Change of Form

[SteelyDan]

I have been experimenting with a change in shooting form. Instead of bringing the string along or beside my right eye, I have been anchoring with the string in front of my eye. This seems to give me better alignment while still being able to maintain good back tension. I can see the string (blur) and  use it in the aiming process.

I have noticed two things. First is that I don't hit my nose with the string anymore, a good thing. The second is that my draw length has decreased one full inch to 27" from 28"s. I was consistently shooting left and moving the anchor has seemed to help with my accuracy.

Is there anything else I should be aware of in using this form style?. I am concerned about the decrease in draw length.

I shoot right handed, three under, middle finger to corner of mouth for an anchor. Thanks,
SD

[McDave]

Everything you said sounds good:  string blur, back tension, increased accuracy.  The only thing I wonder about is your anchor.  Are you anchoring in the corner of your mouth because that is your natural anchor or because you read somewhere that that was a good place to anchor?

What I would like is for you to forget about your anchor for a moment.  Instead concentrate totally on form.  Draw until your forearm is behind the arrow, and your shoulder blade is pressed against your backbone.  If it helps, keep the arrow away from your face while you do this.   When you bring the arrow to your face, the arrow should be under your dominant eye, and you should be aware of string blur.  If your finger lands in the corner of your mouth, fine.  If not, find new anchor(s) to fit your form, not vice-versa.  

Who knows, you may get back part of your lost draw length.  If not, then 27” must be your true draw length.

[YosemiteSam]

The only reason to fear a shorter draw length is because you don't want to buy new arrows  

[SteelyDan]

The anchor feels comfortable and repeatable. The draw does not come directly back and I have to kind of snuggle it into place. Once locked into place I expand until the feather touches the nose and the arrow is off.

I am not a snap shooter and it doesn't bother me that it takes a little time to get aligned and settled. I guess I will settle for 27" and see how it goes.

At least I don't have to add an inch to every arrow! Thanks for the input.
SD