Breaking Down the New World Archery Rule Changes (2025 Update)

The 2025 World Archery rulebook has arrived with key updates that every competitive archer must know. Whether you’re a recurve Olympian, compound shooter, or rising junior, these changes impact scoring, equipment, and tournament formats. Here’s your EliteArcher breakdown of what’s new—and how to adapt.

World Archery rule changes 2025

1. Scoring System Adjustments

New “Set Point” Tiebreaker (Recurve)

• Old Rule: Tied matches used cumulative score.
• 2025 Change: Now, the archer with the most “set points” (individual set wins) advances first.
• Why? Encourages aggressive shooting in early ends rather than playing it safe.

Compound Scoring Precision

• X-Ring Clarity: The inner 10-ring (X) must now be clearly differentiated in color for all WA events.
• Impact: Reduces scoring disputes in close calls.

2. Equipment Regulations

Recurve Bow Weight Limits

• New Max: Riser + limbs cannot exceed 4.2kg (up from 4.0kg).
• Reason: Prevents overly heavy setups that stabilize aim artificially.

Compound Bow Draw Length Verification

• Stricter Checks: Event officials can now request on-the-spot draw length measurements with gauges.
• Penalty: Disqualification for non-compliance.

3. Tournament Format Updates

Mixed Team Shootoffs

• New Format: Tied mixed team matches now use a 3-arrow shootoff (was 1 arrow).
• Goal: Reduces luck factor in team deciders.

Junior Division Adjustments

• Age Groups: U21 category added, bridging cadets (U18) and seniors.
• Equipment: U18 recurve archers can now use stabilizers up to 30cm (was 25cm).

4. Anti-Doping & Fair Play

• Caffeine Limits: Urine tests now screen for excessive caffeine (>500 ng/mL).
• World Archery rule changes 2025
• Prosthetic Rules: Clarified guidelines for para-archers’ adaptive equipment.

How to Prepare for 2025 Rules

✔ Recurve Archers: Practice set-point strategy—win early ends decisively.
✔ Compound Shooters: Double-check your X-ring contrast and draw length compliance.
✔ Coaches: Update junior athletes’ gear to meet new stabilizer limits.

EliteArcher’s Take

These changes reward precision and adaptability. While some purists dislike the set-point shift, it makes matches more dynamic. Stay ahead by reviewing WA’s official 2025 rule PDF—linked in our bio!