Bow Poundage Guide

Find the right draw weight for your body and goals

General Poundage Reference

CategoryRecurveCompound
Child (8-12)10-20 lbs15-25 lbs
Teen (13-17)18-30 lbs25-40 lbs
Adult Small22-32 lbs35-50 lbs
Adult Medium28-38 lbs45-60 lbs
Adult Large35-50 lbs55-70 lbs
Senior20-30 lbs30-50 lbs

Start at the lower end and work up. You should be able to hold at full draw for 30 seconds comfortably. For hunting, most states require a minimum of 40 lbs for big game.