How to Measure Your Draw Length at Home

Knowing how to measure your draw length is essential for selecting the right bow and arrows. Shooting with incorrect draw length causes accuracy problems, inconsistent form, and can lead to injury over time. Fortunately, measuring at home takes just a few minutes with basic tools.

Why Draw Length Matters in Archery

Draw length is the distance from the nock point on the string to the throat of the grip, plus 1.75 inches, when the bow is at full draw. This measurement affects virtually every aspect of your shooting:

• Bow size selection and fit
• Arrow length requirements
• Shooting form and anchor point consistency
• Power stroke and resulting arrow speed
• Overall comfort during shooting sessions

A bow set to the wrong draw length forces your body to compensate. Too long causes overextension and string slap on your forearm. Too short creates cramped positioning, loss of power, and difficulty reaching a consistent anchor point.

The Wingspan Method for Draw Length

The most common home measurement technique uses your arm span. This method provides a reliable starting estimate that works for most body types:

1. Stand against a wall with arms extended straight out to both sides, parallel to the floor
2. Keep your back flat against the wall and do not stretch or strain
3. Have someone measure from the tip of one middle finger to the tip of the other
4. Divide this wingspan measurement by 2.5

For example, a person with a 70-inch wingspan divided by 2.5 equals a 28-inch draw length. Most archers fall within one inch of this calculated value, though individual body proportions can vary.

The Wall Method for More Accuracy

This technique mimics your actual shooting position for improved accuracy:

1. Stand sideways to a wall with your bow arm extended, fist pressed flat against the wall
2. Turn your head as if looking at a target, keeping your body position natural
3. Have someone measure from the wall to the corner of your mouth

This distance closely approximates your actual draw length because it simulates shooting posture. Adjust slightly based on your preferred anchor point style.

Watch: How To Measure Your Draw Length

Common Draw Length Ranges by Height

Use these general guidelines as starting points based on your height:

• 5 ft 4 in to 5 ft 6 in: 25-26 inch draw length
• 5 ft 6 in to 5 ft 10 in: 26-28 inch draw length
• 5 ft 10 in to 6 ft 2 in: 28-30 inch draw length
• 6 ft 2 in and taller: 30-32 inch draw length

Remember that arm length relative to height varies significantly between individuals. Always measure rather than relying solely on height estimates.

Draw Length for Different Bow Types

Recurve Bows

Recurve shooters have flexibility in draw length since the bow does not mechanically limit how far you pull. Your arrows must extend past the rest at full draw with a 1-2 inch safety margin. This flexibility makes recurves forgiving for beginners still developing consistent form.

Compound Bows

Compound draw length is set mechanically by the cam system and cannot be exceeded. Most modern compounds offer adjustment ranges of 3-5 inches. Verify any compound you consider purchasing covers your measured draw length with room for fine-tuning.

Signs Your Draw Length Needs Adjustment

Draw length too long:

• Elbow hyperextends beyond straight
• Head tilts backward to reach anchor
• String slaps your forearm consistently
• Difficulty maintaining steady aim

Draw length too short:

• Cramped, uncomfortable feeling at anchor
• Nose cannot touch the string
• Reduced power and arrow speed
• Anchor point feels unstable

Arrow Length vs Draw Length

Arrow length and draw length are related but different measurements. Your arrows should be 1-2 inches longer than your draw length to ensure the point clears the rest at full draw. Arrows cut too short create a dangerous situation where the point could contact your hand.

Once you confirm your draw length, you can confidently order arrows or have them cut to proper specifications at a pro shop.

Need arrows? Check our Aluminum Arrows available in multiple lengths.

Ready to practice? Check out our paper targets in the shop.