January 23, 2006

from T.H. of USA:

"Coach Lee - I have been studying your book religiously since purchasing it this past winter. Thanks for putting together such a great piece of work!
 
Here's my question. I have just begun shooting recurve archery after shooting a compound for approx 20 years. I think my form is technically strong. However, one issue that I continue to deal with is that I consistently scrape my chin with the string (receive a burn mark on my chin from the string).
 
Here are some specifics on my form: My stance is open as you suggest in Total Archery. My anchor is slightly off to the side of my chin. If I were to make it any less of a side anchor, I would be anchoring in the middle of my chin.
 
Are there any elements of my form that I can check to help eliminate this issue?
 
Thanks a lot for your help! "

There could be a variety of reasons for this. However, there are a few main ones you should look at first.
 
The position of your side anchor sounds alright; however, if the string is pulled too hard into the chin, then on release it could scrape the skin. Also if there is too much tension in the draw fingers on release there will be more string deflection, which could scrape your chin. Check the attached picture and ensure that your head is straight and not tilted back or side ways, as this could also be a cause.