Make Damn Sure You’re Aiming At What You Want To Hit
Posted By Randy on May 9, 2026
20 inch diameter target shot from 40 feet. Arrows arrived in order from top to bottom. Bow is 30 pound fibreglass recurve, shot using Mandarin style thumb release. (LFM Photo)
Some of you have been inclined to pining at my extended absence here in past weeks. I want you to know that I appreciate the pearl clutching with all the seriousness it deserves, and would never trivialize it as but a mass case of the Tulip Time Vapours.
In Truth, my Family and Professional Duties being paramount, much is written that has not seen the light of day, nor will until I deem it ready, and so I offer thanks for your indulgence.
Meanwhile in other news, I turned 69 and along the line up to and beyond that, returned to Archery after a 50 year absence and a couple years of deep consideration about how that might look.
As it turns out, it looks a lot like Asiatic Horse Archery without the horse.
Just an Archer, a bow, properly matched arrows, and lots of practice from pissing distance on back, a yard at a time. At it since early this Winter passed, I think I’m seeing improvement, and this Spring have set to teaching what I know to work to the Sons LFM.
Archery is like many pursuits that don’t need gadgetry, and indeed shines in its payback to the diligent Archer. A meditation embracing clarity in projection of intention.
No sights. A leather thumb tab I craft myself …
(LFM Photo)
… Study as befits the pursuit, and most important of all, sessions of 12-24 arrows, loosed 3 at a time, Archer filmed from whatever angles best permit assessment of form to explain goings on at the target. The Art will be infused commensurate with the Worthiness of the vessel.
(LFM Photo)
As for all fine travelling companions, weapon and field gear must work together absent strife. Note that unlike styles demanding the bowstring be drawn to an “anchor point” on the Archer’s face, the Asiatic style in use here draws to a “release point:, which still has another 6 inches to go in this picture. (LFM photo)
I will leave you today with this repeat of something I’ve previously shared, but that like all Great Truths will never pale in relevance – The Archer’s Lesson: You Always Hit What You Aim At – from the Esteemed Maestro Adam Crown with utmost credit to his Lady.
Reposted