Measuring Draw Weight

[bowhuntingrn]

Trying to set up some new arrows and noticed something while getting the draw weight. My weights differ depending on where I place the hook from the scale on the string. I always hang the bow and draw length arrow from the scale and tare the scale before pulling which requires finding a point of balance along the string to hang it horizontally. If I pull the bow from that point, usually a couple of inches below the arrow, I end up with a heavier reading (about 1 to 1 1/4 pounds difference) than if I place the hook just below the arrow. Is it just my cheap scales or is it the physics of the bow? If what I'm seeing is accurate, I assume I should measure from just under the arrow where my fingers would normally be? The overall difference is pretty minor, but I was just curious if anyone else had ever noticed this before and if so what your thoughts are on it. Thanks...Cory

[Fletcher]

Yes, where you draw from will affect weight.  You should zero your scale without the bow hanging.  The bows weight is part of what you are pulling down with.  You can see this by hanging the bow on the scale.  Notice that the string is drawn slightly and the scale will read the bow's mass weight.

[Trond]

I measured my bow with a luggage scale. Marked an arrow with my draw length, then hooked up a luggage scale and pulled the same length. The scale zeroed on the table. Dont know if this is correct, but it is my point of origin.

[bowhuntingrn]

Originally posted by Fletcher:
  You should zero your scale without the bow hanging.  The bows weight is part of what you are pulling down with.  You can see this by hanging the bow on the scale.  Notice that the string is drawn slightly and the scale will read the bow's mass weight.

Thanks for the replies thus far. This is the way ^^^ I did it for years. Then I'm pretty sure I read something on here somewhere about zeroing the scale with the bow hanging from it. Did I misunderstand? Certainly wouldn't be the first time. Any other thoughts?