What to Expect: Course Structure & Fees
Beginner's courses are run on an as-required basis, up to 4 times a year. They consist of a structured sequence of 4 training slots designed to teach you range safety, proper shooting form, and equipment handling under the guidance of our qualified coaches.
Beginner Course Fee: £XX.00 (Paid upfront for all 4 sessions, all gear included)
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Next Upcoming Course:
Saturdays (indoor at Llantrisant Leisure Centre). All specialized equipment is fully provided by the club for the duration of the course.
Understanding Bow Types
During your course, you will primarily shoot a Barebow or standard beginner recurve setup. As you progress, you will encounter four main styles on the shooting line:
Barebow / Beginner Recurve
The ideal starting point. Features a handle (riser), flexible limbs, a string, and an arrow rest. Barebow shoots without mechanical sights or stabilizers, relying on instinctive or gap-shooting techniques.
Recurve with Sight & Rods
The international target discipline style. Adds an adjustable mechanical sight for precise aiming, plus long carbon stabilization rods and dampeners to balance the bow and absorb vibration.
Compound Bow
Uses a system of mechanical cables and eccentric cams/pulleys. Offers a mechanical let-off advantage, letting you hold a lower draw weight at full draw while delivering high arrow speeds and scoped accuracy.
Traditional Longbow
A classic D-shape wooden bow steeped in history. Shoots traditional wooden arrows straight off the hand with minimal accessories, demanding traditional touch and historical form.
Try Before You Buy & Beginner Gear Breakdown
The "Try Before You Buy" Golden Rule:
Please do not buy any equipment before starting your course! Archery equipment must be correctly matched to your physical draw length, hand size, and physical draw weight. Our coaches will lend you everything during the course and advise you on what to purchase when you are ready. We recommend visiting an archery shop with a range to try before you buy.
Breakdown of Basic Barebow & Essential Accessories (Approximate Costs)
When you finish the course and decide to purchase your own starter kit. These prices are for what might be best described as beginners equipment, like any sport or hobby, there are more advanced (& expensive) options. Here is a general idea of what to expect for a beginner:
| Equipment Item | Description | Approx. Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Starter Barebow Setup | Aluminium riser (handle) + beginner wooden/fibreglass limbs & string | £120 - £220 |
| Arrows (Set of 6 to 8) | Aluminium or carbon beginner arrows (cut to your exact draw length) | £35 - £70 per set |
| Finger Tab | Protects fingers when releasing the bowstring | £10 - £25 |
| Armguard | Protects forearm from string slap | £8 - £15 |
| Quiver | Hip or belt quiver to hold your arrows safely while on the line | £15 - £30 |
| Total Estimated Starter Cost | Complete first-time kit package | £190 - £360 |
Safety & Dress Code (Archery GB Rules)
Because safety is our absolute priority on the shooting line, all beginners and members must adhere to standard Archery GB dress and safety guidelines:
- Footwear: Must be closed-toe shoes (sturdy trainers, walking shoes, or flat boots). Strictly no sandals, flip-flops, Crocs, or open-toe footwear.
- Clothing: No loose or baggy clothing, dangling jewelry, or scarves that could catch on a bowstring. Combat trousers with loose dangling side pockets are not acceptable on the line.
- Hair & Accessories: Long hair must be tied back securely.
Fun & Seasonal Shoots
Once you complete your beginner course and join the club, you won't just be shooting standard targets! We regularly hold fun club events and novelty shoots near holidays such as Christmas and Easter, featuring themed targets, friendly competition, and social gatherings for all member levels.
Course Fees & Joining the Waiting List
Courses are paid upfront for the full set of training slots. Spaces are strictly limited to ensure safe line supervision and quality coaching. Check our Fees & Costs page for full membership pricing details.
To inquire about availability or join our waiting list, contact Richard: 07976 960095
View Full Fees Page