There are a few things involved in determining the best archery arrow length for you.
In this article I will be discussing archery arrow length for use with a compound bow.
In the archery and bowhunting industry, as in most sports that involve men, speed is king.
Arrow manufacturers are in fierce competition to produce the fastest arrows.
There are two things that affect the speed of an arrow without involving bow weight, arrow weight and length.
The lighter the arrow the faster it flies.
But it is important to note that if the arrow is too light it can damage your bow.
If it is too heavy it will fly slower and loose trajectory.
The next factor is length.
The longer the it is, the heavier it will be.
The heavier it is the slower it will be.
It makes sense then that everyone wants to shoot short lightweight arrows.
There are dangers with this however.
Too short of an arrow can injure the shooter if the arrow gets lodged behind the rest at full draw.
On release it could snap and shatter injuring your arm and hand.
An archery arrow length that is too short may also have broadhead clearance issues.
The rule of thumb for that is, "If your broadheads cut your fingers when you shoot, your arrow is too short.
" Don't find out the hard way.
The best way I have found to determine the best archery arrow length is to use the "Draw and Measure" method.
Get someone to help you with this task.
Have your helper stand safely to the side as you draw your compound bow, with an arrow shaft in place, to full draw.
Have them mark with marker on the shaft just in front of the arrow shelf.
Marking it here will give your broadheads enough clearance.
Measure the arrow from the mark to the nock.
This is your optimum archery arrow length.
Now as far as weight goes the industry standard sets a 5grain per pound of bow weight minimum that is simple and easy to follow.
You shoot a 50 lb.
bow your arrow should weigh 250 grains, 70 lb bow equals a 350 grain.
That is the minimum weight, including tip weight, for personal safety and bow health.
Different states have different regulations for arrow weight.
You are responsible to know and follow your states regulations.
Once you determine the optimum archery arrow length for you then you can go about finding the arrow weight that is in keeping with industry standards for your bow weight.
Now you are ready to buy some arrows.