How accurate is this method for determining draw length?
http://www.3riversarchery.com/3rdemos8.asp#1

I just saw this method on 3 rivers web site
I did it with one of my uncut arrows and came out with 27.5
Ive usually shot 28 inches with compounds. But it has varied a bit with different compound manufaturers. But it usually between 27.5 and 28.5
Trying to find an archery shop around here with traditional gear is gettin hard.

Its a very accurate method for measuring draw length. I've never shot a compound bow but have friends that do and you can see when they draw that their anchor point is further when using their mechanical release.

Ditto, quite accurate way of measuring draw length.

I shot wheels for years and always had a 30 1/2" draw length - now with my longbows it's 28 3/8".  I don't know that the reduction is 2" for everyone but worked out that way for me.

thanks
I was interested in the method he was showing holding the arrow in his chest. Only reason being I dont have a recurve or longbow to draw.
Im thinking of picking up a ILF riser with limbs in the 30 lb range so I can practice form  and then go heavier when ready to hunt. I just want to be accurate about draw length to get the proper limbs.

Arrow in chest is probably ok if you are average.  I think the wing span method is more accurate.  Wide shoulders will measure smaller than average with arrow in chest while you will really have longer than average draw length give same ARM length.  Best method is to have someone measure you with drawn bow and good form.

Just for grins I did the arm span divided by 2.5 (I think thats the correct constant - isn't it?) and came out with 28.8.  That's about half an inch longer than my true draw.  Either way they are both close enough to be able to order limbs.

Another way I've seen it measured is to clip a clothespin on the arrow and draw. The clothespin will slide as it hits the shelf.

*oops* didn't see the part of not having a bow to draw.

When I didn't have a bow I took a tape measure and held the one end like I was holding the bow and then drew my hand back to where my anchor would be.

Holding the tape measure with my arrow hand it came out to 30 where my anchor would be. I ordered that and it worked great for me.

QuoteOriginally posted by KOOK68:
Another way I've seen it measured is to clip a clothespin on the arrow and draw. The clothespin will slide as it hits the shelf.

*oops* didn't see the part of not having a bow to draw.

That's how I do it.

You can use an arrow or yardstick between your fingers and draw it over your bow hand to measure.  Have someone mark the base of your thumb then add 1.5" or whatever is standard for that, I don't recall right off.

Do it in a mirror so you can check to see you are square to the mirror with shoulders and check bow arm to string side elbow line up in the mirror to make sure you have proper form.  Use the form clock to see what that should look like. That will get you real close.

QuoteOriginally posted by Night Wing:
 

QuoteOriginally posted by KOOK68:
Another way I've seen it measured is to clip a clothespin on the arrow and draw. The clothespin will slide as it hits the shelf.

*oops* didn't see the part of not having a bow to draw.

That's how I do it. [/b]

My too, it's idiot proof!    

Do the clothespin measurement also. When I did it with the ruler on the chest had a measurement of 28.5 with the clothespin it is 29.5. Shoot a lot better with the longer arrow.