What is the W1 class in para archery?
B · Beginner · Classes and equipment · 2 of 4P.I.2 athletes shoot Para Recurve or Para Compound; compound bows may draw up to 60 lb. W1 is for P.I.1 athletes, the most impaired, who may use either bow but with a 45 lb limit and no magnifying or peep sights. VI is for V.I.1 and V.I.2 athletes, with men and women and bow types together.
How it works
- Para Recurve: P.I.2; one sight with one point, no magnifier.
- Para Compound: P.I.2; up to 60 lb; magnifier and release aid allowed.
- W1: P.I.1; recurve or compound; up to 45 lb.
- W1 sights: no peep or magnifying sights, no level.
- VI: V.I.1 and V.I.2.
- VI mixing: no split by gender or bow type.
- Men and women: separate in all but VI.
- Classes: set by classification.
The glossary has the Para Recurve division, the Para Compound division, the W1 division, the P.I.1 and P.I.2, the V.I.1 and V.I.2 and the divisions and classes (para archery).
Tricky cases
Can a W1 archer use a compound bow?
Yes, at 45 lb or less.
Can a Para Recurve sight have a magnifier?
No.
Do VI men and women shoot separately?
No.
Is a release aid allowed in Para Compound?
Yes, if not permanently attached to the bow.
Why the rule exists
W1 limits bow power and sights so the most impaired athletes compete on equal terms. Separate divisions reflect how bow type changes scores.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Para Compound | 60 lb | 34.2 |
| W1 | 45 lb | 34.3 |
| VI | Tactile sight only | 34.4.2 |
From the rule book
World Archery, Rulebook, Book 5 Para Archery (13 March 2026), articles 28 and 34.1 to 34.4. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Archery Rulebook Book 5, Para Archery.