There are many different types, sizes, colors and features of compound bows on the market today.  You may be feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to start in selecting a new compound bow.  Compound bow manufacturers continue to incorporate newest technology every year to improve the accuracy, look, feel and performance of each of their bows.  Even though it's hard to keep up with all of the latest technical language and what it all means, understanding how a bow works and what you should do is not all that difficult.

To help you select the right bow, we’ve put together this compound bow buyer’s guide that will help you better understand a few of the initial steps you should take when looking to buy a new bow.  To get you started, the compound bow diagram below will give you an overview of the main components of a bow.

Draw Length - What is it and how do I determine my draw length?

Traditional recurve bows or longbows allow the hunter to draw back to almost any length before shooting the arrow.  A compound bow is designed to be shot from a full draw position and will only draw back to a specific distance before it stops.  This stopping point is call "the wall".  If a compound bow is set for a 29" draw length, it should always be shot from the full 29" draw position.  But the bow cannot be over-drawn, say to 30" or 31", without modifying the setup on the bow. With this in mind, you must set the draw length to fit your particular size.

To measure your draw length , stand with your arms out to your sides (but don't stretch).  Measure from the tip of your middle finger to the tip of your other middle finger.  Now divide that number by 2.5.  This number is generally the proper draw length for your body size.  A rule of thumb is that the average person will have an arm-span roughly equal to their height in inches, although using the method above is more accurate for those that have longer or shorter arms.

If you set the draw length too far, you will have inaccuracy when you shoot and the string may slap you on the arm. If this has ever happened to, I’m sure you will agree that it was not a pleasant experience. You would do better to have a shorter draw length on your bow than too long of a draw length.

Draw Weight - Choosing the right draw weight for you...

Choose a draw weight that is comfortable for you. If you are about to bust a blood vessel trying to pull it, then it is probably not correct. If the draw weight is too much, then you will get tired too fast and not enjoy the sport. If the draw weight is too little, then you will not have the speed and power.  Many states require a minimum draw weight for hunting certain game in that state.  The proper draw weight should require about 75% of your strength. Bows are more efficient at their maximum draw weight.  

The recommended draw weight for a compound bow are: