I have my Dad's 1966 Grizzly to tinker with these days. It's 48# @ 28". I typically shoot compounds at a true 29" draw. I'm thinking with the recurve though I may be closer to the 28" draw of the bow.

I realize there are TONS of variables that affect arrow flight and the best answer I already know myself is trial and error with a arrow saw, etc., etc. Well, I don't have easy acccess to a saw so that's why I'm asking.

I bought a dozen Gold Tip blems (3555s? I think) for Dad's bow. Assuming I use a tip in the 125-150 grain range, what's a good starting point for arrow length based on everyone's ACTUAL EXPERIENCES with a bow similar to mine?

I appreciate the help gang...a lot!

Thanks...Matt

I would start full length and trim a little at time playing with point weight. Can't add length once you cut. Shoot a bunch than trim a little at a time.

I think your gonna need more point weight.

Here you go....
https://www.3riversarchery.com/SpineCalculator.asp?pass=2

Make sure that you pick "Bear Grizzly pre 2011" and use the D50 string type.  I suspect that you are only shooting a 27 1/2" draw, maybe 28"
Leave the shafts full length and play with tip weight.  I think these spine are only 30" at full length.  You might get by with 125 tips, but likely need 145.  That is an easy fix though.

I shoot a similar weight and setup.  Of course, your selection may be different but I settled on 29" Goldtip 35/55 with 175 gr. tip.

I put it in "Stu's Dynamic Spine Calculator" and according to it those would work. A 110gn head should put you fairly close uncut. For a 125gn a 30.75" would work. But like Babs said, Start full length and trim. Every bow is different and likes different things.

You have everything to gain by starting full length and nothing to lose. If you decide to go with a lighter tip, you will need that extra length. If you move up in tip weight (175gr?) you may need to trim it back a bit, but probably not quite as far as you might expect..

Here's a little different way to do it.  I like my arrows to extend one inch beyond the riser at full draw.  For me, that's a 29-inch arrow.  First, I buy shafts that are in the ball park re spine.  You're in the ballpark with yours.  Then, I cut them to the length I want -- 29 inches.  Then I play around with point, insert and adaptor weight and maybe the bow's side plate to get good arrow flight.

Usually it doesn't require much tinkering.  A 100 grain insert, 25-30 grain adaptor and 125 grain point usually gives me the physical weight I want and good arrow flight. With insert weights ranging from 25 to 100 grains, adaptors ranging from 25 to125 grains, and points ranging from 100 to 300 grains, the combinations are just about endless for tuning an arrow to the bow, and you only have to cut it off once. If you want to try it, start with one arrow and see how it goes.

Whatever floats your boat.  Good luck.

Thanks men...these were the type of responses I was looking for.