How to Measure Draw Weight with a Bow Scale

A bow scale gives a numerical estimate of the force needed to pull a bowstring to full draw. It is a compact tool for checking traditional, recurve and compound bows, but the result represents draw weight only when the draw length, setup and scale placement are controlled.

Australian archery retailers often describe equipment in pounds, while scales may display kilograms or newtons. Understanding those values and comparing equivalent specifications prevents an accurate measurement from being mistaken for a fault or a different model rating.

What draw weight actually means

Draw weight is the force required to hold the string at a stated draw length. It is not the physical weight of the bow, and it differs from “pull weight,” a term often used for the force needed to string a traditional bow.

A recurve is commonly rated at 28 inches, although other standards are used. Traditional bows may have a manufacturer-specific length, while compounds are generally tested at a length determined by their cam design. A reading taken at 26 inches cannot be compared directly with a 28-inch rating because the limbs or cams will be at a different point in their force curve.

Choosing a scale for the bow

Choose a scale with a range that covers the expected force without placing the reading near the bottom of its display. Traditional and recurve scales may fit inside the grip or use a calibrated limb-pocket design. Compound bows usually require a scale and bow press so the cams can be brought safely to full draw.

Before testing, inspect the scale hooks, cable and fittings, then zero it while unloaded. Follow the manufacturer’s calibration instructions, as some traditional scales display total bow force while others measure one limb. A guide to bow limb materials is useful when assessing whether a used bow’s construction could affect consistency.

Setting up a safe test

Set up on a level surface with the bow pointing toward a safe backstop and nobody standing behind the nocking point. Check the scale attachment, string condition, arrow rest and release aid. For compound bows, inspect the bow press and use it according to its instructions.

Stable footing is essential because leaning or lifting the feet can distort the reading. The balance principles in common beginner footwork mistakes apply equally when bracing a bow for measurement.

Full draw stores substantial energy, even when a scale is attached. Secure the rig, begin with light pressure and never release the drawn bow by hand while the scale is under load. Keep the equipment under control and do not leave a loaded scale unattended.

Measuring a traditional or recurve bow

Zero the scale and fit it in the bow’s grip or approved limb pocket. Nock an arrow if the method requires one, attach a suitable release and draw slowly. Keep the string moving in a straight line until the bow reaches the required draw length or draw mark.

At full draw, hold the bow steadily for a moment and record the highest scale reading. Pulling quickly adds inertia and can produce an artificially high figure, while leaning against the rig may produce a low one. Repeat the test several times, letting the bow return naturally between attempts.

Record both the force and draw length. Use the manufacturer’s marks or a calibrated draw-length tool rather than estimating by eye. Compare the result with the rating for that exact length, and investigate a consistent difference before replacing or adjusting equipment.

Measuring a compound bow

Fit the scale at the nocking point according to its instructions, then use a suitable bow press and draw aid to bring both cams to full draw. Read the peak force at that position. Compound let-off affects the force at the trigger, but it does not change the peak draw-weight figure the scale records.

Never stop a compound draw with the trigger alone while measuring, because the cams can continue forward and overload the scale or bow. Release the tension through the bow press as directed by its manufacturer. Repeat the process from a resting position and record the model’s specified draw length with each result.

Converting and checking the result

Consumer scales commonly display pounds or kilograms. A reading of 13.6 kilograms is approximately 30 pounds, so a bow marketed as “30 lb” in an Australian shop may produce a corresponding scale result. If the scale displays newtons, divide by 9.81 to obtain kilogram-force.

Compare readings at the same draw length and configuration. A lower result may indicate a shorter draw, a different string or an improperly positioned scale; a higher result may reflect a fast draw or accessories changing the setup. The scale measures static force, so it should not be used to predict arrow speed or the extra effort of a rapid, dynamic draw.

Australian archery shops and second-hand online marketplaces often use inconsistent wording, including “pull weight” and “draw weight.” Treat those descriptions as different unless the seller confirms the test length and method. Keep the scale, bow specification and measured results together for future reference.

Australian conditions and what to remember

Archery regulation differs across Australian states and territories. Sporting bows, crossbows and hunting bows may be governed differently, while councils and private-land managers control access to some ranges. Check the current local requirements before transporting a crossbow or using any bow outside a club.

In Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, many archers regularly travel to suburban or outdoor ranges because suitable shooting space at home is limited. Warm conditions also matter: Perth’s summer heat and Melbourne’s changeable weather make it wise to keep bows, strings and measuring equipment out of hot cars.

The result to remember is simple: use a correctly rated scale, draw the bow to its specified length, and record the steady peak force before comparing it with the manufacturer’s draw-weight rating.