A round in archery is simply defined as a set number of arrows to be shot at a specified distance or distances. The round also specifies the size and type of target face to be used.
For target archery, the rounds are broadly broken down into two categories:
- Imperial: the distances are measured in yards. The longest imperial distance shot is 100 yards.
- Metric: the distances are measured in metres. The longest metric distance shot is 90 metres.
There are a wide range of recognised rounds to suit all archers, which can be shot for both practice and competitions.
A round is separated into ‘ends’. In each ‘end’, an archer shoots 3, 5 or 6 arrows depending on the type of round being shot. After each end, the archers walk to their targets, note down the scores and retrieve their arrows.
Scoring
A standard target face has 5 coloured zones. From the centre moving outwards they are gold, red, blue, black and white. Metric and Imperial rounds each use slightly different scoring.
When calling your scores to the target captain, you should do so in groups of three, for example “7 – 7 – 5” pause “5 – 5 – 3” starting with the highest scoring arrow and ending with the lowest. If you have a miss, just say “miss” and this will be recorded as ‘M’ on the score sheet.
Before and during the scoring, absolutely no one is allowed to touch the arrows. When conflicts arise in the scoring, a judge is called upon for a decision on the value of the arrow.