Archery Accuracy Begins with Good Form

by
posted on August 14, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
mehall_ah2015_fs.jpg (45)

undefinedOlder siblings often get the reputation for being bossy. Times haven’t changed all that much as, despite that my little brother, Joe, and I are adults, I’ve been having fun bossing him around again lately—but for good reason. I had to teach him his bowshooting fundamentals. Earlier this week I mentioned how I’m helping him get into bowhunting and that he and his PSE DNA SP are doing quite well. I could say it’s because I’m a good instructor, though we all know the real reason: Joe is putting in the time and effort.

“Well, how long will it take him to be ready for bowseason?” asked a friend who has no knowledge of the sport. “Well, until he’s proficient,” I explained, adding that shooting accurate groups only comes with practice and the honing of one's shooting fundamentals. But as someone once said, “Practice doesn’t make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect.” And it all starts with your shooting form. A good tip of the day is to simply stand straight during your practice sessions and here's why.

When Joe first started launching arrows, I corrected his posture and stance several times. If you’re new to archery remember that if you lean forward, for example, your head will not be in line with your body. You’ll start putting pressure on your back and your arms will tire and become tense. Oh, and did I neglect to mention that if that happens, you won’t be accurate?

Latest

Massaro Cleaning
Massaro Cleaning

Clean 'em Up—Gun Cleaning 101 for Hunters

Ever wonder how often to clean your gun? How about what to clean it with? How about what to clean it with if you're hunting at 40-below? Phil Massaro answers all these questions and more, in this clean-freaks primer.

Hunting Show Attendance Shattering Records

Attendance records have been shattered at this year’s major hunting shows. The latest, Ducks Unlimited’s DUX (Ducks Unlimited Expo), set a new high-water mark in Memphis, Tenn. According to the Commercial Appeal, the July to Aug. 2 event attracted roughly 30,000 attendees. The 2025 event, also held in Memphis, drew a crowd that numbered nearly 20,000.

The Colonel’s Caliber in an Interesting Rifle—.35 Whelen

“Only accurate rifles are interesting.” Townsend Whelen

New for 2026: Beretta A400 Solo

Beretta USA has launched the A400 Solo, a new semi-automatic shotgun engineered for hunters who demand performance in the harshest conditions. Built on Beretta's A400 platform and packed with the company's latest advancements, the A400 Solo combines Beretta's B-Link Pro gas-operating system, Steelium barrel technology and Kick-Off Plus recoil reduction system into one dependable platform.

Know How: Find Your Long-Range Limit

Curious where your ethical limit is in the field? Mark Kayser shows you exactly how to find it.

Smith & Wesson Honors America's 250th Anniversary with Limited-Edition Model 1854

Smith & Wesson has announced the launch of its America 250 Limited Edition Model 1854 rifle, created to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.