The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) has transformed the way students engage with competitive sports. By focusing on discipline, focus, and safety, it has become one of the most popular school-based programs across the country. Whether you are a student starting your first season or a parent looking to support a young archer, finding the right equipment is the first step toward success.
Using official gear is not just about brand loyalty; it is a requirement for participation in most tournaments and school practices. The program relies on standardized equipment to ensure that every student competes on a level playing field. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting, purchasing, and maintaining official archery gear.
Why Official NASP Gear is Required
The core philosophy of NASP is that every student should have the same equipment. This removes the advantage of expensive technology and puts the focus entirely on the athlete’s skill and concentration. When everyone uses the same bow and arrows, the winner is determined by technique rather than the size of their budget.
Safety is another primary reason for standardized gear. The equipment approved for use in the program has been rigorously tested to ensure it is safe for use in a gymnasium or outdoor school setting. Using unapproved gear can lead to disqualification from events and may pose safety risks to the archer and those around them.
The Essential NASP Bow: The Genesis Original
The centerpiece of the program is the Genesis Original bow. This is the only bow allowed for use in NASP competitions. It is uniquely designed to fit almost every student, regardless of their size or strength. Unlike traditional compound bows, the Genesis Original does not have a specific “draw length,” meaning a small child and a tall adult can use the exact same bow without making any mechanical adjustments.
Key Features of the Genesis Bow
Understanding what makes this bow special can help you appreciate why it is the gold standard for school archery. Here are the main features of the official bow:
- No Let-Off: Most compound bows have a “let-off” point where the weight drops, but the Genesis maintains consistent tension, which helps students develop proper muscle memory.
- Adjustable Draw Weight: The bow can be adjusted from 10 to 20 pounds of pull, making it accessible for beginners while still being powerful enough for competitive shooting.
- Durability: Built with a machined aluminum riser and sturdy limbs, these bows are designed to withstand heavy use in a school environment.
Choosing a Color and Style
While the mechanics of the bow are standardized, the aesthetics are not. Official bows come in a wide variety of colors, from classic black and blue to vibrant neon shades and camouflage patterns. Choosing a unique color can help a student easily identify their bow on a crowded equipment rack during a tournament.
Official NASP Arrows and Targets
Just as the bow is standardized, so are the arrows. To maintain fairness, all participants must use the Easton 1816 aluminum arrow. These arrows are specifically designed to work perfectly with the Genesis bow. They are durable, straight, and safe for indoor use.
Arrow Specifications
When purchasing arrows, look for the following specifications to ensure they are tournament-legal:
- Material: 7075-grade aluminum.
- Size: 1816 (this refers to the diameter and wall thickness).
- Nocks and Fletching: These should be official replacements to ensure the flight path remains consistent with the rest of the team.
Targets and Backstops
If you are practicing at home, you will need a target that can handle the impact of aluminum arrows without damaging them. Official targets are usually 80cm in diameter and feature the standard multi-colored rings. High-density foam targets are the preferred choice because they allow for easy arrow removal and last for thousands of shots.
Essential Accessories for Every Archer
Beyond the bow and arrows, there are several accessories that make the shooting experience more comfortable and safe. While some of these are optional, most experienced archers consider them essential for long practice sessions.
Arm Guards
An arm guard is a piece of protective gear worn on the inside of the forearm. It prevents the bowstring from hitting the skin upon release. For beginners, this is a vital tool that prevents bruising and helps build confidence without the fear of a “string slap.”
Finger Tabs and Gloves
Repeatedly pulling a bowstring can be hard on the fingers. A leather finger tab or a reinforced archery glove provides a smooth surface for the string to slide off, which improves accuracy and protects the skin from irritation.
Quivers
A quiver is used to hold arrows while the archer is on the shooting line. For school programs, floor quivers are most common. These are simple tubes that sit on the ground, keeping the arrows upright and easily accessible. Some archers prefer hip quivers, which clip onto a belt and allow for easier transport between stations.
Official Apparel and Branded Merchandise
Part of the excitement of joining a program is representing your team. Official branded merchandise goes beyond the equipment and includes apparel that students can wear to school or competitions. This often includes:
- Performance Jerseys: Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts designed for comfort during long tournament days.
- Hoodies and T-Shirts: Casual wear featuring the program logo, perfect for showing pride in the sport.
- Equipment Bags: Padded cases designed specifically to fit the Genesis bow and a tube of arrows, keeping everything protected during travel.
- Hats and Accessories: Branded caps and gear bags help keep an archer’s kit organized and professional-looking.
Where to Purchase Reliable Gear
When you are ready to buy, it is important to shop through reputable channels to ensure you are getting genuine equipment. Many local sporting goods stores carry the Genesis bow, but they may not always have the NASP-specific arrow sets or official accessories.
Many families choose to purchase directly through their school’s program, as coaches often have access to bulk pricing or specific equipment packages. Additionally, there are several online retailers that specialize in archery and offer dedicated sections for school-approved gear. Always verify that the product description explicitly mentions it is approved for use in the National Archery in the Schools Program.
Maintaining Your Equipment
Once you have invested in quality gear, proper maintenance will ensure it lasts for many years. Archery equipment is durable, but it is not indestructible. Simple routines can keep your bow and arrows in top shape.
Wax the String: Regularly applying bowstring wax prevents the fibers from fraying and protects them from moisture. This should be done whenever the string starts to look “fuzzy.”
Check for Straightness: Aluminum arrows can bend if they hit a hard surface or are pulled incorrectly from a target. Regularly roll your arrows on a flat surface to check for wobbles. A bent arrow will not fly straight and should be retired or repaired.
Inspect the Limbs: Occasionally check the limbs of the bow for any cracks or delamination. While rare with the Genesis bow, it is a critical safety check that should be performed before every practice.
Finding Success on the Range
Having the right gear is a major part of the journey, but the most important element is the practice and dedication the archer brings to the range. By using official equipment, you are ensuring that your training translates directly to the competition environment. This consistency builds the confidence needed to hit the bullseye when the pressure is on.
If you are looking for more ways to improve your skills or find local events, there are many resources available to help you navigate the world of school archery. Exploring instructional guides and staying updated on tournament rules will help you get the most out of your equipment and your experience in the program.