Technology and Equipment

The Bow: There are two types of bow that are shot in international competition; the Recurve bow and the Compound bow. Both kinds consist of a riser (the central part of the bow, where the grip is located), two limbs and the bowstring. At present, only the Recurve bow is permitted at Paralympic Games.

The strength of the string and the speed of the arrow are ensured by a block-and-tackle system that intensifies the power exerted by the athlete during the initial draw of the bow.

Arrows: Arrows are made of either aluminium or carbon graphite. Aluminium arrows are more uniform in weight and shape, while graphite arrows fly faster. Competition arrows are made of carbon graphite with an inner tube of aluminium.

Target: The target is divided into ten concentric rings in five colours, gold in the middle, followed by red, blue, black and white with two scoring zones in each colour. The scores associated with each ring increase from one point for the outer ring to ten points for hitting the centre ring. The face of the target lies in front of the buttress, into which the arrow lodges.

Other equipment: Athletes may also use a quiver to store their arrows, finger tabs, which protect the athlete's fingers while shooting and an arm guard and bracer, which protect the athlete in case the bowstring snaps.