Go beyond the basics to achieve better arrow groups. Try these.

1. Get a Grip-On release, the natural tendency is to choke the grip. This leads to torquing the bow. Arrows are pulled off target either left or right.

A light, relaxed grip minimizes transferring hand torque to the arrow. Try a bow sling; they reduce the tendency to grab the grip.

2. Draw Cycle-A herky-jerky draw means: 1.) too much draw weight and/or 2.) you're not in bow shape--both cause ill-flying arrows. Drawing a bow should be one, fluid push-pull motion.

3. Aim-Possessing the ability to hold a bow steady is of paramount importance. Archers experience target panic when they're unable to steady their pin on the target. Rushed, punched or pulled shots result. Trained muscles and well-rehearsed shot sequences minimize target panic.

4. Release-The advantages mechanical releases have over fingers are tantamount. Greater draw comfort and logarithmically cleaner string releases top the list.

Setting trigger tension too tight is a common mistake. Hair triggers lead to punching or jabbing.

Set tension high enough so you must pull through. Pulling through means using back tension to initiate the shot; use the first or second finger crease to activate the release. Fingertip trigger trips jerk shots off course.

5. Think about It-Professional athletes have mental routines they follow prior to performing. Golfers address the ball and pitchers set their foot on the rubber, lean-in and get the signal. Prior to executing, mentally run through the perfect shot sequence checklist.

Nuptial Numbskulls: During archery season a few years back, troopers saw a pickup with a woman driving and her husband in the back approach a decoy. After he loosed a few arrows from the bed the couple was written citations. Angered, they went to leave, but realized they had locked the keys in the truck. Out of frustration, the man attempted to throw a rock through the window...but missed and put a huge dent in the door. Finally he smashed the window with the rock. Turns out the pickup was rented and the couple was on their honeymoon. What a way to start a marriage.