Total Archery Challenge: prepare your bow and gear

How a TAC course is set up

TAC describes its general shoot as noncompetitive fun, with optional pay-to-play competitions; its current FAQ calls the Broken Arrow Tour its only competitive shoot^[1]. Course distances vary by event: TAC says its courses can range from 20 to 120 yards; check the specific event page for available courses^[1]. For target type, TAC says it uses primarily Rinehart targets^[1]. Check the TAC FAQ and the event page for local details.

Read the event rules first

Read the TAC FAQ and the page for your event before you travel. The organizer publishes current rules and course details there.

• Broadheads are not allowed on TAC courses^[1].
• Rangefinders are allowed on any part of the TAC shoot, including competitions^[1].
• A crossbow is allowed only for a shooter who cannot use a compound or traditional bow, and not on novelty shots, 3D popups or competitions^[1].
• A shooter may move closer than the stake as long as the marker stays in sight^[1].
• TAC says shooters may use the warm-up range when the event is open^[1].

Rangefinding and angle checks

Rangefinder displays vary by model and selected mode. Read the manual for that unit, then confirm the sight setting at known distances with your bow and arrows. The sight setup guide covers tape and angle checks.

Stock counts and prices reflect the catalog data used when this page was built. They can change. Check each product listing for current details.

A movable slider sight

A movable sight changes the aiming reference for a selected distance. Compare the exact head, pin arrangement, mount and adjustment instructions. Point Blank lists the HHA Optimizer Lite X 5519 .019 RH as one movable setup. The sight setup guide compares more configurations and setup checks.

Compare movable sight layouts

Pin count alone does not establish a usable distance. Point Blank lists the Axcel Driver Plus one-pin slider and the Axcel Driver with a three-pin AccuStat II scope. Spot-Hogg lists distinct Fast Eddie XL single-pin and double-pin models; Point Blank also lists this Fast Eddie XL double-pin .010 RH. The Point Blank listings are catalog examples, not TAC rules or organizer endorsements. Compare the setup you can operate, then verify that setup with your own arrows at known distances.

Arrow selection and inspection

Use field points for TAC. Select a shaft from the manufacturer spine chart using measured peak draw weight, the arrow length that chart defines, and the full point, insert, collar or outsert stack. Added front mass increases finished arrow mass, shifts balance forward and can weaken dynamic spine in a compound bow, changing tune or the sight marks. Measure FOC as a description of the finished arrow; no FOC value alone guarantees accuracy, forgiveness, speed or wind performance. See the arrow setup guide for event-focused checks and browse shafts in the arrow catalog. The Gold Tip selector applies to Gold Tip shafts; use the relevant manufacturer chart to select spine. For paid custom-arrow assembly with parts you have chosen, submit a request through the arrow builder. Before sending a Shopify invoice, staff confirm the requested parts and compatibility.

Practice at known distances

Use a suitable full-form 3D target, safe backstop and known distances during setup. Confirm distance before shooting and follow range rules. For preparation ideas, see the Archery Sarasota TAC setup page, which covers bow tuning, tape setup, 3D practice, ranging, angle compensation and shot process. Sarasota Archery Academy LLC does business as Point Blank Archery.

Optional day-of gear

Water, food, weather protection, navigation and familiar repair items can help with a day outdoors. The TAC checklist has packing ideas alongside the event rules. The Lancaster Archery Supply TAC gear guide is another packing reference. The organizer's FAQ and the individual event page provide the current rules and details.

Event dates and registration

Check the TAC events page for announcements. Use the individual event page for dates, venue and registration once published.