When archery began, archers would instinctively shoot at targets without using a sight. As archery equipment evolved with technology, however, archers installed sights on their bows to improve accuracy. Sights are designed with one or more pins--commonly made from fiber optics--that illuminate the target to give a point of reference on where to hold the bow for shooting different distances. Adjusting archery sights takes preparation, patience and the proper equipment to be executed properly.
Step 1
Align the sight and peep sight. The peep sight is tied into the bow string and aids in the proper alignment of the shooter's eye and sight. Use the archer's wrench to adjust the set screw on the sight to move it up or down based on the position of the peep sight. The goal is to position the sight housing--the outside ring of the sight--in the middle of the peep sight so you can see the entire housing while at full draw. Make a small adjustment to the housing, draw the bow and continue making adjustments until it aligns correctly.
Step 2
Adjust the second and third axis. Most sights will feature a built-in bubble level that helps you to keep the bow perfectly level while shooting. To adjust the second axis, stand the bow vertically on a bench and place a 4-ft. level on the limbs. Most of the sights and bows on brand-new equipment will require minimal adjustments. Move the bow and level until perfectly level. Look at the bubble level on the sight and use the archer's wrench to move the set screw and adjust the level of the bow until the carpenter's level and the sight's level are in the same place.
A third axis adjustment is a special feature on a limited number of sights and changes for individual shooters based on their draw and anchor point. The third axis--crucial for extreme uphill or downhill shots--refers to how the sight aligns with the path of the arrow and the plane of sight. Hang a plum bob from the ceiling and pull your bow to full draw. Hold the bow at a 45 degree angle, level the sight and align the string from the plum bob to the vertical alignment of the pins. If the third axis is level, the string and pins will be perfectly aligned. Use the archer's wrench to adjust the set screw accordingly.
Step 3
Position the pins evenly inside the housing. Determine how many pins you'll be using and the desired distances for each. For example, most 3-pin sights will have a 20-yard, 30-yard and 40-yard pin. Every sight has different adjustment options, such as a set screw or dial adjustment. On a movable pin sight, adjust the dial until the pin hits the mark that represents the appropriate distance. Other sights feature gang adjustments where you can move all the pins at once with the archer's wrench for windage and elevation. For elevation changes, move the pin up or down in the track. Screw the pin in and out for windage adjustments.
Tips and Warnings
- Make small, gradual adjustments to the sight. Securely tighten all set screws before shooting.
- Be aware of your surroundings while shooting a bow. Wear appropriate safety equipment as necessary.
Things You'll Need
- Archer's wrench
- Carpenter's level
- Plum bob
- Release aid
- Target
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