Interest in archery shoots up with ‘Hunger Games’ mania

Archers practice shooting at Hi-Tech Archery in Fullerton. Ranges that used to attract just a handful of hobbyists are now crowded with would-be Katnisses and Robin Hoods. Requests for archery lessons for birthday parties have increased. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)

March 23, 2014 9:31 PM PT

Archery, a once stodgy sport, suddenly becomes popular, boosted by the 2008 debut of the hit young-adult trilogy that stars a heroine wielding a bow and arrow.

An archer pulls arrows from the target after a round of shooting at Hi-Tech Archery. The movie industry has definitely had an impact on us, says Joe Kim, the shooting range’s owner. It seems like Hollywood is very intrigued these days with the bow and arrow. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)

Merchandise for sale amid stuffed and mounted bison and deer at Hi-Tech Archery. Sales of archery equipment have increased more than 20% in the last year, according to figures provided by the Archery Trade Assn. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)