Brace height for short draw length?

[Mountain_Man]

Wondering what everyone thought about brace height for a short draw length on a standard 28in draw bow. My draw is between 24-25"

What would give me a faster bow? Or does it make that much difference in speed?

Would you think a lower brace height, which would allow more string travel would be best?

Or, a higher brace height?

Thanks, Mountain

[30coupe]

While lower brace height can add some cast to the arrows, there is a limit. It really isn't a function of draw length per se. You won't be able to drop it enough to offset a 3-4" shorter draw.

Too low can cause some problems as well. The bow will be louder. You may (probably will) experience string slap to the wrist, which can increase noise and cause erratic arrow flight.

I would try to stay within the recommended brace height for your bow. Dropping the the lower end of that would be ok, but going much lower is going to be more hurt than help I think.

If you are concerned that you aren't getting enough speed/penetration, you may need a higher draw weight bow. If you short draw by 3-4" you lose 9-12 pounds of draw weight (approx.). Use that to estimate your actual draw weight, then select a bow that gives you the desired draw weight.

Hope this helps.

[Mountain_Man]

thanks 30coupe... thats what i was looking for. i am new to trad bows. i am trying to learn all i can. i guess i am going to need more lbs. Cant afford that kinda loss in poundage on a 45lb bow..haha

[Dick in Seattle]

Mountain Man... 30coupe is right on.   I have a 25" draw and have owned many bows.   I still tend to think that the best thing for a short draw guy is a custom made bow tillered to that exact draw and weight, but that's just not always possible.  Last year I fell in love with vintage Super Kodiaks.  They only came tillered for 28".    My preferred draw weight is 33#, my maximum draw weight is 38#, so I shoot a 40 and 45 pound SK's.   I use the recommended brace heights, or a bit more.   With a short draw, making sure you avoid arm slap can be more critical.