Yes, it would be a great weekend activity for a family that loves getting out in the woods and all. I'd recommend getting decent pair of binoculars (8x max) and a hip quiver and just using your hunting equipment to start with. You'll probably be using a compound bow with a fixed pin sight and a stabilizer less than 12 inches. That will put you in the Hunter Class, which should shoot from a green stake that is usually placed 18 to 35 yards from the target at the shoots I'm familiar with (of course sometimes much closer and sometimes a bit farther). You won't have to qualify or anything, just pay $8 or so per person shooting (not bad I think for 30 targets).

There will be a beaten down path you'll walk and a target marker for each target and several different colored stakes. You'll go to the stake and put your foot against it to take the shot (only get one). You want to try to guess the exact distance to your target each shot because depending on the arc of your arrow (or arrow speed) the better chance you have of a higher scoring shot. From a distance you won't be able to see the scoring rings with the naked eye, which is why I recommend the nockulars. There will be a small circle (11) and a larger circle (10) right about in the center of the "kill zone"(8) and the rest of the body of the animal will score a 5. Like this:

You might note that the rings on this target are for a quartering away shot and generally the rings represent a perfectly broadside shot. While your playing the rings on the 3D course, the shots don't always represent the best possible angle in a hunting situation. It looks like this guy might have 2 line cutters!

For complete IBO rules look here. http://www.ibo.net/

3D is truly a great sport and if you think you'll like it you will probably love it. I know I do. Have fun!

-Chief




Edited by - ChiefHeadhunter on 01/17/2003 14:57:00