Draw length inconsistent

[eagle24]

Several weeks ago I traded for and started shooting a 66" 41# bow.  This is considerably lighter than I have shot in the past.  My shooting has improved and I believe my form has also improved.  I have, however, encountered a slight problem that I can't seem to get a handle on.  When I first start a shooting session, I seem to be inconsistent in my draw length.  I'm reaching full draw and a solid anchor (corner of my mouth) but sometimes I seem to draw the bow further than other times.  I think it has to do with whether I fully flex or stretch my back muscles (if that makes any sense).  It also may be that I am inconsistent with my left arm and shoulder extension (if that makes sense).  Anyway, I can definitely tell when it is happening and my impacts are erratic up and down.  After 10-20 shots I seem to settle in and become consistent and all is well.  Does anyone understand what I am trying to convey and have any suggestions?

[jhansen]

I'd bet most of us have had that problem at one time or another and you are probably right in thinking the culprit is either back muscles, bow arm or both.  The best suggestion I can make is to think through each shot and work on making each one exactly the same.  It's possible that the lighter draw weight is throwing you off.

John

[JImmyDee]

For me, a quick warm-up -- stretching, twisting, windmills -- helps a lot.  But I'm usually too anxious to loose the first arrow to properly warm-up...

[eagle24]

Originally posted by jhansen:
It's possible that the lighter draw weight is throwing you off.
 

John,  I think you are correct that the lighter draw weight is causing more of a problem.  I probably do the same thing with my heavier bows, but I don't think the draw length variation is to the extent it is with the lighter bow.  After I shoot a few arrows I become more consistent.  Maybe after I shoot this lighter bow awhile I will get it worked out.  I sure shoot it better once I get settled in, and I can tell that I handle the weight much better and can concentrate more on form and follow through.

[jhansen]

You might try a clicker.  That way you have an audible indication that you have reached full draw.  In a little while your mind and body will learn where that point is and you can take the clicker off.

John

[eagle24]

I really think I may be overdrawing more than anything.  I'm reaching my anchor and holding for a couple of seconds.  Sometimes, I feel like I'm trying to use the same form I used when I shot compounds or like a target archer might use with a very light weight bow.  I'm not sure that is a good idea since the shots I am really interested in are likely to be from a treestand and maybe from an awkward position.