About Pole Archery
The difference between pole archery and traditional archery is that archers shoot at vertical targets rather than horizontal targets. In pole archery we use flat tipped arrows to shoot at artificial targets known as
“birds”. There are 37 birds mounted in 5 rows placed in metal pins, known as the “fork”. The fork sits on top of a pole that is a total of 110 feet in the air. The largest bird, known as the “King Bird” is placed at the very tip of the fork. Pole Archery is also known as Popinjay in Europe.
The fork is loaded with birds
The fork is loaded with birds
The fork is loaded with birds
The archer stands at the base of the
mast and shoots their arrow upwards at
the birds.
The fork is down
The fork is loaded with birds
The fork is loaded with birds
Points are scored for each of the birds that are knocked off by the archer, ranging from 1 point for single birds in the first three rows; 2 points for birds called “kullas” in the fourth row, and 3 points for birds called “sides” in the fifth row.
Archer’s stance taking aim
Archer’s stance taking aim
Archer’s stance taking aim
During the first shooting of the year, the first person to shoot the King Bird is known for the remaining season as the “King Shooter” and has the right to shoot first at all subsequent meets.
Archer’s stance taking aim
Archer’s stance taking aim
On the very tip of the fork is mounted the “King Bird” which is worth 4 points.
Getting ready for the next shot
Shootings take place every Wednesday evening during the summer, starting in late April and ending in early September. Each shooting lasts a few hours, with the winner being the archer that has accumulated the most points.
Please visit our Schedule Page for a complete list of shooting dates and competitions.
Photos by Dennis Swayze
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