Arrow length & weight

[drifter6931]

I just bought an old 60's Damon Howatt Hunter recurve for my wife. The bow says 28'in @ 40lb. I know my wife is between a 24-26 in draw. I have not purchased any arrows yet, and I'm wondering if anyone can give me some advice in determining the right arrow length and weight/size I should buy for her.

Thanks  

[Scott J. Williams]

Drifter, while it can be tricky, it can be done. I have taken on the same mission for my lady several years ago.  It must have worked because she is still hunting, got a wild hog with her bow, and she can't wait for opening weekend just a few weeks away.

The "Rule of Thumb" is(boy that thumb must have been a smart guy)for every inch below the 28inch rated draw weight, you should subtract 2 - 2 1/2 pounds.  For some bows like my windows, you would subtract 3 pounds.

The rule works the other way too...you add for every inch over the twenty eight.  So you could estimate her bow weight at 36 pounds for the 26 inch draw length, and 32 for the 24 inch draw length  if I have my math right.

You can go to the Easton arrow chart and check out what it says, or you could try some 1816 shafts cut to 27 or 28 inches.  If you have an archery shop near, you might want to have her try some of the kids arrows in that size.  

I am glad to see that you are not falling for the overbowed syndrone, I started Samantha out at 40 pounds, she now has two custom made longbows that she shoots, one is 41 and the other, it's twin, 44 pounds.

I would love to hear what happens, keep me posted.

[drifter6931]

Scotty,

I appreciate you taking the time to give me some feedback, and I will definitely take your advice. Do you know how I could determine my wife's draw length for certain? Also, where would I find the Easton arrow chart you referenced?

Thanks alot,

Eric

[aromakr]

Scotty:
The easiest way to determine her draw length is to get a full length shaft, with nock in place. Put a clothspin on the other end and have her draw the bow several times, the clothespin will slide down the shaft when it touches the bows riser, then measure from the bottom of the nock groove to the closepin.

I think you will find that the Easton chart is way off for a traditional bow. Easton spine tester is different that traditional testers and will advise a much stiffer shaft than needed.
Bob

[Asafan]

 Also, where would I find the Easton arrow chart you referenced?

Easton selector