When it comes to archery competitions, many questions arise. Sure, you could refer to the rulebook, which spans hundreds of pages, but that’s not very practical or helpful for beginners. Instead, we’ve compiled answers to some frequently asked questions.
Can anyone compete?
Absolutely! The only requirement is a competition license, which you can obtain through your archery club. However, some competitions, like “Korren,” don’t require a license.
What is a competition license?
A competition license is a type of course offered by your club. It teaches you basic rules, shooting signals, and safety guidelines. The cost of a license varies depending on your age. For more details, visit the Swedish Archery Federation’s website:
Competition Licenses – SBF
Do I need to be very skilled to compete?
No. Anyone who wants to compete can do so. You don’t need to compare yourself to the best; instead, focus on improving your personal performance. At BK Fiskgjusen, we encourage participation in competitions, as they’re often highly social events where you can meet new friends. Some international competitions may require qualification.
Can I use any type of arrows?
Not quite. In recurve, compound, barebow, and instinctive classes, you can use arrows made of any material. In the longbow class, the rules are stricter:
- Indoors and outdoor target shooting: Wood or aluminum arrows.
- 3D, field, and hunting competitions: Only wood arrows are allowed.
Additionally, arrows cannot exceed 9.3mm in diameter and must be marked with your name and look identical.
Do I have to compete in my age group?
No, but there are restrictions based on which classes you can participate in:
- Ages 10–12: Knatte, Kadett, Junior, 21-class, and Elite.
- Ages 13–15: Kadett, Junior, 21-class, and Elite.
- Ages 16–20: Junior, 21-class, and Elite.
- Ages 21–49: 21-class and Elite.
- Ages 50–59: 21-class, Elite, and Master.
- Ages 60+: 21-class, Elite, Master, and Veteran.
Does it cost money to compete?
Yes, almost all competitions have fees, which vary by event and age group. Local competitions typically cost between 50–250 SEK. At BK Fiskgjusen, the club covers all competition fees for juniors and championship fees for seniors.
What distances do you shoot from?
It depends on the type of competition. A simplified overview:
- Longbow and Instinctive: Up to 40 meters.
- Barebow and Compound: Up to 50 meters.
- Recurve: Up to 70 meters.
The shortest distance for all types is 5 meters. For detailed information, see the rulebook:
Rules – SBF
How long does a competition last?
This varies by event:
- Indoor 30-arrow competition: Approximately 2 hours, including warm-up and results.
- 3D competitions: Typically 24 targets, lasting most of the day (ending around 4 PM), with a lunch break halfway through.
- Swedish Championships (SM): Usually spans two full days, depending on finals and rankings.
Do I have to stand next to the shooting peg in forest shooting?
No. Imagine a semicircle extending 1 meter backward from the peg; you can stand anywhere within this area, as long as you’re not in front of the peg.
Can I use any bow in any class?
No.
- Longbow class: Only longbows that meet specific requirements.
- Instinctive class: Longbows and recurves with wooden risers.
- Barebow class: Metal riser recurves are standard, but longbows or instinctive bows are also allowed.
- Recurve class: Any bow except compound.
- Compound class: Only compound bows are permitted.
Each class has specific rules that may change over time. Always check the latest regulations for your class:
Rules – SBF
Can I have an arrow rest on my longbow?
No. You shoot directly off the bow’s shelf or from the side of the bow, as with an English longbow. (An arrow rest refers to an attachment added afterward.)
Can I use hunting tips on my arrows?
No.
Can I wear anything during competitions?
No. Clothing rules vary:
- You must wear a team shirt from your club, or a plain white t-shirt without visible logos if you don’t have one.
- Camouflage patterns are not allowed.
For bad weather, warm outer clothing is acceptable. Advertising on clothing is permitted, including personal sponsorships. For more details, see the rulebook:
Rules – SBF
What size targets do you shoot at?
It depends on the event and bow class:
- Indoors: Longbow and Instinctive typically shoot at 60cm targets; Barebow shoots at 40cm targets, and Recurve/Compound shoot at 3-spot targets.
- Outdoors: Target sizes range from 80cm to 122cm.
- Field competitions: All archers shoot at various targets up to 80cm.
Do competitions continue in the rain?
Yes, but not during local thunderstorms, in which case the competition is suspended.
Do I need to know all the rules?
No, not at all. However, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with the rules specific to your bow class and competition type (e.g., Target, Field, 3D, Hunting). Judges are always present at competitions to answer questions, and experienced archers are usually happy to help.
Where can I find the rulebook?
The Swedish Archery Federation (SBF) has published the rulebook on their website in PDF format. The WA rulebook, often used as a complement, is also available there:
Rules – SBF
Gallery
We’ve also included a gallery from various 2019 competitions to give you an idea of what competitions can look like. The photos were taken by BK Fiskgjusen archers, other competitors, and Peter Arlekrans.
0 Comments