I saw Blacky's ILF test on limb length in TBM that indicated little difference in performence, but he used the same riser and thus the bow lengths were different.  

My question is, for a fixed bow length, say 58", with a short draw of 26", which combo works best, the short limb long (17") riser, or medium limb short riser (15")? Has anyone ever tested this at the same draw weight?

I would think given a draw length of 26" there are no stacking issues with a short limb, but a short limb would be stressed more and produce a better draw force curve, and thus a faster arrow?  Thanks.

I think you would be right.

With your draw you would get the best performance from the short limb wound in on the 17 imho.

Also different manufacturers of risers do not all have the same limb pocket angles which effects preload.

Limb pocket angles... long riser w/short limbs... I've looked all over for ways to get the most bang for my 25" draw length... don't forget the need for shoot-ability.

Always wanted to try a Sovereign Ballistik... supposedly good performers.

I did the short riser long limd vs long riser short limb and found a good design will trump those variables no matter what length the limbs.I've settle to perfer recurves and hybrids in the 60+'' range w/ the recurve having thick core and narrow tips.D shaped longbows,I like 62'' or better and again w/ a thick core and trapped limbs at my 27'' draw.
If you are looking fore speed from a bow.Morrison's have a lower than most brace heigth and are quick shooter.

I've been testing a 17" DAS with our Epic Curve limbs in Short lately.  I have a 30 1/2" draw and they are shooting up a storm.

Mike

QuoteOriginally posted by overbo:
I did the short riser long limd vs long riser short limb and found a good design will trump those variables no matter what length the limbs.

O.L. told me the same thing a while back.

That could be the case with longbows.  I'm asking about recurves which have some geometry considerations with the amount of limb deflection.  Sorry I didn't mention that in the first post.

What are you looking to gain specifically (speed, stability, etc.)?

Speed.  Actually kinetic energy but speed is a good measure between bows.  I shoot 54# and 530 grn arrows, and I hunt elk and moose so I need all the KE I can get with only a 26" draw.

but let's assume both the "shorter riser/longer limbs" and the "longer riser/shorter limbs" are of superior design.
then, the question becomes "at my 25 inch draw, which would shoot my arrow faster?"
I think what i've read says the "longer riser/shorter limbs."
my own experience seems to be that i cannot tell any difference [never have had a chronograph] in speed but the "longer riser/shorter limbs" is more "dead in my hand" - which i like.
Bill