Selecting a Recurve Bow: What Size Should You Get?

Selecting a Recurve Bow: What Size Should You Get?

Mar 9th 2018

“What size recurve bow should I buy?” It’s a question we get all the time at 60X Custom Bow Strings. Most of you are likely compound or crossbow shooters, but have you ever thought about using recurve bows?

Recurve bows come in many different models and lengths. If you’ve looked into getting a recurve bow in the past, you may have been baffled by all the options. With so many apparent choices, is there one right one?

You may or may not be surprised to learn that there actually is a specific method to selecting a recurve bow that’s right for you. If you don’t choose the right size bow, there can be consequences to your accuracy and enjoyment so make sure to take your time to become educated on the subject before making a purchase.

Recurve bow closeup

What Size Recurve Bow Should I Buy? Here’s How to Figure It Out.

When selecting a bow for target archery, stand with your arms out to either side of your body at shoulder height. Have a family member, friend, or stranger measure the distance from the tip of your right-hand fingers to the tip of your left-hand fingers. Then, take that measurement and divide it by 2.5 to find your draw length. That’s all there is to selecting a recurve bow.

That number is what some people refer to as the ideal draw length and it should be very close to your actual draw length. In most cases, it will be a perfect measurement.

That’s the only measuring you’ll have to do! Now you can use the calculated draw length to figure out the length of the bow you should be shooting. Please use the following chart:

Arm Span(Inches)      Draw Length
60.0 24
62.5 25
65.0 26
67.5 27
70.0 28
72.5 29
75.0 30
77.5 30

              Draw Length Quik Refrence Chart

The chart above explains peak recurve bow performance. For example, a bow that’s 60 inches long will have peak performance at a draw length of 24 inches. Recurve bows are measured from tip to tip following the curve of the bow along the riser.

Discover Recurve Bow Strings with 60X Custom Strings

Once you’ve finished selecting a recurve bow, it’s time to string it! Discover the highest quality recurve bow strings from 60X Custom Strings. All our custom-built strings are made by former archery champion Brad Patsy. Shop recurve bow strings now or get in touch with your questions!