After almost 7 months away from the range (thank you, winter), I finally upgraded my bow — and I honestly couldn’t be more excited. The moment I pulled it back, I felt everything I’ve missed about archery come rushing back in.

For me, archery has become something way more than a hobby. It’s healing. It’s grounding. And during a really difficult season — especially after losing my dad — it’s become a quiet space for me to grieve, breathe, and focus.

🏹 The Upgrade

My new setup — finally ready for tournaments, 3D courses, and TAC!

I upgraded from a basic starter bow to one that can hold its own in tournaments, TAC courses, and even hunting (which I’ll never do, but hey — it’s good to have options). This new setup isn’t just about aesthetics or power — it’s about capability and precision. It’s a bow that can grow with me.

⚠️ Reality Check: Shot Process Matters

While getting fitted for my new bow, I was so focused on the excitement of it all that I completely forgot to think about my shot process and my form. I just pulled back like I always used to — but my body wasn’t ready.

I was quickly reminded how important both form and mental focus are in archery. The result? A vicious string slap to my forearm that left a huge, tender bruise. And just to make sure I really learned my lesson, I did it again on the very next shot.

Form reminder in the form of a bruised welt… thanks, muscle memory.

Now that I’ve had a moment to reflect (and ice), I’m committed to being more intentional with each step of my shot process. Writing it out helps keep it fresh in my mind — and maybe it’ll help someone else too.

🧠 My Archery Shot Process

Shot process

1. Double check yardage of target
2. Straddle front line
3. Lock release
4. Hook release onto D loop 
5. Load arrow into rest
6. Hook knock onto string
7. Stand tall
8. Make sure right thumb bone is pressing against grip
9. Lift bow up
10. Pulldown and back
11. Breathe
12. Align first and second knuckle under chin
13. Pull right shoulder down
14. Touch nose to sting
15. Close right eye
16. Look through peep hole
17. Float dot over bull eye
18. Keep left elbow pointing back
19. Push with right hand 
20. Pull with left hand specifically with pinky and ring finger
21. Pull back through the shot 

This simple but focused sequence helps me build consistency and confidence with every shot. The beauty of archery is that it’s just as much mental as it is physical — you can’t rush it. Every movement matters.

🛠 My Go-To Shop: Bear Creek Archery (Denver)

Let me just say — Bear Creek Archery in Denver is the best. Seriously, if you’re looking for a shop that makes you feel welcomed, respected, and supported no matter your experience level — this is it.

I believe it’s a couple that owns it, and the entire crew there is incredible. From the very beginning, when I knew nothing about bows or shooting, they were patient and kind. Now that I’ve grown in skill and confidence, they’re still just as encouraging.

In a sport that’s often male-dominated, I’ve never once felt uncomfortable, talked down to, or brushed off at Bear Creek. That says a lot. They’re knowledgeable, approachable, and make the whole process smooth from start to finish.

💬 What’s Next?

Once this forearm bruise fades, I’ll be getting my new bow fully tuned and ready to take on some serious 3D courses. With Total Archery Challenge (TAC) on the horizon, this couldn’t have come at a better time.

I’m looking forward to sharing more updates from the range, course walkthroughs, and all the hilarious mishaps and moments along the way — because let’s be honest, those happen too.

📸 Quick Recap:

✅ Upgraded my bow to a tournament/hunting-ready setup 💥 Reminded why proper form matters — string slap is no joke 🧠 Wrote out and recommitted to my shot process ❤️ Rediscovered how much I love this sport 🏹 Huge shoutout to Bear Creek Archery in Denver — truly the best 🎯 Can’t wait to hit the 3D courses and share the journey

Thanks for being here and following along! If you’re also on an archery journey (or thinking about starting one), I hope this encourages you to go for it — bruises, upgrades, and all.

💬 Let’s chat:

Do you have a shop you love like I do with Bear Creek? Have you upgraded your setup recently or just getting started? Drop a comment — I’d love to hear about your journey.

#ArcheryLife #WomenWhoShoot #BowUpgrade #BearCreekArchery #3DCourseReady #ArcheryJourney #TotalArcheryChallenge #ArcheryCommunity