Objective and subjective measurements of the influence of dampers on the shooting experience of barebow archers

Abstract

The barebow archery shooting style previously limited the stabilisation system to weights connected to the riser, which is the central part of the bow, but recently the use of damping devices has been allowed. No scientific study is available to evaluate the effect of damping on the archers’ shooting experience. A human-centred methodology was developed to address this problem. Objective metrics (measurable quantities) and subjective metrics (archers’ sensations using the equipment) were defined. These metrics were correlated to obtain a deeper understanding of the problem. Fifty-one weight configurations were tested for mechanical vibrations and sound of the bow on shooting. The mechanical vibration was measured at five positions on the bow. Fifteen configurations were selected and tested by eight archers to evaluate the subjective metrics. The results show that dedicated vibration-damping devices are capable of significantly reducing the mechanical vibrations and the intensity and pitch of the sound of the bow on shooting. A strong correlation exists between reduced vibrations, lower intensity and pitch* of the sound of the bow and the quality of the shooting experience. The methodology used in this work was successful in fostering an understanding of the relationship between objective and subjective metrics on shooting. The results of this analysis could be used to improve existing designs or create new products for archery.