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Step 1
Measure the youth's draw length by measuring the length of their arm-span and covert to inches. Divide that number by 2.5. This is the proper draw length.
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Step 2
Decide what bow length to buy. Most bow hunters agree that bows 31" to 41" long are best but trying bows out to see what feels best should be a consideration.
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Step 3
Determine the draw weight of the compound bow. The chart below will help, but every youth will be unique according to strength and muscle mass.
Child (55-70 lbs.) 10-15 lbs.
Child (70-100 lbs.) 15-25 lbs.
Child (100-130 lbs.) 25-35 lbs. -
Step 4
Consider a twin cam bow for youths. Bow hunting experts recommend twin cam bows for youth or new hunters.
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Step 5
Measure the brace height of the bow. For most youths a 7" brace height is considered best. The brace height is the distance from the string to the central point of the bow's grip or where your hand naturally wraps around the bow.
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Step 6
Find the let-off of the bow. This is the draw weight the youth will be holding at full draw. A 75% draw weight is considered best but check your states hunting laws since some states only allow 65% let-off or less if trophy hunting.
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Step 7
Forget brand names as a reason to buy. Experts agree that using the other criteria such as draw length, let-off, axle to axle length and brace height to be more critical than a top brand.
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Step 8
Decide on a budget. Youth bows range in price from $199 to $800.
