Dilemma 3D course

For many of us, the highlight of a busy work week is certainly a visit to the 3D course of our choice.

"Awesome lap!" or "Cool course!" can often be read and admired on various social media platforms, accompanied by a small photo documentation.

But criticism is also published. "Arrow eater," "Can't shoot!" , "Impossible!" are all read.

Why is that?

Not every course is the same. We should be very happy about that. Some are designed to be very challenging, others less so. As is so often the case in life, it's all about the mix.

Some course operators want to offer their guests a challenge. Others run a commercial business and want to offer a recreational experience to as many different shooters as possible.

Hiking day?

Many course operators have the opportunity to set up their courses on a large scale. Others have limited space. Both are legitimate. Hiking days aren't for everyone. For many, endless distances between targets are part of the experience. Others, on the other hand, want to shoot more and walk less. Once you're familiar with a few different courses, it's easy to visit your favorites.

Impossible shots?

There are hardly any truly impossible shots. Most 3D archery course operators are archers themselves and know very well what's possible. Some set up their courses for archers seeking a little respite from "real life," while others want to offer a cool challenge to a specific group. Here, too, visitors can "choose." Each course operator can and wants to decide for themselves.

It's muddy there!

Yes, we indulge in a sport that takes place outdoors. The effects of the weather are unavoidable. In the summer of 2019, people complained about the heat, and in the fall of 2020, about the mud and wetness.

The only way to avoid this is in an indoor archery arena or an archery cinema. Both options have their appeal. But... most 3D archers enjoy being outdoors – even with a little dirt on their boots.

Archery is a year-round sport. Even in winter, when it snows 😁. Proper clothing and equipment are important in every season (sneakers vs. crampons).

Challenging courses are great for some of us. For many, enjoyable courses are a weekend destination. Of course, this also has something to do with the commercial success of the course. The proximity to major cities is obviously a great help for the operators. Lots of people in the area – lots of visitors.

3D courses in the "provinces" don't have this advantage. They have to pay even more attention to their alignment. Driving somewhere for hours and then returning home without a sense of achievement isn't the desired experience for many recreational shooters.

There are a wide variety of 3D courses in Austria. Each of us has the choice and makes it our own. Have fun "out there"!