How to adjust your bow
Selecting the appropriate draw weight and draw length for your bow is important for both comfort and effectiveness in bowhunting. The draw weight should be light enough for the archer to draw comfortably while maintaining proper posture and technique. The archer should be able to draw the bow without excessive effort or distortion of their position.
At the same time, the draw weight must be high enough to be effective for the hunted game. It should provide the arrow with sufficient power and penetration. It is a balance between the archer's comfort and hunting effectiveness.
For bows with adjustable draw weights, you can fine-tune the limb resistance and energy. To increase the draw weight, turn the limb bolts clockwise. This increases limb resistance and stores more energy in the bow. Inversely, to decrease the draw weight, turn the limb bolts counterclockwise, reducing limb resistance and energy. Always make these adjustments in small increments and follow your bow's manufacturer guidelines.
Selecting the correct draw length is equally important for achieving proper form and consistency. To calculate your draw length, measure your greatest wingspan (fingertip to fingertip) and divide this measurement by 2.5. This provides a good starting point, but fine-tuning may be necessary.
The correct draw length allows you to maintain proper form, which will help you for accuracy and consistency.
Signs of a correct draw length:
- The string touches the tip of your nose and the corner of your mouth at full draw.
- Your release hand anchored comfortably under your jawbone.
- Your bow arm slightly bent at the elbow.
- Your shoulders remain level and relaxed.
If your draw length is too long, you may have difficulty maintaining a consistent anchor point and tend to lean back at full draw. If it is too short, you might experience a cramped shooting form and difficulty achieving a relaxed anchor point.
Many compound bows offer adjustable draw lengths through modular or adjustable cams. Consult your bow's manual or a professional archery technician to make these adjustments correctly. Remember, a properly set up bow not only improves your accuracy and consistency but also enhances your overall bowhunting experience.
