The right archery bow for each archer is as unique as the individual. For peak performance, a bow should be chosen carefully to match the shooter's strength, size, draw length, and whether they are left or right-handed. Taking the appropriate measurements can help you choose a bow that will fit you well whether you enjoy archery as recreation or a sport.
Step 1
Measure your draw length. The draw length is how far you pull back the bowstring, and it affects both the size and weight of the bow you buy and the length of your arrows. To measure your draw length, place the "zero" end of a yardstick against your upper chest and point it straight outward. Stretch your arms along the yardstick as far as they will go while keeping your head up and shoulders relaxed. Find the point on the yardstick where your longest fingers end. Subtract one inch from this measurement. This is your draw length.
Step 2
Choose a draw weight. The draw weight is the amount of force required to hold back the bowstring when the bow is at "full draw." Most bows have a specified full-draw length, which should match your draw length as closely as possible. For a beginning adult, choose a draw weight between 35 and 40 pounds. Advanced archers may choose heavier draw weights. For children under the age of 8, a draw weight of 14 pounds is usually sufficient. Try several different draw weights at the sporting goods shop until you find one that works for you.
Step 3
Choose the length of your bow based on your draw length. For archers whose draw length is under 26 inches, a 64-inch bow will suffice. For every two-inch increase in your draw length, add two inches to the length of the bow. For instance, if your draw length is two inches larger than 26 inches, or 28 inches, choose a 66-inch bow.
Step 4
Choose a bow with a right- or left-handed grip depending on your needs. When shooting a bow, you determine which side to shoot from based on your dominant eye, not your dominant hand. To quickly figure out which is your dominant eye, choose a small point across the room. Face it directly and point at it, keeping both eyes open. Continue to point, not moving your arm or finger, while you close one eye and then the other. The eye that sees the finger covering the target when it is open is your dominant eye. It may or may not be on the same side as your dominant hand.
Things You'll Need
- Yardstick
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