You can shoot without gloves or finger tabs, but you don't have to. Better yet, you shouldn't shoot without protection. Damage to your fingers (especially nerves) is a needless side effect. You're not a "tough guy" if you put your health at risk.
Who uses what?
Except for a few bow classes, you can safely use finger tabs. Or even shooting gloves.
The finger tab
Many archers shoot "Mediterranean style," meaning the index finger is positioned above the arrow. Most tabs therefore have a notch between the index and middle fingers. This recess provides ample space for the arrow and the archer with the comfort needed for this style of archery. Many tabs also offer a "finger separator" (e.g., made of plastic). These tabs are worn with a simple opening or a loop—usually attached to the middle finger.
These finger tabs are available in leather or, more commonly, in the fur version, which many archers prefer. The fur ensures better bowstring glide. It's a matter of taste—everyone has their own preferences and abilities. The quality, however, must be right—otherwise, you won't enjoy them for long.
Barebow tab
Barebow archers typically shoot "3 under." This means all three draw fingers rest on the string under the arrow. These special tabs also have no notch or finger separator between the index and middle fingers.
Tab with anchor plate
Olympic recurve archers (usually) shoot from the nose-chinanchor . The index finger of the drawing hand rests on the jawbone here. The "anchor plate" makes it easier to find the correct anchor. Furthermore, the thumb of the drawing hand rests underneath it, allowing for a smooth release.
Finger tab especially for recurve archers
The most important criterion for these tabs is the variety of designs. Combinations and quality levels are very important for some shooters. Tastes differ, after all. Many prefer a heavy base plate without an anchor plate to the above-mentioned version.
2 Finger Tabs
Yes, there are those too—and that's basically all there is to it. There are only a few shooters who use two fingers.
Materials
Tabs are primarily made of leather or fur. Multi-layered finger tabs are often combined with felt or fabric on the finger side. Simple tabs are often made of fur alone. Many, even if they aren't of the highest quality, wear out very quickly.
Sizes
The sizing is similar to that for shooting gloves. Measurements are taken from the wrist (where the glove's buckle is normally located) to the tip of the middle finger.
S (small) approx. 17cm
M (medium) approx. 19cm
L (large) approx. 21cm
XL (extra large) from approx. 21cm
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