How to Size a Youth Bow

A proper sized youth bow is important to allow a child to successfully shoot it. Bows are sized based on the draw length and draw weight. The draw length is the distance the bow string needs to be pulled back to shoot properly. The draw weight is the amount of force exerted by the bow when the string is pulled the draw length. A youth bow should be specifically sized for the child that will shoot it.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
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Instructions

    • 1

      Have the child stretch her arms straight out, as far as possible. The arms should be parallel to the floor, with her palms facing towards the front.

    • 2

      Measure the child's arm span using the tape measure. The measurement should be the distance between the tips of the middle fingers, in inches.

    • 3

      Divide the arm span length by 2.5. This is the draw length for the youth bow.

    • 4

      Have the child try out bows with different draw weights until he can comfortably draw back the string. A child under 70 lbs. should look at youth bows with a draw weight between 10 and 15 lbs. A child under 100 lbs. should look at bows with a draw weight up to 25 lbs. Larger children should not exceed bows with a draw weight more than 35 lbs.