Archer' Handbook

Kingdom of Caid

The Archer's Handbook of the Kingdom of Caid is a compilation of the Conventions and Standards used by Caid since its inception as a Kingdom and those Rules, Conventions and Standards put forth by the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. The Standards, Conventions and Rules listed herein will become effective and enforceable upon the publication of this Handbook and after the 14th of June, Anno Societatis XXXIII, mundanely 1998.

Any observations about the Handbook should be directed to the Kingdom Master of Archers, in writing, for consideration or comment.

My thanks go to all who assisted me in the preparation of this Handbook:

To Kathryn Bearward of Wolfenden, Robert Watford, and Cerdic WhiteWynde of Wessex for preparing the preliminary draft of this Handbook.

To Master Thomas Blackkeep, Paganus Grimlove, Kurt von Arriksleva, Robert Lanternsmith and the many others whose comments were incorporated into this Handbook.

Again to Robert Lanternsmith for the cover art that graces the front of this Handbook.

To Lady Daphne of Penguinroost for proofreading, suggestions, and typing the vast majority of this document back into electronic form after it was misplaced.

In service to CAID


Phelan of Penguinroost
Master of Archers, Kingdom of Caid
1 June 1998, A.S XXXIII






Sir Padraic the Fierce, KSCA
Earl Marshal, Kingdom of Caid



       
Ivan Anastasiia
Rex Caidis Regina Caidis






Table of Contents

  1. Officers and Their Duties
    1. Master of Archers
    2. Deputy Master of Archers
    3. Captain of Archers
    4. Lieutenant of Archers
    5. Range Marshal
    6. Range Marshal-in-Charge
    7. Range Marshal-of-the-Field
    8. Range Marshal-In-Training
    9. Archery Event Autocrat
    10. Scorer

  2. Reports
    1. Annual Reports
    2. Quarterly Reports
    3. Event Reports
    4. Archery Scores
    5. Injury Reports

  3. Authorization of Archers

  4. Equipment
    1. Bows
    2. Arrows
    3. Crossbows
    4. Crossbow Bolts

  5. Participation Guidelines
    1. Participants
    2. Bows
    3. Arrows
    4. Crossbows
    5. Crossbow Bolts

  6. Field Guidelines
    1. General Site Guidelines
    2. Butts and Targets

  7. Archery Tournaments and Practices
    1. Who Can Participate
    2. Waivers
    3. The Rules of the Line
    4. Procedure for Running a Shoot
  1. Archery Divisions
    1. Crossbow Form
      1. Open Division
      2. Period Division
    2. Handbow Form
      1. Open Division
      2. Longbow Division
      3. Period Division
      4. Junior Division

  2. Kingdom Rank and Awards
    1. Kingdom Ranking
    2. Archery Awards

  3. Types of Competitions
    1. Standard Competitions
    2. Non-Standard Competitions
    3. Postal Tournaments

  4. Grievance Procedure

  5. Academy of Archers
    1. Academy Regent
    2. Bowmaster's Council
    3. Captain's Council
    4. Goals of the Academy of Archers

  6. Appendix A: Glossary

  7. Appendix B: FORMS
    1. Archery Safety Test
    2. Range Marshal in Training Warrant
    3. Range Marshal Authorization Test
    4. Quarterly Report
    5. Archery Event Report
    6. Script for Royal and IKAC Rounds
    7. Royal Round Score Sheet
    8. IKAC Score Sheet





  1. Officers and Their Duties


    1. The Master of Archers
      In Caid, the Archery Office is headed by the Master of Archers. The office of the Master of Archers is a lesser Kingdom office. The Master of Archers is part of the Marshalate and therefore answers to and is directly responsible to the Kingdom Earl Marshal and the Crown. On appointment, the Master of Archers must be a qualified Range Marshal in good standing in Caid.
      1. Duties
        1. Warranting all Captain of Archers, Lieutenant of Archers and Range Marshals. Maintains a List of Warrants for Territorial officers and Range Marshals.
        2. Maintaining and enforcing the rules for the safety and promotion of archery in Caid.
        3. Maintaining an authorization system for all archers (a computerized database is preferable).
        4. Enforcing a system of reporting by the Captain of Archers and Range Marshals, and providing a summation of these reports to the Earl Marshal at least quarterly.
        5. Maintaining Kingdom records of the scores for the various competitions, including IKACs, IKCACs and Royal Rounds.
        6. Reporting Kingdom archery scores in the Kingdom newsletter (The Crown Prints) as well as to associated IKAC and IKCAC coordinators at the SCA Corporate level in a timely manner.
        7. Providing each Captain of Archers with a report of the authorized Range Marshals, archers and their divisional rank, for each geopolitical subdivision in the Kingdom (Baronial, Shire, Canton, College, etc.)
        8. The Master of Archers will make the following presentations at 12th Night:
          1. IKAC leaders in Caid based on the top three scores published by the IKAC coordinator.
          2. IKCAC leaders in Caid based on the top three scores published by the IKCAC coordinator.
      2. Method of Appointment and Term of Office
        The Master of Archers is selected by the Earl Marshal, subject to the approval of the Crown, and serves for a term of two years. The Earl Marshal may appoint a candidate to this position in one of several ways: by polling the populace, receiving recommendations from the archery community and/or suggestions from other branches of the Marshalate or the Crown. The Master of Archers may not hold other offices.

    2. Deputy Master of Archers
      1. Duties
        1. The Deputy Master of Archers will be prepared to assume the full duties of Master of Archers.
        2. The Deputy reports to the Master of Archers as required, and assists with special projects, training, etc.
        3. The Deputy may be required to act for the Master of Archers in specified matters at the discretion of the Master of Archers, whereupon the duties, responsibilities and authority of the Deputy will be the same as the Master of Archers.
      2. Method of Appointment and Term of Office
        The Deputy is designated by the Master of Archers, is warranted by the Kingdom Earl Marshal and serves at the discretion of the Master of Archers with no set term limit.

    3. Captain of Archers
      A territorial office. The Captain of Archers is responsible directly to the Master of Archers for all archery activities within a given geopolitical subdivision of the Kingdom (i.e. a Barony, Shire, Canton, College, etc.), including tournaments and score submissions. This position carries the responsibility of running the archery activities for a given geopolitical group and keeping the Master of Archers informed of these activities and of any problems that may occur. The Captain of Archers may appoint Deputies as necessary to aid in the performance of their office (see Lieutenant of Archers).
      1. Duties
        1. The safe conduct of archery in his/her group, according to the rules set forth by the Master of Archers.
        2. Organizing archery activities within their local geopolitical group.
        3. Checking equipment for obvious safety hazards and for SCA compliance.
        4. Compiling and submitting reports to the Master of Archers two weeks prior to the end of each calendar quarter (by March 15th, June 15th, September 15th, December 15th) on the state of archery in their area of responsibility as well as on all events held during that quarter and any significant items (injuries, authorizations, archer problems, etc.).
        5. Maintaining accurate records of all archers within their area of responsibility containing the following information: SCA Name, Mundane Name, style of bow, rank, scores, etc.
        6. Serves as a member of the Captains's Council in the Academy of Archers
      2. Method of Appointment and Term of Office
        A Captain of Archers must be a warranted Range Marshal. The Captain of Archers is appointed by the Master of Archers via recommendations of the local geopolitical group. This may also include the local Baron, Baroness and/or Seneschal. The Captain of Archers is added to the List of Warrants. The Warrant of Office is for a specific time period, normally two years, but may be reviewed as often as all parties choose.

    4. Lieutenant of Archers
      1. Duties
        The Lieutenant of Archers is responsible directly to the Captain of Archers and the Master of Archers. A Lieutenant of Archers is responsible for the archery activities assigned to them by the local Captain of Archers. The Lieutenant's role is to assist the Captain of Archers in the performance of his/her office and serves as a member of the Captains's Council in the Academy of Archers
      2. Method of Appointment and Term of Office
        A Lieutenant of Archers need not be a warranted Range Marshal, but must be at least a Range Marshal-In-Training. If the Lieutenant of Archers is a Range Marshal-In-Training, the Lieutenant must have a warranted Range Marshal present to conduct official practices and competitions. Lieutenants is added to the List of Warrants. The Warrant of Office is for a specific time period, normally two years, but may be renewed as often as all parties choose.

    5. Range Marshal
      1. Duties
        A Range Marshal is the local authority on archery safety and on the Caidan Rules of Archery. He/she is responsible for insuring the archers are safe on the field, and that they know, understand, and obey the Caidan Rules of Archery. Because Range Marshals are responsible for safety on the field, all Range Marshals must be eighteen (18) years of age or older and a current member of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. Range Marshals are encouraged to assist Range Marshals-In-Training in becoming warranted Range Marshals.
        1. Assisting the Range Marshal-in-Charge or the Captain of Archers as required.
        2. Authorizing target archers.
        3. Reporting to the Master of Archers once yearly (by July 1st of each year) on his/her activities during the previous year. The minimum required is a postcard with his/her mundane name, SCA name, address, phone number, and a statement that he/she wishes to continue being a Range Marshal. This is required to maintain his/her Warrant of Appointment.
      2. Method of Appointment and Term of Office
        Persons desiring to become a Range Marshal must follow the procedure under "Range Marshal-in-Training." When a person becomes a Range Marshal, he/she is added to the List of Warrants by the Master of Archers. The Warrant for Range Marshal must be renewed each year.

    6. Range Marshal-in-Charge
      This title designates the Range Marshal in charge of an event. This may be the only Range Marshal present, or any Range Marshal up to and including the Master of Archers. The Range Marshal-in-Charge supervises the conduct of all archery activities at the event and is responsible for the activities of the Archery Lists. The Master of Archers is considered to be the Range Marshal-in-Charge of the Queen's Champion Archery Tournament regardless of its location. The position of Range Marshal-in-Charge must be filled with a warranted Range Marshal, and there must be a Range Marshal-in-Charge of the archery portion of any event that has archery.


    7. Range Marshal-of-the-Field
      The Range Marshal-of-the-Field is the Range Marshal of a specified field. Responsibilities include all activities on that field, pertaining to archery and safety. A Range Marshal-of-the-Field must be a warranted Range Marshal, or a Range Marshal-in-Training working under the direct supervision of a warranted Range Marshal.


    8. Range Marshal-In-Training
      The Range Marshal-In-Training is the first step a person must take when he/she wishes to become a warranted Range Marshal. Responsibilities are to assist in the running and safety of a range. The candidate is under the direct tutelage of the Archery Office and is subject to instruction and correction by any warranted Range Marshal. Range Marshals-In-Training are to be warranted by their local Territorial Captain of Archers (see Range Marshals-In-Training Warrant, Appendix B). A copy of the completed warrant and the written test shall be sent to the Master of Archers for the warrant to be in effect. To become a Range Marshal, a person must at a minimum, run one (1) round, of an official archery tournament and four (4) other archery shoots, under the supervision of the Range Marshal-in-Charge. The candidate must receive the recommendation of two other Range Marshals, and pass a written test of the Archery Office (see Range Marshal Authorization Test, Appendix B). An archery shoot is defined as any event at which official scores are shot, including regularly scheduled practices and official events. Attending an accredited Range Marshals Course at a Collegium counts for two shoots.


    9. Archery Event Autocrat
      The person in charge of an archery event. He/She is responsible for acquiring the site for the event. The Autocrat is responsible for filing an event report (Appendix B) within 10 days after the event. Scores should also be reported. The Archery Autocrat will send one (1) copy of the report to the Territorial Captain of Archers where the event took place, and one (1) copy to the Master of Archers.


    10. Scorer
      A Scorer is an individual that assists in the running of a range by recording an archer's score. A Scorer must be familiar enough with the scoring system that he/she can correctly determine an archer's score. All scoring disputes are settled by the Range Marshal-of-the-Field. The archer and the Scorer must agree on the score before any arrows are pulled from the target. It is permissible for any archer to act as a Scorer for individuals other than themselves. An archer may act as a Scorer for his/her self only if they are shooting with at least one other archer and are acting as the Scorer for that group.

  2. Reports

    There are many reports that must be filed in order to maintain an organized tracking program for archery activities in the Kingdom. Below is a listing of these reports, who fills them out, and where they are sent. Warranted officials are expected to forward their reports in a timely manner. If this cannot be done, the person you are to forward the report to must be notified, so that they can accommodate the tardiness of your information. Repeated tardiness in reporting will be grounds for repealing a Warrant.


    1. Annual Reports
      Are required by all Range Marshals to maintain their warrant, and must include the following information, at a minimum: mundane name, SCA name, current address, phone number, and a statement that he/she wishes to continue being a Range Marshal. This may be sent on a postcard. This report is due by July 1st of each year and is sent to the Master of Archers.


    2. Quarterly Reports
      Are required by all local Captain or Lieutenant of Archers (see Quarterly Report Form, Appendix B) and must include: a list of all authorized archers in the reporting area, a brief statement on the status of archery in the group, and any other pertinent information, including information on sites used. These reports are due two weeks prior to the end of each calendar quarter (March 15th, June 15th, September 15th, December 15th). Quarterly reports are sent directly to the Master of Archers.


    3. Event Reports
      Are the immediate responsibility of the Archery Event Autocrat (see Event Report Form, Appendix B). The Archery Event Autocrat will send one (1) copy of the report to the Territorial Captain of Archers where the event took place, and one (1) copy to the Master of Archers.


    4. Archery Scores
      All score sheets must include the name of all archers, their geographical affiliation, the scores for the individual ends, and the total score (see Scorecards, Appendix B). The Archery Event Autocrat of an event that generates archery scores, is responsible for forwarding the scores to the Territorial Captain of Archers and to the Master of Archers. Official scores shot at a practice should be sent in by the Range Marshal-in-Charge of that practice. All scores for a given shoot/competition must be received within 10 days of the end of that shoot/competition. The deadlines for InterKingdom (IK) scores are determined by the IK Coordinator.


    5. Injury Reports
      The Range Marshal-in-Charge is responsible for filing an Injury Report whenever an injury occurs at an archery event. A copy of the report must be filed with the Master of Archers and the Kingdom Earl Marshal within 5 days of the occurrence.

  3. Authorization of Archers

    All new archers must show that they are safe with the form of archery that they choose and are familiar with the Rules of the Line and the Kingdom safety standards of that form. To this end, they must take and pass a two part authorization. These parts consist of a written safety test (Appendix B), established by the Master of Archers, and a performance safety test. The testing Range Marshal must have the authorizing archer complete the written test prior to performing the authorization. There will be two separate authorizations, one for Handbows (Recurves and Longbows) and one for Crossbows.
    1. Written Test
      The test is open-book, and no more than three (3) questions can be incorrectly answered, or the archer may not authorize on that day. Regardless of whether the test is passed or failed, the Range Marshal administering the test shall go over the questions answered incorrectly with the authorizing archer, to make sure he/she knows the correct answers. If the authorizing archer misses more than three (3) questions, the authorization is terminated. The new archer then must wait for a subsequent event and take the written test again. Once the written portion is passed, the authorization may continue. Archers may not be authorized without the written test.
    2. Performance Safety Test
      1. Criteria for passing the performance safety test
        In all instances, you are trying to answer one question about the archer: Will they present a danger to themselves or others on the field? If the answer is NO, in general, they should be authorized. This is NOT a test of ability, but of safety. The only participants necessary for the safety test are the archer and the authorizing Range Marshal. The authorization can be performed by any warranted Range Marshal.
        1. Have the archer demonstrate that he/she is familiar with the safe and proper way to handle the form being authorizing in.
        2. Have the archer string the bow. This must be done in a safe manner (and is not necessary for crossbows).
        3. Have the archer demonstrate the procedure for checking the integrity and safety of their archery tackle. The archer should demonstrate familiarity with the pre-shoot inspection requirements for their equipment.
        4. The shooting portion of the test shall consist of at least two (2) ends of six arrows each, at 20 yards and at least one (1) speed round of 30 seconds at 20 yards. The archer must be able to handle his/her equipment with safety and not become flustered during the speed round.

    3. Subsequent Authorizations
      An archer who wishes to compete in a form that he/she is not authorized in must complete a Performance Safety Test for that form. It is not necessary to retake the written test. Authorizations in additional forms must be included as part of the Quarterly Report and forwarded to the Master of Archers.

  4. Equipment

    All archers have the final responsibility for the condition and safety of their equipment. If the Range Marshal-in-Charge deems any equipment as unsafe, he/she may bar the use of that equipment. If this occurs, the Range Marshal-in-Charge must include information about the incident in the Event Report.


    1. Bows
      1. Recurves and longbows of any length or draw weight are allowed. To preserve a period appearance, the bow should be constructed primarily of wood and/or fiberglass. Bows with metal risers should have the risers covered.
      2. Compound bows are not allowed.
      3. Stabilizers, kissers, clickers, overdraws, adjustable arrow rests (which allow adjustment for windage and elevation), bow sights, multiple nock points, and mechanical string releases are not allowed.
      4. Archers may use bare fingers, a tab, or a glove as a release. Mechanical release aids are not allowed. Special consideration may be given to those archers with a physical disability at the discretion of the Master of Archers. Period style releases are allowed, but the archer should know how to use them safely.
      5. Bows may have marks on their limbs for assistance in sighting only if used in the Open division. The Longbow division does not permit sights.
      6. Nocking points on the string and simple arrow rests are allowed. Simple arrow rests include the bow hand, the bow shelf, or any attached nonadjustable rest. (A nonadjustable rest is one that cannot be readily modified to compensate for windage, elevation.)

    2. Arrows
      1. Arrow shafts will be made of wood with feather fletching.
      2. Plastic nocks and self nocks that are reinforced by thread wrap or by horn, bone, or other material are acceptable. Nocks will be firmly attached and in good condition.
      3. All arrows must have field or target points firmly attached and in good condition. Broadheads are never permitted under any circumstances.

    3. Crossbows
      1. There are no weight restrictions on crossbows. However the Range Marshal will disallow a crossbow if sufficient backstop material is not available. Crossbows shooters are advised to supply a backstop that will stop their bolts.
      2. The prod may be of wood, metal, fiberglass, or laminated wood and fiberglass. All prods are liable to fatigue and should be visually inspected by the archer prior to each end of bolts.
      3. There may be no compound prods or modern trackless style crossbows.
      4. No optical sights are allowed. Adjustable, open, or peep-sights are in period.
      5. Exceptional care must be taken with cocked period crossbows, as the trigger mechanism can be very sensitive. Trigger safety mechanisms are encouraged.
      6. Crossbows with non-period cocking devices, allowing rapid fire, (i.e. Barnett `Panzer') are allowed only five shots in the speed round.
      7. Crossbows may be shot from any position, but without artificial support.

    4. Crossbow Bolts
      1. Bolts will be made of wood with feather fletching, or of other period construction with the approval of the Master of Archers.
      2. All bolts must have field or target points firmly attached and in good condition. Broadheads are never permitted under any circumstances.

  5. Participation Guidelines


    1. Participants
      1. All participants should be in suitable physical and mental condition: not drunk, impaired by medication, or excessively tired.
      2. Participants should wear clothing that does not interfere with safe shooting. Loose fitting clothing should be tied back out of the way and medallions should be tucked inside the clothes or not worn.
      3. Participants with long hair should take appropriate precautions when shooting to prevent their hair from becoming entangled in the bowstring.

    2. Bows
      1. Archers are responsible for their own bows.
      2. Bows should be in good condition, with no obvious flaws. They should be free of cracks or gouges. (Laminated bows sometimes have small cracks in the fiberglass running up and down the limbs. This condition is not serious unless the crack goes through both the wood and the fiberglass.) Bows that have cracks that go across the limbs should be rejected as unsafe.
      3. Bow strings should not be excessively frayed or have broken strands. They should be well waxed.
      4. Bows and strings should be inspected while the bow is strung.
      5. Nock points should be tight and preferably placed over the protective serving. The nock should not have cut into the string when it was installed.

    3. Arrows
      1. Archers are responsible for their own arrows.
      2. Check the overall condition of the arrows. If they seem to be in good condition, it is not necessary to inspect every single arrow. If they are in poor condition, check the worst looking of the group. If many are found to be unusable, check them all.
      3. Check the arrow for cracks. (Sometimes the paint or varnish on the arrow had cracked, but not the wood itself.) As long as the wood is not cracked, this is acceptable.
      4. Check the nocks to be sure they are free of cracks and are securely attached.
      5. Check the fletching to see that it is securely attached and is in suitable condition.
      6. The tips of arrows must be field or target points. The points should be in good condition. Period type points may be allowed by the Range Marshal in Charge. Broadheads are never permitted under any circumstances.

    4. Crossbows
      1. Archers are responsible for their own crossbows.
      2. Check the string for excessive wear, especially where the string rubs along the stock.
      3. Make sure the release mechanism is in good condition.

    5. Crossbow Bolts
      1. Archers are responsible for their own bolts.
      2. Check the bolts for cracks and deep gouges.
      3. Bolts must have field or target points, in good condition.
      4. Fletching must be firmly attached and in good condition.

  6. Field Guidelines


    1. General Site Guidelines
      1. Prior to the event, get permission to hold an archery event from the owner of the site, preferably in writing. If you are unable to get written permission, have at least one witness present when arranging for the site.
      2. Choose a location that has a clear field of vision to the targets.
      3. Make sure the area behind the targets is clear of obstructions such as: cars, animals, people and anything else that might be damaged by stray arrows (do not underestimate the distance a stray arrow may fly).
      4. Do not arrange the field such that you must shoot across any walkways or traveled paths. If this is unavoidable, the paths must be blocked to through traffic.
      5. Allow a minimum safe zone of 40 yards behind targets on level ground. This may be modified if you are shooting into a hillside or into something else that will adequately stop stray arrows from traveling too far.
      6. If you are not using a public archery range, rope off the shooting area. Use a site that will allow archery to be shot at a safe distance from any groups of people.

    2. Butts and Targets
      1. The target butt or backstop must be large enough for the target face to fit full upon it.
      2. Target butts should be hard enough to stop arrows shot from the heavier bows. If crossbows are to be shot, arrangements for appropriate backstops must be made.
      3. Avoid placing the center of the target in front of soft spots or cracks in the target butt.
      4. Target butts should be solid enough in construction that they do not fall over when being shot at or when arrows are being pulled. They should also have enough support so they do not blow over in the wind.
      5. Target faces must be whole and should be in good shape for competitive shoots. The petticoat may be cut away, as long as the outermost scoring ring remains intact. Old and worn targets can be used for warming up, or for general practice.

  7. VII: Archery Tournaments and Practices

    All participants and spectators are reminded that missile weapons have the potential to be extremely dangerous. As a result, all participants and spectators must follow the Rules of the Line while around the designated shooting area. Inappropriate behavior on the part of any participant or spectator will result in the Range Marshal-in-Charge removing that person from the shooting area.


    1. Who Can Participate
      1. All persons 18 years or older may participate in all Caid archery events, provided they have been authorized by a warranted Range Marshal and the paperwork has been filed with the Master of Archers.
      2. Persons 14 through 17 years of age may participate if they have passed the proper authorizations and have a properly executed minor's waiver and medical authorization form on their person.
      3. Persons under 14 years of age may participate in archery competitions as long as they have passed the appropriate authorizations and have a parent or legal guardian in attendance at the event with them.

    2. Waivers
      1. All archers shall have a properly executed wavier, in accordance with Corporate and Kingdom law.
      2. Archers shall keep proof of Waiver on their person while participating.

    3. The Rules of the Line
      1. Each archer must inspect their own equipment before using it. Equipment must be inspected every official shoot including practices. Frequent inspections during the course of the event are encouraged.
      2. Do not approach the firing line unless instructed to do so.
      3. Straddle the firing line when firing.
      4. Nock arrows and begin firing only at the command of the Range Marshal.
      5. All firing shall stop when a HOLD is called. If an arrow is nocked and drawn, the bow must be lowered and the arrow carefully let down. Similarly, if a crossbow is cocked, the string should be let down.
      6. When you are finished shooting, step back from the line.
      7. Do not go forward of the line to retrieve arrows until commanded to do so by the Range Marshal, and then retrieve only your own arrows. Do not pull another archer's arrows without first asking their permission.
      8. When approaching the target, remember to watch for and avoid arrows in and on the ground.
      9. Do not touch or pull any arrows in the target until all the scores from your target have been recorded by the official Scorer. This includes arrows in the target which do not score. An arrow touching the black line dividing two colored scoring rings shall be counted as the higher scoring of the two rings.
      10. There should be no talking on the line.
      11. Target spotters or optical aids (binoculars, etc.) are permissible to verify the arrow position. Spotters should not interfere with other archers on the line.

    4. Procedure for Running a Shoot
      In the interest of providing a fair and consistent environment for shooters throughout the Kingdom, regardless of their local area, the following procedure shall be used at all Kingdom shoots. A script for officiating Royal Rounds and IKACs may be found in Appendix B, and used by the Range Marshal to aid in the running of a shoot.

      1. The Range Marshal will order all archers to the line.
      2. The Range Marshal will check to see that there is no one downrange.
      3. The Range Marshal will state the number of arrows to be shot, the range, whether or not there is a time limit and the nature of the end (scoring or practice).
      4. For SLOW rounds, the Range Marshal will issue the command to commence shooting. The end shall last no longer than 3 minutes.
      5. For SPEED rounds, the Range Marshal will outline the rules of the timed round, then:
        1. The Range Marshal shall inquire whether all archers are ready and give clearance to nock arrows.
        2. When all archers have indicated that they are ready, the Range Marshal will announce "Archers are ready." He/She shall then count down in seconds from five to one, ending with the command "LOOSE", which signals the release of the first arrow, (for example, "five, four, three, two , one, LOOSE").
        3. Five seconds before the end of the interval, the Range Marshal shall again count down aloud, by second, from five to one, ending with the command, "HOLD", (for example, "five, four, three, two one, HOLD").
        4. If an arrow is released before the command "LOOSE", the highest scoring arrow of the round for that archer shall not be counted. If an arrow is released after the call "HOLD", the highest scoring arrow for that archer shall not be counted. It is possible to have a total of two arrows discounted per speed round. While it may be possible to determine the exact location of arrows shot before the "LOOSE" or after the "HOLD" commands, the rules are intended to be punitive to discourage unsafe shooting practices.
        5. Arrows that are in flight when the hold is called shall be counted.
      6. As archers finish shooting, they should step back from the line.
      7. After checking to make sure all archers have finished shooting, the Range Marshal will give the command, "Score and Retrieve Arrows."
      8. The Archers may then go forward to score and retrieve arrows.

  8. Archery Divisions
    There are two archery forms, Handbow and Crossbow, which may be subdivided into several divisions. This is done to encourage archers to try different variations within these two forms. As different styles become popular, additional divisions may be added.


    1. Crossbow Form


      1. Open Division
        The purpose for the open division is to encourage participation by all archers interested in the crossbow. All crossbows except those with compound prods are allowed.


      2. Period Division
        The purpose of the period division is to encourage archers to use equipment with a more period style. The crossbow should in form and function should replicate those made before 1600. They may not have a modern style lock or trigger. The prod may be of any material and must be attached by period materials. Artificial sinew may be used, but not Nylons or Dacrons. The nut in the lock mechanism may be of any material. The string may be of any material. Bolts may be of any wood and are to be fletched with feathers, parchment or other period materials. Nocks shall be self or reinforced (no plastic nocks). The archer should be able to document the parts of their crossbow.

    2. Handbow Form


      1. Open Division
        The purpose of the open division is to provide to as many as possible the opportunity to try their hand at archery. This division includes all handbows such as longbows, takedown longbows, recurves and takedown recurves of any length or poundage. The bow should be made primarily of wood and/or fiberglass. In order to preserve a "medieval-feel", bows with metal risers should have those risers covered by fabric or leather. Modern compound bows utilizing pulleys are not allowed.


      2. Longbow Division
        The longbow has played an important part in history. Archers in this division should strive for as period a look as possible. All longbows, takedown longbows and selfbows, regardless of length or poundage are allowed to participate in this division. Limb marks for sighting are not allowed.


      3. Period Division
        The purpose for the period division is to encourage archers to try to use archery gear that is modeled after those used before 1600. Both long bows or recurves may be used. Modern materials (i.e. artificial sinew, fiber glass, etc.) may be used as long as the use does not give an unfair advantage in performance over period materials. Arrows must be self nocked. The archer should be able to document the parts of their gear.


      4. Junior Division
        The purpose of the Junior Division is to encourage the art of archery among the younger members of the Kingdom and to assist them in their transition to adult archers. This Division is open to all children and young adults, residing within the borders of the Kingdom of Caid, that are 14 years of age or younger. This Division will encompass all archers and no delineation will be made between recurves, takedowns, or longbows. There will be no crossbows in the Junior Division. Junior Division archers are responsible for the information in the Caid Archers Handbook and must pass the same authorization as adults with the exception that the speed portion of the Performance Safety test is waived. Particular attention should be paid to safety rules and Rules of the Line. Their responsibility is the same in that regard as any authorized adult archer. Junior Archers will need to reauthorize after they become 18 years old and start shooting in the adult divisions. Additional specifications for Junior Archers are listed below.
        1. Bow
          Junior Archers may use the recurve bow, longbow, takedown recurve, or takedown longbow. The maximum draw weight for the Junior Division is 35 pounds, as determined by the label on the bow. To preserve a period appearance, bows must be made primarily of wood and/or fiberglass. Metal risers should be covered. The archer may choose to shoot off the shelf, an arrow rest, or his/her hand. Arrow rests must be static (not adjustable for windage or elevation). Crossbows will not be allowed in the Junior Division.
        2. Release
          Archers may use bare fingers, a tab, or a glove. Mechanical release aids are not allowed. Due to safety concerns, period type releases are not allowed.
        3. Arrows
          The shaft of the arrow must be made of wood. The arrow must be fletched with feathers. Nocks may be either self nocks or commercially available plastic nocks. Points must be either target points or field points. Broadheads are not permitted under any circumstances.

  9. Kingdom Rank and Awards


    1. Kingdom Ranking
      The Kingdom of Caid maintains a system for the rank of archers. This is determined by the average of that archer's three highest Royal Round scores in any of the recognized divisions during a twelve month period. An archer may achieve separate ranks in each of these divisions. A rank, once achieved, is never lost. Junior Division Archers use the average of their highest Junior Royal Round scores. Junior Division rank will be preceded by the term "Junior". The ranks and score required are described below.
      Score  Rank Junior Division Rank
      0 - 24 Novice   Junior Novice
      25 - 44 Bowman   Junior Bowman
      45 - 64 Yeoman   Junior Yeoman
      65 - 84 Forester   Junior Forester
      85 - 104 Bowmaster   Junior Bowmaster
      105+ Royal Bowmaster   Junior Royal Bowmaster
      Archers are responsible for sending their own score sheets to their area Captains who will then forward them to the Master of Archers (see Royal Round Score Sheet, Appendix B). Only completed score sheets will entitle the archer to advance in rank. Score sheets must be initialed by both archer and the Range Marshal. Upon turning 15 years old, a Junior Division Archer must shoot as an adult to attain an adult rank. Junior Division rank/scores may not be used in determining adult ranks.


    2. Archery Awards
      All awards are given by the King and Queen of Caid. If you feel that an archer is deserving of one of these awards, please send a letter of recommendation to Their Majesties naming the person and their qualifications.

      The following awards carry with them an Award of Arms and are of equal precedence to each other.

      1. The Order of the Argent Arrow
        This is the Kingdom award specifically for archery. The award is given for contributions to the advancement of archery in the Kingdom through skill, arts, and service. The badge for this Order is Azure, an arrow between in fess two crescents argent.


      2. The Order of the Harp Argent
        The Order of the Harp Argent was designed to recognize individuals who excel in a particular art form or scientific endeavor. For archery this would include, but is not limited to bowyering, fletching, other equipment construction, garb construction, etc. The badge for this Order is Azure, a harp within a bordure embattled argent.


      3. The Order of the Dolphin
        The Order of the Dolphin was designed to recognize individuals who have served the Kingdom above and beyond the normal expectations of their office. This would include service to the archery community. The badge for this Order is Azure, a dolphin embowed uriant to sinister argent.


      The following awards carry with them a Grant of Arms and are of equal precedence to each other. These awards are like those above, but are given for more significant endeavors in their respective fields.

      1. The Order of Chiron
        This award is given for great and significant contributions in the field of Archery. The badge for this Order is Azure, a saggitary salient regardant and drawing his bow to sinister a bordure embattled argent.


      2. The Order of the Lux Caidis
        The Lux Caidus is given to those who demonstrate great ability in the Arts or Science. The badge for this Order is Azure, a sunburst, a bordure embattled argent.


      3. The Order of the Crescent
        This Order is awarded to those who give extensive service to the Kingdom. The badge for this Order is Azure, three crescents conjoined, horns outward, a bordure embattled argent.

  10. Types of Competitions


    1. Standard Competitions
      1. Royal Round
        The target used in the Royal Round is a standard, 60cm, five-color, round target face. The target is scored, from the center, outward, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. An arrow touching the black line dividing two colored scoring rings shall be counted as the higher scoring of the two rings. The round consists of an end of six arrows shot at 40 yards, an end of six arrows shot at 30 yards, and an end of six arrows shot at 20 yards, with a 3 minute time limit. This is followed by a 30-second speed end, shot from 20 yards. There will be a sighting end of six arrows before each slow end at 40, 30 and 20 yards.
        1. Junior Royal Round
          This Royal Round variant is used by Junior Division archers. The target and scoring will be done in the same manner as for adult archers. The ends of the Junior Royal Round will be 8 arrows at 20 yards, 8 arrows at 15 yards, and 8 arrows at 10 yards. There will be no speed end for Junior Archers.
        2. Adopt-a-Novice Royal Round
          Follow the rules above for a Royal Round, except pair each Novice or Bowman with a Bowmaster. In the untimed ends, the Novice or Bowman shoots four (4) arrows while being coached by the Bowmaster. The Bowmaster shoots 2 arrows to bring the total number of arrows for each end to 6. In the speed end, each archer shoots as many arrows as possible in 15 seconds. This requires 2 separate speed ends of 15 seconds each.
      2. Queen's Champion Archery Tourney
        The Queen's Champion Archery Tournament is an Open Division Single Royal Round competition. The winner is awarded the title for the associated reign. The Queen may designate variations to this archery competition in order to select her champion. It is held once every six months during each queen's reign soon after Coronation.
      3. Queen's Champion Crossbow Tourney
        The Queen's Champion Crossbow Tournament is a Crossbow Division Single Royal Round competition. The winner is awarded the title for the associated reign. The Queen may designate variations to this archery competition in order to select her champion. It is held once every six months during each queen's reign soon after Coronation concurrent with the Queen's Champion Archery Tourney.
      4. Caidian Open Archery Tourney
        The Caidan Open is a double-elimination Royal Round tournament-style competition. The rules are basic. Each archer is paired like a fighting event. The only scores of concern during each round are between the archer and their opponent. Sequence of shooting: each archer is allows 3 arrows for sighting at the 40-yard line. Range Marshal will instruct the archers to retrieve these arrows from the target butts and face only. Gleaning of other arrows is not permitted at this time. Six (6) untimed arrows will be shot for score at 40 yards. The archers will move to the 30-yard line and shoot six (6) more untimed arrows for score. The Range Marshal will command the archers to score and record all 12 arrows at this time. Gleaning of arrows other than those on the target butt and face is not permitted at this time. Six (6) untimed arrows will be shot for score at the 20-yard line. The Range Marshal will command the archers to score and record these 6 arrows at this time. An archer with less than 12 arrows in his quiver may request permission from the Range Marshal to glean enough arrows to have 12 arrows in his quiver for the upcoming speed round. The Range Marshal will run a 30-second speed round at the 20-yard line. It will be scored and recorded. The totals will be tabulated and the highest score of each pair is the winner of that pairing for that round. All arrows may be gleaned at this time. Archers are eliminated from the competition after 2 losses. These competitions may take seven or more rounds to complete. It is considered a full-day's shoot. It is held once per calendar year, the winner holding the title of Caidan Champion Archer during the following year.
      5. Caidan Crossbow Open Tourney
        The rules are the same as the Caidan Open Archery Tourney. Modernstyle (Whammo, Barnett, and others) crossbows are not permitted front or rear sighting devices. Period-style crossbows are permitted a period rear sight only. It is held once each calendar year and the winner holds the title of Caidan Crossbow Champion for the following year.
      6. Grandmasters Archery Tournament:
        This event will be held at the Great Western War on the Saturday of the event. May be completed on Sunday if necessary to determine a winner. The rules are the same as for the Caidan Open. Winner will hold the title of Grandmaster Archer for the War during the year following or until the next Great Western War.
      7. Interkingdom Archery Competition (IKAC) and InterKingdom Combat Archery Competition (IKCAC)
        The IK competitions are SCA-wide competitions held each year, with specified starting and ending dates. The rules for the IK competitions are subject to change without Kingdom approval and are usually published each year in the Kingdom Newsletter by the IK Coordinator. Before attempting this shoot, please obtain the current IK rules from the IK Coordinator.
    2. Non-Standard Competitions
      These are some suggestions for other types of shoots. Some of them are in period and some are not. Use them or other variations to add variety to you tournament.
      1. Willow Wand
        The willow wand is a very traditional competition. A willow wand is usually a 4-5 foot long, soft wood slat, between one and two inches wide, and less than one inch thick. The wand is set in front of the target butt and secured with target pins to keep it from moving during the competition. If a wood wand is not available, one can be drawn on a piece of cardboard or a strip of duct tape on cardboard can be used. The wand can be shot from any distance. A hit is scored if the arrow strikes any part of the wand. Any number of arrows can be shot in the competition, a larger number of arrows at longer distances.
      2. Castle Wall
        A picture of a castle wall is drawn, with a 4-6 in. wide archers slit. An archer or guard is drawn behind the opening, as the target. Arrows are scored as a hit or miss on the figure behind the wall. This can be varied by requiring the archers to start in a kneeling position. When given the signal, the archers have 5 seconds to stand, shoot, and return to the kneeling position.
      3. Clout
        The clout shoot consists of a 5-ring target painted on the ground, usually 30 to 50 feet in diameter. A marker flag indicates the center and gives the archers a sighting point. The archers shoot from distances ranging from 100 to 200 yards and arc their arrows into the target. The target is scored, from the center, outward, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.
      4. York Round
        This is shot with six arrows per end. There are 12 ends at 100 yards, 8 ends at 80 yards, and 4 ends at 60 yards. The target is a 120cm round target face and is scored, from the center, outward, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. It is recommended that targets be paired with one at each end of the field so that you shoot at one, walk down and retrieve, then turn around and shoot at the other.
      5. 900 Round
        This shoot consists of 5 ends of six arrows shot at 60 yards, 5 ends of six arrows shot at 50 yards, and 5 ends of six arrows shot at 40 yards. The target is a 120cm round target face and is scored, from the center,outward, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.
      6. Dreiburgen Round
        This competition originated in the Barony of Dreiburgen, to encourage shooting at longer distances. It consists of two untimed ends of six arrows, at each range of 20, 30, 40, and 60 yards (for a total of 48 arrows). The target used in the Dreiburgen Round is a standard, 60-cm, five-color, round target face. The target is scored, from the center, outward, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. Scoring at the 60 yard distance will be double the standard target face value, with one point given for each strike on the target butt outside the target face. Arrows which strike the ground before entering the target butt shall not be counted. The total possible points for this shoot is 300.
      7. Silhouette
        These may be either an individual or a team competition, and may be single or double elimination. This shoot requires two silhouette targets, usually of armored fighters or archers, scored as follows. The archer's opponent suffers the hit on the silhouette. For example, if Archer A hits Silhouette B in the leg, Archer B must shoot from his/her knees. Two shots in the leg and Archer B may not rise to his/her knees. A shot to the head, body, or arm is a kill (as the opposing archer can no longer fire back). The winner's wounds may be carried over to his/her next match. Archers get a five-second count down with arrows nocked, but may not draw until told to SHOOT. Archers shoot until their opponent(s) is/are eliminated. It is recommended to have one spotter per archer for determining hits (binoculars help). If there is a question of whether a shot was good, halt the shooting and have the Range Marshal check.
      8. Field
        Field competitions consist of a number of stations, each station with a target. (Targets may be either pictures, standard round target faces, or 3-dimensional animals.) Each archer gets 1-3 arrows at each station depending on the number of stations in the competition. Most target are scored: kill, wound, or hit, with each zone being assigned a point value (i.e., kill=10, wound=8, hit=5). Some targets may have areas that subtract points, such as hitting the "good guy" or the "fair maiden". Each station should be worth the same number of points. This will keep one station from making or breaking the competition. Total up the number of points at each station to determine the winner.
      9. Roving
        The roving competition originally was done by a small group of archers. A target (i.e. stump, tree, etc.) would be chosen and all would fire an arrow at it. The closest to center would then pick the next point at some arbitrary distance and repeat the process. We can duplicate this by setting various shooting points at unmarked distances and shooting at targets similar to the Field event. Scoring can be by points or hits.
      10. William Tell
        The object of a William Tell shoot is to hit the apple on the boy's head without hitting the boy. The boy is a picture target, with either an apple drawn sitting on his head, or a real apple stuck to the target above the boy's head. This is a popular competition and allows a large number of archers to participate at one time. The competition allows each archer one or two tries at the apple. If the boy is hit by the arrow, then that archer is disqualified from the competition. If no one hits the apple, then those that are not disqualified shoot another round. If more than one archer hits the apple, the successful archers continues to the next round. This continues until there is a single winner. Consider the number and caliber of archers in the competitions when deciding the shooting distance.
    3. Postal Tournaments
      Sometimes it is easier to schedule a tournament as a postal event. This can consist of any combination of the rounds described above or of the autocrat's choosing. The awards may then be handed out at event being held after the close of the tournament. It is strongly encouraged to use this kind of event for the Junior Division archers if the time at scheduled event is too limited to include a full Junior competition. A Postal Tournament is conducted as follows:
      1. Advertise the Postal Tournament in the widest possible distribution. Use the Crown Prints, E-mail to area Archery Captains, and on the Caidan pages of the World Wide Web. Spell out all the rules, which target will be used, what distance will be shot, and how the scoring will be done. Set out the time limit that scores may be shot within and give a firm deadline that scores must be received by to count for competition. (For example: scores must be shot between April 1 and April 15, and received by the Tournament Autocrat no later than April 25.) Lastly, provide contact information so that as questions arise, they can be answered. The rules must, however, be "set in stone" and not changed during the competition. Therefore, care must be taken in setting forth the Postal Tournament rules. Publish the date of the awards ceremony.
      2. On the date of the Tournament where the awards ceremony will take place, have available a listing of how all the archers did, and have the prizes available to distribute to the winners. The names of the winners should be published in a newsletter if available.

  11. Grievance Procedure
    In the circumstance of inappropriate behavior on the part of any archer, the following Grievance Procedure is to be followed.
    1. Those with a complaint against an archer should write a letter describing the circumstances to the Master of Archers.
    2. Upon receipt of 3 or more unsolicited written or verbal complaints against an archer, the Master of Archers shall call a Captain's Court to review the behavior of the individual involved, including getting the viewpoint of the complainant.
    3. The Captain's Court will be comprised of at least four Captains of Archers and will be headed by the Master of Archers. It will be convened to hear both pros and cons of the complaint.
    4. The Captain's Court has the power to:
      1. Place an archer on Report. An individual placed on Report status may still participate in SCA sponsored activities and tournaments. Being placed in a Report status indicates the offending individual will be carefully watched for subsequent incidents of unchivalrous or unsafe behavior. Individuals in a Report status may not participate in archery events as Range Marshals. An individual who has been placed on Report has led others to question his/her values of safety and courtesy inherent in SCA activities and should not be in charge of safety functions during a shoot.
      2. Warn the archer that the above action may be taken if the problem continues.
      3. Decide that there was no infraction of the Rules and drop the issue.
    5. Issues which cannot be resolved by the Captain's Court, or matters involving offenders who have come before the Captain's Court more than once, may have the matter be forwarded through channels to a Court of Chivalry.
    6. A report of any of the above actions will be forwarded to the Kingdom Earl Marshal not later than one week following the decision of the Captain's Court.

  12. Academy of Archers

    The Academy of Archers is a Kingdom-wide group, dedicated to encouraging the growth of archery in Caid through increased communication, cooperation and teaching. The Academy supports the Master of Archers and provides advise on Archery policies. Membership is open to all archers who reside within the borders of the Kingdom of Caid.
    1. Academy Regent
      The Academy is under the direction of the Academy Regent. The Regent is supported by the Bowmaster's Council and the Captain's Council. The Master of Archers will have a standing invitation to attend all meetings and discussions of the Academy of Archers. It will be the duty of the Academy Regent to lead and support the goals of the Academy as set forth in Section XII.D.
      1. Duties
        1. Prepare an agenda for meeting discussion, moderate the meeting, and prepare a written summary of the meeting for the Master of Archers.
        2. Coordinate with the staff of the various Kingdoms publications for timely announcement of meetings and elections.
        3. Act as a resource point for information on local groups and for InterKingdom development of Archery programs in the Society as a whole.
      2. Election and Term of Office
        The Academy Regent is chosen through election by Caid authorized archers. The term of the Office shall be two years and will alternate with the term of the Caid Master of Archers. The Master of Archers may not serve as Academy Regent concurrent with his/her term as Master. The winner of the election will be determined by simple majority. The Regent may serve for as many consecutive terms as he/she may be elected for. Elections for the Regent will take place at the Fall Queen's Champion Archery Tournament. Elections will be conducted as follows:
        1. All authorized archers are eligible to vote.
        2. The Master of Archers will be responsible for notifying the archery populace of the upcoming elections, the printing of ballots, and the running of the election.
        3. Nominations for the Office of Academy Regent will be solicited at the Spring's Queen's Champion Archery Tournament immediately prior to the Tournament where the voting will take place. Each nominee must be an authorized archer in good standing. Nominations may be made by the nominee, or by another authorized archer. Each nomination must be seconded by an authorized archer.
        4. At the following Fall Queen's Champion Archery Tournament, polling will begin following opening court and will close approximately one hour prior to closing court. Those archers, who are unable to attend, should send their vote to the Master of Archers at least 2 weeks before the election date.
        5. The results of the elections will be made available to the populace during closing court.
        6. The elected Regent will take office at the following 12th Night.
      3. Removal From Office
        Should the Regent of the Academy become unresponsive to the archery populace, he/she may be removed from Office. Letters requesting the removal of the Regent must be sent to the Master of Archers. They will be handled following the grievance procedures outlined in Section XI.
    2. Bowmaster's Council
      1. Duties
        It will be the duty of the Bowmaster's Council to support the goals of the Academy as set forth in Section XII.D and to assist the Regent as requested with special projects.
      2. Appointment and Term of Office
        The Bowmaster's Council will be made up of Bowmasters and Royal Bowmasters residing within the borders of the Kingdom of Caid. Attaining the rank of Bowmaster automatically makes an archer eligible to join the Council. There is no term of office and service is at will.
    3. Captain's Council
      1. Duties
        It will be the duty of the Captain's Council to support the goals of the Academy as set forth in Section XII.D and to assist the Regent as requested with special projects.
      2. Appointment and Term of Office
        The Captain's Council will be made up of all Captains and Lieutenants of Archery from the various areas of the Kingdom of Caid. Appointment to this position automatically makes an archer eligible to join the Council. The term of office is as long as they hold their territorial office. Service is at will.
    4. Goals of the Academy of Archers
      1. Education and Training
        1. Encourage Collegium Caidis archery-related classes. This may include classes on: target archery, combat archery, fletching, bowyering, Range Marshaling, the history of archery, other "how to" classes, etc.
        2. Encourage the "Adopt-a-Novice" concept at competitions (see the Adopt-a-Novice Royal Round, Section X.A.1.b).
      2. Promoting the Image of Archery in Caid.
        1. All archers in Caid are encouraged to display the badge of the Academy of Archers to signify their membership and to provide a visual reminder to the Kingdom of the participation of archers at non-archery events.
        2. Encourage the wearing of period looking garb on the archery range and the presentation of archery related items to Royalty.
        3. Introduction at 12th Night of the year's new Bowmasters and Royal Bowmasters.
      3. Encouraging Competition.
        1. To promote the shooting of IKAC/IKCAC rounds at wars and other archery events in Caid.
        2. To encourage competition shooting and the posting of InterKingdom scores.
        3. To encourage archery related arts competitions.
      4. Supporting Caid's Territorial Archery Groups and Guilds.
        1. This includes local archery groups/households as well as Kingdom-wide groups, such as the Fletcher's Guild, and any other archery specific group that might develop in the future.
        2. Provide information and assist groups/households wishing to form local archery guilds.
      5. Providing a forum for discussion.
        1. Coordinate meetings of archers for the purpose of proposing future goals, advising the Master of Archers, and discussing problems and proposing solutions.
        2. A meeting will be held at each Queen's Champion Archery Tournament, and may be scheduled at other events as decided by the Regent, the Bowmasters Council, or the Master of Archers.
      6. Promoting the Spirit of "The Caidan Archer."
        The ultimate goal of the Academy of Archers is to promote the visibility of archers within the Kingdom of Caid. Most archers identify with their local group. While this is a good starting place, archers should be encouraged to wear the favor of the Academy of Archers to foster an atmosphere of belonging to the brotherhood of Caid archers for the greater glory of the Kingdom. Archers should be encouraged to shoot in all of the available forms and to compete both in the SCA and in mundane tournaments. Great effort should be made to avoid problems in communication. The Academy will also encompass those individuals who are isolated from organized local guilds and provide them with a sense of access to the system.

  13. Appendix A: Glossary


    14. ARCHERY SHOOT:An archery shoot is defined as any event at which official scores are shot, including but not limited to regularly scheduled practices and official events.
    ARROW:The projectile shot from a bow.
    ARROW REST:A projection or shelf on the bow that provides a contact and resting place for the arrow to be shot from.
    BOLT:Also known as quarrels. These are specially constructed, shortened arrows that are used in crossbows.
    BOW:A device made of flexible material, with a bowstring connecting the working ends of the material, to propel an arrow.
    BOW ARM:The aim in which the bow is held during shooting.
    BOW LIMB:The upper and lower thirds of a bow. The limbs are responsible for the spring action of the bow.
    BOW SIGHT:External devices that are attached to the bow to aid in aiming.
    BOW STRING:The string or cord used to brace a bow.
    BROADHEAD:A sharpened point commonly used for bow hunting.
    CLICKERS:A mechanical device that clicks when the bow is drawn to the proper length.
    COMPOUND BOW:A bow that uses cams and pulleys to aid in the performance of the bow.
    CREST:A series of colored bands around the arrow used to indicate ownership of the arrows. Colors and patterns are determined by the individual archer.
    CROSSBOW STOCK:The rifle shaped body of the crossbow that holds the bow and houses the trigger mechanism.
    DIVISION:Refers to the subdivision of the two archery forms, Handbow and Crossbow. Currently there two divisions in the Crossbow Form, Open and Period, and four divisions in the Handbow form Open, Longbow, Period, and Junior.
    DRAW:The process of pulling the bowstring into a firing position.
    DRAW WEIGHT:For a bow, the amount of force built up when the bow is drawn to its specified draw length. This is typically measured in pounds at 28 inches.
    END:A designated number of arrows shot by an archer during his/her turn. Refers to a set of six arrows, unless otherwise stated.
    FIELD OF FIRE:The area in front of the archers that arrows fly through or land in.
    FIRING LINE:The designated line that participants use to fire from. It must be straddled when shooting.
    FLETCH:The feathers at the rear of the arrow, used to stabilize the arrow during flight.
    FORM:The major divisions of bowtypes recognized by this kingdom. Currently they are the Crossbow Form and the Handbow Form. These forms may be subdivided into Divisions.
    HOLD:A safety command that is called to bring an immediate stop to shooting. When a HOLD is called, all archers are to stop shooting and step back from the firing line immediately. If an archer has an arrow drawn when the HOLD is called, that archer must carefully back down the arrow, and return it to the quiver.
    KISSERS:A disk placed on the string that is used to determine if the bow is drawn correctly. It is so named because it usually touches the corner of the mouth when the bow is drawn.
    NOCK:The groove on the end of the arrow to keep it on the string when shooting.
    NOCK POINT:A plastic or brass ring placed on the string that is used to indicate the correct placement of the arrow.
    NOCK AN ARROW:The process of putting an arrow on the bowstring in order to draw and fire.
    POINT:The metal tip on the front of the arrow. Points come in different styles: target points, field points and broadheads (razor-sharp hunting points). For SCA purposes, only target and field points are allowed. Period style field points may be allowed with approval of the Range Marshall in Charge. Broadheads are never permitted under any circumstances.
    PROD:The bowlike device at the front of the crossbow.
    RISER:The part of the bow that is used as the handle. In more modern bows, it can be very large and elaborate to minimize hand shock when the arrow is released.
    ROUND:A designated number of ends shot in a competition.
    SCORER:A person who records an archer's score. Individual archers may not act as a scorer for themselves.
    SERVING:An over-wrap of string to protect the bow string at the ends and in the middle.
    SHELF:The lower part of the cutout portion of the bow. Arrows are shot off this shelf if the bow is not equipped with an arrow rest.
    SHOOTING AREA:The area around the range that includes the field of fire and the area behind and around the firing line.
    SLING:A loop of cord around the wrist and bow to keep the bow in the hand while shooting.
    SLOW ROUND:An SCA term for an end during which a fixed number of arrows, usually six, are shot. There may have a time limit to prevent the round from lasting too long.
    SPEED ROUND:An SCA term for an end which is timed, during which an unlimited number of arrows may be fired.
    SPINE WEIGHT:The stiffness of the arrow. A heavier bow uses a more rigid arrow that will flex less than one spined at a lighter weight.
    STABILIZER:Weights or rods placed on the bow that are designed to reduce the recoil and twist of the bow when firing.
    STRING WALKING:The practice of changing where on the string an arrow is nocked, to adjust for distance.
    TARGET BUTT:The backstop that the target face is placed upon.
    TARGET FACE:The scoring area of the target.