Draw length reality check

[Bowwild]

With a 26" draw I cut my arrows 27 or 27.5" depending upon the broadhead weight I want to shoot.

I don't like much arrow "sticking out" the back of the bow and I certainly don't want to touch the riser with the broadhead.

[sticksnstones]

Changing grips and stance has brought me down from 32.5" to about 30". I should note that I am 6' 4".

I'm shooting way better now than I did five years ago with that extra long draw. I'd drop to 29" if I could get a little more consistency and accuracy in exchange      
Thom

[Hud]

If your using the yardstick, repeat it three or four times, but close your eyes and average the results. Some individuals have a more open stance and bent elbow and their style forms a triangle and noticeably greater string clearance between the bowarm and string.

[mand0ralen]

Hi,

5.7' here (1.75 meter).

DL = 28 precisely after 20 years practice. Started at 27.

++M

[Ryan Rothhaar]

Originally posted by LBR:
The yardstick test gives me 27.5".  My actual draw length (checked many times over the last 20+ years) is 30.5-31, depending on the grip.

Learning to draw the bow properly--standing up straight, using back tension--will generally add to most.

Yep, that comment is right on, as far as I'm concerned.

I also gained draw due to changing my anchor point reference after I had eye surgery to lose the glasses years ago.  My reference is the first knuckle of my thumb under the point of my jaw... that puts me a good inch longer than "index finger in the corner of the mouth".  I'm 5'6", but pretty broad across the shoulders.... and with good form, and that anchor, I draw a true 29-29.5 depending on the riser and how high the wrist is cut.

R

I make arrows for a number of people.  I have had all but one person stretch his real draw length.  I put up a two section ladder stand in the backyard and have them shoot a few marked arrows and make sure that they are at anchor.  I put the marks where I can see them and they cannot, I pressure them by having them shoot at a deer target and tell them to aim hard with a good anchor.  I have yet to see anyone shoot with a draw that is longer than what their normal body size and arm span would indicate from that shot angle and some are shorter than that.

[mec lineman]

Good point Pavan

[hickstick]

hmmm...makes me think, pavan, that most folks aren't keeping a good archers T.  I use my index finger touching the back edge of the brass insert as a 'draw check'.

a lot of people don't realize how much you have to bend at the waist to keep the T shooting elevated.

I'm 5'7" and have a hair under 28" draw.