The Basics – Without These You’re Not Shooting

1) Bow

Match your chosen style (barebow, longbow, compound, etc.). Check string, limbs and fixings before you leave home.

2) Arrows

Bring at least 6 for practice and ideally 12+ for events. You will lose one eventually — probably to a shrub that has never lost anything in its life.

Match spine/length/point weight to your bow and number them for easy recovery and scoring.

3) Quiver

Hip or back — personal choice. It should safely carry arrows and small essentials.

Accessories
Comfort & Efficiency

• Arm guard – saves forearm and improves confidence
• Finger tab/glove – protects draw fingers and improves consistency
• Bow stringer – safest way to string recurve/longbow
• String wax – helps strings survive Scottish damp

Clothing
Scottish Edition

• Quiet waterproof jacket
• Layering (base/mid/outer)
• Boots with grip
• Hat + thin gloves

Weatherproofing the Gear

• Waterproof sleeve (or zip-lock bag) for scorecards
• Small towel/chamois for grip and hands
• Arrow puller for foam and tight bosses

Handy Extras

• Pencil (works better than pen in drizzle)
• First aid basics (blisters happen)
• Snacks and water
• Insect repellent (midges don’t care about your grouping)
• Whistle for emergencies on remote courses
• Spare string and small tool kit if you have space

Scottish wisdom: always pack a flask. A warm drink fixes most problems.