Find your perfect bow fit using the industry-standard "Wingspan Method". Essential for accurate and safe archery.
Draw Length Calculator
Determine your optimal compound or recurve bow size.
in
How to measure: Stand with your back to a wall, arms spread wide. Measure from fingertip to fingertip.
Enter wingspan to calculate
How to Measure Your Wingspan
1
Stand against a wall. Ensure your back is flat and your shoulders are level.
2
Spread your arms. Make a "T" shape. Do not overstretch; just reach out naturally.
3
Measure tip-to-tip. Have a friend measure from middle finger to middle finger.
4
Enter the number. Input your wingspan into the calculator above.
Why Draw Length Matters
Draw length is the specific distance you pull the bowstring to "anchor" it against your face. It is the most critical setting on your bow. If your draw length is too long, you can't anchor consistently (leading to accuracy loss) and the string might slap your arm. If it's too short, you lose power, speed, and kinetic energy because the power stroke is reduced.
The "Divide by 2.5" Rule
Draw Length = Wingspan (in) ÷ 2.5
This calculator uses the industry-standard formula: Wingspan ÷ 2.5. This method is used by major pro-shops (like Cabela's and Bass Pro Shops) because it is reliable for 90% of archers. It places the nock of the arrow directly under the shooter's eye when at full draw, ensuring proper alignment.
Compound vs. Recurve
Compound Bows
Length is fixed mechanically by "cams". It must be set exactly to your physical size. Most bows allow for 0.5-inch adjustments without a bow press.
Recurve Bows
Length is flexible. You can draw past your optimal point, but the "weight" increases rapidly ("stacking"). Your draw length helps you choose the correct bow size (e.g., 66" vs 70").
Often Asked Questions
What happens if my draw length is wrong?
If your draw length is **too long**, you will struggle to find a consistent anchor point on your face, leading to poor accuracy. You are also likely to hit your forearm with the bowstring (string slap). If it is **too short**, you will feel cramped, your elbow will bend too much, and you will lose arrow speed and kinetic energy.
Should I round up or down?
Always round **down** to the nearest half-inch. It is much easier to shoot a bow that is slightly too short than one that is too long. For example, if your calculation is 28.3 inches, start with a 28.0-inch setting. Most modern compound bows have adjustable cams that let you fine-tune by 0.5 inches.
Does height determine draw length?
Roughly, yes, because arm span is usually equal to height (a 1:1 ratio). However, many people have a "positive ape index" (arms longer than height) or "negative ape index." Measuring your actual wingspan is always more accurate than guessing based on your height alone.
Is this for Youth bows too?
Yes, the `Wingspan / 2.5` formula works well for children and teenagers. However, since kids grow fast, buy a highly adjustable bow (like the Diamond Infinite Edge) that can adjust from 19" to 30" so you don't have to buy a new bow every year.
How do I measure for a Recurve bow?
The draw length calculation is the same (28" is standard). However, for recurve sizing, you use draw length to pick the *bow length*. For example, if your draw length is 28", you typically need a 66-68" recurve bow. Longer draw lengths require longer limbs to prevent "stacking" (where the bow becomes exponentially harder to pull).