Why Mike Schloesser Uses Multiple Targets in Archery Competitions

If you have ever watched top archers like Mike Schloesser compete, you might notice something a bit unusual. They often shoot at multiple small targets arranged on a single target boss, instead of just one big aiming spot. You might wonder, why do they do that? Isn't it harder? It seems counter-intuitive, but there's a very good reason for this strategy, one that high-level archers use to gain a critical edge.

The Standard Target vs. The Triple Spot

In most outdoor target archery, competitors shoot at a large target face. This face has a series of rings, usually from 1 to 10 points. The very center, the gold ring, is worth 10 points. Inside that is a smaller X-ring, used for tie-breaking.

However, for compound bow archers, especially at 50 meters, a different setup is common. This is often called a "Vegas face" or "triple spot" target. It features three smaller, individual 10-ring target faces arranged vertically or horizontally on the same boss. Each archer shoots one arrow at each of these small targets per end.

Using these multiple targets changes the game completely. It's not just about making things more difficult. It's about refining precision and managing the mental side of archery in a very specific way. Mike Schloesser, known as "Mr. Perfect" for his incredible scores, masters this setup better than almost anyone.

Mike Schloesser's Precision Play: A Fresh Start Every Shot

When an archer shoots at a single large target, they aim for the exact same spot three times in a row. This can lead to some subtle issues. An archer might try to correct a small mistake from their first shot on their second. Or they might get too comfortable, expecting the arrow to just "go there" again.

With three separate target faces, Mike Schloesser and other top archers get a very important advantage. Each shot becomes an entirely new event. You aren't trying to hit the same gold ring you just hit. You are addressing a pristine, untouched gold ring every single time. This forces a mental and physical reset.

This approach ensures every shot receives the same level of focus and attention. It's like starting a new mini-competition with each arrow. This individual focus is key to consistency at the highest levels of the sport. It stops archers from "chasing" a previous shot, good or bad.

The Mental Reset Button: Why It Matters So Much

Archery is incredibly mental. A tiny flicker of doubt or a moment of lapsed concentration can throw a shot off. When you shoot at a single target, a slightly wide shot can easily get into your head. You might start overthinking your next shot, trying to "make up" for the last one. This often leads to more mistakes.

Multiple targets act like a psychological reset button. If Mike Schloesser shoots an 8 on the top target, he doesn't carry that frustration into the next shot. He moves his sight picture to the middle target, and his mind can effectively clear the slate. It's a fresh target, a fresh opportunity for a perfect 10.

This strategy minimizes the mental snowball effect. It keeps archers in the present moment, focusing only on the arrow they are about to shoot. This kind of intense, singular focus is what separates good archers from great ones. For more insights into the mental aspects of the sport, check out our blog's main page.

Sharpening Form and Spotting Issues

Using multiple targets also has clear technical benefits. It pushes archers to execute their shot sequence perfectly every single time. There's no room for sloppy form or rushed releases. Each of the small target faces demands absolute precision.

If an archer has a subtle form flaw, shooting at multiple spots can help reveal it. For example, if arrows consistently group slightly left on the bottom target but are centered on the top one, it could point to an issue with how they adjust their body or grip between shots. When all arrows go into one spot, these subtle shifts are harder to notice.

This setup encourages a highly disciplined shooting rhythm. It forces an archer to go through their complete shot routine for each arrow, from setup to follow-through, without relying on muscle memory alone for hitting "the same spot." Understanding your form is key, and we have our guide on proper archery stance that can help. Many archers find this method makes their form more strong over time.

So, when you see Mike Schloesser or other top archers shooting at those triple spots, know that it's not just a random rule. It's a deliberate design choice that enhances both the mental and technical demands of the sport. It rewards unwavering focus and perfect execution, helping these athletes achieve truly great scores and push the boundaries of archery precision.