ANST - Bow Draw Weights

[Gunnora Hallakarva]

The draw weight of a bow is a function of: length of bowstring, stiffness
of the bowstave, and draw length.

The draw weight will be different at 31" than it is at 28", which is what
we're supposed to be using in combat archery.  At 28" the draw weight will
be less -- you have less potential energy in the bow since the limbs of the
bowstave are flexed less..  

To measure draw weight, get a spring scale (the kind that has a hook on
either end and reads on a gauge in the middle (these are often used for
fishermen). Make sure the scale reads to at least 40 lbs. Either clamp the
bow into a stand, or in a pinch you can hold down the center of the stave
with your foot.  Attach the spring scale to the drawpoint of the string.
Place a measuring arrow (cut to 28") so the nock is seated on the string.
Pull up with the scale until the arrow is at full extension but is not off
the ground.  Read the weight shown on the scale -- this is your draw weight.

You should try measuring -- your "35 lb bow" may be either more or less
than you think, depending on age and construction, and the draw weight will
be less at the 28" draw length we use in combat.

If you are over the 30 lb limit even so, take your 35 lb bow to your local
archery supply.  Explain the problem and see if they can get you to 30 lbs
with a slightly longer string.  

Alternatively, I've traded in bows before -- over time laminated bows get
stiffer and the draw weight increases, so I actually traded my 65 lb bow in
because it had crept up to nearly 75 lbs draw weight.  They credited the
worth of the old bow towards the new one, and I swapped pretty much even.
Ask your archery shop if they will consider this.


Wæs Þu Hæl (Waes Thu Hael)

::GUNNORA::

Gunnora Hallakarva
Herskerinde
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Ek eigi visa þik hversu oðlask Lofstirrlauf-Kruna heldr hversu na Hersis-Aðal
(Ek eigi thik hversu odhlask Lofstirrlauf-Kruna heldr hversu na Hersis-Adhal)

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