WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A NEW BOW

AXLE TO AXLE LENGTH

Axle to axle length is an important factor when it comes to picking out your next bow.

On average, archers with a draw length of 29" or longer, will find a bow with a minimum of a 33" axle to axle length to be the most comfortable. This isn't a strict rule since everyone is built different, but its a good baseline to follow.

The further you draw the string back, the steeper the string pitch becomes. If the axle to axle length is too short for your draw length, it can feel uncomfortable to anchor. The result of this steep string angle will also cause the peep to be too far from the eye, and the bow can feel more shaky and unstable.

 

DRAW WEIGHT

When it comes to draw weight, the most important part is that you can shoot it properly, comfortably and consistently for a prolonged period of time.

If you're getting a sore arm after a dozen shots, or you tuck your elbow and aim at the sky to get the string back, that's telling you the draw weight is too high

You should be able to comfortably and smoothly, aim the bow at the target, and with your drawing arm elbow up, pull the bow string straight back keeping the arrow parallel to the ground.
Everyone has a different ideal draw weight, but if your goal is to bow hunt, the minimum of 40lbs is all you need. There's no sense causing a shoulder injury just to try to pull more weight than you're able to.

 

LET-OFF PERCENTAGE 

This is a term referring to the draw weight "letting off" or reducing once the bow is at full draw. New bow tags may show a LET-OFF measurement of 65%, 75%, 80%, 85% or even up to 90%.

For example, if you had a 60lb draw weight and 90% let off, that you would only be holding 10% or 6lb at full draw.

Some archers prefer high (>80%) let off, and some prefer low (<75%) let off. Its all based on personal preference and what feels better to you.