Archery

We provide a welcoming and supportive environment for archers of all skill levels. Come join the fun and experience the thrill of this ancient and enduring sport!

Find an Event

What is It?

Tournaments

Equipment

Getting Started

What is Archery in the SCA?

Archery in the SCA is the recreation of historical archery practices from medieval and Renaissance Europe. It’s more than just target shooting; it’s about immersing yourself in the history and culture of archery as it was practiced in the past. SCA archers strive to use historically appropriate equipment and techniques, and many participate in period-style competitions and demonstrations.

Tournaments

SCA archery tournaments offer a variety of challenges for archers of all skill levels. These include:

Target Archery: Traditional target shooting at varying distances.
Field Archery: Shooting at targets placed at unknown distances in a natural setting.
Clout Shooting: Shooting at a large target on the ground at long distances.
Mounted Archery: Shooting while riding a horse, a challenging and exhilarating discipline.

Tournaments provide a fun and competitive environment for archers to test their skills, learn from other archers, and experience the thrill of competition.

Equipment

SCA archers strive to use equipment that is historically appropriate or inspired. This may include:

Longbows: Powerful bows made from wood, often yew.
Recurve Bows: Bows with limbs that curve away from the archer at rest.
Crossbows: Powerful weapons that use a mechanism to launch the projectile.
Arrows: Fletched with feathers and tipped with points appropriate for the period.

Many SCA archers make their own equipment, while others purchase or modify commercially available bows and arrows.

Getting Started

If you’re interested in trying archery in the West Kingdom, find your local group and attend an event. You can usually find experienced archers who can answer your questions, provide guidance, and even let you try shooting their bows. Many groups offer introductory archery lessons and loaner equipment for newcomers.

The West Kingdom provides a welcoming and supportive environment for archers of all skill levels. Come join the fun and experience the thrill of this ancient and enduring sport!