Each month in 2024, we will be posting a new article in our Fundamentals of Shooting Archery series. These articles are intended to supplement and further explain any instructions given or terminology used by the instructors and assistants.

Anchoring:

The next stage of the draw, is anchoring. What do we mean by that? The simple answer is: the string hand is brought back to touch a specific physical point on the face or chest with every shot. This is the anchor point, touching it signals the end of the draw (external) phase and the start of the holding and aiming (internal) phase of the shot.

The specific anchor point used is a personal choice, but there are common ones – touching the corner of the mouth with the thumb knuckle, thumbnail, or fingertip or touching the nose, chin, or ear with the nock point or fingertips to name a few. The key is that it is repeatable, something that will feel the same every time.

The anchor point helps the archer set a consistent arrow-to-eye positioning.  For consistency, the archer also needs to continue with good upper body form – the neck and head staying above the shoulders and not collapsing down towards the chest or string to maintain this nock-to-eye positioning.

Choosing a different anchor point will change the forces on the arrow and will affect arrow flight. So, stick with one until you consciously decide to try a different one.

Having said all this, if something feels wrong or difficult or hurts while shooting, talk with your instructor. Sometimes accommodations (alternatives) need to be used.

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