Aerial targets - Safety considerations for bowhunters

Shooting at aerial targets can be an exciting and challenging way for bowhunters to improve accuracy, timing, and reflexes. However, it also introduces unique safety concerns that must be addressed to prevent injuries or property damage. Practicing proper form and following strict safety procedures ensures that every shot is both safe and responsible.

1. Understand the Risks of Aerial Shooting

Aerial target practice involves shooting at moving targets—often clay discs, foam disks, or artificial birds—that are launched into the air. The upward trajectory and unpredictable flight paths can make arrows travel farther than expected. Unlike ground targets, aerial shots carry a higher risk of arrows landing outside the safe range if missed. A single misjudged angle could result in an arrow traveling hundreds of feet, endangering bystanders or nearby property. Therefore, aerial shooting should only be done in large, open areas specifically designed or approved for such activities.

2. Choose a Safe and Controlled Environment

A safe location is the foundation of responsible aerial practice.

Open Field: Select a large, open field free from buildings, vehicles, power lines, and other structures.
Backstop: Whenever possible, set up a safe backstop such as a high dirt embankment or large netting behind the flight path.
Restricted Access: Keep spectators and nonparticipants well behind the shooter’s line. Mark a safety perimeter using flags, cones, or signs.
Legal Considerations: Check local hunting or archery regulations—some jurisdictions restrict shooting arrows into the air, even on private property.

3. Use the Right Equipment

Not every bow or arrow is suitable for aerial target shooting.

Bow Type: Recurve or lightweight compound bows are commonly used because they allow quick aiming and smooth draws. Heavy draw-weight hunting bows are not ideal due to excessive power and longer flight distances.
Arrows: Use specialized, blunt-tipped arrows such as flu-flu arrows designed for aerial practice. These arrows have large, spiraled fletching that slows their flight, limiting range and making retrieval easier.
Protective Gear: Always wear an armguard, finger tab or glove, and eye protection to reduce the risk of injury during rapid shooting sessions.

4. Maintain Safe Shooting Practices

Never shoot above a safe angle: Avoid firing arrows at steep upward angles that make it hard to predict where they will land.
Follow the “No Dry Fire” Rule: Always nock an arrow before drawing and releasing the string.
Be aware of your target and beyond: Confirm that the area behind and beyond the target is clear before shooting.
Communicate clearly: When shooting in groups, use voice commands such as “Range clear!” before each launch or shot.
Retrieve arrows only when safe: Never walk forward until all archers have stopped shooting and acknowledged the all-clear.

5. Supervision and Training

Beginners should always practice under supervision. Experienced instructors can teach proper shooting angles, safe distances, and correct timing for aerial targets. Organized events or club ranges often have certified range safety officers who enforce protocols and provide demonstrations.

For young or new archers, start with ground-based moving targets, such as rolling foam disks, before progressing to airborne ones. Gradual exposure helps develop safe instincts and better control.

6. Environmental Awareness

Wind speed and direction greatly influence arrow flight. Strong gusts can carry arrows off course, especially when using flu-flu fletching. Always test a few shots in current conditions before starting a full practice session. Avoid shooting in poor visibility, low light, or during high winds.

Also, be mindful of wildlife and nearby domestic animals—never shoot in areas where birds, livestock, or pets might wander into range.

7. Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

Before each session:

Inspect arrows for cracks, bent shafts, or damaged fletching.
Check bow limbs and strings for fraying or stress.
Replace worn components immediately.
Ensure the nocking point and serving are properly aligned.
Proper maintenance not only enhances performance but also prevents accidents caused by equipment failure.

8. Ethical and Responsible Conduct

Responsible bowhunters treat aerial target practice as training, not entertainment at the expense of safety or wildlife. Never shoot live birds or throw objects into the air for practice unless legally permitted and in a controlled environment. Always follow fair chase and humane hunting ethics when transitioning from target shooting to real hunting scenarios.