I lost my love for archery for the last twelve months. I was ok but not good and I was chasing rabbit holes to get better but I was getting worse. You sir are dead right because deep down I know I wasn’t getting better because I wasn’t practicing enough. Thank you.
If you can't respect his knowledge, if you can't respect his desire to teach, his desire to share, if you can't respect his success, if you can't learn to be a better archer from the JD you are just "freakin'" jealous. The man is just a plethora of archery knowledge that he chooses to continually give us. Thank you John for caring so much about the entire industry as a whole. You rock! 🤘🏻
I am so glad you said what you did! There are so many misleading people on TH-cam trying to people how to do. You are by far the best archery coach and the most informative that I have watched!! Thanks for all you do!!🎯
Thank you for this post. I have found myself starting to go down that rabbit hole the past couple of years, and have recently began questioning this same thing. It’s nice to hear this from an accomplished shooter such as yourself. Thank you
I agree. I also agree that there are too many people hunting that don’t make damn sure that their broadheads fly straight. Technique first, and do reps. And then don’t go into the woods until you’ve done the tuning necessary to not wound animals. There are people out there that want to ban bowhunting because of the wound rate and we don’t do ourselves any favors. Time to fix that.
Dud, I’ve been with you since you were in the dungeon on the podcast with shades , and a cup of brcc brew. And your jug of water with your preferred supplements from onnit. I’ve learned every single little thing I know about this sport and life style because of you . I feel for you when you have to sit back and watch all of these people make a fortune promoting products for the sake of just that and making a dime . You did it , have done it , and are still doing it for the sake of ARCHERY ! I have so much respect for you and what you do for the veterans , the newbies , and even the people who question the material and content you give out and you have gave out for FREE ! The products you have endorsed for many many many years are still of the very best and you never leave where you came from . I respect the hell out of you as a person , hunter , and an overall bad ass archer ! I’m a fan boy to say the least , but you have brought me and my whole family into this addiction known as archery lol whether it be killing foam or food ! It’s the best addiction in my opinion, one can have . I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for providing me and my friends and family whom love this thing called archery with sooooo much knowledge and life experience! You have truly changed the game in terms of what it means to be an archer and not just a hunter . I can’t watch any of these other you tubers describe how to do a single thing without first referring to your videos and articles. I actually criticize other content makers based off of content that you have willingly shared and gave to all of us because you are simply a god in the archery world . I now think of myself as a well educated archer because of you and all of your stories and life experiences that you have shared with so many people ! I am honestly a nock on nation member for life . I thank you from the bottom of my heart for getting me into archery and all the joy that it brings me , my friends , and family ! You’re a great person above everything ! Thanks man ! Maybe one day you can sign a nock on ball cap for my son or something . Make both of us the happiest archers alive lol
Straight up honest, caring man right there who loves archery AND archery people. You've got a newly acquired fan and follower here, sir. I've shot bows since I was 9 years old (57 yrs old now), and I've seen great archers and seen those who could shoot, but into themselves way too much. You are among the greats, sir. Not just because you're great with a bow, but because you share your knowledge and passion with everyone around you, and you really take time with people. You yruly, truly care, and hat's what legends are made of. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you, for being in our sport and lifestyle.
I was put shooting this morning, just focusing on being relaxed at full draw and consistent release. Shot about 30 arrows and called it. Felt great! Thanks for always having great insight and tips. Helps immensely!
John 💪🏼 All I can say is that John is 1000% correct. I started shooting again after 20 years and I was struggling. I then started watching all of John’s videos and instructions from the very beginner set up and it drastically changed everything for me in a short period of time. I learned more after season 1 of School of Nock than I ever knew before I stopped shooting and since starting again. I decided to forget everything g I thought I knew and start completely over. I bought a Silver Back release, started with the nock on release and drilled for 2 weeks before I picked my bow back up. When I did, I drilled the same mechanics from 7 yards in my basement with a black block no target for another 2 weeks. No less than 100 reps per day in that month and upwards of 300 per day on the weekend. In a months time I was better and more consistent than I ever was. I still do all the same drills on rest days and focus on my mechanics and shot process diligently every shot. I appreciate all your guidance John, that’s why I spend all my my money in your shop 😂
Picked up archery at 33 with nothing more than learning from John Dudley. I am 37 now and all my progress is credited to these videos and practice. What a great sport thanks for sharing your expertise.
I've watched a lot of your videos and their all helpful. I use to punch a thumb button and shot poorly in a shootdown one day. Went home determined to learn to pull until shot fired. Three years later I shoot better, enjoy archery more and have you to thank. By the way, you were in a special place emotionally in this video and shared your heart passionately. Great stuff. Best wishes!
I have been on my archery journey for about 6 years now. When I enjoy something I go all in. I try to learn everything about it. I have bought the equipment to do all my own work. In this journey I have listened to endless podcast and watched countless TH-cam videos from different people. One thing I notice is everyone wants to grow archery, but in there next breath starts bashing other archers or other methods. The one thing that keeps bringing me back to John, is his love for growing the sport, willingness to help, and doesn’t bash other products and methods. Thank you John for all the time you have given and countless hours sacrificed, helping people learn how to be better.
All the amazing things you do for the community aside (plus being an amazing person) THIS, THIS is why you're the man. Obviously you sell products, but you're one of the few not putting out a post every other week telling people to change their setup, just to earn influencer commission. Thank you so much Duds, and it was such a blast to finally get to chat at TAC CO this year (on my 4th year) .. also thanks for the Deeeelicious cookout!
As always John you never stop to amaze. Thanks for your hard work to make archery community of today's world better than ever. In this video, your skill got humbled by your sincere feelings to prove that practice makes perfect! Great job!
John, I stood there Saturday when you took a minute to talk about practicing instead of going into rabbit holes of arrow building and such... I have spent the past 20 years running an archery shop in N. Utah and a decade as a USA Archery L2/3 certified coach. I am EXTREMELY grateful for this video. I cannot tell you how many times EVERY DAY that I have to ask people to take a step back from their minutia of bare shaft paper and distance shooting, nock tuning, spinning arrows, degrees of fletching, etc, etc... and consider for 2 minutes getting some coaching on form and spending that time shooting and practicing GOOD TECHNIQUES. Thank you. It was good to see you. If you don't remember who I am, I "smoked" your sticker at the top of the lift 4 seasons ago, I rode the tram down with you two years ago, and I am the one who moved all your coolers and was crawling around in the dirt looking for the pendant Isaac had thought he lost.
I'm so glad to hear you say this. I am about 5 years into a bowhunting journey. I'm 44. I love this style of hunting. I am still shooting a cheap beginner bow and basic arrows. I'm looking to move into a bow that shoots a little more consistently and is much quieter than mine. I get so caught up in research on arrows, vanes, releases, strings, etc. What I'd like to do is buy a good bow, and get a good basic setup to finish my own arrows so I can just keep going and focus on practice. Trying to perfect my system and release. I'm extending my home range. I shoot a 5 pin right now. I'd like an adjustable sight, but I hunt tight eastern woods from a saddle. I feel like my old trusty 5 pin is a little more durable and reliable. Thank you for this advice.
Thanks JD for a very passionate topic. I’m in 100% agreement with you. Get your bow set up and tuned and then HIT THE RANGE and launch some sticks! Just like golf…get your clubs fitted to your swing and then hit the range!
I come from the firearms shooting world and am newer to archery. And when I used to instruct it's the same thing. Most modern firearms can outshoot a human any day. Buying new gear, worrying about tiny load differences won't matter if you don't have the reps and your form isn't dialed in. Good talk and thanks from everyone.
Thanks Dud. Saw you at TAC PA and this is what I needed to hear. I've been shooting a bow for about 20 years, but only got serious about it this past winter. I've fallen into the trap of chasing all these new things I'm encountering (releases, fletching, helical, etc) and it's been a bit overwhelming. My commitment from now until the end of this deer season is to not change anything and JUST work on my form.
Dudley thank you for putting this out! I am a new archer and it's been really easy to pay attention to the bow and my arrows, opposed to being focused about just grouping. This is huge for me and honestly encouraging, thanks again!
You are still the man!!! It is SO refreshing to hear common sense! I’ve seen so many talented archers fall by the wayside because the get swallowed up by minutiae! Like you say, practice, practice, practice!!! Thank you!
Archery talk is for people that have to much time to sit in front of a computer and think they have figured out a magical code that breaks the archery wisdom of all the guys we watch on tv shooting in Olympics to hunting. They worried about everyone thinking they know it all. Truth is in this video. Good practice makes perfect. Reps bring out imperfections. Great job Mr. Dudley.
Been following since I started shooting with my bow about 2 years ago. Your School Of Nock and all your videos have helped me a lot. Thank you for this videos, you always make me wanna shoot my bow more everyday..
This was probably the most honest video you’ll see from anybody across any industry or sport. There’s a ton of top tier compound bows out there and they all have similar tech and are always advancing and competing to win customers over. It comes down to personal preference. At the end of the day your goal is to harvest game and they all do that with the same capabilities, just comes down to which product you prefer and are most comfortable with, they all do the same thing.
Most important video i've watched this year. My bow is in my bow vice since last year and i've been trying to tune it way more than shooting it. I will admit that I tend to chase material perfection before having the skills to make use of it. I'm going to switch that asap. Thanks for opening my eyes!
I have been watching you for years now and learning from your videos. I greatly appreciate everything you teach and offer, you are the man. I come across people who are just getting into shooting and they usually ask me how I learned, I tell them to watch your videos.
Thank you for this Dud this is exactly what I needed. Lately been feeling like I’ve gone to far down the rabbit hole and started focusing on and stressing about things that don’t matter instead of just gripping it and ripping it. Nock on brother and God bless you for your guidance.
Thank you for your knowledge and all your experience. I appreciate all your tips and tricks and life experiences with the community to keep bow hunting alive. I like talking but mostly listening to older more experienced people that have been there and done that in whatever i am trying to learn at any given time. Thank you for taking the time and all your videos that have helped me personally
Best video I have seen in awhile, I am your same age started at a really young age. Really learned by making all the mistakes by 21 or so. I've killed with almost every brand on the market browning to xpedition. 300 grains to 600+ grains. None of the details matter if you don't have good form, solid anchor, and beat target panic. All of this is corrected with deliberate practice.
Great video dud! In my opinion the 3 main factors that helped me shoot tighter groups were #1: proper bow fit #2 learning how to properly execute a controlled shot and #3 hand loading arrows. The top 3 things that helped me increase my accuracy was #1 proper form #2 learning how to read a shot #3 reps reps reps. Now this is assuming the bow is tuned and the arrow is flying perfectly.
Well said John! This has me thinking that you've had some interesting conversations when at TACs this year. You've done so much to grow the sport, thank you sir!
Great info, John. There are a lot of products out there to “better” our groupings, and new shooters (as wells as veteran shooters) can get caught up in the hype of advertisements. Practice doesn’t make perfect; but perfect practice does. This video is a good reminder.
Good to have met you last weekend Dud. So glad you posted this. My buddies are always trying to “black magic” their setups. I keep saying to forget the BS and practice. Myself included.
Finally an honest video about archery. Some of the videos coming out have archers that can't even hit a tree from 20 yards but they are giving other people advice. The realest thing you said was that you could hit that grouping with prettty much any bow, string or arrow styling. To me that's honest cause once using a bow becomes a reflex of your body, you can shoot anything. I'll switch from a compound bow to a recurve in the middle of a set and still hit the same grouping.
Thanks for a great video reminding us mastery can only come from practice practice practice... I smiled at the very casual mention of "having a bow that can shoot a bullet-hole". Having the bow properly set up, and even more importantly having the arrows weigh and flex the same is the starting point - and right there is the entrance to the rabbit hole :) However, as a multiple Australian Junior Champion who now owns an archery shop said "Even a cheap bow will group well all day provided the arrows are matched". So once the equipment is matched, it's ALL about a repeatable, good technique shot sequence which only comes from practice practice practice... (and a 70lb draw with perfect arrows doesn't hurt ;))
Thanks for the no bs talk. I bought my fist bow 3 months ago Pse unite and arrows prefleched from you and all other things from your website. That way as I started this journey I could just avoid going down all those rabbit holes. I knew it would make my brain confident that it was me and not my equipment. That good reps and execution would deliver groups not changing my gear. With this mindset I’m now 3 months in able to softball group at 60 and able to basketball group at 100. I’m elated to say the least. I can’t wait to go down all the rabbit holes for fun. But I agree if you can’t group with todays great equipment you’re wasting time chasing your tail.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I’m fairly new to a more serious level of archery and since joining all these groups on social media I have been peaking down this rabbit hole of extreme tuning. This has me feeling like this is what I need to do to be a good archer and I’ve been worrying how I’m going to do all this stuff and or will my bow shop go that extreme. Now I can relax and just practice. Obviously I’m going to get my bow tuned but not to the extreme I thought I’d have to. Appreciate you!
I have a bow shop and 2nd this! Daily I have people either reach out or stop by wanting me to re-tune because they changed arrows or point weight drastically. 9/10 say they it’s something they saw on TH-cam. So glad you posted because it’s gotten crazy! It would be nice to change strings and cables more often because people are actually shooting their bows but that’s not the case. Way to go Dud 💪🏼
I don’t know you but you seem like a great guy. I’ve been shooting cense I was a kid off and on, I started with a rolled up tape corner as my peep. The technology is so much better today, much of which we probably all owe to you. I love my time in the yard getting in reps, it’s stress relieving and personally helps me find focus. Thank you for helping us all through out the years.
Thank you for the video. Just picked up a bow this year, after talking a few years off. I was following all the internet tough guys down the rabbit holes of nuanced details when I couldn't even group. I had severe target panic and it wasn't fun. Found you and Chris Bees videos this past spring and it gave me the motivation to get back into it. Loving it so far, made it to Utah TAC and had a blast. Taking shots at distances that 5 years ago were impossible. Hoping to make 2 TAC for 2024 and just keep shooting until then.
Dudley is one of the coolest people in the industry and i have a ton of respect for him. I am glad his is honest about shooting other brands. Respect bro✌🏼
I'm with ya! this is my second season bowhunting, and i harvested deer with a budget bow i bought used, budget gear, and none of that ridiculous tuning stuff. i just practice as much as i can, and pick up info and techniques from your channel. part of me wishes i could afford to buy a flagship bow and sitka gear etc, but i guarantee none of that will make the meat taste better.
Why I listen intently to JD. Genuine real deal dude. I try to tell newer guys this all the time, and live the same mantra, Shoot your bow, and then shoot it some more. Thank you sir, plain facts
I've been shooting solid for 18 years and totally understand what you are saying, I didn't really go down the arrow rabbit hole. I keep going back to where the ancient ones came from. They had to be good or they wouldn't survive, bone ,wood and sinew were their only brand of archery products. BTW you taught me a lot of good solid archery form and posture. Now if I can just get my stupid brain to cooperate with what Joel Turner has been preaching. God Bless Dud!!
Great points: honestly you are the first person to come out and debunk the left or right helical theories. I have used and stuck with a left helical since I first learned what that was about. The most important thing that I have learned is to keep my bows tuned and practice anyhow anyway. I must say that for the most part I am very satisfied with my performance, maybe not allows but for the most part yes. I enjoy putting good shots down range and just enjoy being outdoors with my friends.
Well said Brotha……all too often I see these archers spending too much time tinkering with their equipment, and NOT putting enough reps in their range time. I always tell my students……it’s not how much you spend on high dollar equipment, or how much you tweak to get that elusive high score……its range time, conditioning, and form discipline. Your bow isn’t gonna shoot itself to get you victories. It’s WORK 😎🏹🏹🏹👍Thanks for sharing John 👍I referred my students to your content to put my point across to them 👍
100%. Right. Putting in the time and work just shooting is the most forgotten part. Even me I want to shoot bullseye and for get that 5 in group is still a great group and dead deer. Keep it up and keep making videos
I was seriously confused until the end. I thought you were suggesting shooting RW and LW on the same arrow. Glad you clarified and I got the point - practice, practice, practice.
This is absolutely 100% truth. I've shot since 1995. I started shooting competitions in 1996 and went to the MBO class in 1998. I was lucky enough to hang out with Darla Owens in 2002 at the 3rd leg IBO in Nelsonville. She told me exactly what you're saying, and I've done it ever since. I miss competitions, but the kiddos come 1st now. Keep up the good work John.
Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and wisdom. At 76, I still shoot every day just for enjoyment and relaxation. Your videos are full of great tips and instructions. You are a legend for this sport, your dedication is truly amazing.
One of the best videos you’ve ever done. I’ve wasted a lot of time myself testing all this crap and it’s more about form and shot execution than anything else
Thank you, I have been using a fixed 5 and 7 pin sites for a long time, shortest stabilizers can, 2-3 % offset right helical for years no problems. You said it company's and etc are pushing really hard to sell products you do not really need. Good friend, archery shop owner taught me so much of archery. For hunting in all honesty do you need 30" stabilizer bottom counter weight stabilizer, slider site. For competition to each there own, we'll that's what everyone else is using.My archery shop owner friend more than once, KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID I have not forgot those words.
Thank you for this video and for all of the training and direction you have given to all of us. I love both the art and science of archery, And your videos enhance both. Thanks again!
That was the best, indiscriminating, just facts video I’ve seen in a long time. I’ve been hunting for 20 years and last year I went down the rabbit hole. Took me from May till September to get my bow shooting a 600gn 17% FOC arrow correctly. Don’t get me wrong, it was a clean pass through on every animal I shot but the time and effort of changing every little thing on my bow. Exhausting and frustrating.
At 2023 TAC, I watched Dudley borrow two different shooters bows, and drop arrows dead on at the 110ish yard sasquatch target. That was a real-life example of practice over setup. To see him take a bow setup for somebody else, fire a single sighter shot, adjust his hold/sight as neccesary, and make a hit that everybody on the line was trying their best to make-that was truly impressive.
I've got identical arrows fletched left and right. I keep looking for which ones shoot better, I can never tell the difference. This video is a huge qualifier for me! I'm so glad to know it's not just me.
Yep, you just said pretty much the exact same that was told me over 20 yrs ago when I received my first bow (used), given to me by a guy who shot professionally for major manufacturer. "The bow doesn't make the archer look good, the archer makes the bow look good." He gave me some pointers to apply that I still use. Like you said, work on you as an archer, the rest is only fine tuning. 👍
Not sure why I haven't before, seeing as how I've heard Joe Rogan say your name 1000 times and listened to your podcasts...but now I'm subscribed. That's just pure, clean and absolutely true advice. I need to follow it.
My apologies if I ever doubt it you man, you seem honest and I applaud that. Your the man, I can only imagine how pleasant would be to shoot with you not to mention all the information from your experience. 👌👌👌
Nothing will make you a better archer except for practice! The newest baddest equipment will not make you better. It's being comfortable and knowing your setup. Just find what works for you! Keep it up Mr Dudley 🤘🏻
Best to do it. Thank you John for the never ending phenomenal advice. I swear more and more people just enjoy complaining so they out themselves in a situation to find more to complain about instead of just enjoying the hobby/sport we all love.
Exactly Right John ! 99.9% of guys shooting bows, can't shoot good enough to notice the difference in left helical or right helical, etc.. The only thing I have noticed over 50 years of strictly Bow Hunting , is that feather fletching is more forgiving than any plastic vanes. Just from my experience.
Thank you so much for posting this video, I've been killing myself trying to over think all the things and trying to micro group, thinking its not enough, and at the end it's just get out there and practice, practice, practice. Keep the videos coming💪
I've been down some of these rabbit holes... left helical, right helical, different degrees, light, heavy, FOC,.... he's saying it like it is. This is the best video of the year. It's not the bow, it's not the arrow, it's consistent form and sweat equity. Mic drop
Well you still need a tuned setup and arrows matched to the bow. I just got into archery and my local proshop is utterly incompetent. Sold me underspined arrows, did not tune my bow whatsoever etc. I had to and am still learning it all myself and have gotten significant improvements with tuning. But yeah, still agree with the general statement of you and the video.
Yes I agree but how to know for sure if you are actually shooting a 100% good arrow for your setup in order to make good groups with lots of reps? Everything comes hand in hand: with good arrows matched to your setup + good form + a ton of practice time = good groups but if you start off with an arrow that is not good for your setup than you could put 12 hours a day of range time every day for 1 year and still not get good groups. Does John have a video explaining how to spine match arrows to your setup. I believe he does but I haven’t seen it. Thank you
@@thorwaldjohanson2526 @mansalaija Go to a reputable shop if you can. Use the Easton spine chart, or whatever brand of arrow you are using, to determine the correct spine of arrow. Most tuning is just covering up poor form and not because the bow is actually out of tune per se. Folks start moving cams and rests to fix tears and it's just hand torque, poor grip, flinching, poor form. A tuned bow is important, but the archer is having a far greater influence on the results than the bow.
This video could kill 90% of Archery talk postings.
Good riddance lol
Aren't they still arguing about wheather or not the blades on their Rage broadheads deployed?
😂
This video just killed 99% of my time spent on AT.
Nailed it!😂
Old guy here, thanks for saving me time, don’t have time to waste👍🏽
Thank you for caring about everyone in the archery community and having a genuine passion for making everyone better. Your the best Dud!!
This comment made me subscribe. Thanks!
I lost my love for archery for the last twelve months. I was ok but not good and I was chasing rabbit holes to get better but I was getting worse. You sir are dead right because deep down I know I wasn’t getting better because I wasn’t practicing enough. Thank you.
If you can't respect his knowledge, if you can't respect his desire to teach, his desire to share, if you can't respect his success, if you can't learn to be a better archer from the JD you are just "freakin'" jealous. The man is just a plethora of archery knowledge that he chooses to continually give us. Thank you John for caring so much about the entire industry as a whole. You rock! 🤘🏻
I am so glad you said what you did! There are so many misleading people on TH-cam trying to people how to do. You are by far the best archery coach and the most informative that I have watched!! Thanks for all you do!!🎯
Thank you for this post. I have found myself starting to go down that rabbit hole the past couple of years, and have recently began questioning this same thing. It’s nice to hear this from an accomplished shooter such as yourself. Thank you
I agree. I also agree that there are too many people hunting that don’t make damn sure that their broadheads fly straight. Technique first, and do reps. And then don’t go into the woods until you’ve done the tuning necessary to not wound animals. There are people out there that want to ban bowhunting because of the wound rate and we don’t do ourselves any favors. Time to fix that.
Dud, I’ve been with you since you were in the dungeon on the podcast with shades , and a cup of brcc brew. And your jug of water with your preferred supplements from onnit. I’ve learned every single little thing I know about this sport and life style because of you . I feel for you when you have to sit back and watch all of these people make a fortune promoting products for the sake of just that and making a dime . You did it , have done it , and are still doing it for the sake of ARCHERY ! I have so much respect for you and what you do for the veterans , the newbies , and even the people who question the material and content you give out and you have gave out for FREE ! The products you have endorsed for many many many years are still of the very best and you never leave where you came from . I respect the hell out of you as a person , hunter , and an overall bad ass archer ! I’m a fan boy to say the least , but you have brought me and my whole family into this addiction known as archery lol whether it be killing foam or food ! It’s the best addiction in my opinion, one can have . I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for providing me and my friends and family whom love this thing called archery with sooooo much knowledge and life experience! You have truly changed the game in terms of what it means to be an archer and not just a hunter . I can’t watch any of these other you tubers describe how to do a single thing without first referring to your videos and articles. I actually criticize other content makers based off of content that you have willingly shared and gave to all of us because you are simply a god in the archery world . I now think of myself as a well educated archer because of you and all of your stories and life experiences that you have shared with so many people ! I am honestly a nock on nation member for life . I thank you from the bottom of my heart for getting me into archery and all the joy that it brings me , my friends , and family ! You’re a great person above everything ! Thanks man ! Maybe one day you can sign a nock on ball cap for my son or something . Make both of us the happiest archers alive lol
Straight up honest, caring man right there who loves archery AND archery people. You've got a newly acquired fan and follower here, sir. I've shot bows since I was 9 years old (57 yrs old now), and I've seen great archers and seen those who could shoot, but into themselves way too much. You are among the greats, sir. Not just because you're great with a bow, but because you share your knowledge and passion with everyone around you, and you really take time with people. You yruly, truly care, and hat's what legends are made of. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you, for being in our sport and lifestyle.
Thank you John, nobody gives up their knowledge, information and experience you do
I was put shooting this morning, just focusing on being relaxed at full draw and consistent release. Shot about 30 arrows and called it. Felt great! Thanks for always having great insight and tips. Helps immensely!
John 💪🏼 All I can say is that John is 1000% correct. I started shooting again after 20 years and I was struggling. I then started watching all of John’s videos and instructions from the very beginner set up and it drastically changed everything for me in a short period of time. I learned more after season 1 of School of Nock than I ever knew before I stopped shooting and since starting again. I decided to forget everything g I thought I knew and start completely over. I bought a Silver Back release, started with the nock on release and drilled for 2 weeks before I picked my bow back up. When I did, I drilled the same mechanics from 7 yards in my basement with a black block no target for another 2 weeks. No less than 100 reps per day in that month and upwards of 300 per day on the weekend. In a months time I was better and more consistent than I ever was. I still do all the same drills on rest days and focus on my mechanics and shot process diligently every shot. I appreciate all your guidance John, that’s why I spend all my my money in your shop 😂
Picked up archery at 33 with nothing more than learning from John Dudley. I am 37 now and all my progress is credited to these videos and practice. What a great sport thanks for sharing your expertise.
I've watched a lot of your videos and their all helpful. I use to punch a thumb button and shot poorly in a shootdown one day. Went home determined to learn to pull until shot fired. Three years later I shoot better, enjoy archery more and have you to thank. By the way, you were in a special place emotionally in this video and shared your heart passionately. Great stuff. Best wishes!
I have been on my archery journey for about 6 years now. When I enjoy something I go all in. I try to learn everything about it. I have bought the equipment to do all my own work. In this journey I have listened to endless podcast and watched countless TH-cam videos from different people. One thing I notice is everyone wants to grow archery, but in there next breath starts bashing other archers or other methods. The one thing that keeps bringing me back to John, is his love for growing the sport, willingness to help, and doesn’t bash other products and methods. Thank you John for all the time you have given and countless hours sacrificed, helping people learn how to be better.
All the amazing things you do for the community aside (plus being an amazing person) THIS, THIS is why you're the man. Obviously you sell products, but you're one of the few not putting out a post every other week telling people to change their setup, just to earn influencer commission. Thank you so much Duds, and it was such a blast to finally get to chat at TAC CO this year (on my 4th year) .. also thanks for the Deeeelicious cookout!
As always John you never stop to amaze. Thanks for your hard work to make archery community of today's world better than ever. In this video, your skill got humbled by your sincere feelings to prove that practice makes perfect! Great job!
John, I stood there Saturday when you took a minute to talk about practicing instead of going into rabbit holes of arrow building and such... I have spent the past 20 years running an archery shop in N. Utah and a decade as a USA Archery L2/3 certified coach. I am EXTREMELY grateful for this video. I cannot tell you how many times EVERY DAY that I have to ask people to take a step back from their minutia of bare shaft paper and distance shooting, nock tuning, spinning arrows, degrees of fletching, etc, etc... and consider for 2 minutes getting some coaching on form and spending that time shooting and practicing GOOD TECHNIQUES.
Thank you. It was good to see you. If you don't remember who I am, I "smoked" your sticker at the top of the lift 4 seasons ago, I rode the tram down with you two years ago, and I am the one who moved all your coolers and was crawling around in the dirt looking for the pendant Isaac had thought he lost.
I'm so glad to hear you say this. I am about 5 years into a bowhunting journey. I'm 44. I love this style of hunting. I am still shooting a cheap beginner bow and basic arrows. I'm looking to move into a bow that shoots a little more consistently and is much quieter than mine. I get so caught up in research on arrows, vanes, releases, strings, etc. What I'd like to do is buy a good bow, and get a good basic setup to finish my own arrows so I can just keep going and focus on practice. Trying to perfect my system and release. I'm extending my home range. I shoot a 5 pin right now. I'd like an adjustable sight, but I hunt tight eastern woods from a saddle. I feel like my old trusty 5 pin is a little more durable and reliable. Thank you for this advice.
Thanks JD for a very passionate topic. I’m in 100% agreement with you. Get your bow set up and tuned and then HIT THE RANGE and launch some sticks! Just like golf…get your clubs fitted to your swing and then hit the range!
I come from the firearms shooting world and am newer to archery. And when I used to instruct it's the same thing. Most modern firearms can outshoot a human any day. Buying new gear, worrying about tiny load differences won't matter if you don't have the reps and your form isn't dialed in. Good talk and thanks from everyone.
This was the most real and forthcoming video you have done! Thank you Dud for teaching. I support Nockon and will continue.
Thanks Dud. Saw you at TAC PA and this is what I needed to hear. I've been shooting a bow for about 20 years, but only got serious about it this past winter. I've fallen into the trap of chasing all these new things I'm encountering (releases, fletching, helical, etc) and it's been a bit overwhelming. My commitment from now until the end of this deer season is to not change anything and JUST work on my form.
Dudley thank you for putting this out! I am a new archer and it's been really easy to pay attention to the bow and my arrows, opposed to being focused about just grouping. This is huge for me and honestly encouraging, thanks again!
Thank you for the time that you contribute for us all. Your transparent insights into this industry is very appreciated.
You are still the man!!! It is SO refreshing to hear common sense! I’ve seen so many talented archers fall by the wayside because the get swallowed up by minutiae! Like you say, practice, practice, practice!!! Thank you!
Archery talk is for people that have to much time to sit in front of a computer and think they have figured out a magical code that breaks the archery wisdom of all the guys we watch on tv shooting in Olympics to hunting. They worried about everyone thinking they know it all. Truth is in this video. Good practice makes perfect. Reps bring out imperfections. Great job Mr. Dudley.
Been following since I started shooting with my bow about 2 years ago. Your School Of Nock and all your videos have helped me a lot. Thank you for this videos, you always make me wanna shoot my bow more everyday..
Thank you for this! This is what the archery community needed.
Im impressed you could even see that square at 70 yards. Im 32 and that would be tough for me.
Bro, you, my sir, are a beast. Also I don't believe I have ever met someone that is so calm. Thanks for all the great knowledge.
He's calm from shooting under a ton of pressure his whole life ! Known as Experience !
This was probably the most honest video you’ll see from anybody across any industry or sport. There’s a ton of top tier compound bows out there and they all have similar tech and are always advancing and competing to win customers over. It comes down to personal preference. At the end of the day your goal is to harvest game and they all do that with the same capabilities, just comes down to which product you prefer and are most comfortable with, they all do the same thing.
Most important video i've watched this year.
My bow is in my bow vice since last year and i've been trying to tune it way more than shooting it.
I will admit that I tend to chase material perfection before having the skills to make use of it. I'm going to switch that asap.
Thanks for opening my eyes!
I have been watching you for years now and learning from your videos. I greatly appreciate everything you teach and offer, you are the man. I come across people who are just getting into shooting and they usually ask me how I learned, I tell them to watch your videos.
Thanks for a superb video with the raw truth. Gadgets don’t make you better but time on the range does. There is no substitute for it. Thanks again.
Thank you for this Dud this is exactly what I needed. Lately been feeling like I’ve gone to far down the rabbit hole and started focusing on and stressing about things that don’t matter instead of just gripping it and ripping it. Nock on brother and God bless you for your guidance.
Hey Dud, i love you when you say all this things. My improvements are happened thanks to you. Thanks you so much for your time and honesty!
Thank you for your knowledge and all your experience. I appreciate all your tips and tricks and life experiences with the community to keep bow hunting alive. I like talking but mostly listening to older more experienced people that have been there and done that in whatever i am trying to learn at any given time.
Thank you for taking the time and all your videos that have helped me personally
Best video I have seen in awhile, I am your same age started at a really young age. Really learned by making all the mistakes by 21 or so. I've killed with almost every brand on the market browning to xpedition. 300 grains to 600+ grains. None of the details matter if you don't have good form, solid anchor, and beat target panic. All of this is corrected with deliberate practice.
And fletchings
Your the best Mr Dudley, im shooting fletched, bought all done. They are victory vforce sport and they group and fly good enough for me!!
Great video dud! In my opinion the 3 main factors that helped me shoot tighter groups were #1: proper bow fit #2 learning how to properly execute a controlled shot and #3 hand loading arrows. The top 3 things that helped me increase my accuracy was #1 proper form #2 learning how to read a shot #3 reps reps reps. Now this is assuming the bow is tuned and the arrow is flying perfectly.
Everyone is so focused on gear, when the reality is mindset and skill is far more important!
Dude… DUD!!! Literally the SINGLE GREATEST POST AND SHARE ON ARCHERY THAT I HAVE EVER SEEN OR HEARD!!!!!
Thank You, My friend! 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🏹💚🤘🏼
Well said John! This has me thinking that you've had some interesting conversations when at TACs this year. You've done so much to grow the sport, thank you sir!
Great content!! Viewers trust your advice, don’t ever change!! You’re an absolute champion for our sport thank you!! 🇦🇺
Great info, John. There are a lot of products out there to “better” our groupings, and new shooters (as wells as veteran shooters) can get caught up in the hype of advertisements. Practice doesn’t make perfect; but perfect practice does. This video is a good reminder.
Your a great ambassador of our sport Mr. Dudley thank you for all you do !!!
Good to have met you last weekend Dud. So glad you posted this. My buddies are always trying to “black magic” their setups. I keep saying to forget the BS and practice. Myself included.
I’ve been watching your videos trying to get my grip figured out. Sometimes I’m right where I want to be and sometimes I shank it to the left
I’ll work on a vid
Finally an honest video about archery. Some of the videos coming out have archers that can't even hit a tree from 20 yards but they are giving other people advice. The realest thing you said was that you could hit that grouping with prettty much any bow, string or arrow styling. To me that's honest cause once using a bow becomes a reflex of your body, you can shoot anything. I'll switch from a compound bow to a recurve in the middle of a set and still hit the same grouping.
Thanks for a great video reminding us mastery can only come from practice practice practice... I smiled at the very casual mention of "having a bow that can shoot a bullet-hole". Having the bow properly set up, and even more importantly having the arrows weigh and flex the same is the starting point - and right there is the entrance to the rabbit hole :) However, as a multiple Australian Junior Champion who now owns an archery shop said "Even a cheap bow will group well all day provided the arrows are matched". So once the equipment is matched, it's ALL about a repeatable, good technique shot sequence which only comes from practice practice practice... (and a 70lb draw with perfect arrows doesn't hurt ;))
Thanks for the no bs talk. I bought my fist bow 3 months ago Pse unite and arrows prefleched from you and all other things from your website. That way as I started this journey I could just avoid going down all those rabbit holes. I knew it would make my brain confident that it was me and not my equipment. That good reps and execution would deliver groups not changing my gear. With this mindset I’m now 3 months in able to softball group at 60 and able to basketball group at 100. I’m elated to say the least. I can’t wait to go down all the rabbit holes for fun. But I agree if you can’t group with todays great equipment you’re wasting time chasing your tail.
If you have that set up. Get a bullet hole and go shoot. That gear is light years beyond our ability
Your friend Dr. Leath got me all setup. Thanks for all the amazing products and training content!
Thank you Mr. Dudley, spelling it out for the people in the back! We can hear you NOCKIN!!
Has amazing knowledge and experience, but also makes learning fun, even on FB and a phone. True legend!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I’m fairly new to a more serious level of archery and since joining all these groups on social media I have been peaking down this rabbit hole of extreme tuning. This has me feeling like this is what I need to do to be a good archer and I’ve been worrying how I’m going to do all this stuff and or will my bow shop go that extreme. Now I can relax and just practice. Obviously I’m going to get my bow tuned but not to the extreme I thought I’d have to. Appreciate you!
Excellent video!! So true. Just get out there and practice. Stop worrying about the minute details.
I have a bow shop and 2nd this! Daily I have people either reach out or stop by wanting me to re-tune because they changed arrows or point weight drastically. 9/10 say they it’s something they saw on TH-cam. So glad you posted because it’s gotten crazy! It would be nice to change strings and cables more often because people are actually shooting their bows but that’s not the case. Way to go Dud 💪🏼
I don’t know you but you seem like a great guy.
I’ve been shooting cense I was a kid off and on, I started with a rolled up tape corner as my peep. The technology is so much better today, much of which we probably all owe to you.
I love my time in the yard getting in reps, it’s stress relieving and personally helps me find focus.
Thank you for helping us all through out the years.
Thank you for the video. Just picked up a bow this year, after talking a few years off. I was following all the internet tough guys down the rabbit holes of nuanced details when I couldn't even group. I had severe target panic and it wasn't fun. Found you and Chris Bees videos this past spring and it gave me the motivation to get back into it.
Loving it so far, made it to Utah TAC and had a blast. Taking shots at distances that 5 years ago were impossible. Hoping to make 2 TAC for 2024 and just keep shooting until then.
Dudley is one of the coolest people in the industry and i have a ton of respect for him. I am glad his is honest about shooting other brands. Respect bro✌🏼
Right On John.! Your true & blue to the end. Thank you for your training advice an knowledge, Bless you & familia.
This is the most useful archery video I've seen this year!
I'm with ya! this is my second season bowhunting, and i harvested deer with a budget bow i bought used, budget gear, and none of that ridiculous tuning stuff.
i just practice as much as i can, and pick up info and techniques from your channel.
part of me wishes i could afford to buy a flagship bow and sitka gear etc, but i guarantee none of that will make the meat taste better.
Why I listen intently to JD. Genuine real deal dude. I try to tell newer guys this all the time, and live the same mantra, Shoot your bow, and then shoot it some more.
Thank you sir, plain facts
You rock Mr. Dudley. Straight talk. I appreciate you.
I've been shooting solid for 18 years and totally understand what you are saying, I didn't really go down the arrow rabbit hole. I keep going back to where the ancient ones came from. They had to be good or they wouldn't survive, bone ,wood and sinew were their only brand of archery products. BTW you taught me a lot of good solid archery form and posture. Now if I can just get my stupid brain to cooperate with what Joel Turner has been preaching. God Bless Dud!!
Great points: honestly you are the first person to come out and debunk the left or right helical theories. I have used and stuck with a left helical since I first learned what that was about. The most important thing that I have learned is to keep my bows tuned and practice anyhow anyway. I must say that for the most part I am very satisfied with my performance, maybe not allows but for the most part yes. I enjoy putting good shots down range and just enjoy being outdoors with my friends.
Well said Brotha……all too often I see these archers spending too much time tinkering with their equipment, and NOT putting enough reps in their range time. I always tell my students……it’s not how much you spend on high dollar equipment, or how much you tweak to get that elusive high score……its range time, conditioning, and form discipline. Your bow isn’t gonna shoot itself to get you victories. It’s WORK 😎🏹🏹🏹👍Thanks for sharing John 👍I referred my students to your content to put my point across to them 👍
100%. Right. Putting in the time and work just shooting is the most forgotten part. Even me I want to shoot bullseye and for get that 5 in group is still a great group and dead deer. Keep it up and keep making videos
I was seriously confused until the end. I thought you were suggesting shooting RW and LW on the same arrow. Glad you clarified and I got the point - practice, practice, practice.
have spent a couple of years in a couple of rabbitholes, well said, thanks!
This is absolutely 100% truth. I've shot since 1995. I started shooting competitions in 1996 and went to the MBO class in 1998. I was lucky enough to hang out with Darla Owens in 2002 at the 3rd leg IBO in Nelsonville. She told me exactly what you're saying, and I've done it ever since. I miss competitions, but the kiddos come 1st now. Keep up the good work John.
Straight advise from one of the best coaches ever: John Dudley! Gotta put in the work! 🎯🎯🎯
Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and wisdom. At 76, I still shoot every day just for enjoyment and relaxation. Your videos are full of great tips and instructions. You are a legend for this sport, your dedication is truly amazing.
Best video made on the TUBE in archery in a long time 🔥
One of the best videos you’ve ever done. I’ve wasted a lot of time myself testing all this crap and it’s more about form and shot execution than anything else
Might be the best video I've seen you put out !!!
Thanks
I feel your heart. Your trying to help and that is good. Thank you.
Class dismissed. Best video I’ve seen in a long time.
Thank you, I have been using a fixed 5 and 7 pin sites for a long time, shortest stabilizers can, 2-3 % offset right helical for years no problems. You said it company's and etc are pushing really hard to sell products you do not really need. Good friend, archery shop owner taught me so much of archery. For hunting in all honesty do you need 30" stabilizer bottom counter weight stabilizer, slider site. For competition to each there own, we'll that's what everyone else is using.My archery shop owner friend more than once, KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID I have not forgot those words.
Thank you for this video and for all of the training and direction you have given to all of us. I love both the art and science of archery,
And your videos enhance both. Thanks again!
after 6 months of sruggle with me new/used Elite, you are a LIFESAVER... thankyou
Took the words out my mouth. There is such a market for splitting hairs that don't matter more than form, technique, repeating what works.
That was the best, indiscriminating, just facts video I’ve seen in a long time. I’ve been hunting for 20 years and last year I went down the rabbit hole. Took me from May till September to get my bow shooting a 600gn 17% FOC arrow correctly. Don’t get me wrong, it was a clean pass through on every animal I shot but the time and effort of changing every little thing on my bow. Exhausting and frustrating.
At 2023 TAC, I watched Dudley borrow two different shooters bows, and drop arrows dead on at the 110ish yard sasquatch target.
That was a real-life example of practice over setup. To see him take a bow setup for somebody else, fire a single sighter shot, adjust his hold/sight as neccesary, and make a hit that everybody on the line was trying their best to make-that was truly impressive.
I've got identical arrows fletched left and right. I keep looking for which ones shoot better, I can never tell the difference. This video is a huge qualifier for me! I'm so glad to know it's not just me.
From this video clearly dudley shoots right helical better
@@jhuntley575 that’s one group out of hundreds of arrows, you missed the whole point of the video.
He did say he shot 500 arrows and was tired. You basing your comments on 1 arrow that drifted right (ever so slightly)?
Nicely done! Nothing beats solid fundamentals, hard work and consistency. There is no free lunch in this world. Earn it!🤙🏽
Yep, you just said pretty much the exact same that was told me over 20 yrs ago when I received my first bow (used), given to me by a guy who shot professionally for major manufacturer. "The bow doesn't make the archer look good, the archer makes the bow look good." He gave me some pointers to apply that I still use. Like you said, work on you as an archer, the rest is only fine tuning. 👍
I absolutely LOVE your content John. Thank you so much for sharing with us! You’re a legend. Lots of love from Alberta, Canada! 🇨🇦
Thanks for the advice and reminder. Back to the basics.
Not sure why I haven't before, seeing as how I've heard Joe Rogan say your name 1000 times and listened to your podcasts...but now I'm subscribed. That's just pure, clean and absolutely true advice. I need to follow it.
Thanks I’m 51 and I’m waiting on my first bow to arrive. Love your stuff
My apologies if I ever doubt it you man, you seem honest and I applaud that. Your the man, I can only imagine how pleasant would be to shoot with you not to mention all the information from your experience. 👌👌👌
Nothing will make you a better archer except for practice! The newest baddest equipment will not make you better. It's being comfortable and knowing your setup. Just find what works for you! Keep it up Mr Dudley 🤘🏻
Best to do it. Thank you John for the never ending phenomenal advice. I swear more and more people just enjoy complaining so they out themselves in a situation to find more to complain about instead of just enjoying the hobby/sport we all love.
Exactly Right John ! 99.9% of guys shooting bows, can't shoot good enough to notice the difference in left helical or right helical, etc.. The only thing I have noticed over 50 years of strictly Bow Hunting , is that feather fletching is more forgiving than any plastic vanes. Just from my experience.
Thank you so much for posting this video, I've been killing myself trying to over think all the things and trying to micro group, thinking its not enough, and at the end it's just get out there and practice, practice, practice. Keep the videos coming💪
I've been down some of these rabbit holes... left helical, right helical, different degrees, light, heavy, FOC,.... he's saying it like it is. This is the best video of the year. It's not the bow, it's not the arrow, it's consistent form and sweat equity. Mic drop
Well you still need a tuned setup and arrows matched to the bow. I just got into archery and my local proshop is utterly incompetent. Sold me underspined arrows, did not tune my bow whatsoever etc. I had to and am still learning it all myself and have gotten significant improvements with tuning. But yeah, still agree with the general statement of you and the video.
Yes I agree but how to know for sure if you are actually shooting a 100% good arrow for your setup in order to make good groups with lots of reps? Everything comes hand in hand: with good arrows matched to your setup + good form + a ton of practice time = good groups but if you start off with an arrow that is not good for your setup than you could put 12 hours a day of range time every day for 1 year and still not get good groups. Does John have a video explaining how to spine match arrows to your setup. I believe he does but I haven’t seen it. Thank you
@@thorwaldjohanson2526 @mansalaija Go to a reputable shop if you can. Use the Easton spine chart, or whatever brand of arrow you are using, to determine the correct spine of arrow.
Most tuning is just covering up poor form and not because the bow is actually out of tune per se. Folks start moving cams and rests to fix tears and it's just hand torque, poor grip, flinching, poor form. A tuned bow is important, but the archer is having a far greater influence on the results than the bow.
Love it when you go into the technical.