Gap vs. Point of Aim-definition?

[Rob DiStefano]

just wanted to bring this up again to add my penny's worth.  "gap" and "point of aim" have been clearly defined and used over more than centuries, if not millenniums.

these are predetermined "soft sight" aiming methods that utilize the drawn arrow point and accurate range estimation.  iow, they're sighting systems that are not totally on or within the bow itself, such as typical "hard bowsights", which can be anything from a mark on the belly of the bow to a fully adjustable telescopic aiming device that includes both range finder and laser.
 
the "point of aim" method relies on putting the drawn arrow point on a marker (typically on the ground) that has been carefully located and *pretested* to deliver a specific arrow, from a specific bow, launched by a specific archer, to the center of the mark/target, at a very specific distance of the arrow to the mark/target.  this is *not* the kinda aiming system for trad bowhunter.  in fact, it's pretty dumb *unless* it can somehow be applied to a specific, controlled hunt venue, and even then it will be more guess than fact.

"gap" aiming relies on predetermined and tested variances in the perceived distance of the drawn arrow point and the center of the mark/target.  these "gap" distances, or spaces, between the arrow point and mark/target rely on accurate distance measuring.  the "gap" of the arrow point can be under, on, or over the mark/target.  with short distances in mind, and fast arrows, this method can be made to work extremely well for the trad bowhunter.

[njloco]

Thanks Rob, the guys had my head spinning, now I can focus on however it is that I shoot. I'd go out and practice all of this now, but the computer hates the rain, and my wife won't let me move it anyway.    

Just kidding all of this is very helpful, and THANKS to everyone for taking the time to write in. I think this will help clear up a lot of confusion between the forms.