If you’ve ever spent a day shooting and exerted more energy pulling your arrows than shooting them, we feel your pain. Stubborn targets make arrow pulling a chore, but we have some tips to help you save your strength for shooting bull’s-eyes.

Safety First

When removing arrows, make sure no one is standing behind the arrow. When an arrow gives way while you’re yanking on it, it unleashes lots of force. Anyone standing near your arrow nock could get jabbed by the nock.

Likewise, you could hurt yourself if you pull out a knife to help remove your arrow after shooting into a nearby tree or wooden target stand. Even the most expensive arrow isn’t worth getting gashed. Keep the knife in your pocket and try the tips below.

Get a Grip

When pulling arrows, a good grip makes all the difference. Try an arrow puller, which is a rubber tool that gives you a better, more secure hold on the arrow shaft. Try using both hands or ask a friend to grab the arrow to double your force.

In addition to an arrow puller, apply arrow lube to the front half of the arrow shaft to ease the task. Arrow lube is usually a synthetic product that doesn’t let the target’s foam-plastic stick to the arrow. That makes the shaft pull easily from the target.

Another trick is to twist the arrow before pulling, which breaks the target’s grip on the arrow and lets it slide out.

Saving Errant Arrows

When you miss a target and your arrow sticks into a tree or wooden target stand, two techniques can save your arrow. First, gently wiggle the arrow side to side to create space between the wood and your arrow. Be patient and do not put too much pressure on the arrow shaft.

If that doesn’t work and you’re using a screw-in point, try gripping the shaft and turn it counterclockwise to unscrew the point. You’ll lose the point but keep the arrow, which is the lesser of two evils.

By using these tips, you can focus your efforts on shooting and spend less time pulling your arrows. To pick up some lube and an arrow puller, visit a nearby archery shop.

Credit: Archery 360

One of the perks of participating in competitive archery is the travel, which can take you to some amazing places. The key to a smooth trip starts with good packing. Whether you’re going on a short road trip or flying to a tournament, you’ll need a few essentials.

Bow Case

To protect your bow during travel, you’ll need a proper bow case. If you’re flying, make sure your case is airline-approved and can handle the rigors of a flight. You’ll find soft- and hard-shell cases that are rated for air travel, so consider your personal preference. Hard cases are more durable, but soft cases are lighter and easier to handle. Seasoned competitors prefer cases with wheels and good arrow storage.

Checking Your Bow

Flying with a bow is simple. Notify the attendants at the check-in counter that you have archery equipment to check. You might have to wheel your case to a special scanner where TSA employees will inspect the contents. After this process is complete, it’s a good idea to lock your case. You can use your own lock or the standard TSA locks. If you choose your own lock and TSA chooses to re-inspect your bow, they will call your name over the loudspeaker so you can unlock the case for further inspection.

Shooting Gear and Equipment Repair

Your bow case can hold more than just your bow and arrows. You can pack all your necessary shooting equipment in your case so that everything is one place.

Even if it seems unnecessary, make a packing list. Every archer who has traveled to a tournament and forgotten a release or a bowstring will advise you to check your list twice.

A small repair kit is always a good idea, because screws may loosen or you might need to execute a quick repair during a tournament. Some items to include: Allen wrenches, serving material, super glue, lighter, razor knife and extra fletching.

The tournament targets might be brand new, so it could be harder to pull your arrows from them. Arrow lube and an arrow puller will help save your strength for shooting arrows instead of pulling them.

Clothing

Packing clothes seems obvious, but remember to bring clothing that’s appropriate for the weather and tournament dress code. Checking the weather and carefully read the governing bodies rules before you pack your suitcase can prevent much heartache once you reach your destination.

Sun Screen, Bug Spray and Extra Comforts

If you’re shooting an outdoor tournament, you’ll likely need sunscreen and possibly insect repellent. After applying sunscreen, wash your hands and remove the slippery oils from your palms, or you’ll have trouble gripping your bow.

And don’t forget the food. Snacks are always a good item to pack for tournaments. Some events can take much longer than your local shoots and will stretch your time between meals. A granola bar or some jerky can stave off your hunger and keep you focused. If you’re driving to a tournament, you can pack more comforts like water, a folding chair and a cooler.

Archery can take you across the country and the world. Once you get started, you’ll be hooked. If you need a sturdy bow case, travel equipment or more advice, stop into an archery store near you.

Credit: Archery 360