Safety Gear Essentials for Archery

Recreational or competitive, one must practice archery with the right safety gear. It is as important as nailing the target. Here is a quick guide to understanding safety gear essentials for archers, beginners or pros.

Why does safety gear matter

• Bracers or arm guards protect the inside of bow arms during string slap that commonly happens during a bowstring snap, and it impacts the forearm.

• An archery glove or a finger tab shields the fingers of the drawing hand and protects it from repeated abrasion, damage or pressure from the string.

• A plastron or chest guard prevents the bowstring from getting hold of clothing on the chest especially those wearing looser clothing.

• Appropriate clothing reduces risk of instability and risks of entanglement which are common with baggy clothing, loose sleeves, jewelry or even open-toe footwear.

List of Safety Gear Essentials for Archery

• Archery hand guard made up of PU Leather which is great for basic protection as well as prevention of string contact with forearm.

• Lightweight rubber arm guard which is heavy duty and that has adjustable straps is ideal for variable conditions and for those who shoot stronger bows.

• Chest guard mounted on the torso area or chest not only keeps string path clear but also reduces risk clothing getting trapped.

• Finger tab protects the fingers and enhances release smoothness. It is important for those who draw many arrows.

• Archery hand guard gloves to protect the drawing hand from colder weather and for those who prefer covering their full hands.

Always select gear that matches the activity. For outdoor archery, choose gear made up of heavy-duty materials and for indoors and causal shooting, lighter gear is sufficient. Inspect the gear regularly to ensure safe range behavior whilst wearing the right safety gear for archery. Inspection also allows players to check the gear for fraying, cracks and loose straps.