What is 3D archery?

What it is

3D archery replaces the round paper target with a life-size foam animal (everything from a small target the size of a rabbit to a full-scale elk) spread out along a course, usually through the woods. You walk from target to target, similar to a round of golf.

ASA (Archery Shooters Association) Pro/Am tournaments, one of the most common competitive formats, use two rounds of 20 targets each.

How scoring works

Each target has scoring rings marked on the animal in the areas that represent vital organs. In ASA scoring, an arrow scores 12, 10, 8, or 5 points depending on where it hits, and 0 if it misses the target entirely.

Some divisions shoot "unknown" distance, where you judge the range yourself without a rangefinder. That guessing is a core skill in 3D archery. Other divisions shoot "known" distance, where the range is provided or you are allowed to measure it, which gives newer competitors an easier way in.

What you need

Any bow works, though most competitive 3D archers shoot compound bows. You will want comfortable walking shoes since the course covers real outdoor terrain, and binoculars are useful if you plan to shoot an unknown-distance class.

Who can enter

3D archery has divisions for kids, novices, and adults, plus separate classes for known and unknown distance, so beginners are not shooting head-to-head against advanced unknown-distance competitors.

First-timer tips

• Start in a known-distance or beginner class. Guessing yardage accurately takes practice.
• Ask a club member to walk the course with you the first time; 3D courses vary a lot from range to range.
• Wear sturdy outdoor shoes and bring water. Courses can take a couple of hours to walk and shoot.