How to Choose the Perfect Size Recurve Bow?

When it comes to choosing the right recurve bow, size matters.

Having the proper size bow is crucial for proper form and accuracy in shooting. But how do you know what size is right for you? That’s where our measurement chart comes in. 

This guide will walk you through the process of measuring your recurve bow size and how to use the chart to determine the best size for you. 

We’ll also provide some tips for choosing the right size recurve bow and explain the importance of considering your personal preference and shooting style.

How to measure for your recurve bow size?

Accurately measuring your recurve bow length is crucial for finding the right fit. Here’s how to do it:

Measure your arm span. Stand with your arms out to the sides and have someone measure the distance from the tip of one middle finger to the other.

Measure your draw length. Place one end of a measuring tape on the center of your chest and extend it to the tip of your middle finger on your drawing hand.

Consult with a professional. If you’re unsure of your measurement or want a more precise measurement, consider consulting with a professional archer or visiting a local archery range. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to accurately measure your draw length.

Using the measurement chart

Once you have your draw length measurement, you can use the following chart to determine the appropriate size recurve bow for you:

Draw Length	Youth Bow Size	Adult Bow Size
< 22″	40-44″	52-58″
22″-24″	44-48″	58-62″
24″-26″	48-52″	62-66″
26″-28″	52-56″	66-70″
28″-30″	56-60″	70-74″
30″-32″	60-64″	74-78″
32″-34″	64-68″	78-82″
> 34″	68-72″	82-86″

However, the draw weight measure of the archer can be

Archer’s Weight	Suggested Draw Weight
Small Children (70-100 lbs.)	10-15 lbs
Larger Children (100-130 lbs.)	15-25 lbs
Small-Frame Female (100-130 lbs.)	25-35 lbs
Medium-Frame Female (130-160 lbs)	25-35 lbs
Small-Frame Male (120-150 lbs)	30-45 lbs
Medium-Frame Male (150-180 lbs)	40-55 lbs
Large-Frame Females (160+ lbs)	30-45 lbs
Large-Frame Men (180+ lbs)	45-60 lbs

How Do You Determine What Size Bow You Need?

To determine the size of the bow you need, you can measure your draw length using the following method: Stand naturally with your hands stretched out, have someone else measure your arm span from fingertip to fingertip, and then divide the measurement by 2.5.

Based on your draw length, here are some bow length recommendations:

• If your draw length is 29 inches or more, a 70-inch bow is suitable.
• For draw lengths of 27 inches or more, a 68-inch bow is recommended.
• With a draw length of 25 inches or more, a 66-inch bow should work well.
• If your draw length is less than 25 inches, consider a 64-inch bow with short limbs and a 23-inch riser.

For recurve bows, common lengths are 58, 60, and 62 inches. Recommendations based on draw length include:

• For draw lengths less than 28 inches, a 56 or 58-inch bow is a good choice.
• If your draw length falls between 28 and 29½ inches, a 60-inch bow is recommended.
• For draw lengths over 29½ inches, consider a 62-inch bow.

Additional factors to consider when choosing a bow include draw weight and the concept of the “sweet spot.” Draw weight is the force required to pull the bowstring to your anchor point, and it should be chosen according to your strength and skill level.

Be aware of the sweet spot to avoid drawing the bow past it, which can result in a rapid increase in draw weight, known as “stacking.” Consulting with an experienced archery professional or visiting an archery pro shop can provide further guidance tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Finding the right bow size and draw weight is essential for a successful and enjoyable archery experience.

How Do You Size Yourself For A Recurve Bow?

Determining the correct size for a recurve bow involves a straightforward process that begins with measuring your own body and performing a simple calculation to approximate your ideal draw length.

To successfully complete this procedure, you will require a measuring tape and assistance from someone else. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to size yourself for a recurve bow:

Gather Your Tools:

• Ensure you have a measuring tape on hand.
• Enlist the assistance of a friend or family member to help with the measurements.

Stand Naturally:

• Begin by standing in a relaxed and natural posture, with your arms extended straight out to your sides. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart.

Measure Your Wingspan:

• Ask your helper to measure the distance from the tip of one outstretched fingertip to the tip of the opposite outstretched fingertip. This measurement represents your wingspan.

Calculate Your Draw Length:

• Once you have your wingspan measurement, calculate your draw length by dividing this measurement by 2.5. This calculation provides a rough estimate of your ideal draw length for a recurve bow.

Understanding your draw length is crucial when selecting a recurve bow, as it directly impacts your shooting comfort and accuracy.

It’s worth noting that while this method provides a reasonable starting point, individual preferences may vary, and it’s always a good idea to consult with an experienced archery professional or visit an archery pro shop for personalized guidance.

They can take into account factors like your shooting style, strength, and specific archery goals to help you make the best choice regarding your recurve bow size.

Tips for choosing the right size recurve bow

Here are some additional tips to consider when choosing the right size recurve bow:

Try out different sizes. If you have the opportunity, try out different sizes at a range or with the help of a professional. This will give you a feel for what size is comfortable and feels right for you.

Consider the purpose of the bow. Are you using the bow for hunting or target shooting? The size of the bow may vary depending on the purpose. For example, a larger bow may be more suitable for hunting due to the longer draw length and added power, while a smaller bow may be better for target shooting due to the increased accuracy and control.

Consider purchasing an adjustable bow. If you’re unsure of your size or want the flexibility to switch between sizes, consider purchasing an adjustable bow. These bows allow you to adjust the draw length, allowing you to fine-tune the size to your liking.

Read Also: How Many Twists In A Recurve Bow String? ( With Pros and Cons)

How To Choose A Recurve Bow Size?

Selecting the appropriate size for a recurve bow is a critical step in ensuring a comfortable and effective archery experience. To determine your ideal recurve bow size, you can start by obtaining the necessary measurements and referring to the sizing tables mentioned earlier.

These tables serve as valuable references, offering insights into which recurve bow sizes might suit you best. However, it’s important to understand that while these tables provide valuable guidance, they might not yield an exact match for every archer.

They do, however, offer a helpful starting point for your selection process.

By examining two key measurements – your draw length and your body height – you can begin to narrow down your options and pinpoint the recurve bow size that warrants further investigation. This approach is particularly beneficial for beginners who are still honing their archery form.

The good news is that you don’t need to obsess over achieving an exact fit for your recurve bow. As long as you fall within the appropriate size range for your draw length and height, you have a solid foundation for your bow selection.

For instance, if you’ve calculated your draw length to be 28 inches and you’re approximately 6 feet tall, you can use these measurements to refine your search.

Read: How To Choose A Recurve Bow? A Detailed Prof. Guide

In this case, you’d be looking for a recurve bow that falls within the range of 68 to 70 inches in length.

However, it’s essential not to rely solely on measurements and tables when choosing a recurve bow. Practical testing is crucial. Whenever possible, try holding the bow and simulate a draw to assess how it feels in your hands.

Comfort is a key factor in your selection process; you should feel at ease when using the bow. Furthermore, it’s advisable to make your purchase from a reputable store, such as Bass Pro Shops, which offers an extensive range of recurve bows.

Engaging with knowledgeable staff members before and after your purchase can provide valuable insights and ensure that you’re getting the right bow size for your needs.

Plus, these stores often have flexible return and exchange policies, allowing you to make adjustments if you initially select a bow size that doesn’t suit you.

Personalized guidance and hands-on testing will ultimately help you find the perfect recurve bow draw weight for your archery journey.

How do I measure my draw length?

To measure your draw length, you can try the arm span method or the wrist-to-sternum method.

The arm span method involves standing with your arms outstretched and measuring the distance from the tip of one middle finger to the other.

Divide this number by 2.5 to determine your approximate draw length. 

The wrist to sternum method involves placing your hands on your hips with your palms facing forward and measuring the distance from your wrist to your sternum.

This measurement is your approximate draw length. 

If you want a more precise measurement, you can also consult with a professional who can use specialized equipment.

Can I use a bow that is too small or too large for me?

Using a bow that is too small or too large can lead to discomfort and difficulty in shooting, so it’s important to choose a size that is appropriate for you.

If you have a bow that is too small or too large, you may find it uncomfortable to hold and shoot, which can hinder your progress and enjoyment of the sport.

What if I’m between sizes on the measurement chart?

If you’re between sizes on the measurement chart, it’s a good idea to try out both sizes to see which one is more comfortable and easier to shoot.

You should also consider your personal preference and shooting style when choosing a size.

Can I use a youth-size bow if I’m an adult?

While it is possible to use a youth-size bow as an adult, it’s generally recommended to use a bow that is sized appropriately for your age and draw length.

Using a bow that is too small can lead to discomfort and difficulty in shooting, so it’s important to choose a size that is appropriate for your body.

Can I use an adjustable bow to change the size of my bow?

Yes, adjustable bows allow you to change the length of the bow to accommodate different draw lengths.

If you’re unsure of your exact draw length or want the flexibility to adjust the size of your bow, an adjustable bow may be a good option for you.

However, it’s important to make sure you are using the bow at the appropriate size for your body for comfort and accuracy.