What is field archery?

What it is

Field archery takes you off a flat shooting line and onto a course, usually laid out through woods or rough terrain, where each target sits at a different distance and angle from the last. A standard field unit has 14 targets, and a full round is either two trips around a 14-target unit or two 14-target units laid out differently, for 28 targets total.

How scoring works

You shoot 4 arrows at each target. Depending on the target, that might mean shooting all 4 from one spot, or shooting from up to four different marked stakes at the same or nearby targets.

Field courses use four target face sizes (65, 50, 35, and 20 centimeters) with the smaller faces used at closer distances so every shot stays similarly challenging. Distances on NFAA-chartered courses are always marked, so you know exactly how far the target is.

What you need

You need a bow, arrows, and comfortable shoes. You will be walking a course, often over uneven ground. A field quiver that keeps arrows secure while you walk is worth having once you shoot field archery regularly.

Recurve, compound, and barebow archers all shoot field archery, usually in separate divisions since the format rewards different skills than flat-ground target archery.

Who can enter

Field archery is open to any age and skill level. Clubs that host field courses typically welcome first-timers to walk the course with an experienced member before entering a scored round.

First-timer tips

• Ask to walk the course once, unscored, before your first event. The changing distances and terrain take some getting used to.
• Wear closed-toe shoes built for walking outdoors, not shooting shoes meant for a flat range.
• Bring water and sun protection; a full field round can take a few hours outdoors.