The Boomerang

With the Boomerang laid on its flatter side, the left arm is the trailing arm and the right arm is the lead arm. For a left-handed thrower, the arms are reversed. If you are left-handed, you must use a left-handed boomerang. Most models are produced in both right- and left-handed orientations. Right-handed throwers always throw to the right of the wind. Left-handers throw to the left of the wind.

The bottom of the boomerang (flatter side) should be against your palm. The top (curved side) should be against your thumb. Remember that spin is more critical than a hard or forceful throw. Your grip should allow the boomerang to begin to spin as it leaves your hand - do not pinch the boomerang between your fingertips, curl your fingers lightly around the arm. Try out several grips and use the one that most suits you.

A few precautions...

Always, with each new boomerang, Carefully read and digest the directions. Practice your stance and arm movements prior to your first throw.

Always wear eye protection when throwing. Just as squash players receive protection from eyewear, so will you as a boomerang thrower.

Allow yourself 60-70 yards (50-55m) of space in every direction. Be aware of people, even if they appear to be out of your throwing area. Never throw at or towards any person. Empty sports fields are usually ideal places to practice.

This is an air sport, and wind conditions have an enormous effect on a boomerang's flight. Make yourself aware of the wind direction prior to every throw - Wind direction can change quickly, especially in hilly places or near trees.

Throwing Zones

NEVER THROW SIDEARM!!
Never throw more than 45 degrees from the vertical. If the boomerang is laid over too far, it will climb too high and then slide back to the ground. The proper layover will produce a lower, more controlled flight. Insufficient layover will produce a wide, dipping flight and the boomerang will not make it all the way back to you. Every boomerang has it's own flight characteristics. A good rule of thumb is: As the wind increases bring the boomerang further up to the vertical. Release the boomerang at a slight upward angle in relation to the horizon (about 5 degrees). Distant treetops are usually a good target. Keep it off the ground, but don't throw too high; also, an overly low release angle results in a high climbing end to the flight. A touch more release height will create a level, more consistent flight.

1. Check the direction and speed of the wind.
Depending on the model throw 30-60 degrees off the wind. If the boomerang lands in front of you, throw more into the wind. If it lands behind you, throw more off the wind. Remember to check the wind speed and direction before each throw. As you get more practice and experience, you will be able to handle stronger winds.
2. The Throw
   The throw is similar to the Quarterback throwing an American football. Let the boomerang fly out of your hand. Do not try to initiate the turn of the boomerang with your throw, it will turn itself. Pick a point in the distance that is the correct angle off the wind and throw. Remember more spin... less muscle!

Use your good judgement as to when you should attempt a catch. If the boomerang is coming straight at you, do not try to catch it. Only go for the catch when the boomerang is hovering in towards you. To begin with, only catch the boomerang between the palms of your hands. Leave tricks catches for when you have more experience.

Care

Treat your boomerangs with great care. Large grassy fields are the best place to throw. When you're not using your boomerangs keep them in a carry case or hang them up. Never lay anything on top of them, or leave them in direct sunlight.

Safety