Arrow Length For Recurve Bow: Archer’s Guide

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So, how long should recurve arrows be? This a widespread question among the archers.

Arrow length is very crucial in archery performance. An appropriate arrow length can lead to improved accuracy and overall archery performance. The weight of an arrow for a recurve bow depends on several factors, such as the draw weight of the bow, the length and weight of the arrow, and your shooting style. So, what is the arrow length for recurve bow?

Arrow Length For Recurve Bow

Archer’s Guide

In short, the ideal draw length for most of the archers is 28 inches. It is generally recommended that the arrow length be one to two inches greater than the draw length. So, the arrow length of 29 to 30 inches is suitable for work. This extra 1 to 2 inches will provide you with improved accuracy and safety.

Primary lessons

  • The draw length of the archer determines the length of a recurve bow. The draw length is the distance, at full draw, between the grip and the bowstring. 
  • An inaccurate arrow length can lead to poor accuracy and affect overall archery performance.
  • To avoid errors, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Remember the particular bow compatibility in addition to other factors.

This isn’t everything. To know the optimizing archery performance tips and affecting factors, read more. So, Let’s dive into deep-

Arrow Length For Recurve Bow

The length of a recurve bow depends on the archer’s draw length. At full draw, the distance between the grip and the bowstring is known as the draw length. First, you have to determine your draw lengths, then add 1 to 2 inches to it to get the ideal arrows length. 

Arrow Length For Recurve Bow

For Example, use 29- to 30-inch-long arrows if your draw length is 28 inches. So, the arrow size for recurve bow is 29 to 30 inches. The extra 1 to 2 inches lead to provide you more kinetic energy and improved accuracy.

You can think about arrow weight for recurve bow. The weight of an arrow for a recurve bow depends on several factors, such as the draw weight of the bow, the length and weight of the arrow, and the purpose of the arrow. It is advised to use arrows for hunting that weigh at least five grains per pound of draw weight on the bow.  Lighter arrows may tend to have flatter trajectories and faster speeds.

For example, if the bow’s draw weight is 50 pounds, the arrow should weigh about 500 grains. However, the arrow’s weight can change based on its intended use. A good arrow point weight for both hunting and targeting is 100 grains.

After getting the arrow length, you can think about nocking an arrow with a drop-away rest. It is essential for optimum accuracy. An accurate nocking drop arrow rest can lead to proper arrow flight and overall archery performance.

Best Arrow Length For Recurve Bow

The best arrow length for a recurve bow is 1 to 2 inches longer than the length of your draw.

Like,you have to use arrow lengths if the draw length of your bow is 29 inches that are between 30 and 31 inches long. According to a source, the best arrow length of a recurve bow is 30 inches, has a 0.309 inches outer diameter, a 500 spine, and 13 grains per inch. You can use an arrow size chart recurve bow for better understanding of the best arrow length.

Best Arrow Length For Recurve Bow

Now,what arrows to use with recurve bow?

Carbon arrows are the most commonly used arrows when it comes to recurve bows. They provide the best durability and accuracy ratio. The following arrows are suggested for use with recurve bows:

A query about feathered arrows for recurve bows can pop up in your mind. Feathered arrows, also known as fletched arrows with natural feathers, are a traditional choice for many archers, especially those using recurve bows. Here are some feathered arrows for recurve bow:

  1. TTAD 12PCS RED TURKEY FEATHER
  2. Let’s Zhu Carbon Archery Arrows
  3. JIHANZD 30 Carbon Fiber Arrows
  4. PGI ARCHERY Archery Bamboo Arrows

Factors Influencing Arrow Length For Recurve Bow?

When selecting arrows for a recurve bow, keep the following things in mind:

Spine: The arrows’ stiffness is significant and is determined by their spine.

Hunting: If you plan to use your recurve bow for hunting,  you need arrows that are heavy enough to pierce the target.

Target Shooting: For target shooting, you’ll need arrows that differ slightly from hunting arrows.

Draw Length:  Draw length is the distance from the nock point on the string to the pivot point of the bow when the bow is at full draw.

Weight and Diameter: Set the values that best meet your requirements. The heavier-weight arrow can be affected by wind drift.

Arrow Length: Determine the length of your arrow by looking at your bow.

Arrow Material: When selecting the arrow’s material, you should be careful about it. Some options are fiberglass, carbon, aluminium, or wood.

Arrow Type: There are different types of arrows, such as carbon, aluminium, or wooden arrows, that can affect the arrow length. 

Bow Type: The type of recurve bow you’re using can impact arrow length. Pay attention to the specific recommendations provided by the bow manufacturer. Different bows may have other arrow length requirements based on their design.

4 mm and 5 mm arrows are also considerable. A 4 mm arrow offers higher speed and better penetration.5 mm arrows are more resilient and provide stability for beginners. The choice between 4 mm and 5 mm arrows depends on your personal preference and shooting style.

How To Determine Arrow Length For Recurve Bow?

Determining the correct arrow length for a recurve bow depends on your draw length and making adjustments based on specific recommendations. So, how do you measure the length of an arrow for a recurve? Here are the steps with a formula:

How To Determine Arrow Length For Recurve Bow

Step 1:Find Your Draw Length.

You can only determine your arrow length by knowing the draw length. Draw length is the distance from the arrow nock point on the string to the pivot point of the bow when the bow is at full draw.

As an alternative, you can calculate your draw length using the formula below:

Draw length =(AMO Draw Length ÷2.54)+1.75

Manufacturers use the AMO (Archery Manufacturers Organization) draw length, which is typically measured plus 1.75 inches from the throat of the nock to the pivot point of the bow grip. To account for the average distance from the grip’s throat to the front of the bow, 1.75 inches is added.

Step 2: Add 2-3 inches.

To your measured or computed draw length, add a standard length. To calculate your initial arrow length, a common rule of thumb is to add one to two inches to your draw length.

Draw Length + Additional Length = Arrow Length.

The spine arrow also plays a significant role in accuracy. So, what spine arrow for  a 50-pound recurve bow? Typically the ideal arrow spine falls within the range of 300 to 370 grains for a 50 pound recurve bow.

After getting the arrow length, you can think about the best Arrows for Recurve Bows. Here are some of the best arrows depending on different purposes:

Many archers also want to know about what arrows are best for a 30 lb recurve?

Here are some arrows which are best for a 30 lb recurve:        

  • Easton XX75 Jazz Aluminum Arrows
  • Hunting-door Carbon Arrows with Field Points
  • E-ROCK 500 Carbon Archery Arrows
  • Hunting-door 12 Pcs Turkey Feather
  • MS Jumper Archery Carbon Arrows
  • Tiger Archery 30 Inch Carbon Arrow
  • Pandarus Archery 31-Inch Carbon Hunting Arrows
  • Pointe 30 inch Carbon Hunting & Targeting Arrow

You can go with heavier, more resilient arrows, like those with an aluminium shaft or a fatter carbon arrow shaft, if you’re shooting indoors. The best carbon arrows for you are skinny ones if you shoot mainly outside.

How To Choose The Right Arrow Length For Your Recurve Bow?

To determine the ideal arrow length for your recurve bow, follow these steps:

Step 1

  • Select how long you want to draw. 
  • This is an indication of how far back on your bowstring you should draw.

Step 2

Increase your draw length by one to two inches to obtain the ideal arrow length.

Step 3

Generally speaking, you should cut the arrow no shorter than the riser’s middle.

Step 4

Arrows that are up to one inch longer or shorter than the draw length are preferred by some people.

Step 5

Shorter arrows require more stability to fly accurately, even though they can travel farther and faster.

So, how to choose arrows for recurve bow?

When selecting arrows for a recurve bow, keep the following things in mind:

  • Draw length
  • Dimensions: weight and diameter
  • The arrow’s length
  • Spine options
  • Nock selections
  • Pointer or arrowhead
  • Material selections

Carbon, aluminium, and wood are the three most common materials used to make recurve bow arrows. Remember the previously mentioned points.

Common Mistakes In Determining Arrow Length

There are a few typical errors that happen when calculating the arrow length. These are a few typical mistakes made when calculating arrow length:

Common Mistakes In Determining Arrow Length
  • Cut the arrow appropriately. Cutting arrows too long or too short may affect the arrow in flight.
  • Measure the arrow length correctly. Mismeasuring the arrow length can lead to poor accuracy.
  • You should consider your specific type of bow. Either it may lead to erratic flight.
  • Neglecting Arrow Spine.
  • Overlooking Arrow Type.
  • Failing to Consider Intended Use
  • Ignoring Manufacturer Guidelines.
  • Not Factoring in Bow Poundage.
  • Failing to Tune Arrows.

To make sure that the arrows are cut to the correct length, it is crucial to measure the arrow length precisely. Finding the right arrow length is simple. The point of the arrow should be very near to the centre of the shelf when your bow is fully drawn, and the arrow should sit in the middle of the shelf. The arrow should stay within the shelf’s edge.

However, remember to follow these above mistakes. Be careful to determine your arrow length. An inaccurate arrow length can lead to affect accuracy and overall performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Should Arrows Be For A Recurve Bow?

For a recurve bow, the arrow length should be 1 to 2 inches longer than your draw length. Most of the archers have a draw length of approximately 28 inches, so arrows should be 29 to 30 inches long.

Is A Longer Recurve Bow Better?

Better accuracy can be achieved by using a longer recurve bow, which provides more stability and a smoother draw. In confined areas, though, it might be less manoeuvrable.

Why Are Recurved Bows More Powerful?

The curved limbs of recurve bows store more energy during the draw, which gives them their power. This stored energy provides the arrow with more force as the string is released.

Final Words

Arrow length plays a crucial role in archery performance. An appropriate arrow length leads to improved accuracy and consistency. So, how long should arrow length for recurve bow?

As a rule of thumb,1 to 2 inches are longer than your draw length. The suitable arrow length for most of the archers is 29 to 30 inches. Be aware of your safety concerns.

Bob Magic

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Bob Magic

Meet Bob Magic, the archery maestro. A National Champion, “Coach of the Year,” and gold medalist. Bob simplifies archery, ensuring your bullseye success. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, let Bob’s magic guide your arrow.

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