How to Measure Draw Length on A Compound Bow? Step-by-Step Guide

Hey there, fellow archery enthusiast! If you’ve ever held a compound bow, you probably know that getting the draw length just right is as crucial as having the perfect arrow. But let’s face it, figuring out the exact draw length can be a bit of a head-scratcher. 

In this article, I’m going to unravel the mysteries of draw length, and I’ll show you two super-precise ways to measure it, by using your wingspan, and by using a draw length checker. By the end of this read, you’ll be locking and loading those arrows with confidence, hitting your targets like a seasoned pro.

Two Ways to Measure Draw Length on a Compound Bow

Here’s how to measure your draw length accurately:

Using My Wingspan

Your wingspan, which is the distance from fingertip to fingertip when you stretch your arms out like an eagle, is a fantastic starting point for determining your draw length. It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t require any special tools. Here’s how I do it:

• Step 1 – Stand Tall and Extend My Arms: I find a friend or a wall to stand against and then extend my arms straight out to the sides, forming a “T” shape with my body.
• Step 2 – Measuring the Wingspan: I have my buddy measure the distance from the tip of one middle finger to the other. We make sure the tape or string is level with the ground.
• Step 3 – Divide by 2.5: To get my draw length, I divide the measured wingspan by 2.5. This method offers a rough estimate and works well, especially for beginners.

Using a Draw Length Checker

For pinpoint precision, a draw length checker is your best friend. It’s a device specifically designed for this purpose, ensuring that my measurements are as accurate as Cupid’s arrow. Here’s how it’s done:

• Step 1 – Draw the bow back to full draw. This is the point at which the bow is fully extended and the string is touching your face.
• Step 2 – Have someone measure the distance from the nocking point to the deepest part of the grip. The nocking point is the small metal or plastic piece on the string where the arrow is nocked. The deepest part of the grip is the point where the grip curves inward towards your hand.
• Step 3 – Add 1.75 inches to this measurement. This is the distance from the deepest part of the grip to the corner of your mouth, which is where the string should rest when you are at full draw.

Both methods have their merits, but the draw length checker provides unparalleled accuracy. Still, knowing my wingspan measurement is handy for quick adjustments when I don’t have the checker on hand.

Why Accurate Draw Length Measurement is Needed for a Compound Bow?

You might be wondering, why all the fuss about measuring draw length accurately? Well, it’s not just about hitting that bullseye; it’s about my overall archery experience and safety. Here’s why it’s crucial:

An accurate draw length measurement is essential for a compound bow because it affects accuracy, comfort, and safety. If your draw length is too short, you will have to hunch over to reach the full draw position. This can lead to fatigue and muscle strain, and it can also make it difficult to aim accurately. If your draw length is too long, you will have to over-extend your reach to get to the full draw. This can also lead to fatigue and muscle strain, and it can also increase the risk of injury.

A properly adjusted draw length will allow you to draw the bow back to full draw without having to hunch over or over-extend your reach. This will help you to maintain a consistent shooting form, which will improve your accuracy. A properly adjusted draw length will also be more comfortable to shoot, which will help you to shoot longer and more accurately.

In a nutshell, understanding and measuring your draw length correctly is the foundation for archery success. So, take a moment to measure it properly and enjoy hitting your targets with precision and ease.

Wrapping It All Up

Measuring your draw length is the key to unlocking your archery potential. Whether you use your wingspan for a quick estimate or invest in a draw length checker for precision, knowing your draw length is essential for consistency, accuracy, and safety in archery. So, grab your bow, measure your draw length, and start hitting those bullseyes like a true archery aficionado. If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to leave a comment below. Thanks for reading, and may your arrows always find their mark! How to Measure Draw Length on A Compound Bow?