Main risks

• Arrows being propelled, with a risk of serious injury to people or animals and property damage.
• Unpredictable ricochets or penetrations when striking hard surfaces or unsuitable targets.
• String slap to the forearm, hand or face, and pinching when stringing or drawing.
• Damage from a dry fire (without an arrow) or from using unsuitable arrows, with a risk of limb or string failure.
• Overloading of shoulders and back due to excessive draw weight or poor technique.
• Cracked arrows breaking (especially carbon) when shot, with possible splinters.
• Unintentional releases due to poor finger placement or incorrect use of release aids.

Safe use

• Use the bow only in designated archery areas, with a suitable backstop and a clear backdrop; check there are no people, animals or roads or paths behind or to the sides of the target.
• Never aim at people or shoot into the air. Avoid hard surfaces (stone, metal) or water that could cause ricochets.
• Do not dry fire. Ensure a compatible arrow is correctly nocked on the string and supported on the arrow rest before drawing.
• Start with a draw weight you can control; warm up before the session and stop if you feel pain, tingling or loss of control.
• Use an armguard and finger tab/glove or a release aid, and a chest guard when appropriate. Tie back long hair and avoid loose clothing in the path of the string.
• Maintain safe distances between archers and only retrieve arrows when the line has been stopped and clearly signalled.
• String and unstring with a proper stringer; do not twist or force the limbs.
• Check the bow, string/cables and arrows before each session; if you find cracks, frayed strands, loose nocks or points, do not use the equipment.
• Carry the bow without an arrow nocked and point it towards the ground or the target while moving.

Storage and maintenance

• Store the bow in a sleeve or case, in a dry and ventilated place, away from extreme heat, moisture and direct sunlight. Avoid leaving it in a car in the sun.
• Keep all equipment out of the reach of children and pets.
• Do not leave the bow under tension unnecessarily. On recurve and traditional bows, unstring after prolonged sessions to preserve the material.
• Inspect screws, fittings, limbs and string/cables periodically; tighten as needed without overtightening and replace worn or damaged parts.
• Clean with a soft cloth and avoid abrasive products or solvents.
• Carry arrows and points in tubes or cases with protection to prevent cuts and damage.

Restrictions of use

• Not a toy. Minors only under the supervision of a competent adult and with equipment suited to their size and strength.
• Do not use the bow under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or when significantly fatigued.
• Do not modify the bow, the string, cams or release devices, nor mix incompatible components.
• Do not use the equipment if you detect damage, unusual noises or looseness; stop shooting until it has been checked.
• Do not force a draw length or weight beyond what you can control, nor exceed the limits of the equipment.
• Avoid shooting through dense vegetation or when you cannot clearly see what is behind the target.
• Complex bow adjustments (for example, on compound bows) should be carried out by experienced persons with appropriate tools.