Target Panic! Learn from Joel Turner on the JRE Podcast

For bowhunters, target panic can ruin easy shots. Target panic is anxiety during the shot process, usually just before the arrow is released. Some bowhunters combat target panic by punching the trigger when their pin is on target. While this method can be effective at moderate ranges, severe target panic can hinder a shooter.

Joel Turner, a retired SWAT sniper and shooting instructor, experienced target panic himself before developing a system to overcome it. Turner recently appeared on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast to discuss archery and offer advice on shooting. Here are five key takeaways from the episode.

Understand Why You Flinch

Whether using a firearm or a compound bow, our natural response is to anticipate the explosion and brace for impact. This anticipation is the root cause of accuracy issues. Our brain tries to make the explosion less surprising by bracing our body, resulting in a flinch or trigger punch. Turner suggests separating aiming and shooting to overcome this.

Separate Aiming and Shooting

When aiming and shooting become one step, problems arise. Mild target panic can cause the pin to be slightly off target, while severe target panic can lead to blackouts during shots. Turner advises consciously making shooting and aiming two separate steps. Let the subconscious handle aiming, while the conscious mind focuses on executing the shot.

Turner’s son, Bodie Turner, a top professional archer, keeps his pin floating within a 3-inch diameter target, allowing his subconscious to center the pin. By focusing on the mechanics of the shot, Bodie avoids flinching.

Make a Decision to Shoot

To prevent the subconscious from interfering, make a conscious decision to shoot. Turner achieves this through self-talk, such as saying “here I go” when reaching full draw or the gun trigger. This self-talk keeps him present and focused on the necessary steps for a good shot. Repeating words like “pull” or “squeeze” helps maintain focus on the shot execution.

Move Your Trigger Slowly

Turner stresses the importance of moving the trigger slowly to maintain control. This slow movement allows for adjustments or aborting a shot if necessary, keeping the shot in the conscious mind.

Blueprint Your Shot Process

Turner recommends archery competitions for practicing concentration under pressure. Once success is achieved, create a blueprint of the shot process. By remembering what worked, you can replicate it consistently.

The Importance of the Mental Side

According to Turner, simply shooting arrows without intention won’t lead to improvement. The mental aspect of shooting is crucial for accuracy. Listening to the podcast and following these tips will help, but Turner also offers classes to further enhance shooting skills. More information can be found at SHOT IQ.