Compound Bow Size Chart

Quick answer

Compound bow fit starts with draw length and manageable draw weight. Axle-to-axle length, brace height, let-off, and intended use also affect feel. Height alone is not enough to size a compound bow, and module or cam settings matter because the bow has to stay inside the maker’s draw-length range.

If you are choosing a first compound, treat this chart as a starting point, not a final prescription. Use the number from the draw-length guide, then compare the bow’s adjustment range before you buy or set it up.

How to use this chart

Use the draw-length guide and calculator first. Then check the chart below against the bow in hand.

Compound bow fit checklist

This checklist is a starting point. Always check the bow manufacturer’s specifications and avoid drawing a bow that feels unsafe or damaged.

Compound bow setup factor chart

Draw length is the first fit number

Too-long draw length can push the bow arm out too far, force the archer to lean, and make anchor control harder. Too-short draw length can feel cramped and shorten the shot. On compound bows, draw length is often adjusted by modules or cams, so the fit has to stay inside the maker’s range.

Use the draw-length guide and the draw-length calculator before you decide a compound is the wrong size. If you are shopping a bow, check the model’s published draw-length range instead of guessing from height alone.

Draw weight and let-off

Peak draw weight is not the same as holding weight. Let-off lowers the holding weight at full draw, but it does not make a bow safe if the peak weight is too much for the archer. A bow that is too heavy still hurts form and can make shooting unsafe.

Use the bow draw weight chart and How to Measure Bow Draw Weight before you settle on a setup. If the bow shakes, the archer collapses at release, or the shoulders feel strained, the draw weight is too high.

Axle-to-axle length

Shorter compound bows are compact and easier to carry. Longer bows often feel steadier at full draw, especially for some target archers. Intended use matters more than a single number, so do not treat one axle-to-axle length as best for everyone.

For a beginner, the question is usually whether the bow feels stable, fits the space, and stays comfortable through the full shot cycle.

Brace height

Brace height can change forgiveness and feel. Very short brace-height bows can be less forgiving for some beginners, while longer brace-height bows often feel calmer. It is only one part of the setup, so do not use brace height alone to judge accuracy.

Compound bow fit for beginners

Start with adjustability and control. Avoid buying more draw weight than you can hold and move through cleanly. Choose a bow that can be set to the archer’s actual draw length, then check the arrow setup after the bow is right.

Common sizing mistakes

• Choosing by height alone.
• Ignoring the draw-length range.
• Buying too much draw weight.
• Confusing holding weight with peak draw weight.
• Ignoring module or cam requirements.
• Buying used without checking adjustability.
• Assuming a hunting-style setup is best for every beginner.

When to ask a bow shop

• Changing modules or cams.
• Checking draw length.
• Setting the peep or sight.
• Inspecting a used bow.
• Fitting a youth archer.
• Setting a high draw weight.
• Checking a bow that looks damaged or unsafe.

When the adjustment path is unclear, ask the shop before you force the bow or buy the wrong setup.

Related setup guides

Use these pages to keep the compound setup path together.

References

These references support the compound sizing notes on this page.

• Hoyt Kobalt Youth Compound Bow Specifications
• Hoyt Torrex Specifications
• Mathews Atlas Product Page
• Hoyt Compound Bow Manual