Archery Merit Badge

Introduction

Welcome, scouts! The Archery merit badge is all about learning the skills and techniques needed to safely and accurately shoot a bow and arrow. You'll learn about the different types of bows and arrows, how to properly handle and care for them, and how to hit your target with precision.

Merit Badge Requirements

1. Explain the safety rules for archery.
2. Describe the following parts of an arrow: nock, fletching, arrowhead, shaft, and crest.
3. Do the following:
   1. Explain how to properly care for and store archery equipment.
   2. Name and point out the parts of the bow you are shooting.
   3. Explain how to properly string a recurve bow or longbow.
4. Explain how to determine the draw length and draw weight for you.
5. Do the following:
   1. Explain how to safely shoot an arrow.
   2. Demonstrate the proper shooting form for your shooting style.
   3. Using a bow of your choice, shoot a single round of 30 arrows at an appropriate target from a distance of 15 yards.
6. Do ONE of the following options:
   1. Option A - Compound Bow: Explain how to properly adjust a compound bow. Describe how to use a release aid.
   2. Option B - Recurve Bow or Longbow: Explain how to string a recurve bow or longbow. Describe the differences between these two types of bows.
7. Do the following:
   1. Explain how to properly care for and store arrows.
   2. Explain the following terms: grouping, sighting, and aiming.
   3. Using a bow of your choice, shoot a single round of 30 arrows at an appropriate target from a distance of 25 yards. You must use the same type of bow for all shots.
8. Explain the following:
   1. Why arrows must be matched to the bow.
   2. How to use a bow square.
   3. How to use a stringer on a recurve bow or longbow.
9. Explain how to properly use and store a bowstringer.

Lesson

Alright, scouts, let's get started! First things first, safety is the most important aspect of archery. Always follow the safety rules and guidelines set forth by your instructor or range master. Now, let's talk about the different parts of an arrow. The nock is the groove at the end of the arrow that attaches to the bowstring. The fletching is the feathers or plastic vanes at the back of the arrow that help stabilize it in flight. The arrowhead is the pointy end that pierces the target. The shaft is the long, straight part of the arrow. And the crest is the colored band or design on the arrow that helps you identify it.

Next up, let's talk about caring for your equipment. Always make sure your bow and arrows are stored in a cool, dry place. Keep them away from extreme heat or cold, and never leave them in direct sunlight. When handling your bow, always make sure to grip it firmly but not too tightly. And when stringing your bow, make sure to use a bowstringer to avoid damaging the limbs.

Now, let's talk about shooting form. The proper shooting form will vary depending on your shooting style, but there are a few basic principles that apply to everyone. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, perpendicular to the target. Hold the bow with your non-dominant hand, and use your dominant hand to pull back the bowstring. Keep your elbow up and your wrist straight. Aim with both eyes open, and release the arrow smoothly and steadily.

Finally, let's talk about aiming and sighting. Aiming is the process of lining up your bow and arrow with the target. Sighting is the process of adjusting your aim based on the distance and wind conditions. To aim, use the sight or the tip of the arrow to line up with the target. To sight, adjust your aim up or down, left or right, based on the conditions. And remember, practice makes perfect!

Questions

• What are the different parts of an arrow?
• How should you care for your archery equipment?
• What is the proper shooting form?
• What is the difference between aiming and sighting?

Remember, if you have any questions or need help with any of the requirements, don't hesitate to ask your merit badge counselor. They're there to help you succeed!

Schedule

Week	Requirements
1	Requirements 1-3a
2	Requirements 3b-5
3	Option A or B
4	Requirements 7-9

Good luck, scouts! Have fun and be safe!