How to Adjust the Draw Length for Compound Bows
Compound bows are made of cams, which are really group of pulleys that make the processes of drawing and releasing the bowstring more comfortable than a traditional bow. There are a handful of factors that go into creating a perfect shot, but for many people having the perfect draw length makes the biggest difference. Draw length is how far back the bow string can be drawn back to the body. There is not a one-size-fits-all length, so many people prefer to set their own. It is not the easiest task to adjust the draw length on a compound bow, but there are some methods that have proven to be easier than others.
Measure Your Draw Length
No matter which method you decide to use to adjust the draw length, you should first measure what draw length you need. Get yourself a helper and a measuring tape for this task. To do this, first straighten out your arms from your shoulders with palms out. Once you have your arms in a straight line, have your helper measure the distance from fingertip to fingertip. Then, you have to do a little math. Take the total of the measurement and subtract 15 inches from it. Then, divide that answer by two.
You can check the answer by actually drawing a bow. Put an arrow in, then draw the bow. Your first finger knuckle should be near your earlobe. Your helper should measure the length of the drawn bowstring. Safely return the bow to neutral and remove the arrow. If the length that your partner measured was not the same as the number you figured after measuring your wingspan, then move on to the next step.
Use the Proper Tools
The next step of this process involves an Allen wrench. If you have the ones that came with the compound bow, use those. Use the Allen wrench to loosen up the cam screw. Then, draw the bowstring like you did just a moment ago. Your helper will use the Allen wrench to tighten the cam screw. This will set the draw length perfectly for you.
Get to Know Your Local Pro Shop
There is another method that you can use to set your draw length on your compound bow. This method involves actually changing the cams. This method also requires measuring the draw length, but this time, you divide the number by 2.5. There are different types of cams that will allow you to easily set the draw length just for your size. It is difficult for an archer to switch out a cam, so it is recommended that you take your bow to a pro shop and you might have to spend between $75 and $100 for the procedures and the cams.
Types of Cams to Try
There are a wide variety of different types of cams that you can have installed. They all work to customize the draw length. You also might find that after shooting different types of cams, that one works better for your shooting style. These are the types you can choose from to adjust the draw length for compound bows:
● Draw specific cams: Look for one marked with your actual draw length. It will be marked with a letter or number to show the actual length the cam will provide.
● Adjustable cams: These come with an Allen wrench that allow you to easily adjust the cam to fit your draw length. If you are new to archery, this type of cam is one of the best because it helps new archers learn what works best for them. Some adjustable cam have a range of 10 inches or more.
● Modular cams: These are also good for new archers because the mods can be adjusted to fit. These are much less expensive than other types of cams. They also require an Allen wrench to be used. This type of cam is also called a common cam.
The cam that you use can make a big difference in the way that you shoot. The draw length will make your shots more comfortable to take and they will make the shots more accurate. Do not neglect this important aspect of archery.
