Every fall, bowhunters across Kentucky look forward to their annual pursuit of the whitetail deer. With their keen sense of smell, hearing, and sight, this quarry presents a thrilling challenge for bowhunting. Before stepping onto their first treestand, novice hunters using archery equipment or a crossbow should make sure that they have the right equipment.

Luckily, you don’t need much to get started. M & M Archery Range and Pro Shop in Independence, KY, has shared everything a new archer needs in a beginner’s basic bowhunting setup.

Bow

First, you need to decide which bow you plan on using. Archers have many options to choose from, such as compounds, longbows and recurves, and crossbows. Each has their pros and cons as well as their respective seasons in Kentucky. The perfect bow will be the correct length for your size with a manageable draw weight. If you can’t pull the string back, or if the draw length is too short or long for your frame, you won’t be able to comfortably use the bow.

Arrows

The bow you choose will influence the arrows for your setup. Wood, carbon, and metal arrows are permitted in Kentucky. Carbon fiber arrows are often the most popular choice. A typical quiver should contain a minimum of six arrows. Like your bow, the arrows you choose should be cut to your length with a spine that matches your draw weight.

Arrow Rest

Though not required for a crossbow, an arrow rest is an integral component for those that shoot with a compound. To maximize your equipment’s performance, the rest you choose should be designed for hunting and match your arrows and shooting style. Basic options for arrow rests include full capture, drop away, and prong style. The first two are the most popular with hunters and are good options for new archers.

Bow Sights

Sights are extremely useful for new and skilled archers. This bow component helps hunters mark their game and control shot placement, encouraging a more precise shot. It’s best to invest in a quality set since cheaply made sights tend to shift.

Broadheads

While your chosen broadhead should have a weight that matches your draw weight and arrow size, the style decision is based on personal preference. There are two types of broadheads: fixed blade or mechanical. Fixed blade broadheads are stronger and more likely to withstand the impact of hitting a rib or shoulder bone. The head of a mechanical broadhead is more fragile. However, this style provides greater accuracy with a design that cuts through the air with minimal drag.

To help new archers get ready for deer season, M & M Archery Range and Pro Shop offers basic and complete setups. This family-owned business has been training archers in northern Kentucky for over 20 years. Offering a variety of high-quality bows, recurves, and crossbows, they also specialize in bow tuning and repairs. Call (859) 282-6333 or head online to learn more about their services and pricing on bow setups.