Draw Length Calculator – Calculate your Draw Length

Use this draw length calculator in archery to determine the appropriate draw length for an archer with Draw Length = (Arm Span / 2.5) + 1.5 formula.

The draw length is the distance between the nocking point on the bowstring and the pivot point of the bow grip, plus 1.75 inches, when the archer is at full draw. This measurement is crucial for optimizing an archer’s performance and comfort.

For Example…..

1. An archer with an arm span of 70 inches:
   • Draw Length = (70 / 2.5) + 1.5 = 29.5 inches
2. An archer with an arm span of 65 inches:
   • Draw Length = (65 / 2.5) + 1.5 = 27.5 inches
3. An archer with an arm span of 75 inches:
   • Draw Length = (75 / 2.5) + 1.5 = 31.5 inches

Draw Length Calculator

Arm Span (inches)	Calculation	Draw Length (inches)
60	(60 / 2.5) + 1.5 = 25.5	25.5
65	(65 / 2.5) + 1.5 = 27.5	27.5
70	(70 / 2.5) + 1.5 = 29.5	29.5
75	(75 / 2.5) + 1.5 = 31.5	31.5
80	(80 / 2.5) + 1.5 = 33.5	33.5

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Draw Length Formula

The most common Draw Length Formula is:

Draw Length = (Arm Span / 2.5) + 1.5

This formula is based on the principle that an archer’s draw length is typically about 1/2.5 of their arm span, with an additional 1.5 inches added to account for the distance from the arrow nock to the pivot point of the bow grip.

Examples:

1. An archer with an arm span of 68 inches:
   • Draw Length = (68 / 2.5) + 1.5 = 28.7 inches
2. An archer with an arm span of 72 inches:
   • Draw Length = (72 / 2.5) + 1.5 = 30.3 inches
3. An archer with an arm span of 62 inches:
   • Draw Length = (62 / 2.5) + 1.5 = 26.3 inches

How do you calculate draw length?

Calculating draw length involves several methods, with the arm span method being the most common:

1. Arm Span Method:
   • Measure arm span from fingertip to fingertip with arms outstretched.
   • Divide the arm span by 2.5.
   • Add 1.5 inches to the result.
2. Wall Method:
   • Stand with your back against a wall, arms outstretched.
   • Measure the distance from the tip of one middle finger to the other.
   • Divide this measurement by 2.5 and add 1.5 inches.
3. Arrow Method:
   • Draw an oversized arrow to your anchor point.
   • Have someone mark the arrow at the front of the bow.
   • Measure from the bottom of the nock groove to the mark.
   • Add 1.75 inches to this measurement.
4. Professional Measurement:
   • Visit an archery shop where they can use a draw length indicator arrow or a bow with adjustable draw length to measure you directly.

Each method has its advantages, but the arm span method is often preferred for its simplicity and accuracy.

How to know what draw length you need?

Determining the correct draw length is crucial for optimal archery performance. Here are steps to help you find your ideal draw length:

1. Use the Arm Span Method: This is a quick and easy way to get a good estimate.
2. Consider Your Shooting Style: Traditional archers might prefer a slightly shorter draw length compared to compound bow users.
3. Check Your Anchor Point: Your draw length should allow you to consistently reach your anchor point comfortably.
4. Evaluate Your Form: A proper draw length will enable you to maintain good posture and alignment throughout the draw.
5. Test Different Lengths: If possible, try bows with different draw lengths to see which feels most comfortable and allows for the best form.
6. Consult a Professional: An experienced archery coach or pro shop staff can help you determine your optimal draw length.
7. Fine-Tune: Once you have a starting point, make small adjustments to find the perfect draw length for your individual needs.

Remember, the right draw length should feel comfortable and allow for consistent, accurate shooting.

What is the draw length for a 5’10” man?

We can estimate the draw length for a 5’10” (70 inches) man using the arm span method:

1. Estimate arm span: On average, a person’s arm span is close to their height. So, we’ll assume an arm span of 70 inches.
2. Apply the formula: Draw Length = (Arm Span / 2.5) + 1.5
   • Draw Length = (70 / 2.5) + 1.5
   • Draw Length = 28 + 1.5
   • Draw Length = 29.5 inches

A 5’10” man would typically have a draw length of around 29.5 inches.

How long should my arrows be for a 29 inch draw?

Generally, your arrows should be slightly longer than your draw length. Here’s a guideline:

1. For Beginners: Add 1-2 inches to your draw length.
   • Arrow Length = Draw Length + 1-2 inches
   • For a 29-inch draw: Arrow Length = 29 + 1-2 = 30-31 inches
2. For Experienced Archers: Add 0.5-1 inch to your draw length.
   • Arrow Length = Draw Length + 0.5-1 inch
   • For a 29-inch draw: Arrow Length = 29 + 0.5-1 = 29.5-30 inches
3. For Compound Bows: You might be able to use arrows cut closer to your actual draw length, but never shorter.
4. Safety Consideration: Ensure the arrow extends at least 1 inch beyond the arrow rest when at full draw.

For a 29-inch draw length, a safe and versatile arrow length would be 30-31 inches. This provides enough clearance for safety while maintaining good performance.

As you become more experienced, you may opt for slightly shorter arrows, but never go below your draw length.

Draw Length vs Arrow Length

Aspect	Draw Length	Arrow Length
Definition	Distance from nocking point to bow grip pivot point, plus 1.75 inches, at full draw	Physical length of the arrow from nock to tip
Purpose	Determines proper bow fit and shooting form	Ensures safety and optimal arrow flight
Measurement	Based on archer’s physique and shooting style	Based on draw length and archer’s experience
Variability	Generally consistent for an individual archer	Can be adjusted based on preferences and shooting style
Safety Implications	Too long or short can lead to poor form and accuracy	Too short can be dangerous; too long may affect performance
Relationship	Serves as the base measurement for determining arrow length	Should be longer than draw length for safety
Customization	Can be slightly adjusted on some bows	Can be cut to desired length based on draw length
Impact on Performance	Affects accuracy, comfort, and consistency	Influences arrow speed, accuracy, and bow tuning

In general, arrow length should be at least equal to or slightly longer than the draw length to ensure safety and proper clearance.

Beginners often use arrows 1-2 inches longer than their draw length, while experienced archers might use arrows only 0.5-1 inch longer.

Arrow Length to Draw Length Chart

Draw Length (inches)	Beginner Arrow Length (inches)	Intermediate Arrow Length (inches)	Advanced Arrow Length (inches)
25	27-28	26-27	25.5-26
26	28-29	27-28	26.5-27
27	29-30	28-29	27.5-28
28	30-31	29-30	28.5-29
29	31-32	30-31	29.5-30
30	32-33	31-32	30.5-31
31	33-34	32-33	31.5-32
32	34-35	33-34	32.5-33

Note:

• Beginner: Draw Length + 2-3 inches
• Intermediate: Draw Length + 1-2 inches
• Advanced: Draw Length + 0.5-1 inch