Gains in Accuracy.....One arrow at a time

It has been a while since I posted and I am trying to get in the habit of posting when I learn something very significant about my shooting.  I have shot a lot over the last couple of weeks and have noticed a few things that really make me a more accurate shot.

I think that a pre shot sequence makes each shot more accurate.  I always raise and extend my bow arm and then have a deep and tight grip on the string with enough pressure to keep it in place.  Once my bow arm is up I am ready for the draw.

The draw is transforming to a J-shaped motion with my elbow. I got this from some videos that I watched and really helps me feel the back tension, especially once I get to full draw.  As I am drawing my string, I am pushing my bow arm to proper extension and trying to make sure my fingers are lightly curled on the front of the bow.  My elbow basically traces a "J" and feels inline once I hit my anchor point.

My anchor point has been evolving a little and trying to find what is most comfortable.  What "feels" right is my index finger hitting the bottom of my orbital socket and my middle finger touched the corner of my mouth.  I tuck my thumb into my palm, but I experiementing to see if I can make my anchor point a 3 point reference.

During this whole process my mind is trying to focus my eyes on the center of and arrow hole in the target.  Aim small miss small still works for my form of shooting.  I find that my most accurate arrows are after being a full anchor for 3 seconds.  I try to think about continuing my elbow motion and relaxing my hand, but honestly it is like the release happens almost automatically.

I have inconsistent with my long shots.  I have started using the Gap aiming system as a tool to practice the muscle memory for my bow arm.  I made some very accurate shots from 25 and 30 yards.  For my current set-up and when I am releasing properly, my point on distance is about 30 yds.  If I aim about 7 inches low at 25 yds "point on" then it hits the bullseye.  I will be exploring this a little bit more over the weekend.  I am very excited about this information and will be able to make some very accurate shots from a longer distance.  Thanks for reading.  I will be doing some shooting with some friends on Saturday.  I will try to remember to take pictures to post! Happy Valentines day!