Bowhunting will require you to have the essential equipment to get the successful catch without the risk of injury or failing to get the good buck. One of the tools you’ll need would be the bow. The bow is one of the items that are responsible in catching and killing your target so you’ll be able to go home with a successful catch. But you don’t purchase any type of bow. You’ll need to make sure that you get the right bow according to size, weight, and quality. But how do you know what the perfect bow is for you? You might be wondering: “How long should my arrows be?” and other factors to consider when purchasing the ideal bow for your hunts.
So read on as I show you the proper length your arrows should be, as well as other tips to help you choose your arrow.
How Long Should My Arrows Be?
Before determining how long your arrows should be, you should first be aware of what the arrow length is. There is a difference between an arrow length and size!
An arrow length refers to how long your arrow shaft is, while the arrow size refers to the stiffness of your arrow, or the spine. It’s similar to the shaft size, which is the diameter or wall thickness of your shaft, referring to the distance the shaft would flex before it would bend and break.
Now that you’re knowledgeable between the two, here are the two ways you’ll know how to get the ideal arrow length for your hunts.
The first method will require you to have an arrow and bow, along with tape measure and someone to help take measurements.
- hand-o-rightBegin by choosing an arrow that’s extra long, then place the knock on your breast and outstretch your arms. The arrow shaft should extend past your fingertips by two to three inches.
- hand-o-rightThen, draw the arrow under your chin or index finger. You can also do the anchor position. Hold the position while someone would mark the arrow shaft.
- hand-o-rightGo on full draw, let someone mark the arrow shaft in the area where it would meet the back of your riser. And that’s when you’ll be able to determine the ideal arrow length.
Another way to do so would be to imitate the anchor position with your bow arm extended out by your side. Hold the end of the tape measure with your non-bow arm and let someone stretch it out to the end of your bow arm’s thumb. Now point your thumb (bow hand) toward a target. Don’t turn your wrist. Then measure the distance and add one inch. This is the ideal arrow length.
It’s crucial to get the ideal arrow length according to the way you draw because if it is too short, it’s dangerous and may cause injuries, with the arrow either falling to your feet or going through your hand!
Read more: The 3 Easy Ways on How to Cut Carbon Arrows
More Tips on How to Choose the Best Arrow
Now that you know how to properly measure your arrow length to stay safe and comfortable, what are the other factors to consider when choosing an arrow? Here are some tips to follow:
- Choose your arrow weight, which must be between six to eight grain for every pound of draw weight your bow has. NEVER get one that has less than five grain per pound, as this will damage your bow.
- If you want an easier way to choose the perfect arrow for you, then you can take your bow to an archery show and have them measure and choose what’s right for you, depending on your size and purpose (which is hunting).
- Make sure that you choose the best arrow based on strength and quality. You’ll want something built to last for long distances and will be able to effectively hit your target without breaking too quickly.
- For the spine, it will take trial and error. For now, it’s best to focus on the appropriate arrow length for safety.
In Conclusion
When it comes to choosing your arrows, you’ll need to make sure that you choose the one that adheres to the way you hunt, from the draw length down to comfort. It’s crucial to choose what’s right for you in order to have a more successful chance of catching the buck you want, as well as lessening risk of injury or having a hard time releasing your arrows.
I hope that this article answers your question: “How long should my arrows be?” Now that you know how to properly choose your arrows, you can now head on to the nearest hunting store near you to get your next quality arrows to properly hunt and achieve goals!
If you have any questions or would like to share your tips on choosing the best arrow, then comment down below. I would love to hear what you have to think.