than traditional instinctive archery due to the higher draw weight and increased speed of the compound bow.
Check: How To Aim A Recurve Bow Without A Sight: All Methods
Olympic Archery
Olympic archery is a type of archery that is recognized as an Olympic sport.
It involves the use of a recurve bow, which is a type of bow that has curved limbs that bend away from the archer when the bow is unstrung.
Olympic archery is typically practiced on a flat, level field or indoor range, with set distances and targets.
The targets used in Olympic archery are circular and have multiple concentric rings, with the center being worth the highest number of points.
In Olympic archery, archers shoot a predetermined number of arrows at a target from a set distance, with a certain amount of time given to complete each round.
The competition consists of multiple rounds, with archers being eliminated after each round until a final winner is determined.
Olympic archery requires precision, accuracy, and control, as archers must hit the target with as much accuracy as possible in order to score the most points.
The equipment used in Olympic archery must meet specific criteria, including bow and arrow specifications, as well as regulations on accessories and clothing.
Archers must also follow a strict set of rules and regulations, which are designed to ensure fairness and consistency in competition.
Flight archery
Flight archery is a type of archery that focuses on the maximum distance an arrow can be shot. The goal of flight archery is to shoot an arrow as far as possible. The distance achieved by the arrow is measured from the point of release to the point where it touches the ground.
Flight archery is typically practiced in a controlled setting, such as an airfield or an open field, where there are no obstacles to interfere with the arrow’s flight.
The equipment used in flight archery is specialized and designed to maximize the distance that an arrow can travel. This includes specialized bows with long draw lengths, lightweight arrows, and specially designed arrowheads.
Flight archery competitions often involve multiple rounds of shooting, with each archer attempting to shoot their arrow as far as possible.
The archer who shoots the arrow the farthest distance is declared the winner of the competition.
Flight archery requires a high level of skill and precision, as well as specialized equipment, and is typically practiced by experienced archers who have honed their skills in other types of archery.
Horseback archery
Horseback archery is a type of archery that involves shooting arrows while riding on horseback.
This type of archery originated in the cultures of nomadic people who used it for hunting and warfare. Today, horseback archery is often practiced as a sport and is considered one of the most challenging forms of archery.
In horseback archery, the archer must not only aim and shoot the arrow accurately but also maintain balance and control while riding a moving horse.
The horse used for horseback archery is typically trained to respond to the archer’s commands and movements, allowing the archer to focus on shooting the arrow.
There are several different styles of horseback archery, including the Korean style, which involves shooting arrows at a stationary target while riding at full gallop, and the Hungarian style, which involves shooting arrows at targets placed along a course.
Horseback archery competitions often involve a combination of speed and accuracy, with points awarded for hitting targets while riding at high speeds.
Horseback archery requires a great deal of skill and practice, both in archery and horsemanship. It is often considered a form of art, combining the grace and elegance of horse riding with the precision and skill of archery.
Beursault
Beursault is a form of archery from northern France and Belgium, and involves shooting at two targets placed facing each other at a distance of 50 meters.
The archer shoots from one target at the other, and then switches to shoot from the other target back to the first.
The objective is to score as many points as possible by hitting the target in the center.
Beursault is a traditional and historical form of archery that has been practiced for centuries, and is still enjoyed by many archers today.
Kyudo
Kyudo is a Japanese martial art that involves archery. It is also referred to as “The Way of the Bow” and is often practiced in traditional Japanese attire.
Kyudo is not just about hitting the target, but it is also a form of physical and spiritual discipline.
Kyudo archers use traditional Japanese longbows, known as yumi, which can be up to 2 meters in length.
The arrows used in Kyudo are also different from those used in other forms of archery, as they have longer shafts and are fletched with feathers.
In Kyudo, there is a strong emphasis on proper technique and form, as well as inner focus and mental control.
Archers are taught to shoot with a sense of grace and elegance, and to maintain a calm and focused mind throughout the process.
Kyudo is considered to be a form of meditation in motion, and many practitioners see it as a way to cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and spiritual growth.
It is also a popular form of martial arts and is practiced in Japan and around the world.
Popinjay
Popinjay is a traditional archery sport that originated in Europe, particularly in Belgium and the Netherlands.
It involves shooting at wooden bird-shaped targets placed on top of tall poles, which can range from 30 to 50 feet in height.
The targets are often decorated with feathers, and the archers compete to see who can shoot down the most birds in a set amount of time.
Popinjay is a challenging and exciting form of archery that requires skill, precision, and accuracy.
Archers typically use traditional longbows or recurve bows, and the arrows used are often made of wood or bamboo with feather fletchings.
Popinjay competitions can be held both indoors and outdoors, and they are often accompanied by music, dancing, and other festive activities.
The sport has a long and rich history, dating back to medieval times, and it remains popular among archers and traditionalists around the world.
Ski archery
Ski archery is a winter sport that combines cross-country skiing and archery. It is a timed event where athletes ski along a track and stop at shooting stations to shoot at targets.
The targets are usually placed 18 meters away from the skier, and the athlete has to shoot five arrows in a certain amount of time.
Ski archery requires a high level of physical fitness and shooting accuracy. Athletes have to ski at high speeds and then stop suddenly to shoot at the target.
This requires a lot of coordination and balance. They also have to be skilled in shooting accurately under pressure, as the competition is timed and every second counts.
Ski archery is a relatively new sport, with the first world championship held in 2003.
It has since gained popularity in Europe and other parts of the world. It is often considered a fun and challenging way to combine two popular winter sports.
Run Archery
Run archery, or arcathlon, is typically played in a course with a set distance and number of targets.
The archer runs the course with all their equipment, including their bow and arrows, and must shoot at targets from various distances and angles before continuing the run to the next target.
The course can be set up in different ways, with some events featuring a series of smaller courses, each with its own targets, while others have a single long course with multiple targets along the way.
The archer must complete the course within a specified time limit, and penalties are given for missed targets or exceeding the time limit.
The archer must be able to switch quickly between running and shooting, as well as being able to maintain their accuracy under pressure. As such, run archery requires a high level of physical fitness and skill in both archery and running.
In competitions, the archer may compete individually or as part of a team, with events ranging from local to international levels. The scoring system varies depending on the event, with some events awarding points for hitting the target, while others deduct points for missed targets or time penalties.
Bowfishing
Bow fishing is a form of archery that involves shooting fish with a bow and arrow.
The sport is typically practiced in shallow waters such as lakes, rivers, and streams, and can be done from a boat, on shore, or even wading in the water.
In bow fishing, a specialized bow is used that is equipped with a reel and line attached to the arrow.
The arrow itself is usually made of fiberglass or carbon, with a specialized tip designed to penetrate and hold onto the fish. Archers typically use specialized sunglasses to help see through the water and spot fish.
Once a fish is spotted, the archer aims and shoots, attempting to hit the fish with the arrow.
If the shot is successful, the archer can then reel the fish in using the line attached to the arrow. In some cases, archers may also use a fishing reel attached to the bow to help retrieve the fish.
Bow fishing is often considered a form of both sport and conservation, as it can help control the populations of invasive or undesirable fish species, while also providing a challenging and exciting form of archery.
However, it is important to follow local laws and regulations regarding bow fishing, including restrictions on which species can be targeted and where it is allowed.
Bowhunting as a form of Archery
Bowhunting is a form of archery that involves using a bow and arrow to hunt wild game. It is an ancient practice that dates back thousands of years and is still popular among many hunters today.
Bowhunting requires a high degree of skill and accuracy, as the archer must be able to hit the target with a single shot in order to make a humane kill. This requires not only knowledge of the animal’s anatomy and behavior but also proficiency in archery and marksmanship.
Many types of bows can be used for bowhunting, including traditional longbows and recurve bows, as well as modern compound bows. The choice of bow will depend on the hunter’s preferences and the type of game being hunted.
Bowhunting is a challenging and rewarding sport that offers hunters a unique connection to nature and the satisfaction of providing their own food.
It also requires a deep respect for the animals being hunted and a commitment to ethical hunting practices. In many regions, bowhunting is subject to specific regulations and restrictions to ensure the safety of hunters and the preservation of wildlife populations.
Is Crossbow An Archery Form?
A crossbow is a type of weapon that shoots arrows or bolts using a trigger mechanism. It consists of a bow-like assembly mounted on a stock or frame, with a trigger mechanism that holds the string in place until it is released. Crossbows can be made of various materials, including wood, metal, and composite materials.
Crossbows are different from traditional bows in that they are held horizontally and have a stock and trigger mechanism. This allows for greater accuracy and power than a traditional bow. Crossbows are also easier to use than traditional bows, making them a popular choice for beginners and hunters.
We have already given a separate write-up here on whether crossbows are considered in archery or not.
Conclusion
In conclusion, archery is a versatile and exciting sport that offers many different styles and disciplines to explore.
Whether you are drawn to the simplicity and tradition of traditional archery, the speed and accuracy of Olympic recurve target shooting, or the thrill of 3D archery in the great outdoors, there is a type of archery that will suit your interests and skill level.
By trying out different types of archery and finding the one that speaks to you, you can tap into a centuries-old tradition and experience the joy and satisfaction of hitting your target with precision and skill. So go ahead, pick up a bow, take aim, and discover what kind of archer you truly are!
