i have a problem with the string hitting my sleeve if i don't wear a tight shirt when i shoot. i noticed that the olymic archers use a piece over their shoulders. do any of you use this or do you have a simular problem?
Correct hand position will get the string away from your upper arm. Hold your bow hand so that your knuckles are at 45 degrees and then let it go soft(go skeletal) so that the bow finds it's place. This will keep the string well away from your upper arm, maybe not your lower arm but hopefully so. The chest protectors are about consistency as the build of the archer sometimes, especially a long drawing archer, the string can get pulled into the chest and a consistent surface like a chest protector allows a more consistent shot due to the slippery surface being the same on every shot.
It seems you have a form problem. Take a look at the section on this forum that covers this. But an arm guard is a good idea anyway. Also don't lock your elbow in.
If you are wearing a lot of clothes a chest protector can help. But' I can't say I've seen one in use for hunting in a long while.
Many people wear arm guards, though I've heard said that if you hit your arm, your form is wrong. The Olympic archers wear arm guards, too. Things happen, and if you are hitting consistently, but your shirt gets in the way, then get one of those guards. If you can't find camo, and you want that, then buy some camo tape.
If, however, you aren't consistent enough in your shooting, then I recommend getting out to the range with a person who can watch your form. There are all kinds of reasons for the symptom you describe, and it would be a waste of your time for you to go out and try to change too many things at once. It's probably only one or two small things you can tweak, and knowing them quickly will build your confidence. Again, though, if you are shooting consistently well, and this is your only problem, then get a guard.
Chest gaurds are GREAT when wearing heavy winter or baggy clothing. I've worn them and have a buddy that wears one all the time.
Form has nothing to with bulky clothing :) My buddy aformentioned clips off the shirt pocket on his left breast on all his clothing as well :) The flap tends to get in the way if it is unbutton.
Lancaster Archery sells them
http://www.lancasterarchery.com/shop/product_info.php?products_id=10701&osCsid=a81d43d6f6e49862d75cf1242874ecc8
That was one of the more expensive ones. You can get them for as cheap as 9 bucks
http://www.lancasterarchery.com/shop/product_info.php?cPath=49_232&products_id=10574&osCsid=a81d43d6f6e49862d75cf1242874ecc8
thanks
FYI - Olympic archers, or any archer that competes in Olympic/FITA/ETC type events anchor under their chins which brings the string closer to the body, thus the chest gear. Keeps loose fitting clothes, not bulky per se, from getting in the way.
Didn't want anyone thinking they had poor form.
If you subscribe to TBM, they have a catalog in there that they have them in.
QuoteOriginally posted by B-DOG:
i have a problem with the string hitting my sleeve if i don't wear a tight shirt when i shoot. i noticed that the olymic archers use a piece over their shoulders. do any of you use this or do you have a simular problem?
If you are primarily a target archer...I would suggest using the chest protector and arm guard.
Olympic archers strive to get their joints as close to perfect alignment as possible to help achieve and maintain consitantcy. When an archer strives for that...the bow arm and chest will be closer to the bowstrings path...which may require a chest protector and/or an armguard.
A few suggestions to try if you don't want to go the other route...is to try opening up your stance more. Try increasing the bend in your bow arm slightly or a little at a time until it feels right and try adjusting your grip and wrist alignment.
Each of us are built slightly different which can effect how one archer's form may look different than the next archer.
Whatever you do...strive for consistantcy, which allows you to achieve your desired goals...whether you are a bowhunter, target archer or both.
Ray ;)