OUCH! That doesn't look fun at all my friend, but thanks for posting it up...nothing like a few pics to cement the importance of checking your arrows between shots. For the guys who asked how it happens, generally it goes something like this: when the arrow is released it flexes quite extremely as it leaves the bow (check YouTube for slo-mo archery footage...you'll be amazed). This flexing is normal and in itself not dangerous unless your arrow is SEVERELY underspined. The danger comes when in a previous shot the arrow has sustained some unseen damage. This damage usually comes from the impact of another arrow. The arrow has unseen cracks and/or splinters that have caused it to become weakened to the point of breaking at release, when the energy from the bow is transferred into it. Always flex your arrows between shots, especially if you're shooting tight groups and your arrows are coming into contact with one another. Flexing the arrows will generally alert you to any cracks or other damage the shaft might have. There are other ways an accident like this can happen, such as the arrow coming off the rest and getting "jammed" between the arrow rest and the bow's riser or shelf, although the damaged arrow is the more common culprit. Bottom line...be careful! Bows store a ton of energy, and deserve respect. THANKS AGAIN FOR POSTING...GLAD THE INJURY WAS RELATIVELY MINOR!!!
