Indoor archery is the discipline of shooting at circular targets no bigger than 40cm in diameter. It is a variation of Target archery and is typically shot at 18m distances, with the odd event at 25m. Indoor archery requires the archer to shoot 3 arrows each end before stepping off the line. Time limits apply and each archer has 120 seconds per end.
Target archery is one of the most recognisable forms of archery. It is when an archer shoots a fixed number of arrows at a stationary target from a predetermined distance. Upon the start of each end, archers are required to shoot 6 arrows and step off the shooting line when done so. Time limits apply and each archer has 240 seconds per end.
Field archery challenges archers as they follow a course set out with a set number of targets at different distances, heights and even angles. Distances can either be known or unknown and could be anywhere from 5m to 60m.
Para archery is reserved only for archers that have been classified with an impairment.
While they have been classified as impaired they mostly compete up alongside able bodied archers, their classification allows them to use approved modifications and assist devices that help them level the playing field.
3D archery requires archers to consider foam stationary targets generally in the shape of animals. These targets vary in shape, size and can be placed at designated distances. Another way to view 3D archery is a variation of field archery with the difference being the targets are replicas of animals produced in foam.
Clout archery is an event rooted in tradition going back to medieval times. The target is laid flat on the ground anywhere up to 180m away from the shooting line, the archer must shoot in the air with the arrow coming back down and landing in the target.
The ‘Clout’ is a triangular shaped object placed in the centre of the target circle. The various scoring areas
are identified with coloured flags.
A cable is laid out on the ground and is marked with the various scoring areas. To score, an archer is
assigned to each scoring area and the cable is slowly walked around the circle. Archers assigned to a scoring
area collect any arrows within that area.
When all arrows have been scored, the cable is laid on the ground and the arrows laid out in each colour
between the coloured flags.