Other accessories

Basic accessories

To start completing your equipment, here are the basic accessories for every archer.

The quiver

The quiver is used to store arrows. It attaches to the hip or back and comes in several models (leather or synthetic), with or without different compartments. Generally, it's ambidextrous and can therefore suit both left-handed and right-handed archers.

The tab, glove and release aid: To protect your fingers

• If you're a recurve bow shooter, to protect your fingers, you'll need a tab or leather glove. String friction can indeed hurt you over training sessions. With these accessories, you won't place your fingers directly on the string anymore.
• If you use a compound bow, note that your fingers won't touch the string at all to release your arrow. Instead, you'll use the release aid. It's placed in the hollow of the compound shooter's hand. It works like a trigger that releases the string at your command. It comes in several models and mechanisms to choose from.

The chest guard

The chest guard is simply protective equipment for the chest. It covers one side to protect you against string friction and reduce pressure or rubbing on your pectoral muscles. It also helps keep your clothes in place so they don't get caught and interfere with your shot. It can be customized according to your preferences.

The arm guard

Every archer knows the pain when the string rubs against the arm during a shot. Both unpleasant and painful, these early incidents can be easily avoided with an arm guard. While the chest guard protects your torso, the arm guard will prevent injury to your arm.

The finger sling

It's a lace or braided string that you install on your index finger and thumb. It prevents your bow from falling after the shot. Instead of gripping your bow, which can affect your shot, you'll keep your fingers loose because the finger sling will prevent your bow from falling.

Other practical but optional accessories

Whether you're a fan of traditional bow or compound bow, know that there are various small equipment items that can improve your practice and technique. Whether it's to help you control your bow, protect yourself, or for better comfort, here are some practical equipment pieces:

• The sight: there are several types of sights depending on your level and discipline. For example, there's the rack sight for recurve bow or the micrometric sight for compound bow. You can find them in different ranges from the simplest to the most advanced at your online archery store.
• The spotting scope or binoculars: they are commonly used in Olympic archery. They are generally used to check arrows and better control sight adjustments.
• The bow stand: it's a support to rest your bow. With this equipment, you'll no longer put your bow on the ground during training.