Archery

ArcheryGermanyEarly1980s-2

Brazilarcher

Bundesarchiv Bild 135-S-18-07-16, Tibetexpedition, Volksfest, Bogenschütze

Master Heon Kim

Bogenschützen in Ili-Mano 2

Archery is the art, sport, practice, or skill of using a bow to shoot arrows. Historically, archery has been used for hunting and combat, while in modern times, its main use is that of a competitive sport and recreational activity. A person who participates in archery is typically called an archer or a bowman, and one who is fond of or an expert at archery is sometimes called a toxophilite.

History

The history of archery dates back thousands of years, with evidence of ancient bows and arrows found in many parts of the world. Archery was an important military and hunting skill before the widespread use of gunpowder, and it is featured prominently in the mythology and history of many cultures. In the Middle Ages, the English longbow was a pivotal battle weapon, and its use by the English army at battles such as Agincourt is legendary.

Equipment

The primary piece of equipment required in archery is the bow. There are several types of bows, including the longbow, recurve bow, compound bow, and crossbow, each with its own set of characteristics and uses. Arrows are also diverse in design, varying in material from wood to carbon fiber, and in tip from target points to broadheads for hunting. Other equipment includes the quiver to hold arrows, arm guards to protect the archer, and finger tabs or gloves to aid in drawing the bow.

Types of Archery

Archery can be divided into several types, including target archery, field archery, and bowhunting. Target archery involves shooting arrows at a stationary bullseye target from a set distance and is the form most associated with Olympic and Paralympic competitions. Field archery involves shooting at targets of varying distances, often in a wooded setting, which requires the archer to adjust for terrain and distance. Bowhunting is the practice of hunting game animals with a bow and arrow.

Competitive Archery

Competitive archery involves a series of rounds where archers shoot a set number of arrows at targets, with scores based on the proximity of the arrows to the center of the target. The World Archery Federation (WA) is the governing body for the sport of archery and oversees international competitions, including the Archery World Cup and the archery events at the Olympic Games.

Cultural Significance

Archery has held a significant place in many cultures throughout history. In Greek mythology, archery is frequently associated with the gods, such as Apollo and Artemis. In East Asian culture, archery was a revered skill among the samurai class of Japan and in the military exams of Imperial China. Today, archery remains a popular sport and recreational activity worldwide, with clubs, societies, and competitions dedicated to the practice of archery.

See Also

• Bow and arrow
• History of archery
• List of archers
• Archery in the Olympics