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How to Grip a Compound Bow

A compound bow is not necessarily a simple archery tool. It is a modernized bow that uses a somewhat complex system of levers and pulleys to make the bow work. Compound bows can send arrows farther and faster because they are stiffer than other types of bows, like long bows, and do not rely solely on the strength of the archer to fire the arrow. How an archer grips his compound bow greatly determines the success of his shot.

Things You'll Need

Compound bow
Arrow

Instructions

- 1
  Hold the bow handle with your left hand if you are right-handed and reverse this if you are left-handed. Keep your stance open by moving one foot slightly forward and your feet shoulder-width apart.
- 2
  Locate the grip of the arrow, which should have a loop in it, with the hand that is not holding the bow. Slip your forefinger through that loop and place your thumb on the other side of the loop. Your pinky finger should not be used to grip the bow, but your forefinger, middle finger and ring finger should line up next to each other. Adjust your hand so that the fleshy part of your thumb muscle is pressing against the arrow grip.
- 3
  Position your bow hand onto the part of the bow right below where the arrow intersects with it. Most bows have a pad located there for your palm. Grip the bow with your thumb and the portion of your forefinger that is nearest your thumb. Relax your other fingers. Your bow arm should be relaxed and your shoulder in a position that feels natural.

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