Bowhunting General Tips
7:23 AM PST, 12/3/2008
General Tips
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Always check your bow every-so-often to make sure it is properly tuned and that the arrow is flying right. This may be troubling for some. but it will put a smile on your face when that arrow flies true during the season.
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Numbering your arrows is an easy way to identify a flawed arrow. Often in practice you will find that one of your arrows in each set is slightly out of your group. If your arrows are numbered its easy to identify if its the same number each time that's out of the group. You know then its time to set that one aside for tuning later.
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Concentration is a very important part of any shot. Whether your hunting or shooting 3-D you need concentration to make the best shot. To build concentration when practicing do not shoot bunchs of arrows at a time. Shoot fewer arrows maybe 3 to 5 on some days with breaks in between and try to make each shot your best. Each time you do this try to make your groups tighter or your scores higher. On some days you may even go as far as only shooting one arrow. These exercises will train you to regain your concentration at will or focus most when you really need to.
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When you practice shoot from farther distances. If you can hit your target consistently at longer distances it builds confidence and keeps your form in check. At longer distances flaws in form really show up. Please don't misinterpret my comments as saying it is alright to take longer shots at game. Only you know where your comfort zone is and we must all stay within them.
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This may sound obvious but you must start any endeavor with straight arrows. Just because you buy new arrows this does not guarantee they are straight. They are handled many times before they actually go on your string.
While your checking for straightness you should also check for balance. If your arrow doesn't balance on a spin tester just think of what the wobble will do to it while it's in the air.
Remember the key to good shooting is consistency. I'm not just talking about hitting the target, I mean shooting form, anchor point, pre shot routine and a consistent release, fingers or release aid. You can't group arrows that aren't consistent in weight, and balance perfectly.
It's good to check your arrows periodically. Sometimes when pulling arrows from a target we can bend them just by not pulling them out straight. I have my spin tester with me at every practice session. Numerous times I've checked my arrows or a friends who wasn't grouping as tight as usual and found a flawed arrow. If after checking your arrows and they are all straight and balance and your still not hitting the mark, at least you've ruled out one possibility.