It’s back-to-school season, which means that many parents just went through their child’s school supply checklist to make sure they have all the materials they need to succeed in the upcoming year. Archers can take that same idea and apply it to their archery journey. We’ve compiled a checklist of all the things you’ll need to think about before you visit an archery shop for the first time.
1. Types of Archery
Archery opportunities are endless, from target archery, field archery, 3D archery and traditional archery to bowhunting. Check out the different disciplines and see which one speaks to you.
- All About Indoor Archery Season
- How to Shoot: 3D, Field and Outdoor Target Archery
- Try a New Style of Archery This Indoor Season
- How to Get Started in Barebow Archery
- Bowhunters: Archery Tournaments Welcome You
2. Types of Bows
What bow are you interested in trying, a recurve, compound or longbow? These different bows each have their own style and form.
- Exploring Archery: Types of Bows
- Start Shooting Olympic Recurve Archery
- How to Buy a Target Compound Bow
- Self-Bows: Traditional Archery’s Simple Creations
- Types of Traditional Bows
3. How to Choose the Right Gear
You’ll need different gear for indoor versus outdoor archery, so make sure you choose your arrows accordingly.
- Arrow Options for Indoor Archery
- How Long Should Your Arrows Be?
- Selecting the Right Arrow Vanes for Compound Bows
- Choosing the Best Outdoor Arrows for Olympic Recurve
4. Find a Local Archery Shop
Once you’ve decided which style of archery you’d like to try, visit your local range and have the archery specialists fit you with just the right gear. Our store locator makes it easy to find the shop closest to you.
- Where to Shoot
- Where to Shoot: Find an Archery Range Near You
- Where to Shoot: Pro Shops and Retailers
5. Take Lessons
Once you’ve visited your local shop and have the proper equipment, it’s time to start taking some lessons with a certified teacher at the range. You can also choose to partner with an archery coach.
6. Start Competing
After you’ve put in some time on the range and feel like you’re in a comfortable spot with your abilities, consider competing at local competitions or join the larger archery tournament circuit.
- How to Find Local Archery Competitions
- Prepping for Outdoor Competition
- Archery Tournament Etiquette
- Why Competition Archery is a Must-Try Sport
- Tournament Checklist: What to Bring
- Where to Find Archery Tournaments
7. Join an Organization
Once you’ve found your groove, consider joining an archery organization and show your support and your newfound passion for the sport.
- Which Archery Organization Should I Join?
- Join an Archery Organization
- Stay Sharp: Join a League This Winter
Check It Out
Today is always the best day to try archery. Work your way through our checklist and enjoy the start of your journey toward a lifelong passion.
Other Resources to Get Started:
- How to Get Started in Archery: Advice from a Pro
- Back to Basics: All About Archery
- 10 Things You Should Know Before Shooting Your First Arrow
- Getting Started on a Budget
- Ultimate Beginners Guide to Archery
