Archery is undoubtedly one of the most useful survival skills. Even though the bow and arrow has been largely replaced by firearms as the weapon of choice for most hunters, it is far from obsolete. Unlike firearms, bows are quiet, lightweight, and affordable. The “ammo” is reusable, and it’s much easier to find a safe place to practice.
But more than that, archery is also a deeply fulfilling hobby. That’s not to say that firearms aren’t as fun, but archery is fun in its own unique way. It’s a much more physical activity that will test your strength, endurance, and focus, in ways that a firearm won’t. In short, archery is a lifelong pursuit that is tons of fun, and mastering it will leave you feeling gratified in more ways than one.
Like any challenging skill however, getting started is the hardest part. Shooting a bow isn’t as simple as pulling a string, and there’s a few tips and techniques that you need to know right off the bat. If you’ve ever been interested in getting involved in the fine art of archery, take a look at the video below. It’s a beginner’s guide made by Jake Kaminski, a professional archer who won the silver medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics. After watching this, your first time at the archery range won’t be any more difficult than it needs to be.