Lessons

[SeatoSummit88]

Hey Everyone,

Is there anyone on here who would consider teaching me how to properly shoot a compound bow.  I would like to learn and get a 101 in care, use, equipment, etc...I would like to see if I enjoy working with a bow and would consider getting into it for future hunting seasons.  I live in Woodinville and would consider driving a reasonable distance (15-25 minutes) to meet someone who can help me out.  If this is something you would be interested in, please pm me and we can talk more (compensation, times, etc).  I would assume that after the first lesson, if I was interested, I would probably want to meet once a week, until I get comfortable. 

Thanks for reading!

[D-Rock425]

Do you have equipment yet?

[SeatoSummit88]

I do not.  I was hoping that if someone had a bow or more than one; I could use it for the session.  Obviously, if I broke or lost any arrows, I would replace. etc.. etc.. I am hesitant to buy before I shoot and give it a few weeks or testing out.

[Old Dog]

Traditional or compound?

 Trad is pretty easy to help out with as far as the equipment.  As long as you are not a gorilla with a 32 inch draw, just about any longbow will work.  Depending on draw length you may need to watch the length of the recurves to avoid finger pinch.  Teaching someone how to shoot one is another matter.   

With a compound the equipment is a lot more involved.  Proper fit is crucial to good form, and good form is crucial to accuracy.  Teaching someone to shoot one is relatively easy.  I usually refer to compound bows as "string guns", because you have a front sight, a rear sight, and you squeeze a trigger.    So, if you can shoot a gun, you can shoot a bow.  The conditioning to draw and hold is another matter.     My advice would be to go to a good pro shop in your area, and put them to work for a few hours.     Unfortunately I'm not familiar with the Woodinville area, but Riverside Archery and The Nock Point are both north of  Seattle.   

If you feel like a road trip I will be at Sportsman's Warehouse in Federal Way from 1-9 this Friday.  I'm not selling anything, that is just where all my tools are.    Ask for Larry.

[huntnfmly]

Larry is a good teacher and knows his stuff

[SeatoSummit88]

Thanks everyone.  I feel like this is an important step before going straight to a purchase just after being sized properly.  I need to let a few fly and really get an understanding of the technical aspects and becoming steady with the bow in hand.  I may be able to make it down to Sportsman's this weekend.  I appreciate the advice.

Matt

[Special T]

your height is a pretty good indicator of your wingspan. How tall are you?

[jackelope]

I know there are lessons available through the Nock Point in Mountlake Terrace and through Rock Creek Archery in Enumclaw. I'm 90% sure that Rock Creek will provide all the equipment and I'm also 90% sure that lessons are $15 a piece at Rock Creek. It's a little over an hour drive to Rock Creek and about 30-40 minutes to the Nock Point. Driving 15-20 minutes from Woodinville may be tough to get lessons. Especially in a situation where one of their bows will be adjusted to fit you.

[SeatoSummit88]

All good points.  I wouldn't mind expanding my radius.  I am 5'8.
I had heard from someone else that rock creek is also a great place for lessons!  Glad I have some options.