Draw length is one of the most important factors in archery. This basically refers to the length of your draw from the nock point of your arrow down to your grip on the bow riser. It will be important to know what your draw length is, because this will allow you to find the right sized arrows for your needs.
When someone is new to archery, they often over draw when they pull back the bow. This basically means they pull back more than they need to, so you will have to have longer arrows to compensate for this.
As you slowly get used to pulling back your bow, you will do so in a more natural stance. Remember that the arm holding the riser should be slightly bent at the elbow – you won’t need to have a rigid arm every time you draw back. This more natural stance will need different sized arrows, as otherwise the arrows will hang way off the arrow rest.
If you don’t have the right sized arrows for your draw length, this will of course affect your accuracy. If the arrows aren’t long enough for your draw length, you will have to compensate for this by not using your full draw length.
So you won’t be able to put as much power behind your shot, and your arrows won’t hit the target. If your arrows are too long, these also won’t be able to accurately hit the target.
How long should arrows be for draw length?
The correct length of your arrows will fully depend on your draw length. Ideally, you will want your arrows to sit at least 1 inch beyond the end of the arrow rest when at full draw. So it will always be important to opt for a slightly longer arrow than a shorter arrow.
You can find the right arrow length for your particular draw length by holding the arrow up to the center of your throat, and measuring it against your arm. The nock point should be resting against your throat, the pile of the arrow should be able to reach the end of your middle finger.
If you’re not sure whether a size is the right fit for you, you should always opt for a slightly longer set of arrows.
What happens if your draw length is too long?
If your draw length is too long, this forces your bow arm to overextend itself each time you shoot. This can then mess up where you anchor your string, which will then make your shots less accurate.
Beginners are some of the worst culprits for this, as they sometimes think that their arm needs to be locked in a straight position. This isn’t the case – you will need a fairly straight arm, but with a slightly bent elbow. You should be able to hold the position comfortably so that you can properly aim your arrows.
When you overextend your arm, you will need to have much longer arrows to compensate for this. It will be much better to learn the proper shooting form before you choose your arrows so that you can select the right length for your needs.
Remember – the arrow should only be hanging over the end of your arrow rest by around 1 inch or so. Anything less than this, and the arrows will be too short for you.
Does bow draw length matter?
Yes, bow draw length does matter. If you choose arrows that are far too small, you will have to compensate by under drawing. If the arrows are far too long, you are likely over drawing. This will affect your accuracy each time you shoot, and you won’t be able to get the consistency that you’re after.
If you’re not sure what size arrows to choose for your particular draw length, it will be best to go and see a professional. They will be able to make sure you leave their shop with the right kit for your needs so that you won’t hurt yourself or others on the range.
Can your arrow be shorter than your draw length?
Your arrows should never be shorter than your draw length. This is because the arrows will likely keep falling off the arrow rest each time you draw, making it very hard to get the accuracy you need.
This could also cause you to potentially dry fire your bow, which will damage it. You will also find that you have to compensate for this by under drawing, which won’t be comfortable at all.
It will be important to choose a set of arrows that will sit at least 1 inch over the end of the arrow rest. This is to give you the safety you need every time you shoot.
What should my draw length be?
There is no correct answer for what your draw length should be. This is because it will differ from person to person.
The best way to figure out what your draw length is will be to use the arrow method we’ve mentioned above. This will help beginners to find the right sized arrows for their needs until they get used to the sport of archery.
In summary
And there you have it! Your draw length is incredibly important in archery, as it all plays a part in how accurate your shooting is. If you don’t have the right arrows for your draw length, there’s no way you’ll be able to get the consistency that you’re after. It will also be best to pick arrows that are slightly too long than slightly too short.
Beginners have a habit of overextending their arms when they draw back, meaning they need to use slightly longer arrows. The best form will be to have a mostly straight bow arm but with a slightly bent elbow. If you’re in doubt as to what is the best arrow length for your draw length, it will be best to visit a professional who can fit you out with the right equipment.
