What to Look for in Archery Protective Arm Guards
Introduction
Archery protective arm guards are an important piece of equipment for any archer, whether they are a beginner or a seasoned pro. Not only do they provide protection against string slap and other potential injuries, but they also improve your shooting form by preventing your arm from moving out of position. With so many different arm guards on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which one is right for you. In this article, we will go over some important factors to consider when choosing an archery protective arm guard.
Material
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an archery protective arm guard is the material it is made from. Arm guards are typically made from either leather or synthetic materials, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Leather arm guards are known for their durability and classic look. They are also breathable, which makes them a good choice for hot weather. However, they can be heavy and may not provide as much protection as some synthetic materials.
Synthetic arm guards, on the other hand, are generally lighter and more breathable than leather arm guards. They are also often more flexible and provide better protection against string slap and other potential injuries. However, they may not be as durable as leather arm guards and can sometimes be less comfortable.
Fit and Adjustability
Another important factor to consider when choosing an archery protective arm guard is the fit and adjustability. A properly fitting arm guard should not be too loose or too tight, and should allow for a full range of motion without restricting your shooting form.
Many arm guards come with adjustable straps that allow you to customize the fit to your arm. This is particularly important if you have larger or smaller arms than the average archer. It is also a good idea to try on the arm guard before purchasing it to ensure that it fits well and is comfortable to wear.
Style
While the primary purpose of an archery protective arm guard is to provide protection, many archers also want their arm guard to look good. There are a wide variety of arm guards on the market in different colors, patterns, and styles, so you should be able to find one that suits your personal taste.
When choosing a style, consider the type of archery you will be doing. If you will be shooting in a formal archery tournament, for example, you may want to choose a more traditional-looking arm guard. If you will be shooting in a more casual setting, you may prefer a more modern or colorful arm guard.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right archery protective arm guard is an important decision that can have a big impact on your shooting form and overall enjoyment of the sport. When selecting an arm guard, consider the material it is made from, the fit and adjustability, and the style. By taking the time to find the right arm guard for you, you can improve your shooting performance and stay safe on the archery range.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What do archers wear to protect their arm?
Archers wear a bracer, which is a protective accessory for the inner forearm. It shields the arm from whiplash caused by the bowstring. Bracers are typically made of materials like bone, horn, or leather, with minimal decoration.
2. Do you really need an arm guard for archery?
Yes, using an arm guard is highly recommended for archers. It protects the forearm from wrist slaps, which can result in burns or even injuries requiring medical attention. An arm guard ensures a safe and comfortable shooting experience.
3. What do archers wear to protect their wrist?
To protect the wrist, archers wear a bracer or arm-guard. This accessory, commonly made of leather, stone, or plastic, covers the inner surface of the bow-holding arm, providing support and preventing injuries.
4. What size archery arm guard do I need?
When choosing an arm guard, it should fit snugly on the forearm, extending from the wrist to the elbow. Many arm guards come in one-size-fits-all, while others are available in small, medium, and large sizes. Small arm guards are around 10 inches long, medium ones are 11 inches, and large ones are 12 inches.
5. Why do archers wear thumb rings?
Archers wear thumb rings to improve their grip on the bowstring. These rings provide a firmer hold and were historically worn as symbols of elevated social status in addition to their functional purpose.
6. Why do archers wear one glove?
Archers wear gloves to protect their fingers from blisters, numbness, and nerve damage. The glove also aids in a smooth string release and overall shooting performance. It is an essential accessory for archers of all skill levels.
7. What is the difference between a bracer and a vambrace?
A bracer is designed to cover the inner part of the forearm, which comes into contact with the bowstring. On the other hand, a vambrace provides more extensive coverage, protecting both the inner and outer parts of the forearm. Vambraces often extend from the wrist to the elbow.
8. Should your arm be bent when shooting a bow?
Some archers prefer to have a slight bend in their arm while shooting a bow, as it can help stabilize their aim. This is especially true for those who apply significant pressure on the back wall of the bow's cam, allowing more room for expansion during the shot.
9. Why do archers put their lips on the string?
Archers often have some contact between their face and the bowstring, known as the anchor point. This contact serves as a second reference point to ensure consistent alignment with the peep sight for each shot.
10. What poundage do target archers shoot?
Target archers typically shoot bows with a draw weight of 40 lbs. This weight is commonly used for both hunting and target shooting. However, it's important to note that individual preferences and requirements may vary.
11. What is the proper distance for an archery target?
In Olympic archery, the standard distance for targets is 70 meters (77 yards). Indoor distances can be either 18 or 25 meters (20 or 27 yards). Archery competitions are divided into ends, with archers shooting either 3 or 6 arrows per end, depending on the type of round.
Editor's Notes
During our archery protective arm guard research, we found 24 archery protective arm guard products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 34,986 customer reviews through our big data system to write the archery protective arm guards list. We found that most customers choose archery protective arm guards with an average price of $17.18.
The archery protective arm guards are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of archery protective arm guards, including Southland Archery Supply, Bear Archery, Valhalla Gear, KRATARC, Legend. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 482 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.
Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.
