You can't just walk in to a store pick up a bow, pay, and walk out. Buying a bow is like buying a new pair of shoes. It has to fit you. This insures no extra variables in a shot. When you go to get your bow they will probably give you a bow with a draw weight of around 25 to30 pounds. They have a arrow that is about 35 inches in length with markings that tell them how long your draw length is. Then you need to find an anchor point. This is the place that you draw to everytime. They may have you hold the string with 2 fingers, draw it back, and then bend your finger at the joint, and place it on the inside of your cheek. You may have a different anchor point so it is up to you to tell the person what feels comfortable and what doesn't.

If you see a bow you like and they don't have your size. Don't go ahead and get it anyway. look around and you may find something else or contact the manufacturer of the bow.

You need to find how much you can pull back. Don't get a bow that you have to strain to pull back. People won't think you are a dork if you can only pull back a little amount of weight. But they will think you are a dork if you have to eat a can of spinach before each shot. So be careful. Remember some bow dealers (not al), but some, will try to sell you anything, so ask around and go to the dealer with the best reputation.

Arrows. Next you need to select arrows. The dealer is a big help in doing this. They have an arrow chart at the store that tells them what arrow is best for the type of bow you are shooting. This insures accuracy and true flight of you arrows each time.

Hitting the target. Ok so you have your brand spanking new bow. You have your arrows. You have took the time to screw in field points on the tip of all the arrows. Now you have to hit the target.

First grip the bow with your left hand--assuming that you are right handed. Next nock an arrow and make sure that the odd colored feather is facing out from the arrow rest. grip the arrow with 3 fingers. (or snap on your release if that is what you are using) draw the sting back, keeping your bow arm stiff. Aim and release. Oops you missed. That is ok It takes practice.