Frequently Asked Questions:
Competitive or Casual?
We cater for both competitive and recreational archers.
For the competitive:
We shoot at both indoor and outdoor BUCS events, in addition to other inter-uni competitions such as SWWU. We often enter external competitions, which are open for all to enter at competitors own expense.
For the recreational:
If you prefer shooting recreationally, casual attendance to shoots is welcome and the option to attend intra-club and local competitions is always available. Furthermore, we are always open to suggestions to spice up our shoots, so approach a committee member during shoots if you have an interesting idea and we'll see what we can do!
Do I need to buy anything?
Once you’ve paid for membership, the club will provide all the equipment and training you need :)
The membership you need to purchase first is the SU Sports Membership for £30, and then the Archery Membership for £10. Both of these memberships cover the whole year with no extra costs to come to shoots, as well as covering transport to inter-uni competitions (excluding BUCS). Therefore those who wish to compete at BUCS will need to cover the expense charged by the SU of £75, which covers the cost of transport and entry (excluding accomodation), with a £10 top up fee for the Outdoor Competition.
(Click the link for more info about the Beginners’ Course and how to join https://www.thesubath.com/archery/beginners/)
How often are shoots held?
We hold shoots typically between 3 to 5 times a week, depending on availability but you are not obligated to come for all of them. Once you’ve completed the beginner’s course (if you are a novice), feel free to come to whichever shoot you like, but initially, we may limit the number of times you can attend in a week to ensure everyone has a chance to shoot.
Do you shoot indoors or outdoors?
During the colder months (September to about March), we shoot indoors in the STV in preparation for indoor BUCS. After which we start to run outdoor shoots on Wednesdays and Sundays, weather permitting. All shoots are done on/near campus. To get there, follow the maps on the shoot locations page.
What types of bows do you have?
We mainly shoot recurve and barebow. However, we also have a small selection of longbows and compound bows if you are interested in those styles. If you have your own equipment, feel free to use it during our shoots.
(Click on this link if you would like more information about each bow style https://www.thesubath.com/archery/generalinfo/bowstyles/)
What draw weights do you have?
We have a range of bow weights, with light bows at 16lb to heavier ones at 30+lb, so no matter your strength level we’ll find you a bow that fits you comfortably. We also have Jelly Bows available for those wanting a weaker draw weight, please let a member of committee know by emailing us (at su-archery@bath.ac.uk) or on the group chat if you wish to use them.
What do I wear for archery?
In general, you can wear any comfortable clothing you like but nothing too baggy and no open toe shoes. Furthermore, you will need to remove any piercings above the waist or tape them up as well as tying back long hair. For outdoor shoots, make sure to check the weather before the shoot to advise your fashion choices.