Because I arrived from work late to archery class, the 15lb recurve bows I normally practice with were taken by 2 newbies at tonight’s group.
No matter cuz the manager of the gallery thought I was ready to try out the 20lb recurve. Adult archers typically begin with a bow 20-25 lbs in weight, compared to the 15-20 lb ones which are appropriate for young or new archers to hold onto easier while developing good form.
Obviously, it was longer and heavier but after a few minutes, I became very comfortable with it. You could feel that much more power when you draw the string back and release the arrow, compared to the 15lb’er. I liked it immediately.
However, a heavier bow is best for shooting a further target. At the 10m line, it felt like it was too much power for such a short distance. But at 15m or further, it felt just right. I shot much better than last class, even got my first bows eye with the 20lb’er at the 15m mark.
Fellow archer, Alanna got me all excited tonight. She was talking about taking outdoor archery later in the spring. There are no outdoor targets posted flat against a wall, but rather, the targets are all 3D (stuffed animal shapes). A much different approach and skill required. It sounded so intriguing. Ahem, not the make-believe shooting at animals shapes, of course, but shooting from a distance at something that could sway and rock.
So I’m psyched to continue practicing with the 20lb bow for the next classes until I become comfortable to move up to the 30lb compound bow. (I want to shoot the recurve consistently well before going onto the compound with its lever and pulley system) I’ll get there.
Yes, only in archery would I get excited about the thought of gaining 15lbs.
No Comments