Why Safety Matters More Than Your Score

Field archery involves sharp objects flying fast through outdoor terrain that isn’t always predictable. The safety rules aren’t optional — they exist so everyone goes home with the same number of eyes they arrived with.

The Golden Rules

1) Only Nock When It’s Safe

• Never nock an arrow until it’s your turn and the lane is clear
• No casual “test draws” behind the line
• No aiming in random directions even “just checking”

2) Stop Immediately on “FAST!”

If anyone shouts FAST! you stop immediately. Lower your bow, step back and wait. It means something (or someone) is downrange where it shouldn’t be.

3) Never Go Forward Until Everyone’s Done

All archers finish shooting before anyone retrieves arrows. No stepping forward early — not even “just to check my grouping.”

Mind Your Surroundings

• Watch for roots, wet leaves, steep edges and slippery logs
• Move carefully between pegs — especially in winter
• Carry kit safely (arrows in a quiver, not tucked through a belt)

Arrow Retrieval

• Stand to the side when others pull arrows
• Brace the target, pull straight, use an arrow puller when needed
• Don’t yank and twist aggressively — it damages arrows and targets

Wildlife & Visitors

In Scotland you may meet deer, dogs, sheep and the occasional walker who thinks your course is a nature trail. Stop shooting, make safe and guide them out of danger.