The Value of One Good Arrow

It’s summer, and while us hunters have Fall on the mind, our time is filled with warm weather events like family get-togethers and days on the lake.  Adding to it the summer months can be work heavy as we do our best to “make hay while the sun shines’ ‘. Before we know it, cool mornings will be a reality and hunting season will be here whether we are ready or not (not to mention Do The Hunny Do’s!).

As archery hunters we know the importance of practice and repetition. Dedication to the craft now pays in increased confidence come Fall. If only we had an hour each day to dedicate to the discipline…But one thing we all do have is 5 minutes. 300 seconds is more than you need to send a lone projectile down range and make progress towards your Fall goals. 

Every schedule is different but what has worked for me in recent years is the pre-work arrow. Before starting my truck I focus on releasing one good arrow at 20 yards using a back tension release. Knowing I only have one chance at making a good shot helps me to concentrate on shot execution, thus reinforcing good habits. Instead of fixating on where  the arrow lands I only judge myself on the process, and more often than not by doing this the arrow ends up where I intend it to. The result of the pre-work ritual is a positive mindset and a clear head to start the day. I can still shoot again in the evening but in case life gets in the way at least I can say “I shot my bow today”. 

Make the most out of what you have. If 20 yards isn’t feasible try 5 or 10, whatever it takes to be consistent. If daily shooting isn’t feasible try using a shot trainer to practice a surprise release. I use this technique to My wife rolls her eyes when I start dry firing my rifle in the living room but it does the trick!

A small commitment each day will create the momentum you need to feel prepared for the Fall hunting season. One arrow will quickly turn into 3 or 4 and before you know it you will have found the time to shoot a dozen good shots. 

I’ll keep the article short, in the 90 seconds it took you to read this you could be a shot or two closer to hunting season!