Bow length Question

[Knawbone]

I seem to prefer long bows two inches longer than suggested for my draw length. I draw 26 in. Is there any down side as far as bow life? I would think it wouldn,t matter. I like to shoot bows 50 to 54 pounds @ my 26 in. draw. What are some of your thoughts. Appreciate any bowyer input.

[chachamooby]

Understandable. Smoother draw -less stack.
shouldn't hurt the bow--easier on it actually. Imagine it's hard to match up the correct arrow flex though. Sure a more knowledgeable member will provide better guidance. thanks

[straitera]

Most any longer bow shooter might agree they are smoother to pull because the peak weight is spread out over the length. "X" draw weight is the same regardless of length; however, shorter limbs react faster thus producing a quicker arrow of the same weight, etc. As long as you maintain a consistent weight arrow (not too light) you should have no troubles. Maybe there is a chart for too light but I do not know of it. Stands to reason the lighter an arrow gets the more shock absorbed by the bow as in dry firing. Good luck.

[Knawbone]

Thanks Charhamooby, I shoot only self made woodies. I tend to go with with a stiffer spine with more tip weight.But yea your right, It takes a little experamentation.

[Orion]

Suggested by whom?  What do you consider long?  What's long in one design, a hybrid for example, might be considered short in another, a Hill style, for example.

[Knawbone]

Orion,Suggested by the builder of the bow. For instance the norm for a hill bow @ my draw length would be 66 in.( or 64 in). If the bowyer list optimal bow length for a 26 in. draw at 62 in.then thats what I mean by SUGGESTED- THATS WHOM.

[Knawbone]

Sorry if I sound abrupt sometimes,but It seems no matter who concise I word my post,someone has to find a lope hole,even when theres really no holes.      

You could have simply stated what bow you are speaking of, you may get a response from someone that has personal experience with that particular model.

[Night Wing]

It just comes down to personal preference. For me, I'm 5' 9", but with long arms which gives me a 30" draw length and I prefer bows 66" and above in length with the only caveat being long limbs on a 19" riser.

I have no problem bowhunting with long length bows with long limbs which gives me a very smooth and easy draw.

[Orion]

If you would have specified bowyer recommendation to begin with, it would have been a whole lot clearer. Just about everybody has different views as to what optimal draw length is for a given style of bow. For example, a whole lot of folks recommend a 66-inch Hill for a 28-inch draw.  Craig, of course, recommends 68 inches. And just about everybody is willing to and does share their preferences. How are we supposed to know you're not talking about your hunting/shooting buddy(ies), other people on this site, etc., rather than the bowyer unless you tell us.  

You give us the weight you draw at your draw length, which in the absence of style and length bow you already shoot, provides no relevant information the reader can use in offering a response.

[Knawbone]

Sorry Orion, oversight on my part.Thanks for your input.

[Brianlocal3]

I Iike longer bows also! No negatives this I know of , i really liked a 69" trophy, but I shoot a 66" LB and a 64" recurve. I want a 68" straight limbed now.  So my answer is if there is a performance gain it would be impercivable by us mere mortals.

I have a 26 plus a little draw, my favorite Hill style bow is a reflexed 68" fast tipped Hill halfbreed from a blank. If it were a string follow my opinion would probably drop to 64" as my favorite, little changes in design and tiller can make noticeable differences in how a bow shoots.  I always tell myself fast enough is fast enough, faster bows are fun, but bows that put the arrow in the vitals when things get tense are real confidence builders.

[Knawbone]

Pavin I totally Agree, Fast flight is not were it's at for me.How a bow feels and how  I feel shooting it goes a long way toward how well I shoot it.

[Sam McMichael]

I draw 27" and a hair over. In longbows, I have always preferred 68" as they just seem to draw smoothly. My Kolomi is 66" long and it is my only longbow shorter than 68". However, it too is quite smooth.

[Knawbone]

Thank You all for your input,I'm glad there are others out there who can relate.If you pick up a certain bow and it shoots well then what the .......