Your First Time At An Archery Range: Tips For A Fun, Safe Time
Visiting an archery shooting range is a fun way to get some exercise and learn a new skill. Your first visit can bring a few surprises, but with the tips below, you'll have a fun and safe time.
1. Go with someone who has done archery before.
If you have a friend or family member who has done archery before, bring them along! While there may be instructors at the archery range who could teach you the basics, it's more fun to learn the basics from someone you know. Or you can get a basic lesson when you first arrive, and then rely on your friend for guidance as you keep shooting. This is more fun and more productive than trying to figure it all out on your own.
2. Wear a shirt with a tight collar.
Make sure the shirt you wear fits snugly, especially around your neck. This will prevent you from catching your arm or the bow on the shirt as you shoot. You should also avoid a shirt with buttons since your arm or the bow could get caught in the gaps between the buttons. A well-fitting t-shirt is just fine!
3. Give everyone else space.
When you're out on the shooting range, make sure you keep to your own space. Don't get distracted and wander into someone else's area. Even if you are behind the area they're shooting from, you might make them feel crowded and claustrophobic. Similarly, if someone else is in your way, it's okay to politely ask them to move and give you space.
4. Pay attention to signs.
Most ranges will have plenty of signs in place to show you where to shoot and what safety rules to follow. There might be signs that say, for example "Don't walk past the white line" or "Don't retrieve arrows until you are instructed to." Read these signs as you pass them so you can be sure you're following the rules.
5. Choose a bow that's not too challenging.
When you arrive at the range, the employees will typically have you try a few bows to see which ones you're most comfortable with. Don't over-estimate how much resistance you can handle. You'll get tired too quickly, and then shooting won't be fun.
Follow the tips above for a fun, safe archery experience. If you have any lingering questions, reach out to an employee or instructor at the range.
