How to Choose the Right Arrow Length: A Friendly Guide for Every Archer

Modern arrows come in many shapes, sizes, and materials. Pop into any archery shop and you'll find carbon, aluminium (duralumin) arrows, hunting arrows and many more arrow types.

Each arrow type has its own quirks, including a recommended length that depends on your draw length and the type of bow you're using.

Choosing Arrow Length: What to Look For

The most important number to know? Your draw length. Bow draw weights are generally standardized to a 28-inch draw length. If your draw length is longer, you’ll be pulling more weight than the listed value. And conversely, shorter draw length means less draw weight.

Once you know your draw length, you can choose the right bow and arrows and start shooting like a pro (or at least feeling like one!).

Determining Your Draw Length

There are a few tried-and-true ways to figure out what your draw length is. Here are three popular ones:

1. The indicator arrow method

Grab your bow and stand like you’re about to shoot. Nock an indicator arrow, pull the string to your anchor point (usually your chin), and have someone else read the value from the measuring arrow. Boom - there’s your draw length!

2. The measuring tape trick

Grab a measuring tape. Hold one end between your thumb and index finger (as if holding the string), and place your hand near your chin. Stretch your other arm straight out in front of you, like you’re holding a bow. Let the tape run between your fingers, then close your fist.

The tape will now run between your chin and your outstretched hand. Now, the value measured on your index finger is your draw length in cm. Take that measurement and divide by 2.54 to convert to inches.

If you prefer a video, watch the step-by-step guide below. You will learn how to choose the length of your bow and arrow, and what to avoid:

Bow Type and Arrow Length

Longbows typically need longer arrows. Recurve bows not so much. Shorter arrows are often more stable and precise, which makes them a great choice for hunting or competitive shooting.

Arrow Materials and Arrow Length

Arrow material determines the durability, weight and suitability of the arrow for a given shooting style:

• Carbon arrows – Lightweight, strong arrows that can withstand impact. Perfect for both competitive shooting and hunting.
• Aluminium arrows – Heavier and more durable arrows made of “duralumin”. Great for training.
• Wooden arrows – The go-to for fans of traditional archery.
• LARP arrows – Soft-tipped and safe arrows for live-action roleplay events.

Arrow material doesn’t directly determine arrow length, but it does influence important factors like weight and stiffness. These need to match the archer’s draw length and bow strength. The arrow material also determines what types of shooting the arrows are best suited for.

Safety First

Here's another thing to keep in mind: choosing the wrong arrow length can be dangerous. If the arrow is too short, it might slip off during a full draw and cause injury.

If the arrow is too long, it becomes difficult to control, especially for beginners, which makes it harder for you to hit the target.

Quick Tips for Picking the Right Arrow Length

• Decide what type of bow you are going to use.
• Measure your draw length accurately (and add 1-2 inches for safety).
• If you are a beginner, choose slightly longer arrows as they’re somewhat safer.
• Still not sure how to proceed? Ask an expert in a specialized store. They are here to help!

Stock Up Your Quiver

Planning for an archery tournament or just a weekend at an archery range? Few things kill the mood faster than reaching into your quiver… and finding it empty.

Make sure you’ve got enough carbon, aluminium, wooden, or LARP arrows to enjoy your archery experience. Hit the mark every time, just like Robin Hood and his faithful band of Merry Men!