Adjusting a bow sight that shoots too high is, in theory, an easy fix. If the arrows are landing above the bull's-eye, slide the sight pin up. Shooting with the sight pin in a higher position will make you lower your bow hand in order to put the pin on the center of the target. The challenge to accurately making a sight adjustment lies in the archer's consistency. Following specific steps can ensure the best possible sight adjustment.
Step 1
Draw the bow string back, without an arrow, find your anchor spot, and hold. Note where your finger makes contact with your face if you are using a glove or tab. If you are using a trigger release aid, pay attention to where your hand contacts your face. Slowly ease the string back to its resting position and then draw again. The anchor position should be the same. If it is not, keep repeating until you are consistent. If you have inconsistent anchor points each time you launch an arrow, it will land in a different position and no amount of sight adjustment will correct your accuracy.
Step 2
Nock an arrow, draw the bow string back, place the sight pin on the center of the target, and hold your anchor position for five seconds. Make sure you are still anchoring in the same position and that you can hold the sight pin steady on the bull's-eye.
Step 3
Release the arrow and note where it hits. Shoot at least five more arrows, paying careful attention to make certain your anchor point and your pin placement on the target are the same with each shot. Your arrows should be grouped on the target in an area no larger than your hand at 20 yards.
Step 4
Note where the arrows are landing in relation to where you were aiming. If the group is higher on the bull's-eye, slightly raise the sight pin.
Step 5
Shoot a second group of five arrows with the new pin setting and note where the arrows are landing in relation to where you are sighting. If they are now landing below the bull's-eye, you moved the pin too much, so lower it slightly.
Tips and Warnings
- Use arrows with the same spine, same point and same fletching to ensure consistent flight. After you release each arrow, keep the sight pin on the bull's-eye for a count of two. This will keep you from jerking the bow down in anticipation of the shot and will ensure a consistent follow-through.
- Always make sure the area in front of and behind your target is clear before shooting. Also be certain to have an adequate foam target or backstop to prevent the arrows from going through the target and into an unintended area.
Things You'll Need
- Bow
- Arrows
- Archery glove or finger tab
- Target
References
- "Archery Fundamentals"; Douglas Engh; 2005
- "Archery: Steps to Success"; Kathleen Haywood, Catherine Lewis; 2006
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