Archery term
Cant
What does Cant mean?
Cant is the side-to-side tilt of a bow away from vertical during the shot, as opposed to holding it plumb and upright. A small cant may be deliberate in some traditional styles, while in sighted shooting it is usually unintentional.
Primary source for this term: World Archery Coaching Manual: Archery Glossary (Updated 2015)
Why it matters
Because the sight or aiming reference sits above the arrow, tilting the bow shifts the point of impact to the side and changes elevation, so inconsistent cant spreads shots left and right. Keeping cant consistent, often vertical with the aid of a bubble level, helps maintain a predictable point of impact, especially at longer distances.
What to check
- Ask a coach to check bow alignment, posture, and sight picture.
- If the bow leans, identify when it happens before changing equipment.
- No sight product can diagnose or correct form on its own.