Field Guide / Archery Gear & Setup
Draw Length
Also called: DL
How far you pull the string at full draw, which a pro shop sets to fit your body for comfort and accuracy.
- Type
- Specs & Setup
- Rough estimate
- Wingspan in inches divided by 2.5
- Example
- A 70-inch wingspan is about a 28-inch draw length
- Best way
- Have a pro shop measure and test it
- Used for
- Deer & big game, Turkey, Small game, Target practice
What it is good for
- Comfortable form and consistent anchor points.
- Matching bow size and arrow length.
- Better accuracy.
Where it falls short
- The wingspan rule is only a starting point.
- A draw length that is too long or short causes bad form.
- Arrow length must be matched to it.
Tips
- Shoot a few arrows with a pro shop and watch your form.
- Recheck draw length if your shooting form changes.
Works well with
- Draw Weight: set at the same time.
- Arrow Spine: depends on arrow length.
Field notes
Many compound bows can be adjusted over a range of draw lengths, while traditional bows are built at set lengths.
Related guides
Numbers here are typical, not guarantees. Have a pro shop set up and tune your bow or crossbow, follow the maker's manual, and never dry-fire a bow. Legal equipment, draw weights, crossbow seasons, and broadhead rules differ by state and area; our state resources directory links to each state's official regulations. Not sure what to buy? Try our bow and crossbow wizard.