The overhead view is crucial. So many people check draw length based on side profile alone and can't see the release arm alignment. Also the mathews sticker on the bowtech... nice 🤣
We use the wingspan method at our shop, with a chart on the wall that has the math done - tip of the finger hits the draw length. Of course, that's the starting point - adjustment may be needed once they're drawn back with the bow and release.
This is where rotating mods is helpful, especially with 1/4” increments. Going up and down you can really feel the difference, and over time even an 1/8” difference could feel weird. So if you find that perfect length, take measurements of the actual length so you can duplicate from bow to bow
When you do the incorrect way, it looks like it really punishes your body, so thanks for showing us the proper way. Much appreciated. keep up with the vids, I have learned a boatload
Great video! Seeing the arm angles should really help some people. When I worked at a shop, draw length was the biggest issue we saw for customers coming. I also realized how accurate the Mohawk is in aiming.
This video was badly needed. So many videos give you the absolute minimum information on this.. I’ve had too long of a draw for three years.. thanks podium archery.
North Spokanite here! I love your videos and channel (shout out to Tim Connor) Ill be stopping in your shop sometime depending how my work schedule pans out, but Im super stoked to check out your place and maybe even buy a new bow. Thanks!
That’s awesome! I’ve never seen anyone break it down like that. The profile and overhead views really demonstrate the concept well. Keep up the great vids!!!
For real though people need to see this. Good video! I fooled around with draw length for years before settling in. You said it to if you pull into the shot you really shouldn’t see much pin movement thats a big indicator for me. When i start loading the back wall my pin float tightens up that was the big sign for me.
I really benefit from these. And the other reviews showing that the bear line up tend to be 1/2 longer than what they are set to. I’ve made some adjustments on my whitetail max and can feel and see a big improvement. Thanks MFJJ
Hi archer friend, I'm an Italian guy, I discovered you recently and thanks to your videos I'm learning a lot of things, I find this video really useful. I would love to see your video on breathing and how to properly engage the target. Forgive me but I just started and I still have a lot to learn. Thank you very much
P I think it was very useful and I learned to go a little bit from it especially at the end. I mean it helped me. It's going to help me determine what bow fits me the best whenever I go. Try out new ones here in the fall
Years ago I was told two methods. Measure your wing span, take that length and minus 15 inches, then divide by 2. The other was your method, take your wing span and divide by 2.5. In my case I have a wing span of 72 inches. If I use the first formula, 72” minus 15 = 57. Divide 57 by 2. I get 28.5 inches. Using the second formula 72” divide by 2.5 I get 28.8. I think Dudley’s method is a good way to go and adjust your secondary draw length(d loop)to get proper alignment. Mainly to decrease facial pressure. I was also told if your draw length is to long your front pin will float around the target, if your draw is to short your pin will shake.
Thank you so much for the video share. The bird’s eye view helped a lot. I have been struggling to get my draw length measurement right. Appreciate your help.
Another great video. Would like to see video showing the pros/cons of increasing draw weight, especially for 80lbers. What it does to site tapes, speed, speed at the target, etc.
Draw length is from the corner of your mouth to the bow hand. Controlling that side of the body. D loop length will also play a factor for anchoring and pulling through the shot. How far your elbow swings in or out.
Great video... I've found a length I feel comfortable with, (that is somewhere in the vicinity of the several methods ive used to calculate mine) but I still don't know if it's exactly right... Now hopefully I can get pics/vid of myself and check against your references!! Also the internet is blowing up over a certain question and I want to get the opinion of an actual hunter... "Would you rather your (beloved female person) be stuck in the woods with a bear or a strange man?" Apparently 80+% of all women asked this go for the bear... Discuss 😊
Suggestion for video, most accurate center shot setup sequence. Find center of string vs Berger hole and how a high or low D loop can throw timing off.
This is all well and good. The issues are MOST bow manufacturers are on on DL. Mathew’s used to be way long. I’m 28 legit, but when it shoot a 28 dl especially on a Mathew’s it’s long on 28, I’m better off with a 27.5.
Method @ 0:55 I measure around 29.5in but with the method @ 1:45 I'm about 30in almost perfectly. But I found 28.75 to be almost perfect for me. I mainly went by feel before I knew an archery store was a thing because I had no one to help me. I'm about to get everything refitted pretty soon
Seems like this should be the easiest thing to do...take a measurement and bingo. But no, there are so many variables to consider that can alter the measurement slightly, that it becomes very elusive knowing for sure if you nailed it. Thanks for this demo, I am new to compound bows and often wonder if my form and draw length is correct. More 101's like this, maybe one on draw weight and ways to increase an archers ability to be able to pull more to get the most out of a bow's particular listed top weight.
Great video and great timing… I’m in the middle of trying to dial my draw length… I’m so frustrated. 31.5 feels just to short and 32 is to long… regardless of d loop length
Hey MFJJ do a video on what FOC is and if It will actually help your arrows to be more accurate, its very confusing whether it is actually worth it to run a 50 grain or 75 grain insert in the front just to get a better FOC but to lose some arrow speed at the same time. An in Depth video would be awesome on this subject, Thank you very much 👍
This was great, it gets you within 1/2 inch. But bow manufacturers vary, so just cause you are one length with Bowtech or whoever, still measure on any new bow
Neither of these is right for me. lol. McKinley way gives me 27-27.6” 6:12 and the Dudley way gives me 28.3/4-29”. Yours is closest. Depending on string angle I’ve found most mods/settings the best between 28 & 28 1/2”. One 39ata bow 29 was really comfortable but I never did measure actual on any of those only my current bow. Great info for starters though! Gives a good starting point I may do some more video work.
Great video but do you think the different kind of releases makes a difference too i know it did to me when I went from traditional to a hand release hinge
I have a pse fortis 33 with EZ cams. Mt draw length is 28. When I ordered the bow they gave me the EC2 cams and I didn’t even notice. The ec2 cams lowest draw length is 28 1/2” ugh but I’m making it work.
I had emailed about arrow spine and having sporadic groups thinking it was a spine issue but after this video I was looking at my pictures I believe I’m still a little to long and could be causing my issues
Great video! I’m a short draw, 26.25”-26.5”. Is there a bow that is made for us short draw folks? Not “can accommodate” short draw, but made for it. Something where the cams are in the heart of the power stroke at let’s say 25”-27”? Tired of paying thousands and only get fractions of the available performance because of draw length.
Thank you for this video. The only question I still have is when you go to a shop and they tell you your length is 28 1/2 for example, and then they set up the Bow 28 1/2, but it’s now right. How do we know. Watching your bow review videos the drawing settings have not always been correct.
One thing that seems missing from draw length discussions is how to measure the existing draw length on the bow. Is is measured from the d loop to the front of the riser? back of riser? arrow rest?
Here is my issue; my dl is 30, but I shoot 29 to allow a slight bend in my bow arm to prevent string slap against my bulky hunting jackets. My bows tune with my arrow rest further to the left than it should be; this must be a result of a dl that is too short and I am pulling the bow one way while releasing using back tension. How do you prevent clothing contact without shortening your dl? Thanks!
I saw in a different video you did that you micro adjusted by twisting the bow string. I seem to be just in between two draw lengths. Which way do you rotate it to make it shorter or longer?
I've always found issues finding the correct draw length. My wingspan measures out to 26.5 roughly but it feels too short and I feel too crunched up. I've also been setup at 28 inches where it's way too long.
How might this measurement change depending on an index release or thumb button? If at all? Can you get one draw length and freely switch between the two?
By measure, my draw length is 28.4 but I shoot WAY better at 27.5. Is there any wiggle room in draw length, given the shooter's performance at a given length? Thank you for the fine content.
Question: I thought the nocking point had to be at the corner of your mouth, but on your side shot (at appropriate draw length), it looks like it’s going past the corner of your mouth. Can you go into that a little more?
Back in the day compound bows were shot with fingers, now days people use releases. I would think it’s just a change in form which moved the anchor point.
The overhead view is crucial. So many people check draw length based on side profile alone and can't see the release arm alignment. Also the mathews sticker on the bowtech... nice 🤣
"POV" You're MFJJ looking down at Dan Staton 😂
That overhead view really drives it home. Thank you
We use the wingspan method at our shop, with a chart on the wall that has the math done - tip of the finger hits the draw length. Of course, that's the starting point - adjustment may be needed once they're drawn back with the bow and release.
The overhead video was a great way to help us visualize the correct posture with the correct draw length. Thank you.
We like it when you look up to us for a change.
This is where rotating mods is helpful, especially with 1/4” increments. Going up and down you can really feel the difference, and over time even an 1/8” difference could feel weird. So if you find that perfect length, take measurements of the actual length so you can duplicate from bow to bow
Great information, thank you. The visual of the three help to make it clear.
When you do the incorrect way, it looks like it really punishes your body, so thanks for showing us the proper way. Much appreciated. keep up with the vids, I have learned a boatload
Great video! Seeing the arm angles should really help some people. When I worked at a shop, draw length was the biggest issue we saw for customers coming.
I also realized how accurate the Mohawk is in aiming.
Absolutely the best video on the subject on the internet ever. Period. Thanks MFJJ
Your explanation is clear, concise and very detailed, and helpful. I appreciate the demo
This video was badly needed. So many videos give you the absolute minimum information on this.. I’ve had too long of a draw for three years.. thanks podium archery.
North Spokanite here! I love your videos and channel (shout out to Tim Connor) Ill be stopping in your shop sometime depending how my work schedule pans out, but Im super stoked to check out your place and maybe even buy a new bow. Thanks!
Love this content. I work with archers every day and draw is crucial to making sure they shoot correctly.
That’s awesome! I’ve never seen anyone break it down like that. The profile and overhead views really demonstrate the concept well. Keep up the great vids!!!
Very nicely done. It's the little things that can make all the difference . Great visual examples .
The video on draw length with the picture from rhe top was very true and easy to do. Thank you.
For real though people need to see this. Good video! I fooled around with draw length for years before settling in. You said it to if you pull into the shot you really shouldn’t see much pin movement thats a big indicator for me. When i start loading the back wall my pin float tightens up that was the big sign for me.
Very helpful video, this sort of video and the simple way you describe how to do it like most of your videos is great
Super beneficial like always to me. There is no better at teaching people your NY fan!
Very helpful, and informative of multiple ways to sustain the correct length and stress the importance of why.
Love the elite cam for this very reason. Great resource
I really benefit from these. And the other reviews showing that the bear line up tend to be 1/2 longer than what they are set to. I’ve made some adjustments on my whitetail max and can feel and see a big improvement. Thanks MFJJ
Thanks for doing these simple yet very important videos. Keep up the great work and be safe
Perfect representations, bud. Loved this. Now let’s see one on properly anchoring your release hand. See that one goofed quite a bit too.
This is very informative, thank you MFJJ, will test on myself that overview filming!
Hi archer friend, I'm an Italian guy, I discovered you recently and thanks to your videos I'm learning a lot of things, I find this video really useful. I would love to see your video on breathing and how to properly engage the target. Forgive me but I just started and I still have a lot to learn. Thank you very much
P I think it was very useful and I learned to go a little bit from it especially at the end. I mean it helped me. It's going to help me determine what bow fits me the best whenever I go. Try out new ones here in the fall
Years ago I was told two methods. Measure your wing span, take that length and minus 15 inches, then divide by 2. The other was your method, take your wing span and divide by 2.5. In my case I have a wing span of 72 inches. If I use the first formula, 72” minus 15 = 57. Divide 57 by 2. I get 28.5 inches. Using the second formula 72” divide by 2.5 I get 28.8. I think Dudley’s method is a good way to go and adjust your secondary draw length(d loop)to get proper alignment. Mainly to decrease facial pressure.
I was also told if your draw length is to long your front pin will float around the target, if your draw is to short your pin will shake.
Building on this video would be good to go over how to make draw length changes from twisting strings or cables.
AND how the wrong draw length affects sight picture. i.e. micro tuning draw length, D loop position etc.
Thank you so much for the video share. The bird’s eye view helped a lot. I have been struggling to get my draw length measurement right. Appreciate your help.
I was just looking for this exact video a few weeks ago and was surprised that there are not many recent ones on the subject.
Very informational , this is something that I struggle with. We do not have a bow shop close to my location anymore that is not a big box store.
super helpful thank you for explaining and showing all the angles
Super and easily understood. Thanx. Love the "formula" way.
Another great video. Would like to see video showing the pros/cons of increasing draw weight, especially for 80lbers. What it does to site tapes, speed, speed at the target, etc.
Great info and visuals. Content is outstanding
A very good example makes perfect sense
Overhead was great example, thanks
The downwards view , spot on , thanks
Very helpful, always a great source of information!
Stellar video. Thanks MFJJ!
Thank you for taking the time to produce these videos
Draw length is from the corner of your mouth to the bow hand. Controlling that side of the body. D loop length will also play a factor for anchoring and pulling through the shot. How far your elbow swings in or out.
Great video... I've found a length I feel comfortable with, (that is somewhere in the vicinity of the several methods ive used to calculate mine) but I still don't know if it's exactly right...
Now hopefully I can get pics/vid of myself and check against your references!!
Also the internet is blowing up over a certain question and I want to get the opinion of an actual hunter...
"Would you rather your (beloved female person) be stuck in the woods with a bear or a strange man?"
Apparently 80+% of all women asked this go for the bear...
Discuss 😊
I think u should do a follow up on this video with different kind of releases and how to adjust draw length according to releases
Suggestion for video, most accurate center shot setup sequence. Find center of string vs Berger hole and how a high or low D loop can throw timing off.
Thank you so much for sharing this great information
God's Blessings
Super helpful. Really appreciate your input.
This is all well and good. The issues are MOST bow manufacturers are on on DL. Mathew’s used to be way long. I’m 28 legit, but when it shoot a 28 dl especially on a Mathew’s it’s long on 28, I’m better off with a 27.5.
Good info for people and maybe save them some time. Draw length is probably one of the most important things when shooting a bow.
Great video. Definitely going to do this!
Method @ 0:55 I measure around 29.5in but with the method @ 1:45 I'm about 30in almost perfectly. But I found 28.75 to be almost perfect for me. I mainly went by feel before I knew an archery store was a thing because I had no one to help me. I'm about to get everything refitted pretty soon
Thanks MFJJ!! Very helpful tips.
Nice visual evidence to support the instruction
Seems like this should be the easiest thing to do...take a measurement and bingo. But no, there are so many variables to consider that can alter the measurement slightly, that it becomes very elusive knowing for sure if you nailed it. Thanks for this demo, I am new to compound bows and often wonder if my form and draw length is correct.
More 101's like this, maybe one on draw weight and ways to increase an archers ability to be able to pull more to get the most out of a bow's particular listed top weight.
That was enlightening. Thanks for taking the time
great video im a 28.8 when I do wing span and 30 when I do johns way so I shoot a 29 and feels good when I pull my pin moves very little
Super helpful I have been trying to explain this to my brother in law but he's not getting it so thank you
Thank you mfjj i really appreciate this video this is something i think I’ve been struggling with getting just right for me !!!
Awesome video, thank you for sharing!
Great video and great timing… I’m in the middle of trying to dial my draw length… I’m so frustrated. 31.5 feels just to short and 32 is to long… regardless of d loop length
Hey MFJJ do a video on what FOC is and if It will actually help your arrows to be more accurate, its very confusing whether it is actually worth it to run a 50 grain or 75 grain insert in the front just to get a better FOC but to lose some arrow speed at the same time. An in Depth video would be awesome on this subject, Thank you very much 👍
This video helps a lot. Thank you for the info.
Great info. Thank you
Very helpful video. Thank you!
Thanks real helpful.
How bout a vid on cable slide maintainence, wear indications and different types?
This was great, it gets you within 1/2 inch. But bow manufacturers vary, so just cause you are one length with Bowtech or whoever, still measure on any new bow
Neither of these is right for me. lol. McKinley way gives me 27-27.6” 6:12 and the Dudley way gives me 28.3/4-29”. Yours is closest. Depending on string angle I’ve found most mods/settings the best between 28 & 28 1/2”. One 39ata bow 29 was really comfortable but I never did measure actual on any of those only my current bow. Great info for starters though! Gives a good starting point I may do some more video work.
Mahalos! Super helpful for sure
Great video but do you think the different kind of releases makes a difference too i know it did to me when I went from traditional to a hand release hinge
I have a pse fortis 33 with EZ cams. Mt draw length is 28. When I ordered the bow they gave me the EC2 cams and I didn’t even notice. The ec2 cams lowest draw length is 28 1/2” ugh but I’m making it work.
Love the Matthew’s sticker at the top of bowtech love biwtech
I had emailed about arrow spine and having sporadic groups thinking it was a spine issue but after this video I was looking at my pictures I believe I’m still a little to long and could be causing my issues
Great video!
I’m a short draw, 26.25”-26.5”.
Is there a bow that is made for us short draw folks? Not “can accommodate” short draw, but made for it. Something where the cams are in the heart of the power stroke at let’s say 25”-27”?
Tired of paying thousands and only get fractions of the available performance because of draw length.
Thank you for the instructions. May I ask is that a 29.5 or 33 lift?
Thank you for this video. The only question I still have is when you go to a shop and they tell you your length is 28 1/2 for example, and then they set up the Bow 28 1/2, but it’s now right. How do we know. Watching your bow review videos the drawing settings have not always been correct.
How do you factor In a release to your draw length?
Great info! Thank you!
One thing that seems missing from draw length discussions is how to measure the existing draw length on the bow. Is is measured from the d loop to the front of the riser? back of riser? arrow rest?
Interesting content
Here is my issue; my dl is 30, but I shoot 29 to allow a slight bend in my bow arm to prevent string slap against my bulky hunting jackets. My bows tune with my arrow rest further to the left than it should be; this must be a result of a dl that is too short and I am pulling the bow one way while releasing using back tension. How do you prevent clothing contact without shortening your dl? Thanks!
I saw in a different video you did that you micro adjusted by twisting the bow string. I seem to be just in between two draw lengths. Which way do you rotate it to make it shorter or longer?
Hey Josh what’s the best way to measure your bows draw length?
Oh ..the way hes pullin back!
what release are you using, I've wanted to change from a trigger but want it attached to my wrist during hunting.
I’m curious about fine tuning my draw length beyond just half inch increments and playing with the d-loop. Are there other options?
Do you find that bow that is a little long makes target panic worse ,better or neither?
I've always found issues finding the correct draw length. My wingspan measures out to 26.5 roughly but it feels too short and I feel too crunched up. I've also been setup at 28 inches where it's way too long.
How might this measurement change depending on an index release or thumb button? If at all? Can you get one draw length and freely switch between the two?
Is that pocket quiver on your website?
Awesome, thank you :)
MFJJ you should do a 101 video on bow reflex and why you care
Good job
Super beneficial
By measure, my draw length is 28.4 but I shoot WAY better at 27.5. Is there any wiggle room in draw length, given the shooter's performance at a given length? Thank you for the fine content.
Thanks MFJJ that makes more sense
Question: I thought the nocking point had to be at the corner of your mouth, but on your side shot (at appropriate draw length), it looks like it’s going past the corner of your mouth. Can you go into that a little more?
Back in the day compound bows were shot with fingers, now days people use releases. I would think it’s just a change in form which moved the anchor point.
Super Benef!