Hey there! I recently got a question from one of our subscribers about the different types of archery out there. And you know what? That’s an excellent question! Archery can be a bit of a maze, so let me break it down for you in this post.

Exploring the Different Types of Archery

Whether you’re using a compound, longbow, or recurve bow, there’s an archery activity for you. Here’s a quick rundown of some popular types of archery:

• Bowhunting
• Target Archery
• 3D Target Archery
• Traditional Archery
• Field Archery
• Mounted Archery
• Bowfishing

Now, let’s dive a bit deeper into each of these categories.

Field Archery

Field Archery – Like 3D, but Flatter

Field archery is quite similar to 3D archery, but instead of three-dimensional animal targets, you’ll shoot at bag targets or paper targets. Most folks use compound bows, but some rebels out there choose to wield a recurve or longbow.

Target Archery

Target Archery – Bullseye Bonanza

In this timed competition, you can use a recurve, compound, longbow, or bare bow to shoot at large, round targets set at known distances ranging from 30 to 90 meters (roughly 32 to 98 yards). Plus, you can enjoy this activity indoors or outdoors—talk about flexibility!

Traditional Archery

Traditional Archery – Back to Basics

Traditional archery can mean different things to different people. Some say it’s shooting a recurve or longbow without any fancy equipment like a sight or stabilizer—this is sometimes called a barebow. Others insist that true traditional archery involves bows and arrows made from natural wood and real feather fletchings.

Competitions for traditional archery usually have shooting distances up to 20 yards, but individual clubs may have their own rules.

Bowhunting

Bowhunting – Dinner, the Old-Fashioned Way

Bowhunting is all about providing food for the table using a bow and arrow. You can use any bow, but remember—the more primitive the bow, the bigger the challenge. Many believe that hunting with a bow requires more skill than a rifle.

Bowfishing

Bowfishing – Hook, Line, and Arrow

Bowfishing combines the thrills of hunting and fishing. You can use almost any bow; just set it up like a rod and reel. Your arrow will have a special line attached, with a barbed hook at the end. Shoot the fish, reel it in like regular fishing, and voilà! You can either set up your bow or buy one ready for action.

Mounted Archery

Mounted Archery – Hold Your Horses!

For those who love a challenge, mounted archery offers the excitement of shooting at targets while galloping on horseback.

You’ll need to train both yourself and your trusty steed. Courses and targets can vary, keeping archers on their toes (or in their saddles).

3D Target Archery

3D Target Archery – It’s a Zoo Out There!

Usually held outdoors (but sometimes indoors if the space permits), this competition involves shooting at three-dimensional animal targets like deer, bears, turkeys, and even alligators!

Each target has marked areas worth different point values. At the end of the course, the archer with the highest score takes home the glory.

Each type of 3D target archery competition has specific rules and regulations that participants must follow.

Types of Archery: Finding the Right Archery Activity for You

Ready, Set, Shoot!

Curious about which types of archery are available in your area? Just do a quick Google search for bow shops or archery clubs nearby. I’m sure you’ll find a few, and they’ll be happy to help you get started.

So, there you have it. A little chat about the fantastic world of archery. Now that you have all this knowledge, it’s time to go out there and give it a shot (pun intended). Remember to have fun and, as always, shoot straight!

Tip: If you liked this post about 7 Types of Archery, you may also like How to Get Started In Archery – Part One