Choosing a draw weight for an Asiatic bow

Paragon bows are made to order from #28 to #60, rated at 28″ of draw (the Solak from #30). The number you choose shapes everything from your accuracy to how long you can shoot for.

Draw longer, hold more

The rating applies at 28″. Draw further and the bow holds more weight; draw less and it holds less. A rough rule is a couple of pounds per inch, which is why the tools on this site show your estimated holding weight at your own draw.

Start lighter than you think

Good form comes first. If you’re new to Asiatic bows, the thumb draw or shooting from horseback, a lighter bow lets you learn without strain and shoot more arrows per session. #30 to #40 is a common starting point. Experienced archers moving across from other bows often go a little lighter than they expect, too.

Limits worth knowing

Dye-stained bamboo cores are available up to #50 at 28″. Above that, the limbs come in natural bamboo under clear glass, or under black glass.

Match your arrows

Heavier bows want heavier arrows. Many traditional archers aim for roughly 8 to 10 grains of arrow weight per pound of draw. Never dry-fire a bow (loose without an arrow); the energy has nowhere to go.