Updated March 2023

Few measurements in archery are as important as draw length. Finding your correct draw length is vital for a bow to fit correctly. The best method to determine your draw length is to actually draw a bow back to feel for comfort and correct fit. There are various height-to-draw-length charts out there, but many are inaccurate because everyone has different arm lengths. The measurement methods below provide a ballpark estimate of what your draw length is. Draw length is helpful to know prior to going into an archery shop to look at bows. Also, many bowhunters are buying bows online these days, where you may not have a chance to test the fit prior to purchasing. It is important that you find your draw length first, then find a bow that fits, not the other way around.

What is Draw Length?

Draw length is the maximum distance, in inches, a compound bow can be drawn back before hitting the bow’s back wall. Draw length is determined by the cam system on a bow. Some cams are adjustable to lengthen or shorten draw length to fit. Draw length will determine the size of bow that will fit you. When you measure your draw length, you want this number to match the bow’s draw length number.

Why a Proper Draw Length is Important

Using a bow that is properly fit to your draw length will be easier to shoot, resulting in better accuracy. Proper draw length will produce a more natural and consistent anchor point, leading to better form. In general, a bow with a longer draw length will result in faster arrow speeds due to the arrow being pushed out of the bow for a slightly longer period of time. A draw length that is too long will cause inaccuracy and your front bow arm will get in the way. A draw length too short will cause bad form by tilting your head forward or bending your front bow arm too much. This inconsistency results in difficulty aiming, finding your peep and aligning your sight.

4 Methods for Measuring Draw Length

Wingspan Method – The wingspan method uses the total length of your arm span divided by 2.5. To perform this measurement, stand with your back against a wall with your arms raised to shoulder height, making a “T” shape with your body. With a relaxed stance and natural posture (don’t overextend your arms), measure from the tip of one middle finger to the other. It is easiest if you put one finger up against a corner and then mark the other finger on the wall. Now, take this measurement and divide it by 2.5 to get your draw length. This method will result in a draw length measurement within a ¼ inch to a ½ inch of your actual draw length.

ATA Method – The Archery Trade Association (ATA) method, or true draw length method, is another way to measure your draw length. This measurement involves the use of a bow. To perform this measurement, draw a bow to your proper anchor point. Next, have someone measure from the nocking point (apex of string or nock grove) of the arrow to the pivot point (deepest part of grip) of your grip. Take this measurement and add 1 ¾ inches. These two numbers added together will give you your draw length.

Wall to Mouth Method – To perform the wall to mouth measurement, stand perpendicular at arm’s length from a wall. Now, with the shoulder of your front bow arm facing wall, make a fist and move closer to wall until your knuckles are touching it. Then, turn your head to look at the wall and have someone measure from the wall at top of your fist to the corner of mouth, where your anchor point is. This measurement is your draw length.

Local Archery Shop – A final method for determining your draw length is to visit your local archery shop. Most archery shops have a draw-check bow tool, which is basically a dummy bow with a yardstick in place of an arrow. When you draw back and anchor correctly, someone will read the number for you. This method is usually very accurate in determining your exact draw length.

Summary

Draw length is the most important measurement when it comes to determining a bow’s fit. A proper draw length will ensure that you have correct form, resulting in more accurate shots. You can do all the measurements you want, but draw length always comes down to comfort. if you measure your draw length at 29 inches, but all the bows you try feel best at 28.5, then go with what feels comfortable to you. The above draw length measurement methods should help you get a close estimate of your unique draw length. For more articles and buyer’s guides, please check out other posts from Bowhunting Depot!