There is no universal arrow length that suits a specific draw length. The arrow length must be assessed based on, among other things:

For a new archer, the most important thing, however, is that the arrow must be long enough to be safe to shoot with in your specific setup. An arrow that is too short can be directly dangerous.

Arrow length is not the same as your draw length

It's a very common misconception that the arrow should simply be the same length as your draw length. For example, if you have a draw length of 28", it doesn't automatically mean you should shoot with 28" arrows. Furthermore, arrow length is not necessarily measured the same way by all manufacturers. Some specify the arrow's length from the nock throat to the front end of the shaft, while other measurement methods may vary. Therefore, one should always check the manufacturer's definition when comparing arrows and spine charts.

How long should the arrow be for new archers?

If you are new to archery, we usually do not recommend starting with the shortest possible arrow. Your draw length and technique may change as you learn to shoot. A slightly longer arrow therefore often provides more safety and flexibility initially. Once the technique is stabilized, the arrows can optionally be optimized for the specific setup. This does not mean that a longer arrow is automatically better. It means that safety and correct setup come before the last half inch.

Why does arrow length matter for spine?

This is where it gets interesting. Arrow length directly affects its dynamic spine. A longer arrow will generally react dynamically softer than a shorter arrow of the same shaft type, spine, and components. Conversely, a shorter arrow will generally react dynamically stiffer. This means you can't just choose an arrow based on: "I have 50 lbs., so I need 400 spine." If you change the arrow's length, you simultaneously change how the arrow reacts. That's why arrow length should always be considered when choosing spine.
Also read our guide: What does arrow spine mean?

Same spine with different length

Imagine two 400 spine arrows from the same series. One is 28" long and the other is 32" long. They have the same static spine because the spine value is a property of the shaft. But they will not necessarily react the same when shot. The longer arrow will generally be dynamically softer. This is one reason why manufacturers' spine charts take arrow length into account.

Can I just shorten my arrows?

No – not without further consideration. Shortening an arrow shaft generally makes it dynamically stiffer and can be part of optimizing an arrow setup. But there are two very important considerations:

Arrow length and point weight

Arrow length cannot be considered in isolation from point weight. For example, if you shorten the arrow but simultaneously increase point weight, you affect the arrow's dynamic spine in opposite directions:

This is precisely why experienced archers can work very precisely with arrow length and components to optimize a setup.

Arrow length and GPI

Arrow length also affects the arrow's total weight. For example, if a shaft weighs 7 GPI, a 32" shaft will weigh more than a 28" shaft. 28": 7 × 28 = 196 grains and 32": 7 × 32 = 224 grains. That's a 28-grain difference just on the shaft. When you add point, insert, nock, and vanes, the difference in the weight of the finished arrow becomes correspondingly larger.
Also read our guide: What does GPI on an arrow mean?

Shorter arrows are not necessarily better

It can be tempting to think: "The shorter the arrow, the better." A shorter arrow can certainly be lighter and dynamically stiffer, but that doesn't automatically mean better precision or better performance. A shorter arrow can also provide less margin for error and significantly change your setup. The goal should therefore not be to get the shortest possible arrow. The goal is to get the right arrow length for your setup.

Arrow length for compound bows

For compound bows, many archers use an arrow that is relatively close to their actual draw length. But here too, the optimal length depends on your setup. Arrow rest, tip, point weight, spine, and safety must be included in the assessment. With a compound bow with a release aid, a very short arrow may be possible in a setup where a similar length would not be appropriate for a finger release. Therefore, one should not copy another archer's arrow length, even if you shoot the same bow and the same draw weight.

 

Arrow length for recurve and longbow

For recurve and longbows, arrow length becomes particularly interesting because the arrow is typically shot from the hand or a traditional arrow rest, and the archer's release affects the arrow's reaction. Here, archer's paradox also plays a role. The arrow flexes around the bow as it accelerates, and its dynamic spine must match both the bow and the archer. With a finger release, arrow length can therefore be an important part of achieving a well-functioning setup. For traditional bows, it is especially important not to copy an arrow measurement from a compound archer without considering the entire shooting style and the bow's construction.

Where should the arrow end?

This depends on your bow type and your setup. For a compound bow, the front of the arrow can, for example, be placed close to or in front of the arrow rest, while for other bow types and traditional setups there may be other requirements. The decisive factor is that the arrow at full draw still has sufficient length to be safe and function correctly. If in doubt, it is better to choose a little extra length and have your setup assessed before cutting the arrow.

Arrow length and safety

This is the most important part of the entire article. An arrow must never be so short that it can fall off the arrow rest at full draw. If the arrow slips off its support while the bow is at full draw, the consequences can be serious. This is especially true if you build or shorten your own arrows. Therefore, always have the arrow's minimum length assessed based on your specific bow, arrow rest, draw length, and shooting style.

How do I find the right arrow length?

If you are buying arrows for a new setup, we recommend these steps:

How precise should the arrow length be?

It is not necessarily crucial to hit a specific length down to the millimeter. But as you delve deeper into tuning, you will notice that even relatively small changes can make a difference. For example, if you cut 1" off an arrow, you change:

- the arrow's weight
- dynamic spine
- balance
- F.O.C.
- in some cases also your ability to use certain points or broadheads

Therefore, arrow length should be considered as part of the arrow's overall design.

Relationship between length, spine, GPI, and F.O.C.

If you really want to delve into your arrow setup, arrow length is one of the areas where several parameters converge.

But if you simultaneously change point weight, insert, or other components, the picture changes again. This is why a good arrow setup cannot be reduced to a single number. Spine, GPI, length, point weight, and F.O.C. must be seen as a unified system.

So how long should my arrows be?

If you are a new archer, you should not choose the shortest possible arrow. Start with a safe length that suits your draw length and your setup, and get help choosing the right spine and components. If you are an experienced archer, you can view arrow length as an active part of your tuning and arrow build. The length affects both dynamic spine and arrow weight and can therefore be used together with point weight and other components to optimize your setup. The most important thing is not to find a specific length that suits everyone. It is about finding the right length for your bow, your draw length, your shooting style, and your purpose.

Get help choosing the right arrow length

We have many years of experience with archery and help both beginners and experienced archers find the right equipment. We look at your entire arrow setup – not just your draw length. We help you find the right combination of arrow length, spine, GPI, and components, whether you shoot target, 3D, or bowhunting. Are you in doubt about how long your arrows should be?

Then visit our shop – we'd be happy to discuss your setup in detail.
Book a free and non-binding consultation here

Frequently asked questions about spine

What does arrow spine mean?
Spine is a measure of the arrow's stiffness. The lower the number, the stiffer the arrow.

Which spine should I choose?
It depends on your draw weight, draw length, and arrow length. Use a spine calculator or contact us.

Can I use the same arrows for recurve and compound?
Not necessarily – the two bow types often require different spine and arrow types.

See more questions and answers here.