Setting up your bow

Before shooting, make sure the target is placed in a safe spot. Check behind target for a suitable backstop such as a hill or dirt pile.

Grasp an arrow just in front of the fletching and place it on the arrow rest. Line up the slot of the nock, ensuring the fletching is in the correct position for your arrow rest. Gently push the nock onto the string under the nock locator until you hear a click. This is called 'nocking the arrow'. Assume a shooting position, looking at the target. You can aim either by choosing your target instinctively or by attaching a mechanical sight to the bow for reference.

Pull smoothly at the bowstring to a full draw, anchoring the string to your anchor point. In a smooth motion while keeping your bow arm steady, release the string and hold your shooting position until the arrow hits the target.

Bowhunters practice on a regular basis to maintain a high level of skill with shooting their bow. They will practice in conditions similar to those that are likely to be experienced in the field; with target arrows and also with the particular kind of arrow point they tend to use for hunting, as for example, the broadhead for hunting larger game, like deer.