Someone mentioned other shootin' sports. I have looked on the web at the NRA and a variety of clubs in the USA, where, Lord knows there are enough problems with guns, and at gun clubs here. This snippet sums up the Rules for most of them. "No alcohol or illicit drugs are allowed on the range. Alcohol is only permitted during special activities which have been approved by the RCRC Board. Anyone appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be allowed on club property."
Last year I shot at two tournaments at which two individuals were shooting more than "half seas over". One of the two individuals was what can be characterised as an "angry drunk" and very definitely spoiled what had been, until lunchtime, a great day out, not just for me but for the wheelchair archer on the boss with us and for other archers nearby. The second archer was a "happy drunk" and was inoffensive, but was plied with alcohol throughout the shoot.
National Shooting Week in the UK is not far off and on the website advertising this
National Shooting Week - Welcome to shooting!
it is stated that "alcohol and shooting do not mix, and that
alcoholic drinks may not be consumed until after you have finished shooting". This I feel is reasonable. While we have a weapon in our hand archers should act responsibly. I don't like "shoulds and oughts" but use of a potentially dangerous weapon carries with it responsibilities.
P83 of the FITA rulebook states:
5. All accredited persons will refrain from smoking, using or being on the influence of intoxicating substances (alcohol, cannabinoids, etc.) while being on the field of play and other designated zones. Breach of this rule will result in loss of accreditation as decided by the Coordination Committee or the highest authority present at the event.
In the appendices:
FITA CONSTITUTION AND RULES
APPENDIX 5 - DOPING CONTROL PROCEDURES April 1st, 2008
112
SUBSTANCES PROHIBITED IN PARTICULAR SPORTS
P.1 ALCOHOL
Archery (FITA) (0.10 g/L)
