Other accessories

The 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 thus 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 a leather glove. The friction of the string can indeed injure you over time during training. With these accessories, you'll no longer place your fingers directly on the string.
• If you're a compound bow enthusiast, know that to release your arrow, your fingers won't touch the string at all. Instead, you'll use a release aid. It's placed in the hollow of the compound shooter's hand. It works like a trigger that will release the string at your command. It exists in several models and mechanisms to choose from.

The chest guard

The chest guard is simply a 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 serves to hold your clothes properly so they don't catch 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 small incidents at the beginning can be easily avoided with an arm guard. While the chest guard protects your torso, the arm guard will prevent injuries 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. Thus, instead of gripping your bow, which can affect your shot, you'll keep your fingers relaxed, as the sling will prevent your bow from falling.

Other practical, but optional accessories

Whether you're a fan of traditional bows or compound bows, know that there are various small pieces of equipment 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 items:

• The sight: there are several types of sights depending on your level and discipline. For example, there's the rack and pinion sight for recurve bows or the micrometric sight for compound bows. 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 on. With this equipment, you'll no longer place your bow on the ground during your training sessions.