Did your interest in archery ignite when seeing your favorite superhero shoot a bow on the big screen? Or maybe you got hooked at summer camp.

Either way, learning archery is an exciting adventure. Once you dive into the sport, it’s important to buy equipment that’s right for you. Your skills will improve more quickly when using your own gear. A bow fitted to your draw length, and arrows cut to the right length, greatly improve your accuracy. When gear fits you comfortably, you’ll be more comfortable shooting.

To help you choose the right gear, be sure to read the ATA’s archery buyers’ guide series. These articles look at the equipment you’ll need and why.

Basics Equipment Needs

Archery requires more than just a bow and arrows. Seek help to learn which type of bow is right for you, and then take your time choosing your first bow. Traditional bows and compound bows each require different gear accessories, including sights, releases and rests. Visit your local archery shop to get on the right path to choosing equipment.

What to Seek When Buying

Should you buy used or new gear? What type of sight do you need? These are just two questions you’ll ask when buying a bow. Experts at local shops can answer all your questions and measure your draw length. Shops carry several brands and styles of bows. You can hold, feel and shoot several bows to find the right one for you. And when you buy a bow at the shop, they’ll help you choose its accessories and set it up for you to shoot.

Arrow Length Matters

Archery shops stock a variety of arrows, but before buying a dozen, have the shop’s bow tech cut them to your length. Arrows must match your bow and your draw length for safety reasons. Arrows must be long enough when you’re at full draw to sit comfortably on the rest without falling off. Further, if you plan to hunt, broadheads should not sit too snugly against your rest. But if the shafts are too long,  they won’t fly properly.

You Can Upgrade Later

As with any sporting gear, you can always upgrade archery equipment later. Bows and accessories come in a wide price range. You could start with a simple, basic setup and upgrade as needed. If you wish to bowhunt or participate in leagues, you might want a different setup for each discipline. Or you might build up your archery muscles and feel comfortable shooting a heavier hunting draw weight in your target league. Several shops have sales programs that let you buy used bows, or trade in or consign your bow for credit toward an upgrade.

Connecting with Clubs and Classes

Joining archery clubs and taking classes are great ways to try out equipment and learn your needs. Many communities have archery clubs that sponsor special shoots and classes. Most shops also have league nights and other special events. Shooting with other archers helps you improve your skills. It’s also a great way to study other equipment on the market, and learn the benefits of different setups.

Yes, studying your options can seem like too much information to process when buying your first bow, but be patient and take your time. When you’re armed with the right information and help from the pro shop’s experts, you’ll be shooting bull’s-eyes with your own bow in no time!