Understanding Archery Draw Length

DLPP vs. AMO

What is your archery draw length? If you’re new to archery, you might think it’s simply “how far I pull back the arrow.” That’s partly true—but in archery, draw length has a precise definition, and knowing yours is essential for choosing the right bow and arrows.

Let’s break it down step by step.

🔹 Draw Length Estimate

You may have read or been told that your draw length can be estimated by taking your height in inches (or your wing span) and dividing it by 2.5. That is an estimate and useful to start but what is it truly? Can you use it to buy arrows or set up a bow?  Let’s look a little deeper and find out!

🔹 DLPP (Draw Length at Pivot Point)

Also called Raw Draw Length also known as or Measured Draw Length or Actual Draw Length.

Definition: The distance from the string’s nocking point to the pivot point of the grip (the deepest part of the throat of the grip, just below the arrow shelf) at full draw.

DLPP (Measured Draw Length) = Nocking Point to Pivot Point of Grip in inches.

This is a direct measurement of your form and may change as your form develops.

🔹 AMO Draw Length (Standardized Draw Length)

The Archery Manufacturers Organization (AMO) created a standard that has been adopted by the Archery Trade Association (ATA) so bows and arrows could be labeled consistently across brands.

Definition: AMO Draw Length = DLPP + 1.75 inches

That extra 1.75 inches accounts for:

• The distance from the pivot point to the front of the riser (which usually is 1.75”)

• Standardization across different bow designs

👉 When a bow says “29-inch draw,” it means 29 inches AMO, not raw draw length.

🔹 Why the Difference Matters

• Arrows: Arrow spine charts use AMO draw length, not DLPP.

• Bows: A compound bow marked “29-inch draw” means if will fit a 27.25 inches DLPP.

• Tuning: Confusing DLPP and AMO can lead to choosing the wrong arrow spine or mis-adjusting modules.

🔹 Example Calculation

If your DLPP measurement is:27.25 inches (nocking point → pivot point at full draw)

Then your AMO draw length is: 29 inches[ 27.25 + 1.75 = 29 inches]

This means you need to select a compound bow that can be set to a 29 inches AMO draw length.

👉 Always use the AMO measurement when setting draw modules or choosing a new bow.

🔹 Final Analysis

Knowing both your DLPP and AMO draw length—and understanding which one is being referenced—is critical to selecting the right equipment.  Arrow charts and compound bow manufacturers use AMO not DLPP,  

✅ Takeaway: Measuring your draw length correctly ensures proper fit, consistent form, and better accuracy.

🎯 Ready to Find Your Perfect Fit?

If you’re unsure about your draw length, don’t guess—get measured! Book a lesson and I will walk you through the process step by step. You will get an accurate measurement using my Carbon Express Draw Length Guide measuring arrow.  With the right draw length, you’ll shoot more comfortably, more accurately, and with greater confidence.