Archery words · Intermediate

The words that make the commentary make sense. They build on the beginner words.

I · Intermediate · 20 words · Step 2 of 2

Target and scoring terms

Cumulative scoring

Scoring by adding up all the points: the total of each end is recorded, and after five ends in an individual match (four in a team match) the highest total wins.

Scorecard

The record of each arrow's value, entered after every end in descending order as the archer calls it. Other archers on the target check each value, and a judge settles any disagreement.

Technique terms

Bracing height

The distance between the bowstring and the riser when the bow is strung but not drawn.

Nocking point

The exact spot on the string where the arrow is attached before shooting.

Aiming point

The specific target reference an archer focuses on to guide their shot.

Bow arm alignment

Keeping the bow arm steady and correctly positioned throughout the shot for consistency.

Group tuning

Adjusting equipment based on where arrows land as a group, to improve accuracy over time.

Matches and formats

Time limit

At World Ranking Events, an archer has 20 seconds per arrow when shooting alternately and in team rounds, and 30 seconds per arrow otherwise. At other events the limit is 40 seconds for individual shooting, which organisers may cut to 30.

Mixed team

A team of two archers, shooting four arrows an end, two each.

Bye

A free pass to the next round for a higher-ranked archer when the draw is not full.

More equipment terms

Riser

The central handle section of a recurve bow that the limbs attach to.

Limbs

The flexible upper and lower sections of the bow that bend to store and release energy.

Stabiliser

A rod attached to the bow to reduce vibration and improve balance during aiming.

Clicker

A small device that gives an audible click when the bow is drawn to the correct length, helping consistency.

Peep sight

A small aiming aid built into the bowstring, mainly used with compound bows.

Fletching

The feathers or plastic vanes on the back of an arrow that stabilize its flight.

Competition terms

FITA round

An older standard competition format involving shooting at multiple distances, now largely replaced by newer formats.

Compound division

The category for archers using compound bows. They shoot at the same events as recurve archers but are judged and scored separately.

Barebow

A division for a recurve-style bow without sights or stabilisers; the archer aims by feel.

Elimination match

A head-to-head match in which the loser is knocked out. After the qualification round, the ranked archers are drawn against each other in a bracket.