Archery Arm Guard Coverage

Whether or not to cover your arm for archery depends on a number of factors, including your level of experience, the type of bow you're using, and your clothing. While it's not a mandatory piece of equipment, an arm guard can be an essential safety tool, particularly for beginners who are at the highest risk of accidents. Arm guards protect the inside of the archer's forearm from the bow string and also prevent clothing from getting in the way of the shot.

Arm guards protect the inner forearm from bowstring slap

Arm guards, also known as bracers, are an essential piece of safety gear for archers, particularly beginners who are at the highest risk of injury. They protect the inner forearm from the bowstring, a common injury known as a 'bow string slap' or wrist slap. This injury can range from a minor burn or sting to a deep cut or nasty gash that requires a hospital visit.

The bowstring is under a lot of pressure and when released, it can cause a terrible bruise or cut on the forearm. This can be due to bad form, sub-optimal arm structure, or a faulty release. A swollen welt can also make it easier to hit the same spot again, causing further injury.

Arm guards are usually made of leather, plastic, or thick cloth, and are worn on the inner forearm of the arm holding the bow. They are especially useful for keeping clothing out of the way, which can also affect the shot. While some archers opt for a jacket or no protection at all, loose clothing can get caught by the string and affect accuracy. Arm guards ensure a tight fit on the forearm, providing protection and allowing for an uninterrupted shot.

While not mandatory, arm guards are highly recommended by safety organizations and archery ranges, especially for beginners, archers under 16 or 18, and those using heavier bows. They are an easy and effective way to prevent injury and improve form, allowing archers to focus on their technique without worrying about potential harm.

They prevent clothing from getting in the way of the bowstring

When it comes to archery, safety is paramount. While rules and regulations don't mandate the use of armguards, they are highly recommended by safety organisations and some archery ranges require them. Armguards, also known as bracers, are essential for preventing clothing from getting in the way of the bowstring and potentially interfering with your shot.

Archers often wear long-sleeved shirts or jackets, and loose or baggy clothing can easily disrupt the shot. An armguard keeps these items of clothing away from the line of fire, improving accuracy. Even with an armguard, some clothing may be too loose, so archers should opt for tighter-fitting jackets or use straps to keep their sleeves close to the arm.

Armguards are particularly useful for beginners, who are at the highest risk of accidents, and for those under 18 years of age. They are also beneficial when wearing bulky clothing, such as a thick jacket or a hunting coat, which could obstruct the bowstring. In these cases, an armguard ensures that clothing doesn't get in the way and affect the shot.

While some archers may choose not to wear an armguard, especially those with advanced skills and perfect form, it is always a good idea to prioritise safety. Armguards are cheap and easy to put on, providing peace of mind and allowing you to focus on your technique without worrying about clothing getting in the way.

They are especially useful for beginners

Wearing an arm guard is not mandatory for archery, but it is highly recommended for beginners.

Archery can be dangerous, and arm guards can protect archers from injury. The bowstring can cause welts, bruises, and even cuts on the skin, and arm guards prevent the bowstring from hitting the archer's forearm. This is known as a 'bow string slap' or 'wrist slap', and it is a common injury for beginners who are still learning the proper form. The stronger the bow, the more force the bowstring is released with, and the more damage it can do to the forearm.

Arm guards also help to keep clothing out of the way of the bowstring. If an archer is wearing long sleeves or a jacket, an arm guard ensures that their clothing does not get in the way of their shot and affect their accuracy.

Some archery ranges require the use of arm guards, and many safety organisations recommend them. They are especially useful for beginners, who are at the highest risk of accidents. Arm guards can help to protect against injury and make the experience of learning archery more enjoyable.

There are different types of arm guards available, including sleeve arm guards, forearm guards, and finger tabs. They are usually made from leather or plastic, although some are made from synthetic materials. When choosing an arm guard, it is important to consider the material, size, and style. It should fit snugly and not restrict movement.

You can make your own arm guard

When practising archery, it is important to wear an arm guard to protect your inner forearm from the bow string and to keep loose clothing out of the way. While there is no rule that says you have to wear an arm guard, it is highly recommended by safety organisations and some archery ranges require them.

If you are having trouble finding an arm guard that fits, you can make your own. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Gather Materials

You will need a piece of leather, either soft and pliable (1/16") or thicker and heavy-duty (1/8"). You will also need a cord or string to tie the arm guard to your arm, such as a bungee cord or shoelaces. Other materials include lace hooks, sandpaper or a Dremel sanding tool, a Dremel polishing tool, punch pliers, a utility knife, and a pin or needle.

Step 2: Make a Pattern

The typical arm guard for an adult male is 5" wide and 8" long. Make a pattern on paper, then lay it on your arm to ensure it covers the inside of your forearm. You can use this template as a starting point and modify it to fit your arm.

Step 3: Cut the Leather

Trace the template onto the back side of the leather using a pencil or chalk. Then, use a sharp blade or scissors to cut out the shape. Make sure to cut the leather a bit big so you can adjust as needed.

Step 4: Round the Leather Edge

Use sandpaper or a Dremel sanding tool to smooth the edges of the leather. This will prevent it from snagging on your clothing. You can then polish the edges with a Dremel and some beeswax to give it a smooth finish and darken the leather.

Step 5: Punch the Holes

Lay your template back on the leather and mark where the holes for the lace hooks and cord should be. Use punch pliers to punch out the holes. Make sure the holes are just big enough for the cord to fit through easily.

Step 6: Form the Leather

This step is especially important if you are using thick leather. Soak the leather in hot water and work it with your hands. Once it is easily bendable, form it around your arm and keep it in shape until it dries completely. You may need to repeat this process over time as the leather loses its shape.

Step 7: Add Lace Hooks

Lace hooks, eyelets, or grommets can be used to secure the cord to the arm guard. You can find these online or at craft stores.

Step 8: Lace the Cord

Create four loops with the bungee cord or shoestring and lace them through the holes in the arm guard. If using a non-elastic cord, lace the arm guard like you would lace your shoes.

At this point, your arm guard is complete! You can add decorations with a soldering iron or punch extra holes for airflow and design.

They are not mandatory but highly recommended

While arm guards are not mandatory, they are highly recommended for archers, especially beginners and intermediates. They are an essential safety tool that can protect you from injuries and accidents, and the infamous string or wrist slap, which can cause anything from a minor burn to a deep cut.

Arm guards are particularly useful if you are using a heavy bow that is affecting your form, or if you are wearing loose, baggy clothing, or thick, tight-fitting, long-sleeve jackets. They can help keep your clothing out of the way of the bowstring, improving your accuracy.

If you are an advanced level archer with perfect form, using a youth bow with a low draw weight, or already wearing a tight-fitting jacket, you may decide to forgo an arm guard. However, even the best archers in the world sometimes wear arm guards when target practising, and they are required in some archery ranges.

Ultimately, the decision to wear an arm guard is a personal preference. However, it is always better to be safe than sorry, and an arm guard can provide peace of mind and help you focus on perfecting your form without worrying about injuries.

Frequently asked questions