To determine the length of the arrow you need, you should consider the following factors:

• Draw length: The length of your arrow should be at least equal to your draw length, plus an additional inch or two for safety.

• Arrow rest: Depending on the type of arrow rest you have and where you want the end of your arrow to sit on the shelf, you might be able to shoot an arrow that’s anywhere from 28.5 to 31 inches long.

• Bow type: The type of bow you have can also affect the length of the arrow you need. For example, on modern centershot cutaway compound bows, the arrow rest typically sits well inboard of the outer riser edge. So on most setups, its perfectly acceptable to use an arrow that is slightly shorter than the bows adjusted draw length.

• Position of the arrow rest: The arrow should extend at least 1/2 inch past your rest at full draw.

• Purpose: If youre trying to get as much speed as possible out of your bow, you might want to use a shorter arrow, as the shorter the arrow, the less it weighs, and the faster it will travel.

The best way to determine the length of the arrow you need is to nock a full-length, uncut arrow and draw it back. Have a friend mark the shaft with a pen to indicate where the arrow should be cut, whether it’s just in front of the rest, in the arrow rest, or beyond the rest. Most new arrow shafts measure 32 inches before being cut, so thats about as long of an arrow as you can shoot.