Chapter 4: Know Your Bow and Arrow
The Bow

A bow’s general function is to store energy in a limb system and transfer the energy to an arrow when the string is released. While modern bows can shoot arrows up to 400 yards at speeds exceeding 135 miles per hour, the bow is a short-range hunting tool. Depending on the circumstances, the maximum distance is 30 to 40 yards; and at that range, it’s common for an arrow to pass completely through an animal. To ensure accuracy, most shots are taken at 15 yards.

Bow Selection

Proper bow selection and fit are essential for maximum accuracy and performance when bowhunting.

When purchasing a bow, it’s best to consult a reputable retailer in the business of selling archery and bowhunting products. The first decision you need to make is whether you need a left- or right-handed bow. This decision is based primarily on your “Dominant or Master Eye.” For example, if your right eye is dominant, you would be best served by a right-handed bow, which allows you to pull the string with your right hand. Before buying, it’s best to test the equipment and experiment with various bows and other tackle.

First-time bowhunters should be measured for their “draw length.”

Matching Your Bow with Your Physical Capabilities

Draw Length and Draw Weight

First-time bowhunters should be measured for their “draw length” and “draw weight” to help with selecting a bow. The staff at a professional archery shop will help you take these measurements.

• Draw length is how far an archer draws the bowstring. While a short person may pull the bowstring back 23 inches, a taller person may pull it 30 inches. For optimum performance, the bow must be fitted to the proper draw length.
• Draw weight is determined by the ability of the archer to pull a certain amount of weight on the bowstring. Younger shooters may draw 25 to 35 pounds; adults may pull 50 pounds or more. The bow you select must match your strength.
  • Don’t choose a draw weight that’s too heavy. You should be able to fully draw the bow comfortably while holding your bow arm parallel to the ground and pulling straight back. If you have to raise your bow arm, you’re trying to pull too much weight.
  • In general, use the heaviest draw weight you can shoot comfortably and accurately in all weather conditions, shooting positions, and hunting situations (blinds, tree stands, still-hunting, and stalking).

There are minimum draw weights that are typically required to hunt big game. Consult your local hunting regulations.

Dominant or Master Eye

Just as you have a dominant hand, you also have a dominant eye. You need to aim with the dominant—or master—eye for the most accurate shooting. Usually your dominant eye is the same as your dominant hand but not always.

To determine your dominant eye:

1. Form a triangular opening with your thumbs and forefingers.
2. Stretch your arms out in front of you.
3. Focus on a distant object while looking through the triangular opening.
4. Bring your hands slowly to your face, keeping sight of the object through the opening; the opening will naturally come to your dominant eye.
5. If you’re not sure which eye is dominant, close one eye at a time. The weak eye will see the back of your hand; the dominant one will be focused on the object in the triangle.