How To Measure Draw Length

[bearpaw]

I searched but couldn't find a topic that explains exactly how to measure draw length for buying a bow. Can someone who is knowledgeable please detail the correct method? THANKS in advance! 

Is there a method to do this without using a bow?

[WapitiTalk1]

Dale, this simple method is pretty accurate.

Stand up straight with your back to the wall.
Stick your arms out to the side with your palms parallel to the floor.
​Keep your shoulders back and your head up ensuring that your chin is parallel to the floor.
​Have a friend measure the distance from the tip of your middle finger on your left hand to the tip of your middle finger on your right hand.
Divide your answer by 2.5.

That'll give you your draw length. 

[Rainier10]

Dale, this simple method is pretty accurate.

Stand up straight with your back to the wall.
Stick your arms out to the side with your palms parallel to the floor.
​Keep your shoulders back and your head up ensuring that your chin is parallel to the floor.
​Have a friend measure the distance from the tip of your middle finger on your left hand to the tip of your middle finger on your right hand.
Divide your answer by 2.5.

That'll give you your draw length.

[bearpaw]

Dale, this simple method is pretty accurate.

Stand up straight with your back to the wall.
Stick your arms out to the side with your palms parallel to the floor.
​Keep your shoulders back and your head up ensuring that your chin is parallel to the floor.
​Have a friend measure the distance from the tip of your middle finger on your left hand to the tip of your middle finger on your right hand.
Divide your answer by 2.5.

That'll give you your draw length.

Thanks, it seems to work really close, I have used a 31" draw length my entire life and this method came out to 30.8 on me. The reason I ask is my wife wants to start shooting again and we didn't know what draw length she is, we want to find a used bow for her to play around with, now we know she is 25", thanks!