Range Safety Rules

Archery Range Rules

SAFETY ALWAYS COMES FIRST!

Rules are ALWAYS posted on-site at the range
  • ALWAYS keep a loaded bow with the arrow pointing downrange toward the target.
  • ALWAYS make sure there is an arrow in the bow when you draw — NEVER dry fire *.
  • NEVER run or fool around on a range.
    Remember, the nock is more dangerous than the point. Be careful with it.
  • ALWAYS use an armguard as well as finger tabs for bows with pull weights of 20lbs or more
  • ALWAYS use arrows that are longer than your draw length and acceptable to your bow’s poundage.
  • When you’ve finished your arrows, ALWAYS step back behind the Waiting line and hang up your bow.
  • ALWAYS pick up arrows from the ground that are in your path; don’t step over them.
  • ALWAYS pull arrows from the side. Check before pulling the first arrow. Then pull from where the arrow enters the target, not mid-shaft.
  • ALWAYS carry or present arrows with two hands. If you have a quiver, use it!
  • ALWAYS respect your fellow archer, which includes not talking on or near the shooting line,
    and not withdrawing from the line if the archer behind you is drawing or shooting.
  • ALWAYS shoot for fun and consistency, not for bull’s-eyes.

What is "Dry Fire"

* DRY FIRING means pulling back a bow WITHOUT an arrow knocked (loaded) and releasing the string.  The energy from the release will DESTROY the bow and could cause serious injury to the user. 

  • If you are renting or using facility equipment NEVER draw the bow without an arrow, even if you are not releasing it. 
  • Dry Firing facility equipment may incur an equipment replacement or damage fee, dependent on the damage done to the bow dry fired (up to $130 for full replacement of damaged bow). 
  • To practice technique for draw and release without an arrow use the “practice bow” onsite that is designed specifically for this use.

Whistle Commands

2 whistles (=2 words): Line Up - or - Get Ready – or - Get Set

1 whistle (1 word)): Shoot – or – Fire – or – Go
In lieu of whistle, if ALL archers are LINED UP on the shooting line with NO arrows loaded, the word "CLEAR" can be used

3 whistles (3 words): Go Get Arrows
In lieu of whistle, if ALL archers are finished shooting and are BEHIND the waiting line, the word "CLEAR" can be used

5 whistles: EMERGENCY!
IMMEDIATELY let off - do NOT fire your bow, step off the shooting line, and wait behind the waiting line for directions.