A ban would be yet another unwelcome concession to the nanny state.
We don't want "drunk in possession of a bow" to become law because the safety record indicates that it's unnecessary and also because we fear that the next step would be "in possession of a bow" - let's face it, with this government they could miss out the middle step altogether!
In my opinion as an enthusiastic and experienced drinker and inexperienced archer, nothing much should change at all, it should remain self-regulating as it is because it's a safety-conscious sport with an excellent record. Individuals will crop up from time to time who will mock the wishes and safety of the majority in favour of their own agenda - I'm NOT pointing the finger, this is in the most general of terms - and these individuals should be dealt with by the archery community in an appropriate manner which should strongly discourage a repeat offence and also emphasise the message to others.
"The wishes and safety of the majority" are key here, and the word "public" is important too. If a group of friends wish to shoot and drink together, they're complicit - they've collectively agreed to accept the perceived risk and if an individual feels uncomfortable with the risk at any time then they can retire. Forcing the risk - even
perceived risk - upon others is
not acceptable.
Need beer now
