Archery has existed as a sport, a hunting skill and a military weapon for thousands of years. Whether you're in it for the competition or looking to bag a mule deer or other prize animal with your bow and arrow, understanding the parts of archery equipment can help you be a better shooter.
Arrow
Each part of the arrow is essential for an accurate shot. The point, or tip of the arrow, is a sharp or pointed attachment that allows the arrow to enter the target or animal at which you're shooting. A straight arrow shaft helps ensure the arrow flies straight and true. Any bends or warps in the arrow shaft will cause it to fly off course, missing your target. At the end of the arrow are the fletches, also called feathers. They are placed at 90-degree angles and also help the arrow fly straight. Broken, torn or missing fletches can also cause the arrow to fly off course.
Simple Bow
A simple bow, such as ones used in medieval times, consists of two main parts: the bow, which is bent and is flexible, and the string, which is usually made of synthetic material. The bowstring contains small holes at either end that you place over notches at both ends of the bow to secure the string in place. The bow bends slightly while pulling back on the string, creating energy to send the arrow flying towards your target. Many simple bows also have a grip, sometimes made from wrapping material around the center of the bow where the shooting hand is placed. Some simple bows feature an arrow ledge for resting the arrow as you shoot.
Compound Bow
Modern day compound bows are designed to provide more power from the string, with additional bells and whistle. Compound bows feature a system of two wheels at either end of the bow, known as eccentric wheels or cams. These wheels serve as a pulley system to create more tension on the bowstring, causing it to propel the arrow with more power. Compound bows also feature an arrow ledge, but many also feature a sight system on top of the ledge to assist you in sighting your target, as on a gun.
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