Starting out
Starting any new sport is always a slightly daunting experience. You may be worried that it may be very expensive, or that you might not enjoy it as much as you first thought once you've spent the money. The following should help reassure you, and ensure that you don't spend too much money.
The first stage is to find a club which is local to you. Nonsuch Bowmen is based in North East Surrey, and has active members ranging from Dorking to Croydon. If you would like to find somewhere closer to you, contact the governing body - GNAS
If you haven't already tried archery, for instance at a holiday centre, you might like to have a go before committing to anything. Some clubs, ourselves included, offer a "Have-A-Go" day which lets you try the sport at no cost. The emphasis at these is very much on fun over proper technique.
Please do not try archery in your own back garden - it is potentially very dangerous.
If you are keen to learn, then sign up for a Beginners' Course which lasts for 6 weeks and teaches you to shoot without hurting yourself or anyone else. It also teaches a good technique for the future should you wish to go on to compete. The course will provide all of the equipment that you need. If you complete this course, you have then made the first step towards joining any club.
Please do not buy a bow without getting advice - you will grow out of your first bow in few weeks.
Once you've done the course, you can join a club. The club should be able to provide you with some basic equipment until you decide to buy your own. It will provide the expensive targets and insurance. The other members can also give you advice and help you to improve.
Bow hunting (although popular in the US) is illegal in the UK. Do not try it!
We very much hope that you enjoy your time shooting, and would love to see you either as a member, or if not, then side-by-side at a tournament.
© Mark Brown (2005-2007)