Field or target?

[John (OSF)]

I was thinking about the development of the novices we have that only shoot indoors and haven't decided which club to join. The other gnas club shoots twice/week but since the local field club is available 7 days (gnas ros) and of course shoots much shorter distances compared to target. I'm now thinking that it would be the most cost effective (and fun) option for them considering their kit

Which do you think makes the most sense for a beginner to continue their archery given the above circumstances, they're shooting 20-32lb bows jazz, xx75s or equiv and are mostly parent+1 or 2 kids

[madbirdwomen]

I would say what ever the person is most interested in. Target probably a lot easier to facilate.

Our beginners came outdoors once and have never been back. Some wanted to do field, others don't know

[bundy]

Originally Posted by madbirdwomen

I would say what ever the person is most interested in.

Agreed - some people will like to hit a specific target and aim for more formal scores, standards and being able to turn up and know what they're facing.

Others will like the challenge of field (even marked distances look different downhill).

Whats wrong with doing a quick intro for those who want to try something different?

[John (OSF)]

I know what you mean, I'm evaluating it on the basis of, 'getting the best use from their existing kit' and that's where the field club option came from. As it has 7 day access to it's practice range I thought it offered better value to a novice that the 2day/week option of the target club.
As time went on they would obviously decide what suits them best, but I'm trying to offer them the best advice I can.

That's why I'm asking for opinions as I don't shoot field

[Raedwald]

I think the thing to do is to expose them to all forms (and I'd have to say all archers should perhaps consider the same) - target, clout, field (and for that I'd say whatever is appropriate, so if that means NFAS for 3D unmarked, GNAS or EFAA then point them at it). You may find they actually prefer the challenge of an unmarked field shoot or they may well be happier in a target shooting line.

How can you decide what you want/like to shoot if you're restricted or don't know what the other options are? Give them the experience so they can decide.

[John (OSF)]

Good points, but it'll come down to the cost in the end. (as usual).
I'm happy for them to shoot any bow style/type etc

[Araglin]

Originally Posted by John (OSF)

That's why I'm asking for opinions as I don't shoot field

Can only offer a partial opinion, as I've never shot outdoor target, but I'd say that field is such fun that it's well worth encouraging them to have a go.

[mk1]

Originally Posted by John (OSF)

I know what you mean, I'm evaluating it on the basis of, 'getting the best use from their existing kit' and that's where the field club option came from. As it has 7 day access to it's practice range I thought it offered better value to a novice that the 2day/week option of the target club.
As time went on they would obviously decide what suits them best, but I'm trying to offer them the best advice I can.

That's why I'm asking for opinions as I don't shoot field

The only problem with the field option as far as I can see is that if they can turn up when they like - they may find it unsociable and no-one there to help them. At the target option with designated nights - they might be more disciplined to turn up, get a bit of social and some help - why not just give the pros and cons to the newbies and let them decide variously.

[phil_r_58]

Originally Posted by John (OSF)

Good points, but it'll come down to the cost in the end. (as usual).
I'm happy for them to shoot any bow style/type etc

With the reduced rate of family membership, NFAS works out as the most economical shooting, Myself and the daughter, (10), can shoot all year for less than £70 between us at our field club.

And as a father, and having several friends with children, as well as coaching a number of friends children in the past, they find field far more interesting. The average kids attention span runs out at shooting on the same target all day. My daughter shoots target well, but always wants to go back to the woods.

[John (OSF)]

Thanks for that phil,I must admit that field sounds as if it has more going for it than target as far as keeping the kids interested