How I did it: I took a free class on archery. The instructor was 45 minutes late, but it all payed off. We got a strap to put on our arms so that when we released the arrow, the bow wouldn't slap us too bad. Then, he taught us how to hold the bow. We lined up one by one and he helped us shoot our first arrow. Then we shot 4 more. I got one in the center! :D Then, we put up balloons to try to pop. I was about a millimeter away from popping mine, and I'm not kidding. It was really fun and I hope to be able to do archery again soon. :)

Lessons & tips: If you're right-handed, do it the way I'm instructing. Straddle the ground. This is so that if your arrow 'blows up', it won't hit you. Turn 90 degrees to the right. Turn to look at your target. Lift up the bow in your left hand. Keep a straight arm. Arrows usually have colors on them. Turn the arrow so that the odd color is facing out (which would be the left). Insert the arrow onto the bow just below the little knot thing on the bow. Make sure the arrow is loaded correctly! Error to do so could result in an arrow through your hand! Trust me, it's not pretty. Pull the bow back with three fingers. Make sure your elbow is not sticking out! If it is, rotate your arm a little so that it's not. If you stick your elbow out, the bow will slap against it. It is painful after a couple slaps. It happened to me. If you get slapped by the bow, put some Bactine on it. Pull it all the way back so you can put your thumb knuckle below your jawbone. Put your index finger between your lips. Focus on the target. Try not to shake at all, or your arrow will not hit the target. Then, release your fingers. And there you go! You just shot your first arrow!

Resources: Free class and instructor

Jun 22, 2012, 07:56AM PDT | 0 comments | 2 cheers