Spring is here, the longer days, warmer temps, and sunshine mean it is time to get out and shoot some 3D courses! Whether you have access to a course near home or make the trip to an event such as Mountain Archery Fest or TAC, the practical application of 3D to hunting is easy to see. There is certainly nothing wrong with simply going out for a fun day of shooting, but if you really want to improve your skill set for hunting utilize the tips and ideas we will outline in this article.
Shooting 3D archery holds many similarities to hunting. From the varied terrain, the changing lighting, or the uneven footing, it is a great way to hone your skills come season. Mountain 3D events are a phenomenal way to test your skills, and your gear. Having a course close to home is a great way to also become familiar with how your bow aims and holds on a familiar target without it having a “spot” to aim at.
Aside from shooting at varied distances, angles, and targets, there are a wide variety of ways to utilize 3D to improve. One of my favorites is on at least a few targets on the course, hold at full draw for at least 30-45 seconds before executing your shot. The practical application for this will become obvious if you ever have an elk come charging in to your calls and stop with a tree in front of his vitals. By holding at full draw, controlling your breathing and heart rate, and then executing a great shot you will have a new level of confidence come September.
The uneven terrain of most 3D courses provides a great training resource for us as western bowhunters. When it comes to proper shot execution, it all starts from our foundation, our feet! Being able to create a stable platform on a steep slope or with one foot on a rock will allow you to make accurate shots in any situation. On targets that are close, I like to either stand on one foot, or purposely elevate one foot on an object before taking my shot. By challenging yourself in practice, you will be ready when it comes to the real thing.
Shooting in your backyard or at the local range are great ways to improve on the basics, but when it comes to dynamic terrain, such as steep uphill or downhill shots, it is tough to mimic that on flat ground. Some of the targets at these mountain style 3D events are INSANELY STEEP. If you want to test your form when shooting uphill or downhill, that is the place to do it (not to mention your 3rd axis on your sight!). Always remember to draw your bow from a level stance then bend at the waist to engage the target.
One last way to practice for season is to combine all of the previously mentioned aspects and add in some seated, kneeling, or crouched shooting. Shooting from a seated position is HARD! Sometimes that is our only option when hunting though, so being prepared for all scenarios is important. Maintain your proper “T” form no matter what your lower body is doing.
3D archery is a ton of fun, so whether you decide to utilize it as training or not, get out there and enjoy yourself. If you are going to a mountain style event, bring plenty of arrows, trust your shot process, and prepare to be humbled! Failure is a prerequisite to success. Missing a target is bound to happen, and if you ask me, I’d rather it be one that is made of foam, not flesh! Hunting season is only a few months away, enjoy the summer and get ready for our favorite time of year.