How To Be Dead On! Traditional Archery Techniques That Simply Work!

Learning how to trust your sight picture window is the key to accuracy and consistency with traditional equipment such as longbows and recurves! This video will explain the major differences in techniques and what actually makes you a better archer!

[@ncsaddlehunter77]

I shoot split finger instinctive and you are the main person that inspired me to do so. It truly is much more fun and satisfying to shoot pure instinctive. I am most accurate when completely ignoring my arrow and only focusing on my spot. To be completely honest, if I had to shoot 3 under and aim using my arrow, then I would just go back to shooting my compound bow. Split finger feels more natural to me. Yes it took tons of practice. But the challenge was what lead to the satisfaction. There is a reason that I watched you and not someone like clay hayes or others who preached three under aiming or ( split vision ) style shooting. It was your encouragement that practice would build the muscle memory and if I stayed the course then accuracy and consistency would come. Robert Carter is the best woodsman on KZbin and even he is inspired by you. I don't know what is driving you to change back and forth on style and equipment choices unless it just keeps things fresh and challenging for you but I'm not doing it. You were so insistent that focus and practice was what made true instinctive archery possible and you were right. It is also extremely addictive because it is MUCH more rewarding to hit what you are looking at instead of what you are aiming at. God bless brother.

[@maxmorris7025]

Shooting split came about so you could point of arrow aim at longer distances.

[@billcharlene1450]

Ive been shooting instinctive split corner mouth anchor from 8 to 38 years old. I've tried all types of styles through the years. For me personally I felt I was limited to 25 yards shooting instinctive split. I tried 3 under gap with an Olympic style anchor and after practice can nail a soda bottle at 50yards without even thinking. I used to have to aim above the target, (which would block target prohibiting me from seeing it) now aim under and walk my way up to it depending on range, (gapstinctive). My brother I'm way more accurate. Point is ... try different styles, it's not one size fits all. Hell, I've yet to see anybody else shoot three under, chin anchor "gapstinctive"on YT but found the right mixture.😂 Jake Kaminski is also a great resource on YT

[@jakesmith6337]

I totally agree with you, I’m split and only look at the spot, for those that think it’s split vision and true instinctive isn’t real I proved it to myself by shooting at a lighted nock in total darkness, the only limiting factor in shooting in darkness is it’s hard to feel the distance beyond 40 yards or so.

[@michaelgmcauliffe]

Thank god for everything!! I thank him for waking me up today!! Thanks Jeff for the video..i tried split finger for a bit but i was no where near as accurate as 3 under.. i am going to take your advice and start at short distance shooting at 10 yards is really helping

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

@@michaelgmcauliffe awesome brother thanks so much!

[@mrchuck3338]

Thank God for your videos! You have taught me so much and have improved my archery so much. Thank you brother!

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

@@mrchuck3338 Thank you so much!

[@scottblachly9353]

Stumbled on your show and love them! Keep up the good work and keep praising the lord!

[@DILATEDPEEPS]

It's all coming together and it's so much fun. All of your tips and videos combined are improving my development tremendously. From nailing down a shot process, to anchor, to focus, staying in the zone, and executing the shot! I love it because you have explained it in a way that with practice, is sure to improve consistency and confidence. Just good clean fun. Thank you Jeff!

[@richardvanetten561]

Watching this video inspired me to go out and try 3 fingers under. I usually shoot split finger. I can hardly believe the windage improvement!!! Now getting used to the height difference. Very comfortable. I’m switching. Thanks so much 😊.

[@johnd7215]

Jeff I find all your shooting related videos to be most helpful and they inspire me greatly. I tossed my compound several years back and resigned myself to take close shots with the recurve and also to pass on deer when i have to. If anyone really want to get good at this there is no other way IMO. The compound has to go and I'd say 15 yards when you start out is about it. I am settling in with 20 yards these days max for hunting. This is after several seasons of nothing but a trad bow. Outside of that they are walking. New shooters really need to be at peace with this type of approach. I think there is too much emphasis on bow hunting at distance these days so a lot of guys coming over from wheels just do not have realistic expectations. Out of the gate they expect 30 yards accuracy. To the point you made toward the end of the video. I had a sit this past weekend. I turned 58. Saw nothing but it was peaceful and a time of reflection for all the good in my life. I believe the world of traditional archery has made me really enjoy bow hunting more.

[@cpborrelli]

Love your vids Jeff. I was taught spit finger since a child. I tried this method one day and I will NEVER shoot split finger again!

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

I guess it’s a personal preference for most lol I just went with what I liked best but there are bows tillered specifically for split and just shoot best that way but most will do either one just fine 👍🏻

[@jesseherbert2585]

I get more accurate shots with thee under typically also, BUT, just yesterday I started canting my bow more and using split finger with my middle finger on my cheekbone. I was getting excellent left/right alignment. Also, having the bow canted or leaning over not only gives a better sight picture, it also lets the weight of the bow help resist torque in the bow hand that often results in a left strike (for right handed shooters holding the bow in the left hand). Last, and this is my main reason to stay with split: If a solar flare ever takes our power grid out, and we have to shoot totally homemade and more rough equipment, split finger helps hold an arrow with a homemade nock in place more securely...check out most footage of tribes shooting their very basic arrows. Credit goes to Arthur Haines for pointing this out...

[@matthiasluka3498]

I love your channel. Greetings from Poland :)

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

Thanks brother!

[@rebelrye]

Amen Jeff. I always thank God for all the good people and things in my life. including archery.

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

Yes sir!

[@Maddie_Madds]

I learned to shoot 3 under, then I tried Split Finger. I was a good shot but I just couldn't get that consistency & control like you mention. So I went back to 3 under, & I am shooting better than ever before. My mind is very analytical, so I like to line things up & do the maths, etc. I'm glad I tried split finger because you have to try things to find out. I'm also a student of Joel Turner's ShotIQ course, and so now I just have a controlled & consistent shot process that I feel so confident in. But I really think it depends how your mind works. I'm very analytical, and I like to measure things up & use the Arrow to gap shoot, so 3 under really suits me.

[@larsblankenfjell9814]

I shot splitfinger for 9 years, and also full instinctive, but then I tried split vision, and also switch to Tab, and started Gap shooting, all on the same time. It took some time to get used to all the new stuff( about 6 months), but now I feel more secure while shooting, no more target panic, and I shoot better than before. Right now I will check out my new gap, with full arrow length, and test with different tip weights

[@robertcarte95]

Good stuff Brother!! Our blessings abound and it is only through thankful eyes that we see them!

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

Thanks buddy!

[@gcr0003]

I shoot split finger but a few years ago went from anchoring the traditional way with split finger which is nock near your mouth to nock near my cheek bone and nose . That gets the arrow very close to my eye and right under my line of site. That gives me the same open site picture, and still allows me to shoot the way that is comfortable and quieter to me which is split finger. You should try shooting split with a higher anchor point and then compare the two. I think this is a little bit of apples to oranges without the anchor point being similar. Above the split vs three under I do feel that a consistent shot process and anchor are most critical. I think many beginners benefit from three under and a high anchor point because it allows them to aim with the arrow point. I just prefer the feel of shooting “instinctively”. If I wanting hard aiming points I’d go back to compound. The good thing is there are many ways to enjoy shooting. I’m hoping another year of shooting translates to success in the woods when the pressure is on. Happy hunting!

[@jesseherbert2585]

I've noticed this also! Just yesterday I started canting my bow more and split finger with middle finger on cheekbone. I was getting excellent left/right alignment. Also, having the bow canted or leaning over not only gives a better sight picture, it also lets the weight of the bow help resist torque in the bow hand that often results in a left strike (for right handed shooters holding the bow in the left hand). Last, If a solar flare ever takes our power grid out, and we have to shoot totally homemade and more rough equipment, split finger helps hold an arrow with a homemade nock in place more securely...

[@StickHippieOutdoors]

You referenced “for me personally” several times and that’s accurate. I have switched back and forth between split and 3under and it makes zero difference for me as far as the feel of my anchor. Maybe even slightly better split because I use the same middle finger in the corner of my mouth but I’m able to get my index finger on my cheek bone. The guys winning shoots are all aimers and the only reason they shoot 3under is probably to minimize their gaps, nothing to do with anchor feel I’d guess. Some of the most accurate shooters I’ve ever seen were split finger, people like Howard Hill and Byron Ferguson. It’s definitely personal choice but it makes no difference if you commit to one or the other

[@StickHippieOutdoors]

Yep

[@Gatorlandtraditional]

I’m getting back into traditional bow hunting after several years off. Your videos really get me inspired. I’m learning how much I forgot, as well as new great info, and I just enjoy listening at work. Thanks for all you do.

[@NDFlyFisher]

I shot split finger, instinctive for 60 years. Switched to three under after making a poor shot on a deer. 3 under has greatly improved my accuracy AND consistency.

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

Yes sir that’s exactly why I went back and I’m really enjoying it myself!

[@Mikerille]

At the start if I’m not consistent, or my aim goes like 3 inches below every time, should I actually think to correct, or should I wait and keep going and my brain will eventually recognize and correct?

[@thephoenicianarcher5267]

100% brother God bless you 🙏

[@sierraridgereaper]

Im a split finger with a glove, have been for almost 50 yrs. Ive tried 3 under, split finger tab and 3 under tab (all recently) and it just doesnt ever feel comfortable. I guess Im just use to doin it one way for so long that I just cant get past the awkwardness.. Im gonna try again 3 under with my glove and give it an honest few weeks... thanks again for another great video...😉

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

Yes sir thanks so much for watching and I do like the feel of split myself just like my sight picture a bit more using three under 👍🏻

[@mikewolfe6496]

I’ve gone back and forth myself, currently 3 under. However, target panic is still getting me, especially if point on shooting. I have work to do. Lol You have argued both directions in the past. So it seems you are not 100% yourself. However, you are a great shot either way! I know I have two major issues causing me problems. Target panic is clearly one. My anchor is the second. I do not have a great anchor unless I am using the clicker. I anchor under cheek bone then expand to click, no problem. No clicker and I do not have a positive draw length. Like I said, I have work to do.

[@TrehanCreekOutdoors]

Gaining confidence in being able to shoot and hit accurately using instinctive shooting comes with PRACTICE. Lots and lots of practice. Why do basketball coaches run free throw shooting drills over and over again for every player on the team? It's one of the "easy" shots in the sport yet frequent practice hones shooting ability, increases success, and builds confidence. Same thing with shooting a bow instinctively. We all need constant PRACTICE. Having said that, I tell archers to STOP WORRYING about all the process of shooting instinctively. It will develop and improve over time if you just PRACTICE. Here's something to think about. I have been shooting the SAME Bear Kodiak Magnum recurve bow instinctively for 56 years. You can see my bow and me shooting it on my channel. I'm 71 now and still hunting with it, despite having congestive heart failure. After that much time, and using the same bow, I am readily able to shoot decent groups which work well for deer hunting. I promise if an archer continues to shoot several THOUSAND arrows per year in practice for 56 years YOU WILL GET GOOD at shooting instinctively. You also won't have much trouble as you age continuing to pull and hold the bow. It will just feel natural to you as your muscles will remain strong. Try shooting 5 groups of 6 arrows during a daily session. Don't over do your shooting as too many shots can result in bad shots, which does NOTHING to build technique. Shoot 30 arrows today, then 30 more tomorrow. And do that 3 to 5 days per week if you can....year round if possible. My point here is if you shoot thousands of arrows in a consistent practice routine, you will develop proficiency. Your body will develop muscle memory that helps you follow good form, anchor properly, and do all the things you need to do. Your brain will develop a subconscious memory of what worked and what did not work. The day will come, for some quicker than others, when an archer will simply step up, nock an arrow, draws, anchors, and releases all in one nice smooth process, much like a golfer teeing off. Amazingly your arrows will start hitting where you want them to hit. First at one distance, then at multiple distances, angles, positions, etc. It does require plenty of practice however. So stop worrying and obsessing. Just make your practice sessions FUN and stick with it. Good luck to all.

[@digitaldogs233]

My coach teaches 3 under. I started split finger and was ok, but 3 under, for me, is way more accurate. Tried string walking and just couldn't get on with it, but practice makes perfect. Even though i just don't see the point lol. End of the day my arrow is going somewhere and it's eye and hand co ordination that does that.

[@slock1095]

I prefer split i changed from 3 under. i feel u have more control of the arrow split finger. Hes the one that got me to change from 3under to split and i love it

[@adamboone6864]

I’d say if you are a beginner and trying to setup your arrow to your bow. A person should use split vision. Once you get your arrows set up and GROUPING on the target. It’s time to just focus on a spot and cheat a little with split vision/gap shooting for some time. Now after you have launched a couple thousand arrows and you’ve hit your intended target, start transitioning into instinctive meaning don’t look at your arrow. Focus on the tiniest spot and hold your form and let the arrow fly. I personally believe the highest point an archer can reach is instinctive shooting. That’s how you can start shooting at flying targets, moving targets. That’s when archery is really fun. It’s a long road and there are no short cuts, which is why most shoot compounds. Good day. God bless

[@kennylainhart7148]

Thanks good information!!

[@eddiefirst9410]

I believe I shoot split vision 3 under. Yes sir Jeff it seems to be my favorite way. I do struggle from time to time mentally. (flinch) mostly during 3d. Basically causing collapse. Hunting wise I hate to admit I'm around 2/3 on recovered deer in total for 5 seasons. Definitely not happy with that. I get haggled for it but I'm not the guy who gives up. Love your vids bud!

[@mattjack3983]

Ive been shooting split finger for 30 years, and have always used the tip of my arrow to aim. I don't focus on my arrow tip..i focus on where I want to hit..but im very aware of where the tip of my arrow is in relation to where I want it to go, and usually hold at my anchor point for about 2-3 seconds. I don't really pay much attention to the terms, or whether thats "gap shooting" or "instinctive" or "snap shooting" or whatever. I completely ignore the semantics, and I just do what works for me.

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

Amen! Sounds like split vision to me but absolutely brother whatever works for you is exactly what you want to stick with!😁👍🏻

[@paulharding1621]

Another great video.

[@jarridcarter5001]

I shoot split finger and have none of these issues. I can’t really gap but I do use my arrow for left and right lineup. I also hold considerably longer than most people. Definitely longer than you hold split or 3 under. No insult just a reference. You shoot great and I love your videos!

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

Thanks brother 👍🏻

[@jarridcarter5001]

@@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998 meant no insult whatsoever just my input. I’ve learned a lot from you and look forward to all of your videos. I love your passion for archery and god thanks for everything!

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

@@jarridcarter5001 lol I appreciate that my friend God Bless!

[@Wendmann]

Thanks for all your Videos I follow since years. I personally agree your opinion. But in Germany people mostly shoot split finger on 3D courses with very high precision. Real bow hunting is not allowed at all. I recognized for me: a good sight picture needs large sight windows of 6" or more for Gap shooting or Point of aim techniques. The longer the sight windows the better. The shorter the more I try instinctive.

[@darrinsparks8119]

Any advice on broadhead selection?

[@albertdobokay1234]

Sure, I shoot both, split and 3 under. However try to shoot a flying bird with 3 under. I ancor with split very high, so looking down the arrow makes no difference.

[@liftrunthrow]

i feel that 3 under is better biomechanically and for shoulder health. youre able to get into a high elbow position better. perhaps everyone is built different but thats what it seems to me

[@shaneewell7404]

Hey Jeff I really appreciate your videos. Two things....I really like that bow you are shooting in this video? Who makes it? And....Can you give me any advice to help overcome target panic? Thanks, Shane

[@marcushostetler3171]

How you grip the string is only one component of the broader picture for an archer’s success. There are many variables and personal attributes like vision differences (eye dominance, etc.), physical differences (finger strength, anatomical variances, etc.), hand-eye coordination, proper mechanical technique, tuning of arrow/bow, and most importantly is how much you practice. Most of the best iconic shooters historically all had technique differences and that’s what you are discussing. God bless you for doing these videos. Just like in our doctrine and interpretation of the Bible…all that matters is that “the arrow hits the mark.”

[@lthorsemanship8150]

Split finger widens the "gaps" for sure, which for most common hunting situations and ranges isn't ideal. That being said, if you enjoy shooting longer ranges for target and small varmints split finger is advantageous.

[@Daylon91]

Split vision shooting is a very old style. Archers who shot thumb release like the Turks and other archers shooting three finger also knew about it. U can do it with both. Ain't much new about shooting bows. Ive never had a fixed anchor but a floating anchor and can hit a popcan repeatedly at 20 yards

[@timber4896]

Nailed it!

[@johanhelberglongbowsknifes1185]

Hi brother do you build Laminated glass bows?

[@patbrueggeman1430]

Awesome video! What quiver do you have on that bow?

[@brettellis423]

I tried split finger and it felt like wearing a boot for a glove😂😂😂

[@jacobfleener8501]

I grew up split fingers gap shooting I'm gonna try three under method.

[@dmouse522]

With a crooked finger I found nock pinch shooting split to be severe also.

[@donwaldroopoutdoors3665]

Im a newb but what I've learned is just practice, practice

[@timothyribis4751]

Mr. Phillips: I would like to talk to you about arrows for a 40lbs. bow. I have ted Nugent pink tiger strip 500 arrows. I also have trad arrows from 3rivers that are 400 and Bemans that are 340. My question is how can I get the best penetration. I've watched all your videos, and the one you were shooting 500 carbon arrows, made me think I might need some help. Thank you in advance. Tim Ribis

[@dukeman079]

After watching your video I think I'll try the 3 Under, I've always shot split

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

Well I will tell you that the first couple of shots you’re going to hit low it’s just like guys that shoot 3 under that try split they always shoot high the first few lol it’s a very easy adjustment and you’ll probably like it once you’ve done it a little while but it’s just something worth trying!

[@GeorgeShook-su8fs]

Can you take 150 grain broadhead and 150 grain fuel tip will they fly the. Same

[@GeorgeShook-su8fs]

Can you master instinctive shooting with a compound bow

[@dburnett3257]

Fred Bear was a split-fingered snap shooter.

[@JeffGriffith-k3x]

I tried three under feels so awkward to me I do have trouble hit my anchor point every time I feel that’s my main problem.

[@ExiledExia]

I’m shooting split fingers and I’m gonna try three under. I can’t shoot consistently.

[@larsblankenfjell9814]

You are dammed right, with Anchor point.

[@GeorgeShook-su8fs]

When you are shooting instink opic a spot on the target

[@WoodsandWater72]

Damn that bow is whisper quiet

[@Tradman47]

How much will your nock point change if you shoot 3under vs split?I wanna try both or does your nock point not matter

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

Very little difference, you may not need to raise it at all depending on where you’re arrows are tuned but in 90% of setups for 3under it’s 5/8” above center 👍🏻

[@Tradman47]

@@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998 thanks 😊

[@Tradman47]

@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998 Your the only person I take advice from about traditional archery 🏹 😉

[@chuckratliff2474]

I have shot split all my life with compound and traditional I'll give three fingers under in the spring a try you never know

[@kayco53]

Don't what it is. I put a target up like regular bullseye target and the arrows are allover the place. Then i get one of my sack targets i made draw a silver dollar sized black spot on it and i have a nice small group like 4" with six arrows. What gives?? Any ideas

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

Yes sir same here, I tend to be unable to focus on a tiny spot with the distracting rings like I can on a single spot, it all about focusing and executing the shot which clutter seems to hinder sometimes 👍🏻

[@chief1193]

What quiver is that and what bow?

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

It’s a Passion C2 Longbow with a Selway strap on quiver 👍🏻

[@WhiteDean45]

Anyone know the bow ?

[@gregnoble1041]

Anyone know what arrow holder he has on that longbow?

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

It’s a Stop The Drop by Gerry DeCaro!

[@gregnoble1041]

@@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998 thank you so much! Keep up the great work!

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

@@gregnoble1041 thank you sir! I guess I need to mention this awesome product in a video, they’re the very best ones I’ve found and made here in the USA, they sent me a few and I cannot say enough good about them!

[@gregnoble1041]

@@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998 I can’t thank you enough for what you do. Your videos are incredibly helpful to me!

[@jwirenuts]

I think Howard Hill tried three under once

[@michaeldebortoli3179]

I've always shot 3 under , just tried split for the first time....shot the ground 😂

[@martinvanpamelen5756]

I shoot three under because shooting split finger pinches my fingers together at my 29" draw length and looking down my arrow seems more natural and i have a better sight picture. i shoot split vision with a bit of a fixed crawl because all the deer i have ever shot was inside 20 yards with most shots being within 10 yards. I don't have 8 years of my life to spend trying to learn insinctive split finger shooting when in four months of shooting with a fixed crawl i can hit an 8" plate at 40 yards. if split finger is "the proper way" to shoot a trad bow then why are most hunters on You Tube shooting three under and not split finger?

[@D-SCRATCH-MASTER-FLEX]

You really have to setup your practice area with different angles and highs that will make you just focus on your targets no more than 3 seconds per target 🎯 this will help you achieve the best results for any situation.not this.

[@lewhellickson3130]

So you switched and then switched back. Lol. Thats archery. Lol

[@jimfogleman4599]

Seems like if you must aim use your compound or worse yet your rifle. Traditional archery should be totally instinctive.

[@raginroadrunner]

Dont shoot with a glove.No top archer does.

[@GeorgeShook-su8fs]

Pp John 3:16 1718

[@oakridgeboy2023]

3 under just seems so dang gay, can't force myself to do it

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

🤣👍🏻

[@nutthrower4415]

What you say is true. No question, but can you offer any suggestions on a person like myself who shoots short bows and need to short draw so we have no definite anchor, a toughie I know…. Thanks

[@instinctiveaddictionarcher8998]

Yes it is a little more difficult with a short bow but still need a definite anchor point 👍🏻

[@JoMammaSmurf]

If you say the word sight when it comes to how you shoot you're no longer instinctive shooting. Split finger is true instinctive archery like Fred Bear. 3 under is the first primitive sight method. "Reference your arrow" is the same as a primitive peep sight. I sounds to me like you're losing confidence in yourself. So many of your videos are contradictory as of last few months.

[@bdlit7165]

You know....Howard Hill shot split finger and straight up aimed.