US Archery Organizations

Each archery organization has its own style of archery, and some overlap. Learn about these Governing bodies in the US and the styles of archery they champion.

World Archery

World Archery is the global governing body for target and field archery, setting the standard for international competition. The most recognizable format is Olympic-style recurve archery, but World Archery also includes compound and barebow disciplines. 

Archers compete at varying distances, with precise scoring systems based on accuracy. This style emphasizes consistency, focus, and technique, with a strong emphasis on following strict rules and regulations. Expect a highly structured environment, with scoring based on tight groupings in target archery and precision in field archery.

USA Archery

As the national governing body in the United States, USA Archery oversees a variety of formats, including Olympic-style target archery and field archery. It’s the organization behind the U.S. Olympic Archery Team. 

USA Archery events are similar to World Archery but with more focus on national-level competition. Archers should be prepared for both indoor and outdoor settings, mastering different distances and facing a variety of weather conditions. Competitions are well-organized, with a strong emphasis on sportsmanship and skill development.

National Field Archery Association (NFAA)

The NFAA is known for its field archery competitions, which take place on outdoor courses designed to simulate hunting conditions. They also offer indoor events that focus on short-distance shooting. 

Field archery under the NFAA is diverse, with challenging courses that require shooting from different angles, distances, and sometimes on uneven terrain. Indoor events are more controlled, focusing on accuracy over shorter distances. Archers can expect a mix of technical challenges and the need for quick adaptability.

ASA Federation

The Archery Shooters Association (ASA) is primarily focused on 3D archery, where archers shoot at life-sized animal targets made of foam. This style emphasizes real-world bowhunting scenarios. 

ASA events combine known and unknown distance shooting, where archers must judge distances or use rangefinders, depending on their class. The scoring rings are smaller and placed on targets designed to mimic vital organs of animals, so archers must aim with both precision and hunting instincts. Expect a competitive atmosphere where quick decision-making and accuracy are key.

ASA Pro/Am

ASA Pro/Am events are high-stakes, professional-level 3D archery competitions. These events draw top-tier archers competing for significant prizes. 

Competing in ASA Pro/Am events is intense, with the need to perform under pressure and in front of large audiences. The courses are challenging, with varied terrains and distances. The atmosphere is highly competitive, and participants need to have their equipment finely tuned and their skills sharp.

IBO (International Bowhunting Organization)

IBO focuses on 3D archery, similar to ASA, but with a heavier emphasis on bowhunting traditions. It aims to mirror hunting scenarios as closely as possible. 

IBO events typically involve shooting at 3D animal targets placed at unmarked distances, requiring archers to estimate ranges. This adds an extra layer of difficulty, as successful shooting depends on both skill and experience. Archers will find a strong community feel, with an emphasis on traditional bowhunting values.

IBO Traditional

The IBO Traditional division caters specifically to archers using longbows and recurves without modern accessories. The focus is on maintaining the essence of traditional archery. 

Traditional archers in IBO events should be ready for the challenge of shooting at unmarked distances, often in natural settings. Expect to rely heavily on instinctive shooting techniques. The experience is often about connecting with the heritage of archery and competing in a way that honors its roots.

4-H Archery

4-H Archery is part of the 4-H Youth Development program, offering young archers the chance to develop their skills in a supportive environment. 

4-H Archery events are designed to be educational and fun, with a focus on building skills at a young age. Distances and challenges are scaled to match the abilities of the participants. Expect a community-oriented atmosphere where learning and participation are as important as competition.

NASP (National Archery in the Schools Program)

NASP is an in-school archery program aimed at introducing students to the sport in a safe and structured way. It uses standardized equipment and focuses on fundamental skills. 

NASP events are highly structured, with all participants using identical equipment, ensuring a level playing field. The focus is on building confidence, discipline, and basic archery skills. Students compete at close ranges, typically 10 to 15 meters, and can expect a supportive environment with an emphasis on personal improvement.

US Traditional Archery

US Traditional Archery focuses on shooting with longbows and recurves, often in a 3D setting. The style emphasizes simplicity and connection to archery’s traditional roots. 

In US Traditional Archery, archers shoot at 3D targets, usually at shorter distances, without the aid of modern technology like sights or stabilizers. The experience is about mastering the fundamentals of archery and honing instinctive shooting techniques. The environment is typically relaxed and community-oriented, with an appreciation for the historical aspects of the sport.