How to Choose a Youth Compound Bow

Overview

Archery is a sport the entire family can enjoy. Choosing the right bow is the first step in ensuring a positive experience with the sport. There are four main factors that must be taken into consideration when purchasing a youth compound bow.
How to Choose a Youth Compound Bow

Step 1

Verify whether the youth is left- or right-eye dominant. Ask him to point at an object on a wall a few feet away and then close his right eye. If he observes his finger remaining pointed at the object he is left-eye dominant; therefore, he will need a left-handed bow. If he says his finger appeared to jump to the right of the object, he is right-eye dominant and needs a right-handed bow.
Step 2

Determine the youth's draw length. Measure his wingspan by having him spread his arms out. Run a measuring tape from the tip of his right hand to the tip of his left hand. Divide that number by 2.5; that is the draw length the youth needs to have his bow set at.
Step 3

Handle several different bows with varying lengths from 31 to 41 inches. The youth should purchase a bow that is the length that feels most comfortable.
Step 4

Estimate the correct draw weight needed for the youth based on his weight. Youths who weigh 50 to 70 pounds usually will pull 10 to 15 pounds. Those weighing 70 to 100 pounds will most likely use a 15 to 25 pound bow. Children 100 to 130 pounds will need 25 to 40 poundage, and those who weigh 130 to 150 generally can pull 40 to 50 pounds.

Overview