Draw Length Calculator: See How to Get Accurate Results Fast

If you are struggling to find the exact draw length for your compound bow you’ve come to the right place. The Draw Length Calculator below will not only help you measure your draw length accurately but will also optimize your bow setup for better performance. Follow the simple steps here on this page and you will quickly have the information you need to get setup with a close-to-perfect estimate of your draw length measurement.

The Draw Length Calculator

The calculator below will help you get accurate results fast, but remember to scroll down the page here for details and alternate methods that can help you get the exact result you are looking for.

Why Measuring Draw Length Matters

Measuring and calculating your draw length accurately is crucial for setting up your bow correctly. It helps you optimize your anchor points, d-loop, peep sight, and bow sight, and set the optimal arrow length for your bow. Furthermore, it gives you the data you need to calculate bow and arrow speed. Knowing your proper draw length ensures your bow is optimized for your full draw, allowing you to set up the proper location of your peep sight and bow sight for perfect sight alignment and positioning.

Importance of Draw Length When Buying a New Bow

Additionally, knowing your draw length is essential when buying a new bow, as every bow has specific draw length ranges and limits. It’s impossible to set up a bow without knowing your exact measurements. While our calculator will give you a close estimate, it’s recommended that you visit your local Archery Pro Shop and have an expert fine-tune your bow setup.

For most, the formula listed here will give them exactly what they need.  It is very dependent on your individual wingspan measurements and body type.  The form below will give the exact draw length number, but you must round to the nearest half-inch (always round down to the nearest half-inch increment, rounding up is not recommended).

*NOTE: Just like any online calculator, this is only as good as the information you provide.

The Draw Length Formula

Our calculator uses the formula: wingspan/2.5 (wingspan is measured in inches). This formula provides accurate draw length estimates for most people, as you don’t want your anchor point too far back towards your ear. Your draw’s anchor point should be closer to the corner of your mouth, mid-cheek on your shooting side. Additionally, you should be able to touch the tip of your nose to the bowstring while simultaneously looking through your peep sight and bow sight.

For most users, this formula will suffice. However, it’s essential to note that it’s based on your individual wingspan measurements. The calculator will provide the exact draw length number, but you’ll need to round it to the nearest half-inch (always round down to the nearest half-inch increment, rounding up is not recommended).

*Bowstring positioning should be across the corner of your mouth with the tip of your nose touching the bowstring.

Alternate Draw Length Calculation Method

There is an alternate method for calculating draw length. It is very similar to the formula outlined above, but in some cases will provide you with a different look that might help you narrow down your exact measurement.

*Alternate Formula: wingspan – 15/2 (measured in inches)

Example: If you have a 75-inch wingspan, using the wingspan/2.5 formula used in the calculator, this equates to a 30-inch draw length. Using the alternate method, wingspan – 15/2, this also equates to a 30-inch measurement. But, if your wingspan measurement is 68.75 inches, for example, the measurement is 27.5 while using the alternate method, this equates to a 26.875-inch measurement. In this case, you may want to start with a 27-inch draw length and adjust from there if needed.

The alternate method is always going to lean low and I recommend rounding up to the nearest 1/2 inch, while the primary method is going to lean high and you should round down to the nearest 1/2 inch. Using these together, you can find a happy medium if you are getting results in between half-inch increments.

Official Draw Length Definition

Considering Additional Factors

When selecting a bow, it’s essential to know the available draw lengths. For example, a bow may advertise a range of 26″ to 30″ in half-inch increments. Knowing your specific draw length allows you to determine which bows are available in your required length. Moreover, it’s crucial to check your draw length at your local Archery Shop to ensure the best fit possible before purchasing and tuning your bow.

Additionally, be aware that your grip hand positioning can impact your draw length. Stretching and pushing out on your grip can lengthen it while using a collapsed wrist style grip can shorten it. This consideration may explain why you need to make adjustments to your bow.

Furthermore, remember that the release aid you use could affect your draw length. A standard mechanical release will typically work well with the draw length calculator provided. However, if you use a finger-style or hook-type release where your trigger is engaged with your thumb instead of your trigger finger, you may need to adjust your draw length (though in most cases, other adjustments can and should be made instead).

Keep in mind that when your draw length is set correctly, you shouldn’t need to change it when using a different release. Instead, you may need to adjust your anchor points, peep sight placement, and d-loop length.

We’ve also created a video tutorial to help guide you through measuring your draw length. Check out the video below for a visual demonstration of the steps mentioned in this post.

How to Measure and Calculate Draw Length

Calculating your draw length is easy and requires only three quick steps:

Step 1: Measure Your Wingspan

Stand with your back flat against a wall and stretch your arms extended to your sides, with your hands and fingers extended (do not stretch for a larger measurement). Measure the distance, in inches, from the tip of your middle finger on one hand to the tip of your middle finger on the other hand. This will measure your total wingspan in inches.

*Do not measure your wingspan yourself. Self-measurements always seem to come up short. In addition, if you are broad-chested or a heavier individual, you may need to measure it from the back versus the front.

Step 2: Calculate Base Draw Length

Take your total wingspan measurement from Step 1 (in inches) and divide that number by 2.5. For example, if your total wingspan is 68 inches, divide 68 by 2.5 to get 27.2. Your base draw length is estimated to be 27.2 inches.

*Calculate using the Alternate Method outlined above to see if there is a significant difference in results.

Step 3: Round Down to the Nearest Half-Inch

Round down your base draw length to the closest half-inch. In the example above, round 27.2 inches down to 27 inches. Your draw length is now set at 27 inches.

It’s recommended to round down because it’s easier to work with a slightly shorter draw length and add to the length of your d-loop than to have a draw that’s challenging to adjust with your shooting arm. A longer than optimal draw length can lead to issues with your shot cycle, fundamentals, and shooting mechanics (and can be very uncomfortable).

Always consult an Archery Professional to ensure your draw length is correctly sized for you and your release aid type. Rounding can slightly change your ideal draw length depending on your body type.

Once you’ve calculated your draw length, you’re ready to buy or set up your new bow to your personal draw length.

Conclusion

Measuring your draw length accurately is a crucial step for any bowhunter, as it helps optimize your bow setup for improved performance. Use our easy-to-follow guide and draw length calculator to determine your draw length and enhance your archery skills. Remember to consult with an Archery Professional for the best possible results. Good luck, and happy hunting!

Common Questions