Traditional archery tips - Split finger vs 3 under for recurve and longbow

in this weeks Field Tip video, Clay Hayes goes over the difference in the split finger style of shooting and the 3 under method as well as how to pick a solid anchor point and how that anchor point can influence your point on distance and where the arrow strikes the target.
Clay has several longbow and recurve bow shooting tips videos on the channel but this is the first time focusing on the split vs three under styles. Split finger has been popular in north america for some time but 3 under is gaining popularity, especially with target archers. Clay shot 3 under for years before making the switch to 3 under. By moving to a three under string hand position, the arrow's nock is moved closer to the eye. This changes the launch angle of the arrow and moves the point on distance closer to the archer. It also makes for more managable gaps under bow hunting distances. In short, it makes aiming a recurve or longbow easier!
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[@MrEmarioyoshibro]

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.

[@jonpatterson5668]

The only problem I can see with using a tooth as an anchor point is Being from Kentucky, that tooth might not be there next month

[@travisbooth7085]

Damn U got the whole squad laughing

[@rishinath5841]

Jon Patterson That is just brilliant..ha ha

[@hanslefebvre4860]

OMG that was f...king funny!! I had a really good laugh, thanks!!

[@briangrignon8799]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@Stratblooz]

😂😂😂

[@reedmitchell6716]

Watched this hour ago. Three under shooter. Slipped out back yard adjusted anchor. Perfect. I pre aim and was having trouble after anchoring being a little to high on target. Now never leave target. Been shooting recurve since 97. Thank You for helping an old stubborn guy out.

[@johnsimpson8198]

I've shot split finger for 40 years, now I'm going to experiment with the 3 under, thanks much, great video

[@Wingman115]

Love the tips Clay. I agree I Shot split finger for over 30 years then switched to three under. It really stepped up my shooting.

[@OsitoTejano]

Wingman! Flinging those arrows down range... Love your videos!

[@Wingman115]

Barry Hestand 👍🏻👊🏻

[@chuckminick9511]

Great stuff right here , I watched this last night and couldn't wait to try it today I have only been shooting Trad for 3 or 4 weeks and was anchoring corner of my mouth not very successfully both other methods were better than what I was doing . I believe thumb knuckle behind my jaw bone worked best I could really tell my bow was shooting better than before . Thanks for all the help !

[@johnfabian8931]

Just started using a recurve bow and from your videos I’ve watched it’s helped me out drastically!

[@chrisgate200]

Brilliant video Clay... People who criticize need to open there eyes and minds. There is no “Correct” way of shooting. What ever you need to get a constant shot and or where ever you anchor point is it’s doesn’t matter. As long as you are getting consent accurate shots, what ever works for you as an individual. I’ve seen women in the Medievil archery circuit who anchor way past their ear to maximize draw length and they are hitting targets from 10 to 40 yards...

[@TheArtofCraftsmanship]

Awesome video! Some really valuable information. Thanks.

[@WHTC934]

Yet another great vid. Thanks for sharing from your heart. I really appreciate that you're always learning, experimenting and sharing with the KZbin world. When others (ie. in the comments) talk smack then talk about themselves (boring), you always are helping others. Big difference in class.

[@clayhayeshunter]

Thanks Chris

[@mikeparrish8897]

I've always been a corner of the mouth anchor. I tried the thumb knuckle to the back of the jaw bone anchor for a while and ended up switching back. But i watched this video last night and tried out the cheek bone anchor this evening. I think it may be a game changer for me! Thanks for sharing!

[@matthewcooksey5411]

This videos helped clear things up more than any other as of right now. Tried a fixed crawl @ 25yds but my bow just wouldnt tune to it. Will try 3 under with the high anchor point tomorrow to see if I have better luck with my bare shafts.

[@TheLonghunterBowyer]

Great video man

[@Leehealy-wheninthewoods]

Very helpful, I have a big gap as well and I’m trying to work it out to get a comfortable hunting anchor.

[@deanhubler9357]

Man thank you for the advice i will give this a go. It looks like a smart way to shoot . Going from compound to traditional is a big move up in tweaking but that is what makes it so much more special to learn. Thanks again and keep giving us these great videos your the best

[@clayhayeshunter]

No problem

[@eaglesncloudss]

I shoot recurve as well as compound I find both have their advantages but when shooting a recurve I use a variation of the split finger using the pointer and the middle finger anchoring My thumb knuckle just below the upper mandible in line with my temple, I have found that it has provided me the most consistent shot placement regardless if im doing instinct or sight line. And I know there are going to be trolls saying that's not the correct way to pull, but like you they are free to come shoot with me...

[@themagicdragon2011]

Nah that deer "jumped the string" when your clicker sounded Lol

[@RajaSingh-lk2oi]

I needed this video. Thank you .

[@danquilty6580]

That helps a lot for this new recurve shooter. Tyvm

[@ronnie5979]

Hey Clay I have been shooting bow for a couple of years. I haven't gone bow hunting because I'm not confident with my ability to make a kill shot consistently. The last thing I want to do is wound and not kill. Can you give an aiming video. Maybe that will help me. Thanks Clay I enjoy your content.

[@stephencarper5747]

I really like your videos, good detail, good ideas, helps a lot.

[@mikhailfong6234]

Great vid as always. I shoot Olympic recurve as well...thus split fingers...but when I tried split in barebow or trads...split fingers just get in the way and uncomfortable. So I switched to 3 under shooting gap...for barebow or trads ..vola...love every moment of it...and yes... coincidentally, my anchor is thumb knuckle at the back of jaw bone.

[@tslmiami6288]

Down to earth, easy to process useful training videos. Bro I just want to say thank you. We would all love to see you hook up with Jeff Kavanaugh for a video. Talk about a new and improved masters of archery series! Go for it!!!

[@clayhayeshunter]

Thanks

[@afluru3050]

Well damn! Been traditional for 20 some years and using the gap of the ear never occured to me. I don't know why? Just a creature of habit I guess. Got the range back up on the property (now that the damn snow is gone) and am going to practice this. Another good reason to send them flying! Thank you!

[@ethanbrown3411]

So Informative and helpful. Thanks for the tips! Gonna really help out my aiming

[@clayhayeshunter]

Glad to hear it!

[@timothytiptoes1]

Clay, how bout string walking? I have found great consistency by being able to concentrate arrow tip to precise target placement. For me it eliminates one more variable in my shot sequence. Do instinctive shooters need to shoot with their eyes open? Love your video's and admire your life choices. Success to you and your family.

[@davidsmith2316]

Just trying out shooting 3 under after shooting 15 years with split. Bow is definitely louder to my ears but consistency seems to have improved.

[@clayhayeshunter]

Try moving your nock height up a little.

[@denniswells9340]

Thanks for sharing mate. That was incredibly helpful 🎯

[@djinn201]

Really looking forward to checking out gear vid next, cheers

[@TheHYENA87]

Hey Clay, much thanks for the videos they have served me well, I go back and watch older ones from time to time. My question is how are you not smacking your eye, or tearing up your cheek that far up? Maybe I’m pushing to much with my head but I would love a higher anchor for the reasons you explained. I just feel like I get beat up when I do.

[@colinrobertson7580]

People giving crap about clickers aren't about accuracy they are about being traditional. Saying you are accurate with a clicker isn't a rebuttal to that criticism.

[@thehuntschool196]

Great video and very helpful for new archers. I’ve also found that it’s pretty easy to start shooting accurately with a new anchor point without atom of time, the hard part for me has been to go to that new anchor without thinking about it every time. Took me almost a year to really transition to three under from split finger.

[@clayhayeshunter]

Gotta develop that muscle memory!

[@johnnyb2799]

Makes complete sense

[@jeromefink1678]

Good information

[@Gillesgip]

thank you!! I'm going to try that cheekbone anchor... I've been struggling with to much gap.

[@clayhayeshunter]

Give it a go!

[@lunardaemonium5516]

When your instinctual shooting with a bow you got a picture your hitting your target and your mind and then point and looked directly at the target with both eyes open and shoot and picture that Arrowhead not Target and that's how I'm able to hit a Target every time

[@davidlanders2671]

What is the gap that you refered to? This is something I have never heard of. Thanks.

[@clayhayeshunter]

Check out my older shooting videos where I explain how I aim.

[@keithgainer2915]

I started shooting three under a few years ago....my shooting improved a good bit. Me and my son fill a soccer ball with great stuff and kick it, then shoot at it moving...three under gives a better field of view.

[@clayhayeshunter]

That’s a great idea!

[@rickhahn8812]

Not challenging ya but would like to shut 3d with ya. Could be a blast. Shoot 3d this past weekend for Hunt of a lifetime charity. Had a great time. But now ya gonna have me trying something new. Cause my anchor is the same as your old one thumb knuckle at curve of my jaw just below t my ear.I've done good with it there but am open to options. By the way GREAT VIDEO Keep putting up the great tips

[@clayhayeshunter]

Thanks Rick

[@matthewparsons4955]

instinktive look and shoot

[@matthewparsons4955]

oops wrong peeps

[@jacoblee5546]

Split finger is amazing! Whenever I try three under my arrows just arc down to the floor.

[@Zatanxxx]

Same here when i try split finger🤣

[@jacoblee5546]

@@Zatanxxx Please forgive the salt friend as I'm still mourning the loss of a decent carbon I shot into a rock, as a three under shooter what height is your primary nock point set to? I shoot off a bear hair rest and peers have said that might be what causes it.

[@Zatanxxx]

@@jacoblee5546 It´s set 3/8 to the bottom of the top nock. I´am shooting a Hoyt Buffalo off a leather rest.

[@jacoblee5546]

@@Zatanxxx I think I'm almost there but still inconsistent, it's hard finding a good anchor, and whenever I release the arrow goes low and to the right. Really wish there was a split to 3U switch tutorial out there.

[@Zatanxxx]

​@@jacoblee5546 I learnd to shoot during a intensive two days course in germany. The ex legionnaire who teached me was very experienced and recommended me three finger under. I think he recognized that split fingers is nothing for me🤣. Perhaps we should just use the technique we are comfortable with. My daughter (7 years) for example is better with split fingers🤷‍♂️ than i.

[@williambarnes274]

I'm an instinctive shooter. But I've been an instinctive shooter for nearly 30 years. It's what works for me. However my little brother, (who's shot nearly as long) is an "Aimer." He's as accurate and fast as I. Anyone that would give you Hell over aiming is merely an Ass. I look at it as what works for each individual archer. Is What Works, period.

[@Jeremy-kw2fe]

I want that bow so bad!!!!!

[@busterbuffalo5554]

That bow looks sick with the snake 🐍

[@Newenglandah1376]

Great videos, btw what is the make of that camo shirt I like it

[@garyclephane9623]

I notice you can't your bow when shooting 3 under I have high cheek bone I think I'll try tipping over a little . something else you shoot tab I use glove . does that matter ?

[@woodsmith8439]

Been split forever, when you’re on, you’re really on. But when you’re off... Anyway, just changing over to “aiming”. Takes some of the fun away, but I’m tired of 2nd place.

[@timbaland952]

That’s a wicked-looking bow.. what is it?

[@RenescoRocketman]

I shoot split finger now, use my chin as anchor. Too big gap to use arrow as pointer, so i aim with bow handle. I tried to shoot 3 under, placing arrow nock just under my eye, like Clay does, but every time i do so, i just shoot off my nose with string:-) Very painful:-)

[@clayhayeshunter]

Yeah, that can be an issue!

[@lunardaemonium5516]

I've never really been able to concept a man with a bow I've always been an instinctual shooter what's above every since I was a kid I've been able to look at a Target and imagine myself hitting it and I point the bow and look directly at what I see and I hit it when I was 9 I was able to shoot the head off a rattlesnake

[@arlinwright1819]

Does the clicker give you away when hunting?

[@clayhayeshunter]

A few wraps of tape will make it quite

[@rafenatho5406]

Should tiller be set differently for split finger vs 3 under?

[@clayhayeshunter]

Typically yes in a laminated bow.

[@rafenatho5406]

@@clayhayeshunter Thanks, wasn't sure on that!

[@benrent6625]

What's the clicking doing there?! I have an idea but I'm just wondering

[@yugen]

Basically it gives you a feedback as to exactly when to release the arrow. The trick is setting up your clicker for your draw length perfectly. As soon as you hear that click, you train your body to immediately release without thought or hesistation.

[@motte-8131]

To get crap for aiming when you hunt is as bad as saying “ why don’t you close your eyes, before you release the string” But if someone don’t need to aim, and hits the vitals, I guess, congratulations 🎉

[@chriswoods3188]

How much does bow draw waight affect accuracy? I know I shoot a 40# easier then I do 50#.

[@clayhayeshunter]

It can impact it a lot if you struggle to shoot it.

[@Outlaw-Josey-Wales]

Could I use a mechanical release on a loop

[@clayhayeshunter]

I suppose so

[@henrysscrollsawworks6367]

what is the best way to strength train for stick bows?????????

[@clayhayeshunter]

Shoot stick bows.

[@henrysscrollsawworks6367]

what poundage I was thinking 45 to 50 pound

[@marcoaguiar1131]

Hey, Clay! I’ve been watching your videos and Zirnsack on “The Push”. Real quick; I’m considering switching from split to 3U. I shoot a Predator Recurve 60” 55#@28”. I draw 28”. Do I need to purchase new limbs for tiller or can I get away with moving my nock point?

[@clayhayeshunter]

You shouldn’t need new limbs. Try moving the nock first. You might need to adjust tiller.

[@marcoaguiar1131]

Clay Hayes Thank you for the acknowledgment. Will do. Deer season is literally around the corner in California so I’ll tinker with it some. I really would like to incorporate it into hunting. From the looks of it it’s logical from my research.

[@marcoaguiar1131]

P.S. Elaborate on “Adjust tiller” on a Predator Recurve.

[@andyt3364]

How many lbs do you usually shoot?

[@mikeneuburger3989]

The little secret is that everyone is an aimer, some just don’t do it consciously. If your eyes are open and connected to your brain, congrats, you aim when you shoot.

[@passeagle5526]

I agree I believe our brain figures out how to shoot long before know we can. And way before our arms and hands want to release.

[@killinkindproductions4353]

Anyone else anchor by they’re eye socket with their thumb?

[@matgiczey2707]

Ok, good, but why couldn't you anchor with split fingers at your cheekbone? I anchor there with my middle finger...

[@clayhayeshunter]

You could but it kind of defeats the purpose. 3 under and the high anchor is designed to get the arrow very close under the eye.

[@jimbrunett5025]

I can’t imagine that clicker is good when your hunting

[@OdegardOnline]

Darnit, just when I get my anchor point worked out, you go and give me other options! On the other hand, archery seems like it takes a lifetime of tweaking - which is part of the fun. Thanks for the informative videos - they help out a lot.

[@dantespado571]

Great video Clay! I agree consistent aiming is the key to accuracy, and with a properly tuned set up you dont need to rely on pure power. I shot instinctive for years until I watched The Push's video on his fixed crawl and 3 point anchor. Granted, after 10,000 shots and years later I got fairly accurate, but I'm glad more primitive and traditional archers are speaking the benefits of proper technique instead of learning the "throw a baseball" method, hopefully new sportsmen will see these videos when they first start shooting.

[@connorhart7597]

To be fair also, instinctive IMO works better on my shorter bows where the draw length is only like 16 or 17 inches. If you look at like the comanches or Cherokee people, they had super short bows, all shot instinctive, and were more lethal than that most muzzleloaders. But I'm sure you know that, just mentioning it for anybody reading who might not.

[@connorhart7597]

@@AlaskanCarpenterEagle I haven't hunted either with a short or long bow, but I mean, they got the job done for millenia for the native americans lol. I'm also not sure of the "why" behind it, if you get what I mean

[@g.willikers7712]

I talk myself through my shot cycle. Some days it's like talking to someone with Alzheimers. I say it, but my hand isn't listening or doesn't remember two seconds later.

[@JH-wk9gw]

A tip for beginners.....split for instinctive under for aiming. It is a one sentence synopsis for this video....

[@clayhayeshunter]

I think even instinctive shooters would benefit from 3 under.

[@brybuckmaster]

I find instinctive is easier when I shoot three under.

[@JH-wk9gw]

It's America do as u wish as long as it works for u.....

[@cav89-]

It came to my mind as I read it: Split for instinctive for style (or looks), and three under for aiming for results. Don’t get me wrong, i think style is a major reason to shoot. Thats why I did it. But reading your comment after watching the video may just have given me enough encouragement to dust off my bows, set up for 3 under, and hit the backyard once again. It became frustrating seeing my arrows stylishly spread all over the target, so they have been neglected for almost a year now... It was a nice video (and comment) to bump into today. Thanks a lot, both Clay and comment guy!

[@passeagle5526]

I think tuning arrows is important. When I first started every1 told to get good first then worry about arrows. But I think learning to tune arrows to your own personal setup is very important to accuracy. Or get a friend or shop that knows how to do it to help. It really cuts down on frustration of arrows all over the place and makes you get fed up then put the bow away and forget about archery.

[@IdahoEagle77]

Sounds like face walking plug gap... a blend, which according to the PUSH Archery movie/film, is the best and most efficient way to aim. PUSH talks about setting your anchor point a little lower than the nock points to decrease gap at different distances, but face walking like Clay is showing here, works just the same, and is MUCH better in my opinion for hunting on the fly.

[@michaelhandy1439]

I tried using my thumb knuckle behind recess of jaw like you described to bring the arrow closer to my eye and I was hitting the arrows in the target that I just shot. Wow! the grouping was almost too good that I was afraid I was going to hit the arrows and had to break through that mentally. Great videos man!!! I hope one day I can get to a level where I can challenge you on the 3D course. Thanks Clay!

[@Opin10n]

Using the same anchor point i broke my arrow first time shooting 😂

[@jameshagerman7681]

Just a point here, but you don't wear glasses man, they pretty much kill the really high anchor options.

[@PaladinVII]

I have that problem too. I corrected by tilting my head slightly, but I still nick my glasses on release occasionally.

[@jackdelvo2702]

@@PaladinVII I have bifocals and can still make out my target at distance, since at least for now I don't have to read game their rights , I let them hang from a strap when shooting.

[@PaladinVII]

@@jackdelvo2702 Sadly, in my case, unless the target is close enough for me to grab or the size of Texas, I need my glasses. ☹ I am extremely nearsighted.

[@spartena2]

I hate shooting with my glasses. It's doable, but annoying. I'm glad I switched to contacts.

[@rubenv3026]

@@spartena2 yeah same for me, I love my contacts for shooting

[@garyr5370]

I Challenge you to a dual!!! Not really but I think it would be fun to hit a 3d course with you. I know I have lots to learn and I always enjoy shooting with experienced archers! Also, I have been playing with my anchor all summer long as I converted from gloves to tab and "instinctive" to an aiming method of sorts . I definitely like my release alot more with tab, am finding better consistency with aiming method but am finding it difficult to settle on an anchor point. I feel like I finally found it though and it is also my cheek bone (3 under)! The reasons why I changed was my glove had worn holes and while waiting for another to come in I used my tab and found I plucked alot less often. Secondly, after years of "instinctive shooting" I struggled with consistency, especially after winter where my range is indoors, short, and flat. I am finding aiming to some degree more helpful, which translates to less frustration, more fun, and hopefully more efficiency in the Great North Woods of New Hampshire! And to those that call it cheating....my grandfathers lesson on that was "if you aint cheatin' you aint tryin'".

[@clayhayeshunter]

Haha! I like that saying!

[@ronaldgoodrich5460]

I want you to try something. Try drawing back to your chest. It may amaze you.

[@waynepatton689]

I’ll come shoot a 3D course with you! Not that I think I can shoot better, I just want to come hang out!!

[@PBAdventures146]

Based on trying to get the arrow closer to the eye, why not do string walking? That seems like a very good option but I'm curious what your thoughts are on string walking? Your videos are very helpful thank you!

[@wendmann6061]

Thanks for all your videos, helped me so much in understanding traditional archery. Trying to minimize my gap I put the knocking point very high at something about 1 inch (shooting 3under). It works perfect on distances 12 to 25 yards: just point on where you wanna hit at all the distances. Have you ever tried this? Will a bow survive this for long time?

[@HUNT24-7]

I also shoot 3 under & anchor on my cheek bone, when i hit anchor I continue to draw through the shot until my cock feather touches my nose, thats my cue to release. It has worked very well for quite a few years now, I aim subconsciously, but having the arrow closer to your eye makes it easier for your brain to do the aiming for you.

[@RobertJones-z9k]

I like the way you explained how anchors affect gap. I've been struggling with this. I've recently started experimenting with what I guess some would call a fixed crawl. Basically three waaaay under. But doing this when I anchor to the corner of my mouth puts the nock nearly in my eye and I can place the arrow tip just under my desired point of impact at 15ish yards.

[@asipe88]

Funny that you mention how people bust your ass for AIMING!!! HAHAHAHAHA I've had people do the exact same. I truly don't how or what your instinctive shooting style is, no matter how you slice it you AIMING in some way or another at your target. Thanks for the tips!! New advice is always nice.

[@jerretwood4312]

Hey clay love your information you put out.. what is the clicker you are talking about...what is the function of it..I'm a compound bow hunter going to recurve.. enjoy it so much more..compound seams like cheating now..

[@TheJustinJ]

The obvious flaw for any anchor point is going to be your head moves all over, in relation to your bow hand. It can lean in, or forward, or tip to far. Your draw length should be relatively fixed, as your elbow is always the same distance from your bow hand. The only thing that makes sense for a solid, permanent and repeatable anchor is your chest or base of neck. Otherwise it's always in flux if anchoring to anything at the wobbly end of your neck. I think having good consistent arrow/eye relationship just like getting your eye at the right place behind a rifle sight, even a slight deviation has wild and Terrible consequences. Especially at longer ranges. So I would assume the rear anchor has more to do with having a rigid sight picture and provides a consistent hold-under gap then it does having perfect repeatable body mechanics. Because your head moves and changes easily and often subconsciously. And then having a consistent release, steady follow though, in addition to a repeatable sight picture probably makes up the 80/20 principal of archery. Horseback archers can be consistently accurate and they are freaking moving and bouncing and always in flux. And Indians never seemed to have great posture when hunting in old photos, shooting game while stalking in cover while crouched doesn't always present a perfect opportunity to square up as typically practiced. So it seems the the eye-arrow relationship and the smooth consistent release matters more than repeatable form.

[@willchoate7072]

About 20 years ago. Before KZbin. I decided to give archery a try. I ordered a compound bow from Sportsman's Guide that was on sale. I started shooting at 75 yard's. Couldn't hit anything! Lost all my expensive arrows! Got discouraged and sold the bow. Lordy lordy lordy I wish I had KZbin and you back then! Going to make a hickory bow after I get caught up in the garden. I have watched your video on using snake skin and fake snake skin to back a bow. Is that something I should do with my first hickory bow build? I'm a woodworker with a full shop. I have been using shaving horses for about 30 years. I'll probably leave my favorite drawknife to you when I die. It's a folding drawknife made in 1921. Holds a crazy sharp edge. So if you get a message from my wife after I'm gone. Please let her know where to send it. Love what you do. I enjoy texting with you that night. Please keep the videos coming!

[@michaelvandergiessen722]

Good vid Clay. I too use the high cheek anchor with 3 under. My gap with light 3d arrows is 12” at 20m and 0-1/2” at 30m. Using this anchor has really brought confidence to my shooting at hunting distances. Keep it up and I highly recommend anyone to attend one of your bow building courses.

[@barebow_cercatrova]

I’m not sure what it means for tiller on a self bow, and I get that tradguys often look at modern shooters as cheaters for some reason, but what about string walking? You can either rock a fixed crawl as reference and then gap from that, or get really finite and work out all your crawls and dial them in at the stake. Even if you’re using the fixed crawl it shrinks up all the gaps and I think that can only make for greater accuracy. But I’ve never shot a bow like that. Can you crawl on that without hurting it?

[@ijaxon6675]

I'm right handed and shoot a left handed bow with a thumb ring. My shot groups are tighter than a whale's blow hole, watertight. The thumb is the strongest digit on our hand and there is no pinch or tillering for 3 under. If more people were open minded about it they'd find success. I recently found that Joel Turner also does this.That's my method and I'm sticking to it. You can even shoot a shorter bow with no finger pinch.

[@OCALION1]

Hi Clay !!! Thanks for this video. But I have a question. Your gap shoot is only up/ down ? Or left / right, too ?? Thanks !!!

[@toddstewart4404]

Thanks for your experienced perspective. I think archery coaching can be too prescriptive. Instead every person needs to figure out what works best for their own body!

[@joelprice152]

What about split finger knuckle side to the cheek? You can bring the knock of the arrow nearly right on center with the eye. I only ask because I just saw a release of a movie called "Prey" what looks like a native American Indian culture vrs predator.

[@kborak]

I just don't agree with the whole anchor point thing. I draw 32 to 25 inches depending on the bow. I admit I haven't been doing this as long as you, but I cant "anchor" with those really short bows. And I never sit on a shot like you do. I dont draw till Im ready to loose. Is it just different styles? Because I see a lot of the stuff you do as not needed. Genuine curiosity.

[@caseysmith544]

The Longer draw length is a good thing unless you are too big to the more common length of what a bow max is, 30 or 31 inches for most bows. The only exceptions are some bows with close to or at 10 inch brace height if a bow over 56--57 inches as this will give you a bow that has a longer draw length max. The shorter bows are not as good for this longer draw length and some have the 9--10 inch brace height just to have a bow at a normal draw length.

[@sjohn_8627]

I just switched from shooting split with a glove to three under with a tab. Sometimes my ring finger drags across the string and I for the life of me can’t figure out why. I thought maybe I’m cutting tabs down too far, but I’ve shot with tabs not cut down hardly at all and still get ring finger dragging on the string.

[@joecoffee968]

Can you say what the advantage is of either of these methods over the American Indian style of pinching the arrow? Is it just a Matt of personal preference? What each of us is accustomed to? Or what?

[@lesterdumm6477]

70 years old anchor drove me nuts. Same issues. Thank you sir! Always ready to learn.

[@chadweaver3055]

IMO, I wish people would get professional instruction before trying to coach. Some good info, some not so much. Although I shoot split, I agree with what was said about 3-under...I just don't have the discipline to change after 20+ years. On anchor point...oh well, here we go. If you know how to apply proper back tension, you will have an natural draw length that won't vary more than 1/8 of an inch. I thought I knew what back tension was for about 20 years until I got professional instruction (Rod Jenkins). It's NOT like "squeezing a ball between your shoulder blades". You pick an anchor point according to your draw length, not vice-versa. Using the corner of your mouth is a lousy anchor point, for the reasons mentioned. Don't hunker over and bring your face to the string--bring the string to your anchor point while standing up straight. That helps eliminate a variable. The 3D challenge is misleading. I've seen several people that were really good shots, but not great coaches...and some that weren't great shots, but could help others by showing them a more consistent and repeatable shot sequence. Remember that old Russian gymnastics coach from the Olympics back in the 80's? I don't think he could get out there and do all those flips, but he was obviously an amazing coach. Want to compare shooting? Compare shooting. Want to compare coaching? compare coaching. FWIW...I've helped coach a 5-time State Champion NASP team, and I've won a few minor 3-D tournaments...the Howard Hill, Jerry Pierce, GA State Championship, MS State Championship, Selfbow Challenge at the TN Classic...

[@christopherrowley7506]

his video is in the context of hunting, not competition. so i don't think anyone ever thought this was professional advice. Just a really good hunter sharing some tips and tricks that he's learned in his time

[@thehuntschool196]

Chad Weaver no disrespect, as you seem like a pretty accomplished and experienced archer, but there was nothing but good information in this video. The whole thing about anchor point being determined by back tension isn’t correct... your DRAW LENGTH is determined by proper back tension, not you anchor point. If you anchor with the knuckle of your thumb behind your jaw, it doesn’t mean that you are drawing the arrow to that point. You will likely have the same draw length if you are using your thumb knuckle or one of the fingers in your hook against a solid facial bone or tooth. Also, split, three under or any variation of finger draw should result in the same draw length, but not the same anchor or sight pick. It’s only if you start thumb drawing that you might affect your draw length. This is all assuming you’re shooting a bow that allows an individual to reach their personal full draw with back tension.

[@chadweaver3055]

@@thehuntschool196 , I had a discussion with Clay and he said he hadn't considered the angle that I approached it from and agreed, and may do a follow-up video to clarify. He has my respect. I agree with you, and said the same thing in my o.p. Draw length is determined by back tension. Anchor can be moved up or down, but if it changes your draw length then you aren't employing proper back tension.

[@joelrodgers6266]

Thanks for the great info! I switched to 3 under with a high anchor point and have had a big improvement in my groupings at 20 to 30yds. Also wanted to thank you for a pragmatic and unapologetic approach to gap shooting in the field. I think many "instinctive" archers reach full draw and anchor close to "on target" by muscle memory yet still give a quick almost unconscious glance at the arrow tip before release. That is of course: "gap shooting". I tried to be an instinctive purist for years and was frustrated. I felt "I just didn't have it". Videos like yours help validate a different shooting style and I'm sure will help a lot of newcomers stick with archery. Great job and keep the videos coming.

[@clayhayeshunter]

Thanks Joel

[@brianbender8752]

I shot trad for many years now with my shoulder I can't so I bought a bear revival longest ata I could find now my issue is I can't get a point of aim or on target when I draw using my arrow as a reference I was thinking 3 under would help any tips or advice I get very frustrated and depressed because I want to shoot accurately and confidently thank you and great videos

[@jamesfox9922]

I use 3 under for short shots... And split finger for shots over 40 yards....I've been shooting 60 yrs...

[@brandonsprung5114]

Ive been pretty stubborn bout keeping to my split finger shots. I'll definitely have to try 3 under. Also been wondering if you've use finger tabs in the past? At least for myself during practice I do like to use the 3 enclosed tab as they feel more secure, but it also feels like I need to release the tension in my fingers faster so they dont get slightly snagged on the string. Any thoughts on those would be appreciated.

[@Paintppa1]

Age restrict my max draw weight. 3 under point on is about 10 0r so yards. Split finger finger helps.

[@BradW.]

New sub, I know it's an older video but I shoot split finger with top finger to corner of mouth but I shoot from a reference point on the bow almost like sights but not quite.

[@nicknewman2414]

Great info! I use pin sights on my recurve so I'm a 3 under, anchor under the chin with my nose point on the string. I like this info though because my wife shoots bare bow and I like to mess with hers sometimes.