Shooting Tip

One of  the things we noticed in the JOAD camp we hosted was that almost everyone of the students were what we called "arm shooters".  This term means the archer is not using the proper muscle groups to draw and shoot the arrow so that it results in a good storng release and follow through. 

To demonstrate the proper method to the students, we had them try a device called a "Form Master".  It consists of a cord that attaches to the bowstring right under the arrow which is then attached to two straps that form two loops.  The hand goes through the two loops and they slide up the drawing arm to the elbow.  The loops are then placed on either side of the elbow when slightly bent, with the cord having just a short amount of slack. 

The archer draws the string with the shooting hand as usual.  Upon executing the release, if the archer is using the proper back muscle groups to do the drawing, the string starts forward, but is caught by the loops around the elbow and the cord attached to the string. 

Done properly, the arrow will stay on the rest because the string doesn't fly forward because the stronger back muscles have the release going back to the follow through.  However, if the archer is an arm shooter, it's impossible to hold the string from going forward and the arrow flies about ten feet as a result of the elbow flying forward after the release because the arm is attached to the string by the cord. 

If you want to see some really suprised looks on shooter's faces, just try this!  Everyone thinks they are not arm shooters, but this device will show them the truth.

I highly reccomend this device as a training aid.  It will definitely teach you the proper method of drawing with the back muscles.

One can be had for abot $60 from Lancaster Archery Supply. (www.lancasterarchery.com) 1-800-829-7408.  Try it and embarass yourself and your friends, you'll be the life of the party!

Good Shooting,

Jim White