How to Determine Arrow Length for Compound Bow

Shooting a bow and arrow is fun! It takes practice and focus. One important thing you need to know is how to pick the right size arrow for your bow. This is called the arrow length.

If your arrow is too short, it can be dangerous when you shoot. If it’s too long, it can make it harder to hit what you’re aiming at. This guide will show you simple ways to find the best arrow length for you.

What is Arrow Length?

Think of the arrow as a long stick. The arrow length is how long that stick part is. We measure it from the back of the arrow, where the bowstring hooks on, all the way to the very front end of the stick. We do not count the sharp tip or the little piece the tip screws into.

Getting the right arrow length is important. The stiffness of the arrow (called ‘spine’) is also important. Both the length and the stiffness need to be right for your bow so everything works well together.

There are several ways to help you How to Determine Arrow Length for Compound Bow. In this article, we will explain 3 easy way that will allow you to pick the best arrow for your compound bow.

Way 1: Guessing Your Arrow Length (Use Your Arms)

This is a simple way to get an idea of your arrow length, especially if you are just starting out or don’t have your bow yet. It’s not the most exact way, but it helps you get close.

What You Need:

• A tape measure
• Someone to help you (a friend or family member)

What to Do:

1. Stand up straight. Stick both of your arms straight out to your sides. Make your body look like the letter “T“. Make sure your arms are level with your shoulders. 

1. Ask your helper to measure the distance from the tip of your middle finger on one hand, all the way across your back, to the tip of your middle finger on the other hand. This measurement is called your “wingspan.”
2. Take that number (it will be in inches) and divide it by 2.5. This number is a guess at how far you pull the bowstring back (called your “draw length“).
3. To get a starting arrow length, add about half an inch to one inch to that number you just got. This little bit extra is for safety.

Example:

Let’s say your wingspan is 65 inches. 65 divided by 2.5 is 26 inches. (This is your guessed draw length) 26 inches + 1 inch = 27 inches. (This is a good starting arrow length)

This method is easy and gives you a starting point. But the next method is usually better because it uses your actual bow.

Way 2: Marking an Arrow While You Pull Your Bow (The Best Way)

This method is usually the best way for most people to find their exact arrow length. It uses your own bow and how you hold it when you pull the string back.

What You Need:

• An arrow that is longer than you think you need (maybe a new one that hasn’t been cut, or one you know is too long).
• Your compound bow, set up and ready to use.
• A pencil or a pen to make a mark.
• Someone to help you, or you can carefully use a mirror.

What to Do:

1. Put the long arrow on your bowstring. Place the middle of the arrow on the arrow rest (this is the part on your bow that holds the arrow up).
2. Carefully pull back the bowstring all the way, like you are about to shoot. Hold the bow steady and stand like you normally do when you shoot.
3. Ask your helper to carefully make a mark on the arrow stick. They should mark it about half an inch to one inch in front of the arrow rest. If you are using a mirror, you must be very, very careful doing this yourself or have someone help you.
4. Slowly and safely let the bowstring back down.
5. Now, take the arrow off the string. Measure the arrow stick from the very back end (the bottom of the notch where the string was) to the mark you just made.

That number you measured is your perfect arrow length for your bow and your shooting style right now. This way is much more accurate and helps keep you safe.

Way 3: Get Measured at a Bow Shop

If you want the easiest and most exact way to find your arrow length, you can go to a store that sells bow and arrow stuff. These are sometimes called “pro shops.”

Why Go to a Shop?

• They have special tools and arrows just for measuring.
• The people who work there are experts. They make sure you pull the string back correctly while they measure you.
• You will get a super exact size made just for you.
• This is a great idea if you shoot in competitions or just want to be sure everything is perfect.
• You don’t have to measure or do any math yourself.

Why Having the Right Arrow Length Matters A Lot

Knowing and using the correct arrow length is not just about shooting well. It is very important for your safety.

• If it’s too short: The back of the arrow could slip off the arrow rest when you pull the string all the way back. If this happens and you shoot, the arrow could hit your hand or arm! This can cause bad injuries and might even break your bow.
• If it’s too long: The arrow will weigh more than it needs to. This can make it fly slower and might make it harder to shoot straight. It can also get in the way of parts of your bow, especially if you use hunting arrow tips.
• If it’s just right: The arrow stays safely on the arrow rest while you pull the string back. When you shoot, it comes off smoothly. This helps you shoot more accurately (hit the same spot more often) and keeps you and your bow safe.

Good Tools for Cutting Arrows Safely and Correctly

Once you know the right length for your arrows, you’ll need to cut them to that size. Cutting arrows needs to be done carefully so you don’t hurt yourself or mess up the arrow. Here are some good tools people use:

• Fast Arrow Saw: This is what bow shops use. It’s a fast little saw with a thin circle blade. It cuts arrows nicely and is the best way. You can buy one for home, too.
• Tool like a Dremel: This is a tool that spins fast. You can put a thin cutting wheel on it to cut arrows. You need to spin the arrow as you cut to make it straight. It helps to hold the arrow steady while you do it.
• Small Cutting Saw: Some small saws that cut metal can also cut arrows if they have the right thin blade. The blade should be made for cutting things like the stuff arrows are made of.
• Pipe Cutter (Be Careful!): Some people use tools that cut pipes for aluminum arrows, and sometimes carbon ones. BUT you have to go very slowly and be super careful so you don’t break the arrow. Using a saw is usually safer.

Always Be Safe! No matter which tool you use, you must wear glasses to keep your eyes safe. If you cut carbon arrows, wear a mask too, so you don’t breathe in the dust.

Conclusion

So, finding the right arrow length for your bow is really important. It helps you stay safe and shoot better! You learned a few ways to figure out your length, from guessing with your arms to marking an arrow on your bow, or even getting help at a bow shop. Take the time to find the size that is best for you. Doing this will help you have more fun and shoot straight arrows!