Adjusting Recurve Bow Sights: A Guide

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a beginner, adjusting your recurve bow sights is a crucial step to ensure accuracy and consistency in your shots. While some traditionalists may argue that using sights on a recurve bow is unnecessary or even a violation of the trad code, many archers and hunters have been using sights on their recurve bows since the 1950s and 1960s to improve their accuracy and performance.

Today, there are various options available for those who wish to add sights to their recurve bows. You can purchase a bow that is specifically designed to accommodate sights, or you can explore creative solutions such as taping a pencil or a stick with a dot on it to your riser as a reference point. Additionally, vintage recurve sights and modern options like the SRF sight are also available, offering a more permanent solution for those seeking to improve their accuracy.

Ultimately, the decision to use sights on a recurve bow is a personal preference, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Some archers prefer the simplicity of shooting without sights, while others find that sights enhance their accuracy and enable them to lower their anchor point. The key is to experiment and find what works best for your unique needs and shooting style.

Using a sight on a traditional bow is not a sin

The decision to use a sight on a traditional bow is a matter of personal preference. Some archers prefer the accuracy that sights provide, while others enjoy the challenge of shooting without a sight. Sights can be particularly useful for hunters, as they can improve accuracy and ensure ethical shots on animals. Additionally, sights can be beneficial for those who struggle with instinctive shooting or the gap method and need assistance in improving their accuracy.

It is worth noting that the use of sights may be restricted in certain traditional 3D events to maintain a fair playing field. However, this should not deter archers from using sights if they feel it enhances their shooting experience. Ultimately, the choice to use a sight or not comes down to individual preference, and there is no right or wrong answer.

For those who wish to use sights, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, the type of sight, its mounting position, and pin size are important factors to ensure effective use. Secondly, sights require proper setup and maintenance to ensure accuracy, as they can be bumped or moved out of position, affecting shot placement. Lastly, while sights can improve accuracy, they do not replace the need for good form and consistent practice, which are fundamental to successful shooting regardless of the equipment used.

Sights improve accuracy

Types of sights

There are many types of sights, including iron sights, peep sights, laser boresights, and optical sights.

How sights work

Sights work by giving you a reference point to line up with your target. This reference point can be a front sight, a rear sight, or a laser, depending on the type of sight you are using.

How to improve accuracy with sights

To improve accuracy with sights, you need to adjust the sights so that they are aligned with the target. This process is called "sighting in" or "zeroing".

How to adjust sights

The process of adjusting sights varies depending on the type of sight and the type of weapon. For example, to adjust the sights on a recurve bow, you typically adjust the sight pins or the sight itself. For a rifle with iron sights, you may need to adjust the front and rear sights. For a rifle with a peep sight, you may need to adjust the height of the sight or the front sight.

Tips for improving accuracy with sights

• Use a stable rest to reduce recoil and improve accuracy.
• Make sure your sights are properly aligned before shooting.
• Practice shooting with the sights to improve your accuracy.

Sights can be attached without drilling holes

If you don't want to drill holes in your bow, there are a few alternative options for adding a sight. However, it's worth noting that these methods may be less effective and more difficult to adjust.

One option is to use strong tape or glue to attach the sight. This method is not permanent and can be adjusted if needed. Another option is to use a screw to attach the sight, but this may still compromise the integrity of the bow.

If you're looking for a more temporary solution, you can try taping a pencil or a stick with a dot on it to the riser. This method is simple but will only work for a set distance. You can also try using coloured rubber bands as reference markers by sliding them down your riser.

For a more traditional experience, you can also try learning to shoot without a sight. Techniques such as gap shooting and string walking can help you improve your accuracy without the need for a sight.

Sights are not a crutch

Some archers believe that using sights on a recurve bow is untraditional and that it is better to keep things simple. However, this is not the case. Using sights on a recurve bow can be beneficial for hunters and target shooters alike. Sights can improve accuracy and consistency, which is especially important for hunters who have an ethical obligation to be as skilful and accurate as possible.

The idea that sights on a recurve bow are "untraditional" is relatively modern. In the 1950s and 1960s, many hunters used sights on their recurve bows, and famous bowhunters such as Jack Howard and Roy Hoff were known to use sights. The use of sights was not considered strange or frowned upon, and it was generally known that many renowned bowhunters used them.

While some archers prefer to keep their bows "simple", this should not be at the expense of accuracy and consistency. Sights can help archers improve their shooting and make the sport more accessible to beginners. Nationally recognised coaches and training programs, such as the NASP (National Archery in Schools Program), focus on form and consistency, but also recognise that sights can be a useful tool.

For those who wish to use sights on their recurve bows, there are a few options available. Some modern recurve bows have holes drilled into the riser for this purpose. Alternatively, sights can be attached using adhesive tape, which is stronger today than it was in the past. It is also possible to create a makeshift sight using a pencil or a stick with a dot on it, or even a matchstick. However, these options may not be adjustable and may only work for a set distance.

In conclusion, sights are not a crutch. They are simply a different style of archery and can be beneficial for those who choose to use them. Archers should use whatever tools and techniques work best for them and help them improve their shooting.

Sights are not traditional

The idea of using a sight on a traditional bow is often quickly dismissed as non-traditional and a violation of "simplicity". However, this notion is exactly that – an idea, a notion, and not a fact. In fact, the use of sights on traditional bows has a long history, dating back to the 1950s and 1960s when many hunters used and advocated for them. Jack Howard, a well-known California bowyer and trophy-elk expert, is one notable example of this. The use of sights was also common among renowned bowhunters, and early bow hunters would often use some type of makeshift sight or aiming aid.

The notion that sights are "non-traditional" can be largely attributed to competition rules and the "silly and false 'trad' thing". However, it is important to remember that actual bow hunting is not the same as shooting at static targets.

While some shooters may acquire the skill of shooting instinctively or gapping, others may never be able to master these techniques. The use of a sight can improve accuracy and consistency, which is crucial when hunting with the intent to kill. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether to use a sight or not, and what type of sight to use.

Frequently asked questions