draw length

[trappermike63]

Hey guys I wonder if somone can help .I am new to bow hunting and am sellecting a bow.My question is does it matter if I get a shorter draw than I need have determined that I need a 26"draw and I was pulling back a 25" and it seemed to be easier.Thanx for any comments

[Graybeard]

It's actually pretty important to use the CORRECT draw length. That's not to say a wee bit more or less is horrible and will make evil things happen but it's really quite important to use the correct draw length.

That will or at least can vary depending on whether you use an over draw, a release or just how you anchor. You need to get all those details worked out and then determine what your proper draw length is using that method and get a bow set up for that specific draw length.

[mattmillerrx]

If you shoot a string loop, it will add about an inch to the draw anyway.  Many bows are adjustable and many others can be changed by switching cams or modules out.  I have shot anything from 29-31.  The 31 was a mistake, i was trying to push some extra fps out of her.  I have shot the 29 on one bow due to the design of the bow it fit better on others I have shot 29 because I was shooting a string loop and other have shot 30 because of fit and with a string loop.  Each release is different too some will allow for a longer type draw others will not.  I would ask if the bow could be adjusted this will allow you some leway depending on what else you decide to shoot with it release, string loop ect.  How did you determine what you need?  If you were measured, find some bows in 25, 26, or maybe more and less and accually shoot them this will be the best way to make up you mind as to what you are comfortable with.

[lewdogg21]

Go to an archery shop and get fitted.  The worst possible thing you could do is get equipment that doesn't fit you correctly b/c then you will never be able to develop the right technique and be an accurate shooter.

[mg66]

My Mathews has a max of 30". I really need a 31" draw length. The string loop adds that bit extra. I also use a kisser button and have it right in the corner of my mouth and string just touches the end of my nose. the more anchor points you can get the more consistent the shot will be.

[Big Nasty]

If you use a loop with a release it does not add to your draw lenght I repeat it does not add to your draw lenght. What it does is change your anchor point of your draw hand on the side of your face. If you have a 28 inch draw a string loop added does not make the bow a 28.5 inch draw lenght. The string when drawn should just touch the tip of your nose if you use fingers or release or what ever method of pulling the bow back the string is still the same length. string loop or D loop or no loop a 28 inch draw or what ever the bow is setup for 28", 29", or 30" when drawn is still the same i dont care what you add to the string for draw. A loop will only change your hand anchor the only way to change the draw lenght is twisting the string, different modules, or new cam. 28 inch bow is a 28" bow no matter what you can have your buddy draw the bow while you hold it and he can use a 20 foot pair of plyers to do it with and the string is still only going to draw to what it is set for. I have seen dealers pro shops make this mistake and it makes me sick they will fit someone ok you are a 28 inch draw will you be using a release with a loop if so then you need a 27.5" bow. The loop does not make it come any closer to your face it will hold your draw hand at the same spot on the side of your face but that is useless if the string doesnt come to your anchor points on your nose or with a kisser in the corner of your mouth. You do not want to have to move your head forward to make your anchor points because then you are getting everything out of whack and you will end up putting torque on the bow and it will never shoot right. going shorter because of a loop or release just does not work right oh you can make it work but why 28 inches pulled is just that 28 inches 27.5 pulled it will be a half inch from your face I dont care how many loops or releases you use. The cam or cams dont change because you put on a loop and you dont want to lean your head forward to get your anchor points. You should be able to draw with your eyes closed and anchor and be on when you open your eyes you should not have to fish around looking for your anchor because the string never made it there in the first place.

[Cottonwood]

Got a guy over on the Mathews forum board that was sold a NEW Mathews by a distributor with a 29" draw length.  This shooter has a 76.5 wing span and when devided by 2.5 he actually needs a bow that is 30.5" DL.  He is currently suffering from back strain as a result of not having the proper draw length.

We can tell you what is the right way according to proper measurement, but you are the shooter and have to make this choice for yourself.