How to Set the Draw Length on a Bow

Recurve bows and compound bows shoot at different draw lengths. While recurve bows can be shot by pulling the arrow back any length, compound bows can only be shot in the full-drawn position, where the arrow is pulled as far back as the bow will allow the archer to pull it. Before purchasing a compound bow, archers must find their draw length, which is where they are most comfortable in a full-drawn position. Choosing a bow with the right draw length is essential for comfort, accuracy and power while firing the bow.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure your arm span in inches. Stand straight and lift your arms until they are completely horizontal at the shoulder. Hold your palms out, and measure from the tip of your longest finger on one hand to the tip of your longest finger on the other hand. Do not attempt to stretch when measuring. It's much easier to find your arm span if you have a friend helping you measure.

    • 2

      Divide the length of your arm span by 2.5. The resulting quotient is your personal draw length.

    • 3

      Double-check your findings. Because your arm span is just about equal to your height, you can also use your height as a measurement to find your draw length. Either divide your height in inches by 2.5 or refer to a scale, such as those at HuntersFriend.com.

    • 4

      Find a compound bow that matches your draw length and test it out before finalizing your draw length. While these measurements are accurate estimates of your draw length, personal preferences can still affect what you consider to be comfortable. Use your measurement as a starting point for finding your draw length, and finalize it by pulling on several compound bows with similar draw lengths.