3D Archery (Three-Dimensional Archery) is a popular form of archery often practiced by hunters. The difference between 3D Archery and Field Archery is that 3D Archery focuses on shooting at life-size models.

Archers compete at shooting arrows at a target placed on life-size models of popular game animals. Each target has an assigned number of points based on size and difficulty in hitting it. The archer that accumulates the highest point total is the winner.

The goal of 3D Archery is to hit the rings on a target, placed on game models.

Archers take aim at a target featuring four rings. These rings are called the 8, 10, 12 and 14 rings, after their respective point values. Three of these rings, the 8, 10 and 12, are used in Archery Shooters Association (ASA) competitions. The fourth, the 14, isn�t often used, and can only count if the archer calls it before shooting. If an arrow lands on the target, but outside of the rings, five points are awarded. If an arrow misses the target altogether, no points are awarded.

Archery, dating back to the Paleolithic era, was/is practiced by many cultures throughout the world. As civilization progressed, archery evolved from a method of hunting animals into a useful tool of warfare. When guns became prevalent in the early 17th century the practice of archery became nearly nonexistent, only being used by societies where guns weren�t yet available. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries archery was revived as a sporting venture in Europe and North America. 3D Archery was created in North America in the 1950�s, by hunters that desired more realistic ways to hone their skills. Life-sized models, placed at unmarked distances were the answer. Today, 3D Archery is a popular sport practiced by archers around the world.

Arrow(s) (affixed with field tips)
Bow
Game Models

Archers must always be conscious of their surroundings, due to the dangerous nature of shooting arrows. Additionally, broadheads, which are arrow tips used for hunting, should be avoided due to the damage they inflict on the foam models.

3D Archery requires knowledge of basic archery maneuvers, including the ability to accurately estimate distances.

Arrow - a sharpened shaft, shot from a bow

Bow - curved stick whose ends are joined by a taught cord, used for projecting arrows

Field Tips - smooth arrowheads used for practice or target shooting

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archery#3D_Archery