The Scout Field Round: A Modified Archery Experience for Scouts

The Scout Field Round is a unique adaptation of the traditional National Field Archery Association (NFAA) field round, designed specifically for use at Scouting America camps. It provides Scouts with an accessible yet challenging opportunity to hone their archery skills in a field setting, all while accommodating the practical needs of Scouting events and outdoor spaces.

While it retains many elements of the classic NFAA field round, the Scout Field Round offers some key modifications that make it more suitable for the typical constraints of Scout camps. These changes mainly involve the distances at which targets are set, as well as the layout of shooting positions, which can be tailored to suit the terrain of the campsite.

Archery Merit Badge

The shooting requirements for the Archery Merit Badge lists the Scout Field Round as one of the rounds that could be shot for qualification for the merit badge.  Specifically:  

Requirement 5 Option A: Recurve Bow or Longbow requirement f1b lists shooting the Scouting America Field Round and scoring at least 80 points
Requirement 5 Option B: Compound Bow f1b lists shooting the Scouting America Field Round and scoring at least 90 points 

NOTE: The field round of 14 targets is traversed twice, for a total of 28 targets (28 ends of 4 arrows each or 112 arrows).

Overview of the Scout Field Round

The Scout Field Round uses the same target setup and scoring system as the traditional NFAA field round, but it simplifies the setup and distances to better fit into smaller, more varied outdoor areas. The targets used in the Scout Field Round are the same as those in the NFAA round, featuring five distinct scoring rings, which allow for an engaging and competitive experience. However, the distances at which the archers shoot are reduced, ensuring the round can be effectively conducted in smaller spaces typical of Scout camps.

Target Setup and Scoring System

The targets used in the Scout Field Round have five scoring rings. The scoring system is divided into two parts: one for general field archery and another for championship-level scoring.

Target Composition:

• Bull's-eye (Black Spot): The innermost scoring zone is the black center, commonly referred to as the bull's-eye. It accounts for the highest score, worth 5 points.
• Inner Circle: Surrounding the bull’s-eye is a smaller inner circle, measuring half the diameter of the black spot. This circle is used in case of tied scores, where archers who hit the inner circle can be declared the winner.
• Outer Rings: The target is divided into additional white and black rings, with scores of 4 points for the white rings and 3 points for the outer black rings.

In general field rounds, the scoring is simpler:

• 5 points for the bull's-eye,
• 4 points for the white areas,
• 3 points for the outer black areas.

Championship Scoring:

For championship-level competitions or advanced settings, all five rings of the target are considered in the score, with values ranging from 5 points (for the bull's-eye) to 1 point (for the outermost ring). This adds more variation to the game and can be used for more competitive settings.

Shooting Positions and Course Layout

The Scout Field Round offers more flexibility due to the shorter distances. Shooting positions are marked by white stakes, which are used to define from where each archer will shoot. These positions are not required to follow a specific sequence and can be arranged in a way that best accommodates the terrain of the camp or event location.

For example, some positions may be on flat, open ground, while others may be set up in areas with natural obstacles, such as trees or elevation changes, creating a more dynamic and interesting experience. This flexibility allows for greater adaptability in different camp settings and terrains, making the Scout Field Round a great activity for a wide range of Scout locations.

Modifications for Scouting Purposes

The primary modification of the Scout Field Round, aside from the adjusted distances, is the strategic use of space. Traditional field rounds may require vast distances between shooting positions, but the Scout Field Round ensures that less space is needed. By reducing the target distances and allowing for flexible shooting positions, the round can be set up in smaller, more confined areas such as campgrounds or smaller outdoor spaces.

This makes the round more practical for Scouting events and provides a way for younger archers or those with limited access to large ranges to enjoy the same level of competitive archery as those participating in a full NFAA field round.

NFAA to Scout Field Round Comparison

Conclusion

The Scout Field Round is an exciting and adaptable way to engage Scouts in the sport of archery, providing a fun challenge that is both accessible and competitive. With its familiar scoring system and reduced distances, the Scout Field Round offers a perfect archery experience for Scouts at camps across America. Whether as a casual activity or a competitive event, this round allows archers of all skill levels to practice, learn, and compete in a safe, enjoyable environment tailored for Scouting.