Archery is a fun skill to learn and can come in handy at different points in our life. However, to reap the full fruit of the practice, one must know the proper techniques and follow safety precautions.
Shooting a bow without an arrow is something that should be avoided. It is known as dry firing in the archery world and is a big red zone. The reason for this is that when a bow is shot, the energy from the bowstring passes into the air and carries the arrow forward. If no arrow is present to absorb that energy, it will return back to the bowstring and can potentially damage the bowstring. The energy also has the ability to hurt the archer.
So much energy is put into drawing the arrow and releasing it; when the energy is returned, it may hurt or injure the archer by traveling through the bowstring and back into the arm, stretching the string. This can cause muscle aches. These are the reasons why shooting a bow without an arrow is ill-advised.
If you want to learn more about the proper mechanics of a bow, read ahead.
How Is Energy Transmitted When An Arrow Is Shot?
There is energy that is stored in our arms when we stretch a bowstring. This is known as the draw weight. When an arrow is released, that draw weight is converted to kinetic energy, and the arrow moves forward due to the force of the kinetic energy. The force of the bowstring pulled backward is very strong; this is why you hear a slight thud sound when the arrow is released. This also causes slight vibrations in the bowstring and your arm.
What Happens If There Is No Bowstring To Absorb The Shock?
If there is no bowstring to absorb the shock, then there is nowhere the energy can go but back into the bow. The bow might not be able to withstand that kind of energy, and it can lead to a lot of damage.
Watch this video if you want to learn more:
This damage may include;
Damage To The Bow Structure
The strong force that the bow is hit with can loosen screws, damage the bowstring itself, and potentially send parts flying here and there. A bowstring might not be able to endure too many empty shots.
Injury To The Archer
Some of this force is likely to travel back and hit the archer as well. It can send shockwaves up their arm, which can potentially cause a lot of pain and might lead to muscle damage or even a tear. They might not be able to shoot an arrow for some time.
What To Do After A Dry Fire
If a bow has been dry-fired, it is best not to fire it again until you have taken it to a repair shape and have had it checked.
In Conclusion
Dry firing a bow (shooting it without an arrow) is dangerous for the bow itself and the archer. Try your best to avoid the situation, but if it happens, it is advised to ensure that your bow is working correctly before firing it again.
