Draw Length

Draw Length is defined as the distance between the nock point of the arrow, and the throat of the grip...  plus 1.75".  

Draw Length can be calculated a few different ways.  The calculations will get you close to your actual draw length.  Wingspan is the distance from the tip of one middle finger to the tip of the other, measured with the archer's back against a wall.  Now for an average built person, this will also be your height, so using heights instead of wingspan will also get you close.

Our calculator takes your wingspan, subtracts 15 and then divides by 2.

Adding a string loop will move your anchor back about a half inch.  So you may want to subtract a 1/2" when ordering a bow if you plan on using a string loop.  The advantages of using a string loop with a compound bow are that it eliminates arrow pinch, as the string loop pulls both above and below the nock equally.

Resist the urge to use too long of a draw length.  It will affect your accuracy.

Draw Weight

Draw Weight is the peak weight the bow hits while being drawn.  With a compound bow, this peak may happen towards the middle of the draw, or towards the end.  With a traditional bow, this peak is always the furthest point in which it is drawn.   Most compounds sold can be turned down 10 pounds from their peak.  Purchasing a 60 pound compound would typically mean that this bow can be adjusted down ten pounds to 50#.  Some bows adjust down 15 pounds or more.

How much draw weight can I pull?  
Use our chart as a rough guide.

Resist the urge to pull too much draw weight.  Not only can it hurt your shoulders, but it also affects your accuracy and is not enjoyable.  One of the quickest ways to spoil archery for a child is by giving them a bow that does not fit them, or in unenjoyable to shoot.