How to Aim and Shoot Traditional Archery Bows - Aiming Method

There are several ways to shoot a traditional bow. Big Jim explains several common forms of aiming and shooting a traditional bow. Three under, split finger, instinctive, and gap method are explored.

[@stickbowsniper]

yes, yes and yes. For any new archers watching this, everything Big Jim said here is 100% spot on. Pulling through the shot is key. Another tip I discovered later than I should have is to start out learning with a lighter bow that you have no trouble holding at full draw for several seconds, with no arm shake, even after a few dozen shots. For many that will be in the 30-35lb range. Develop good habits and consistency before moving to a typical hunting weight 45 - 55lb. Shoulder injury can also occur from going too heavy too fast.

[@MrFreeGman]

Howard Hill used to teach his students not to follow through. He'd teach them to just relax their fingers and keep their entire body static as the follow through, holding the bow sturdy so it doesn't move. I find with that method I pluck the string a lot less often and my draw length at release is more consistent. I know nowadays all the target archery teachers tell you to do that huge follow through and rest your hand on your shoulder, but that doesn't work for me, at least with a traditional longbow. It's also not always practical in a hunting setting. If you can't hit a target without perfect form, your ability to hit targets in a dynamic setting (e.g. hunting) will greatly suffer.

[@Niesha266]

Had the bow set up at a pro shop. It performed just fine kzbin.infoUgkxQEKUoxLWwayEDZR0NKB-5limn4MBU-2L . And I would say this is a good starting now that I could pass down to my son when he is older.But the package was missing the release and a nock was missing from one arrow.Dealing with customer support was terrible. They suggested I buy a new release rather than correct their own quality control issue because it’s to expensive for the. to ship it out from China.Update: manufacturer got back to me and resolved the issue. I retract the above statement.

[@bipolarbear69]

Anytime I shoot, my arrows miss the target and fly over the Canadian border.

[@fenrir4592]

What part I need all the arrows I can get 🤣🤣

[@killintime8431]

String walking helped me out a lot with shooting

[@X4VER279]

RAAAAAHHHHH 🦅🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🦅🦅🦅🛢️🛢️🛢️🛢️

[@Iron_Void]

Real.

[@VaNatureLover]

😂😂😂😂

[@barclayv8282]

You clearly know what you're talking about and I love your demeanor. Just getting back into archery and feeding off what I can. Thank you.

[@robcarr8505]

Im a new archer. I used to shoot a lot when I was a teen but now im 46 and decided to give it a shot. I love what you said about seeking professional help and im going to take your advice on that. I really like the video and look forward to watching more from you. Thank you for your help.

[@billrogus8889]

Perfect instruction. This is probably the best explanation I’ve ever seen on how to shoot a traditional bow. Helped me out tremendously. Good stuff. I use Big Jim’s quivers on my recurves and they are the best. They actually stabilize and help silence the bow. Thanks Jim

[@Cuisinenomade1]

I am a beginner archer and I must say something nobody ever mentions related to "instinctive" shooting. It almost seems like it is an skill that some have and others do not, like an "instinct", hearing this as a complete beginner was a little confusing to me. But an "instict" as animals have may not just be something they come with but it is learnt, like when driving a car becomes "instictive" and stop thinking about it while doing it. The truth is that this kind of shooting develops after many many arrows shoot aiming. Without aiming at first there is no "instict" developed yet so imposible to shoot "instinctively" for somebody that has never shoot a bow. After hundreds of arrows, one stops aiming and an auto pilot takes control, but that does not happen as magic but after a good time shooting the bow and getting used to the trajectory of the arrow, for that particular bow and those particular arrows. I thought it may clear things a little for absolute beginners. Thanks for the video!

[@mountainstomarshes8966]

This is helpful stuff Jim. I've recently switched over from a glove to one of your tabs and that's been the single biggest improvement to consistency so far for me.

[@wk9953]

Great shooting. Beautiful bows and a humble archer

[@graphguy]

Really appreciate your perspective. I have seen people snap, instinctive, gap who are all phenomenally accurate at each, so to each their own as long as it works for you.

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

truth. Whatever works for you. Consistency is constantly shooting.

[@terrymattson3587]

Thanks Jim. I have had the same experience. You sharing this tells me I’m on the right track. I met you about 5 years ago, your a humble but knowledgeable man.

[@adods9824]

You're

[@demharsh]

Thank you Jim for talking about target panic. I haven't shot an arrow in a year because of it. I used to shoot at least an hour a day before and was obsessed with one day be able to buy a Big Jim 2 piece takedown but I lost interest when I just started to release the arrow as soon my hand touch my face and sometimes before that but I was never able to have a full draw. Thinking about getting myself a super light weight bow like 30# or lower cause maybe its easier to practice when pulling weight is not an issue. I don't know, hope I will start shooting again because it really put a smile on my face every day

[@timhatfield6367]

Hey...get your bow out brother! Go for a big target at first and be happy with that,then you can move onto smaller spots. Sometimes you can want to shoot good so bad that makes you over think the whole process. Draw,aim,shoot. Or your arrows are not correct spine for your bow. How do your arrows fly. Might be them, when you think it's you. Just a thought man...

[@danielluczak4695]

I''ve had the same exact issue. I love holding the bow at full draw for a few seconds before shooting, but after about shooting 20+ arrows, my arm starts to shake and my full draws aren't as stable as id like them to be and my shoulder aches. I bought a full draw trainer band from amazon in hopes I can strengthen my shoulder, so far its day 1 with it so we'll see how that goes haha

[@caseya.4902]

That bow is beautiful 😍, your craftsmanship is incredible.would love to have one in 30lbs

[@jerryleiisme]

I love bows and u love bows, since we both love bows ,I think u might be my best unknown friend, and thanks for this lovely video.

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@BustedLimbOutdoors]

I run a cheap Olympic archery style sight on my recurve for hunting. I tried the instinctive route for years and I was so inconsistent I didn’t feel comfortable hunting that way. I tried gap shooting and that wasn’t so bad. Inevitably I settled on a cheap Olympic sight and have now become confident that I can take an animal out to 30 yards.

[@richmerlo2769]

Thanks for sharing your tips , I know for me personally if I shoot every day or so it keeps tuned in , on the other hand if I get away from shooting for a period of time I really get rusty so its a use it or lose it concept .

[@sophiedavid623]

Thank you Jim, I'll admit that I was waiting for you to shoot, just to hear if my next arc would be silent, and indeed it is! Looks super cool to shoot, lightweight, seemingly handshock-free and aesthetically pleasing! I feel like I'm going to love it! LOL! Thierry from New Caledonia, known as Gégène...

[@2greeksandacamera]

Great coaching Jim !

[@donknott]

Having trouble with consistency. Thanks for the tips and will try them at the range next time I am there.

[@chiliboom6140]

Thank you Big Jim! I appreciate the help and advice.

[@mikecrook8650]

Great info Big Jim Thank You I basically shoot the same way. It is the only way for me I found to be consistent. Thanks Again.

[@James-gw7kx]

Just absorbing this video is very insightful . Can't wait to get outside an employ your knowledge thanks

[@erosionhead420]

The best explanation I’ve seen so far. Very helpful. Thanks. 👍🇺🇸

[@JodyBaldwin]

Great video, looking forward to more in the future!

[@michaelmacdonald5792]

Cool video Big Jim. Thanks

[@elmbow]

Excellent video! Articulate and clear.

[@Greyarcher1]

Good one Jim! And what an AWESOME Bow 🤩🤠

[@jcapp1698]

Thanks for the tip and the beautiful bows.

[@freyrtry1561]

Instinctive shooting is the best I walk and turn and shoot as fast as possible and I hit the target more often then when I overthink aiming

[@StickHippieOutdoors]

Great video brother

[@jackgriffith9229]

Archers! Pay attention as this Bowyer/ Archer KNOWS OF THAT WHICH HE POSTS!!

[@tgwoolshire]

Nice job on the video Jim!

[@franciscocarranza5215]

"I appreciate your Advice O.G 🙏 Keep Up the Great Work 👍

[@carpenterfactory4205]

It's a nice shooting, I'm a person who shoots Korean traditionalization.

[@JamesDotson-if3eq]

Everyone has their favorite fishing pole , the same is true of your choice of bow and arrows. Then , just practice to shoot better , instinctive or when using sights .

[@petervanderbeek9518]

Great video Jim love my mountain monarch you made for me

[@Edens-Arrow-Works]

Cool Jim! Thanks for sharing! Hey are you gonna be at the Tennessee classic or IBO worlds at pipestem? You did a brown beaver tail grip for me on a fox bow at tbof. I love it and want two more done!

[@RonKelmell]

Clear and simple, unlike the self anointed gurus with more thought muddling techinque than Adam has apples.

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

It's really up to you, however it is easier to get the arrow closer to your eye and you will put less torque on the arrow

[@DakotaTrucker]

Love the videos. Hoping all is well with you.

[@duffy1298]

I really want a big Jim’s bow.

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

Call or visit bigjimsbowcompany.com

[@stevesoutdoorworld4340]

Great info Big Jim Thank you!

[@richardcox2229]

Is it better to shoot 3 under rather than split 1 over 2 under !! I’m just getting back into traditional bows again and I want to be more consistent and accurate with my shots !! Before I was that grip and rip guy ……. Was also the guy that never got a deer as well!! Thank you for your help and a great video !!

[@JamesDotson-if3eq]

Using a bow trigger release helped me be a better shot.

[@Themiscyoutuber]

I can use my compound no problem . Went back to primitive longbow and it i suck now . Trying to improve my range of 10 ft lol

[@douglasfonseca1690]

Very good Jim

[@knifesharpeningnorway]

Good video mate

[@THOR_509]

Thanks! Very helpful!

[@JamesDotson-if3eq]

If you started out using bow sights shooting instinctive is like starting over from the beginning. They are both way different to master.

[@davidhoward9986]

I can see why you tuck in the beard big Jim it’s as long as the bow thank you for the video and explanation of the topic

[@MarkMphonoman]

Great advice and tips.👍

[@tzioxphon5091]

Good big Jim!

[@mikethefarrier]

Love my Big Jim longbow

[@whilomforge3402]

I think instinctive is a good definition, or “intuitive”. Either way, it’s a great way to shoot under 25 yards. In my experience anyhow.

[@linnosmg]

Wow that release was so nice. I'm new to this so my arrows he flying in zigzag lol

[@charliemaddock3459]

Fist shot i seen one of ya beard hairs get cut off by string hahah great advice jim cheers

[@k.o.skeeponshooting235]

This helped thank you 👍

[@ar15gator]

Nice!

[@garyhammond2213]

Very nice.

[@dominicbrady1539]

Big Jim consistently gets a pie before every session.

[@williamcoachg3228]

Thank u I learned alot

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

Happy Hunting!

[@musikSkool]

I'm sure some people just feel where their hands are in relation to each other and if they are lined up with the target. Like throwing a basketball, most people can feel where the ball is going to go and aim it where they want it. Everyone I know that ever played basketball could throw to someone 30 feet away without even looking at the ball. You aim by feeling where your arms are. Practice makes perfect. Even pitchers in baseball can hit a square foot target from 20 yards away, with no arrow to aim with.

[@WV591]

wish I could own a thunderchild most amazing reflex/deflex on a longbow.

[@12henry1234]

Thanks

[@triplez300]

I am sorry it's unrelated question but I want to know the draw weight of the bow and total weight of the arrow. I love that flat trajectory.

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

My draw weight is 65#@32". My draw is 32". Arrows weight about 680 grains Bigjim

[@davebrunette6394]

Nice video 😎

[@davidnachbaur6805]

Thank you

[@fabieneldridge3414]

Very true. Thanks

[@hb2sami]

I’m brand new to recurve. I’m a very accomplished compound archer. National amateur champion in bowhunter free style. I just bought a bear super grizzly 45lb recurve. I’m a 30” draw. So that 45lb is probably closer to 50-55 lb. Idk. Aiming and anchor point in my newest focal point. I’m keeping all my arrows in about a 12” diameter at 20 yards. But I’m having to hold a really low hold. Like about 12”. I aim 12” low of where I know the arrow will impact. There has to be a better way?

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

Many things are at play here, arrow length, point weight, and anchor position. This is all personal preference. 12" under poi at 20yd isn't that uncommon

[@vieuxacadian9455]

Facts from a legend .

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@williamcornelison4721]

I guess buying a bow you can handle is paramount..... Are longer limb bows easier to pull.... What length for hunting is popular? I think I could handle 45-50 lbs at my age 74 yrs I've taken deer with compound and crossbow..... Just thinking about the challenge to use a stick bow.... Are there any good stick bows Recurve etc offered today...?

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

There are a lot of quality trad bows offered Today. Longer bows may be smoother than the same model but shorter. The longer they are, the more cumbersome for hunting. If you need to go longer to be able to draw, the weight is likely too much. BigJim

[@andrievbastichy8551]

came here because of in dead on quest 2. if i hold the bow vertically i miss often... especially moving targets but horizontally i land em.

[@LT.X380]

Thanks.

[@Terpedup925]

Are you looking at the target with both eyes or just your dominant eye?

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

Both eyes always open! Dominant will do its job

[@VinceW187]

These fences seem a bit overkill to hold the plastic animals insde

[@marcofranzoso1466]

3 under possible wilh all bows,regardless of the tiller?

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

Absolutely.. tillering for three under vs split is a bit of a gimmick. Anything done to the bow as far as tillering can be negated by tuning nock set. BigJim

[@gghhap]

What does "burning a hole in the target" mean?

[@gfreeman9843]

Concentrating on the point you'd like the arrow to strike...? Zen like ? Regards..great video big guy..great tips and true humility

[@kevinroberts9580]

That's pretty much the same way I shoot. I never quite got how these people hold their bow arm up and pre aim. I draw to my anchor, then pick a spot and pull through.....most of the time 😉🤣😁

[@davidpate2237]

I always have a canter when I'm shooting is that sort of normal

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

It is common and not an issue to kant while shooting. You should avoid excessive kant. Bigjim

[@davidpate2237]

@@BigJimsBowCompany thank you

[@greenmetalbender4692]

What bow are you shooting? 😍

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

I'm holding a mountain monarch in the video

[@greenmetalbender4692]

@@BigJimsBowCompany I LOVED the way those two arrows flew

[@odysodys1098]

👍

[@gboutdoors5198]

im semi accurate at 10 yards and i self taught myself

[@ReligiousPrime]

It might be the beard and the way he talks, but this guy reminds me of Phil Robertson.

[@hansg6336]

Wanted to watch. Too much wind noise.

[@aaronmeyler8838]

Get your ears checked you nugget

[@zingerzte4192]

Very loud though

[@TimeSinkingLoser]

like throwing a football

[@johnalden508]

This fellow seems like he knows what he's talking about, but I'd enjoy a video of him showing many instinctive shots, along side someone showing many gap consideration shots. Words are great, but I need to see what you're saying. I'm sure I'm not alone in this. Explain a bit of one method, take a shot and show it. Explain a bit about the other style, have someone who enjoys that method show it. Move forward with your explanation and continue to show it. As things are, this is merely conceptual, and one who focuses on form cannot grasp the nuances of the different styles. That's just my opinion, be well.

[@ThefourthT6]

Video starts at 3:52

[@marcbernier3270]

That is not the definition of insanity and Einstein never said it.

[@dwest713]

That's one way to shave your beard.

[@BigJimsBowCompany]

Sometimes I forget to tuck it my shirt

[@aloevera4808]

Still dont know how to shoot bow,he talks nonsense,waste time

[@shane4176]

Great explanation my friend!!