Stickbow Target Archery Forums

For those in the know is there any rules precluding the dropping of a finger in this style for the longbow class? Either dropping the top finger (probably not allowed) or dropping the ring finger? The later I would think would be allowed as some shooters kind of drop off that ring finger any way, but for the sake of argument here I am asking about a purposeful drop and folding under of the ring finger.

The only applicable rule on finger position under the longbow class is:

"An archer shall touch the arrow when nocked, with the index finger
against the nock. Finger position may not be changed during competition.
In cases of physical deformity or handicap, special
dispensation shall be made."

And I'm pretty sure the part about finger position applies only to prevent face walking. Which is why it says "during competition" and not "during the shot".

Todd did the IFAA change the rule requiring a split release to allow for 3 under?

Oops, my bad....that was a quote from the old rules (2005-2006 I think).
The latest does appear to be changed to simply state:

"The bow must be shot with the "Mediterranean" loose. In cases of physical
deformity or handicap special dispensation shall be made."

So I guess they need to define Mediterranean loose. The National Field Archery Society defines it as "one finger above and the middle and ring fingers below the arrow-nock."

But that doesn't say the fingers below the nock have to be on the string

And when you release the string, all your fingers don't leave at the exact same time, so maybe dropping your ring finger is just part of a very slow release sequence.

Also...I guess that face walking is now allowed in the longbow class since there is no wording that would prevent it.