Archery Supply Basics
Chuck Holloway

Archery can be perceived as being an expensive sport based on the amount of equipment that needs to be purchased. This is surely not the case. From the sports simple beginning where a string was threaded on the side of a stick and spears were shot short distances all the way to the technological advances of today, archery has remained the same. Through the years, archery has gained great popularity in both hunting and competitive events. 

The growing popularity has sparked a surge of new equipment and supplies geared toward enhancing the sport or archery. These tools have been created to increase skill, hone precision and aim, and improve balance. 

As mentioned above, archery does not have to be an expensive sport. For most beginners all you need are the basic supplies. You can even rent the equipment needed to start participating in the sport at your local archery range or club. Below is a list of basic archery supplies that would be helpful to start your new hobby: 

1. Arm Rest -  The arm rest was created to help both balance and aim. The arm rest works as a support for your arm to equalize your center of gravity making for a better shot.

2. Arm Guard - The arm guard is used to ward off fatigue associated with repitious drawbacks of the string. After a few times drawing back the string the archers arm tends to grow tired and is less apt to maintain a steady shot. The arm guard also helps when trying your luck at a far away shot.

3. Stabilizer - The stabilizer helps to improve balance and steady your aim. Stabilizers also help to reduce vibration and are highly recommended for beginner use.

4. Gloves - Gloves are used to protect the fingers on the drawing hand which can become sensitive due to the pressure and force of the string. The gloves usually come padded which help to support the arrow and reduce finger fatigue.

Anybody can spend a fortune on unecessary equipment and add-ons, but all a real archer needs are the basics. There is no reason that archery should not be considered a budget-friendly sport that can be enjoyed by all!

Chuck Holloway is an avid archery fanatic with 18 years of hunting experience. He is a lifetime member of the North American Hunting Club and an active member of the NRA. Chuck has a strong passion for the outdoors and enjoys capturing the details of the hunt in his journal.