instructors and backyard practice questions?

[kevshin21]

So I took a lesson in Fullerton and the instructor would not let me shoot traditional sightless. I told him that I took a lesson before at Covina without sights on the bow and did pretty decent, but he kept insisting that I use a sight. The instructor also kept insisting me to use the 3 finger method. To all the vets out there I understand using the sight, but why did they kept drilling me on doing 3 fingers under? My groupings were a lot tighter when using split finger (when the instructor was not near me  :p ). Also one more question, is it legal to shoot in your own backyard? Do any of you guys do it? I understand it can be potentially dangerous if one did not take the time to secure the area. Thanks!

[Jhoneil1]

Three fingers are easier to learn for some beginners. We do the same in Pasadena. However, if you feel comfortable shooting with split then I will let it go. The guy in Fullerton is probably getting commissions on the stuffs that he sells so obviously, he will sell you things that you don't need.

[Jhoneil1]

I will agree with Earthdog that some FITA coaches only knows that type of shooting (I know some of them) but the basic FITA form is sound. Think of it as Kata in karate. Practice the basic moves and know when to change it to suite the shooting situation. You just need to find a coach that knows that and can adapt to the type of shooting that you want to do.

[Jhoneil1]

Oh backyard shooting is illegal in most cities...

[Mudd]

Originally posted by Jhoneil1:
Oh backyard shooting is illegal in most cities...

Just one more reason I'm glad I live in the mid-west!

I stand out at the edge of my street and can shoot to almost 100 yards down my back yard. In fact maybe if I can remember I'll get some pictures of my range and post them.

God bless,Mudd

[Chris Shelton]

mudd we shouldnt rubb it in, lol

[BobCo 1965]

"I will agree with Earthdog that some FITA coaches only knows that type of shooting (I know some of them) but the basic FITA form is sound."

3 under is not common in FITA.

I agree though that if you do not have faith in your coach, then I would suggest finding another. It sounds like your current coach is using a "command" style of teaching where you might fit better with a "cooperative" or "submissive" (although I do not care for this one) style. Better coaches will know these styles and are usually able to coach in either type. I'd talk to current coach first before releaing him and if he still only wants it his way, then mutually agree to part ways.

Personally, depending on goals, 3 under or split are acceptable. If a person if having trouble keeping the arrow on the rest, then I usually suggest moving to 3 under. Some love it and stick with it especially if they shoot gap.

[Bjorn]

Some instructors need ways to show they are in 'charge'. Find someone else, or remind him who is paying.

[Bowmania]

I don't know what your goals in archery are, but if they're hunting I think you need to forget about sights.  Use that coach for form.  It's the most important part of archery.  Viper just had a post here where he said that aiming is only 10% of a shot.

When it comes to split finger or "3 under" again I think it depends on your goals.  With split you can shoot farther, because that arrow is farther from your eye.  The gap will be a little greater and that's why you can shoot farther.  What I mean is a shot at 60 to 80 yards with split fingers the arrow would be some where below the target.  That same shot with 3 under you'd have to hold the point of the arrow over the target with your fist and arm covering the target.  Making it pretty hard to get the L and R correct.  I could be more specific if I was sure you knew what your "point of aim" is, which would change whether split or 3 under.

Bowmania

[hawk4570]

Sounds to me like you need a coach that knows how to shoot traditional. Sights we don't need any stinking sights

[Jhoneil1]

"3 under is not common in FITA. "

I am responding more to the comment of "form parrots".

kevshin21- You have seen me teach a class. It's mostly a safety class. If you want to learn different ways of shooting, just let me know. We can even move on to thumbring shooting  


--------------------
Jhoneil Centeno
USA Archery Member
Certified Level II Archery Instructor

[lpcjon2]

Shoot the way you feel comfortable,as long as you have good form and can make a clean kill!you will learn that what feels good is normally what works for you.
  As far as back yard shooting,check the state laws and then check your own city laws for city ordinances restricting bows and arrows.They may classify a bow as a firearm in the city or state you live in.It's best to check for yourself,"But he said I could" doesn't stand up in court.