The Novice Handbook
Barebow & Recurve Guide
There are some pieces of kit you can buy that aren't super pricey, but will elevate your shooting experience!
First accessories
Quivers
A quiver is used to hold arrows while shooting, make sure to get one that includes a pouch so you can store your finger tab, arm guard, and finger sling.
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Mybo Matrix, £16.00
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Legend XT320, £16.99
Finger tabs
Barebow and recurve finger tabs are different styles, ask other archers to try their tab and you will find one that is a good fit.
Recurve:
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Something like the Avalon Classic, £10.99
Barebow:
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Something like the A&F Barebow tab, £11.99
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Or the Avalon Barebow Tab, £10.99
Finger sling
Use a shoelace!
Arm guards
Most armguards are honestly fine—you can browse Merlin and other websites to find one you like, but if you'd like a recommendation this is a reliable one:
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Fivics Armguard, £3.60
Chest guards
Some archers prefer to wear a chest guard which protects their chest/clothing from string contact, if you would like to use one, ask to try one first, then I recommend the below one.
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Easton Chest Guard, £22.99
First bow
Club equipment is a great start for any novice, but after a while you may be interested in getting your very own bow.
Below is a comprehensive introductory guide from our Captain Lucy with all the info on getting your first recurve or barebow parts. You don't have to purchase everything at once, as you can continue to use club equipment along with your own, but it is also useful for familiarising yourself with your bow and what you might want to prioritise.
Recurve and barebow archers, if you'd like specialised advice, do find our Equipment Officer Alex in-person during sessions.
Those wanting to buy their own compounds, ask our Senior compounds, and refer to the page below regarding buying compound equipment.