Choosing the right draw weight is an essential factor in a good bow choice. We are going to discuss what it is and why it matters to become successful in the sport of archery.

What Is Archery Bow Draw Weight?

The draw weight of a bow is the amount of force, measured in pounds, it takes to pull the bowstring to full draw. The labeled draw weight on most bows is measured at a 28” draw length. Some smaller and youth bows are measured at 24”. Each bow should be labeled accordingly. It would appear like this: 20# @ 28”. Which means the bow has a draw weight of 20 lbs. at a 28” draw length.

Draw Length Affects Draw Weight When It Comes to Archery

For each inch a bow is drawn past 28” it adds approximately 2 1/2 lbs. of draw weight. A 30 lbs. bow at 28” drawn to 30” would have a draw weight of 35 lbs. The reverse is also true. A 30 lbs. bow at 28” (30# @ 28”), drawn to only 26” would have a draw weight of 25 lbs. (25# @ 26”). This results in a labeled draw weight and on actual draw weight that is dependent on your draw length.

Lighter Is Better When Choosing An Archery Bow

For a first bow a lighter draw weight is always better. You want to be able to pull the bow to full draw easily and hold it there for couple of seconds. Learning and practicing good form is the most important thing for a new archer, except for safety. Being “over bowed”, or using a bow that is too strong will wreck your form and create bad habits that are hard to fix later. As you shoot more and develop the muscles used in archery, you will be able to increase your draw weight if you choose.

Here Are Some Guidelines For Beginning Bow Weights

Youth 8 to 10 – 10 to 12 pounds, youth 11 to 13 – 10 to 14 pounds, youth 14 to 17 – 12 to 16 pounds.
Young adults 18 to 20 – 12 to 16 pounds, adult women – 16 to 26 pounds, adult men 26 – 30 pounds. These are guidelines for target bows, not heavier hunting bows. Hunting bows generally are 35 pounds and heavier and should only be used by experienced archers.

Key Points to Remember About Draw Weight

The number one thing to remember it don’t be over bowed. Select a bow that you can easily draw and hold at an anchor point for a couple seconds. Remember that your draw length affects the actual draw weight of the bow too.

Related Archery Resources and Guides

• Three Ways To Determine Eye Dominance
• 3 Ways To Determine Your Archery Draw Length
• How To Determine What Size Bow