How to Fit a Compound Bow

Like many things in sports, fitting a compound bow depends on your body size and strength. Compound bows use a system of pulleys to provide what is referred to as "mechanical advantage". This advantage shows in the strength needed to pull the bow string back on the draw, helped by the pulleys in place at the top and bottom of the bow shaft. Use two criteria for a proper compound bow fit: draw length and pound rating on the draw.

Things You'll Need

  • Tailor's tape
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Instructions

  1. Draw Length Fitting

    • 1

      Hold your hands together in front of your torso. Spread your arms out from your torso sides and extend the fingers.

    • 2

      Measure the distance between fingers to fingers using the tailor's tape. Use inches for the measurement.

    • 3

      Take the distance in inches from Step 2 and divide it by 2.5. Once you get the remainder, add 2. For example, if you have a measured distance of 60 inches, make the formula 60/2.5 for remainder of 24 inches. Add 2 inches to this measurement to get a total of 26 inches. This is the proper draw and arrow shaft length for your compound bow.

    Draw Weight (pounds)

    • 4

      Consult a draw weight chart for your body height and weight.

    • 5

      Cross reference the chart to get your recommended draw weight for a cpompound bow. For example, if you are a medium frame woman weighing between 130 and 160 lbs., your suggested draw weight for a compound bow is 30-40 lbs.

    • 6

      Use both criteria to find a suitable fitting compound bow; in this example you need a bow with a draw weight between 30-40 lbs. with a draw length up to or 26 inches.