Other accessories

Basic accessories

To complete your equipment, here are the basic accessories for any archer.

The quiver

The quiver is used to store the arrows. It can be hung on the hip or the back and comes in several models (leather or synthetic), with different compartments or not. Generally, it is ambidextrous and can be used by both left- and right-handed.

The finger tab, the glove, and the release: to protect your fingers

• If you're a classical archer, to protect your fingers, you'll need a finger tab or a leather glove. The friction of the string can injure you while practicing. With those accessories, your fingers will no longer touch the string.
• If you are a compound bow enthusiast, you should know that to release your arrow, your fingers do not touch the string. Instead, you will use the release. It is placed on the palm of the archer's hand. It works like a trigger that will release the string when you activate it. Several models and mechanisms are available.

The breastplate

Basically, the breastplate is a protective equipment for the chest. It will cover one side to protect you from the string friction and reduce the pressure or friction on your chest muscles. It is also used to hold your clothes properly so that they don't get caught and block your shot. You can customize it entirely on your preferences.

The arm-guard

Every archer experiences this pain when the string rubs the arm when shooting. Both unpleasant and painful, these small incidents that occur when you begin can be avoided with an arm-guard. If the breastplate protects your chest, the arm guard will avoid injuring your arm.

The finger strap

This is a braided lace or string that you place over your forefinger and thumb. It will prevent your bow from falling after the shot. So, instead of grabbing your bow, which can change your shot, let your fingers rest, because the finger strap will prevent your bow from falling.

Other practical but optional accessories

Whether you are a fan of traditional or compound bows, there are a variety of small materials that can improve your practice and technique. Whether it is to help you control your bow, to protect yourself, or for better comfort, here are some practical pieces of equipment:

• Sight: there are several types of sights depending on your level and discipline. For example, the rack sight for the classical bow or the micrometric sight for the compound bow. You could find them in different ranges from the basic to the most advanced at your online archery.
• The spotting scope or binoculars: they are commonly used in the Olympic shooting. They are generally used to control the arrows and to better control the sight settings.
• The bow rest: it is a holder where to put your bow. With this equipment, you won't put it on the ground during training sessions.