I'm struggling with determining the correct arrow legnth for me. I'm new to the traditional bow, and need some guidance on this issue. I've moved the knock up to correct the porpoising issues I had initially, and my arrow flight seems fairly straight. I shoot a recurve bow(45# @ 28) and my draw length is 27.5. The arrows I'm shooting now are .500 Easton LightSpeeds at 31.5 inches (I didn't do anything to determine that weight, just the way they came). Do I gain anything by going shorter? Is there method to determine proper length?

Any help is much appreciated!

Thanks!

If your arrows are flying well now don't change.  You effectively increase the spine of the shaft by making it shorter.  If you increase point weight, you'll want a stiffer spine and shortening the shaft is one way to do that.  You'll also make the finnished arrow lighter in real weight but that is a minor consideration in most cases. Generally, keep your arrow an inch or two longer than your draw length -- that is let it stick out beyond your bow an inch or two at full draw.  That will also give you clearance if you are shooting broadheads.  Finding a shaft that shoots with the correct spine is much more important than the weight of the arrow for good arrow flight.  There's lots more to it but that will get you started.

Moebow - Thanks for the information! I shot in my first 3D tournement recently, and everyone in my group had shorter arrows than I did. I didn't know if I was missing something or not.

"lots more to it" - For sure! I've been pretty consumed with this site, lots of great information out there! The arrow tuning information alone is a bit daunting for someone new to the traditional bow. Again, I appreciate the advice!

Thanks again!

I don't worry about arrow length especially when shooting carbon arrows,they don't come in as many different spines as wood or aluminum.Trying to get a carbon 1" past your draw length can be hit or miss.With wood or aluminum you can just go down in spine.Carbon you pick a spine and shoot it and trim alittle at a time until you get the correct dynamic spine that shoots good for you.Most of my carbons usally end up 2-4.5" longer then my draw,carbons are very tunable by triming length and or adding more front end weight.