Determining a bows draw length

[casjoker]

Other than using a bow scale is there another way to determine the draw lenght to wieght ration of a bow (i.e. 23# at 25 inches)?

My son has a Browning wasp 52" 23# which I have been shooting some but I don't dare go to my full draw with it (27.5").  If I get any were near full draw the thing really zips the arrows and it feels like I am drawing a lot more than 23 lbs.

I did a search and came up with zip.

[casjoker]

I think I found the answer.  According to this I should be able to come to full draw and not hurt the bow???

Fitting a Recurve Bow

If you are going to be shooting with a recurve bow, you now need to select one that is of proper length and weight. First, determine the bow length ideal for you by using your draw length to find the proper bow length in table 1.1. Next, choose a draw weight. You should start with a light weight that you can pull and easily hold while developing good form.

Keep in mind that the draw weight printed on the bow is the draw weight at a standard draw length. Older bows list their draw weight measured at 28 inches from the bowstring at full draw to the back of the bow. Newer bows list their draw weight measured at 26 1/4 inches from the bowstring to the arrow rest. If your draw length is shorter than the standard, the bow limbs will not deflect as far and you will be shooting fewer pounds than the weight stated on the bow. If your draw length is longer than the standard, you will be shooting more pounds than the weight stated. Add two pounds for every inch your draw length is above the standard or subtract two pounds for every inch your draw length is below the standard to estimate the actual bow weight you will be shooting.

[rdoggsilva]

I shoot a Astro II recurve at 48# @ 28". May draw is 30", so I shoot a 31.25" arrow. It has not hurt the bow at all so you should be safe.

[casjoker]

Thanks!

[jhansen]

Cas,
With a modern glass-backed bow you will hit the point where the bow stacks before you damage it.  You will know when you are there because the bow will almost refuse to be drawn any further.  What has happened is that the string is approaching a 90 degree angle to the limb and you are losing mechanical advantage.  With what you are describing, you are okay.

John

[casjoker]

I guess with out being able to put terminolgy to it I was operating on that theroy.  The bow is only 52" long so you would think that at some point it couldn't be drawn any further.  

Thanks for the help guys.