How are para archery matches scored?
B · Beginner · Competition · 4 of 4Para Recurve, W1 and VI use the set system: the higher set score wins two points, a tie one each; the first to 6 wins (5 for teams). Para Compound adds up every arrow; the highest total after five ends wins (four for teams). On multi-spot faces only the lowest arrow in a spot counts. Paper scorecards take precedence.
How it works
- Set system: recurve, W1 and VI.
- Set win: 2 points; tie 1 each.
- Winning: 6 set points individual, 5 team.
- Compound: cumulative total.
- Compound length: five ends individual, four team.
- Multi-spot faces: two arrows in one spot, only the lowest counts.
- Scorecards: two per target; paper prevails.
- Missing signature or total: disqualification at submission.
The glossary has the set system (para archery), the cumulative scoring (para archery), the multiple-spot rule (para archery), the scorecards (para archery), the Para Compound division and the W1 division.
Tricky cases
A W1 archer shoots compound. Which scoring?
Sets, as W1 uses the set system.
Sets are 5-5 after five. What then?
A one-arrow shoot-off.
An electronic card has no paper copy. Result?
Disqualification at submission.
Two arrows in one spot of a triple face?
Only the lower one scores.
Why the rule exists
Sets keep recurve matches close and exciting. Compound scores are so high that totals separate archers better.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Recurve, W1, VI | Sets | 38.1.4.1 |
| Compound | Cumulative | 38.1.4.3 |
| Teams | 5 set points or four ends | 38.1.4.2 |
From the rule book
World Archery, Rulebook, Book 5 Para Archery (13 March 2026), articles 38.1.4, 38.2.2.2 and 38.4. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Archery Rulebook Book 5, Para Archery.