Arrow Speed Calculator
Calculate arrow speed, momentum, and kinetic energy from your bow's IBO rating, draw length, draw weight, and arrow specifications.
Input Parameters
Adjust your bow settings to calculate arrow speed. Switch units with the dropdowns.
Typical range: 280–350 ft/s for compound bows
IBO standard is 30 inches
IBO standard is 70 lbs
IBO standard is 350 grains (total arrow)
Weight added by string silencers, extra serving, etc.
Calculated Results
Results update automatically as you change inputs. Switch units with the dropdowns.
Understanding Bow Speed IBO Specification
Most professional bows use the IBO (International Bowhunting Organization) specification. This standard determines the arrow speed under controlled conditions:
- Draw length equal to 30 inches
- Draw weight equal to 70 pounds
- Arrow weight equal to 350 grains
If you deviate from these parameters, the arrow speed will differ from the IBO specification. Most archers don't use these exact settings — this is where our arrow speed calculator comes in. It allows you to examine how the arrow behaves under your specific bow setup.
Simply enter your bow's IBO rating, your draw length, draw weight, arrow weight, and any extra string weight, and the calculator adjusts the speed using the proven IBO correction formula.
IBO standard: 30" draw, 70 lbs weight, 350 grain arrow.
What Is IBO Speed? — IBO Speed vs IBO Rating vs Real Arrow Speed
IBO speed is the standardized feet-per-second (fps) number a bow produces when shot under the International Bowhunting Organization test conditions: a 30-inch draw length, 70-pound peak draw weight, a 350-grain arrow, and no string accessories. The IBO rating printed on a bow's spec sheet is the manufacturer's claimed IBO speed — the two terms describe the same number from different angles. IBO speed is the test result; IBO rating is the published marketing value of that result.
IBO speed exists so archers can compare bows fairly across brands. Without a shared standard, a 350-fps flagship bow from one manufacturer could not be meaningfully weighed against a 340-fps bow from another. But IBO speed is not a real-world hunting speed: it is measured with no peep sight, no D-loop, no string silencer, and a draw length and draw weight most archers do not shoot. Real arrow speed — the number your chronograph reads — is typically 40–80 fps below the advertised IBO speed.
What is IBO speed in plain English: the fps a bow shoots when tested at exactly 30" draw, 70 lb draw weight, with a 350-grain arrow and zero string accessories. Every deviation from those conditions changes the speed by a known amount — that is exactly what the IBO speed calculator above computes. Enter your bow's advertised IBO rating and your real draw length, draw weight, and arrow weight, and the calculator returns your expected real-world arrow speed in fps.
Want the full IBO formula derivation and the chronograph verification SOP? Read the in-depth guide: How to Calculate Arrow Speed — it walks through the IBO 5-parameter formula, crossbow-specific math, and the no-chronograph field estimation method.
Why Actual Speed Differs from IBO
IBO ratings reflect ideal lab conditions that most archers never replicate. Here's exactly how each deviation from the standard steals speed — and why real-world setups typically lose 40 to 80 fps from the advertised number.
The IBO standard is tested at a perfect 30-inch draw length, 70-pound draw weight, with a 350-grain arrow and no string accessories. These are ideal conditions that most archers do not match. Your actual speed will be lower because of a shorter draw length, lower draw weight, heavier arrows, and accessories like peep sights and D-loops that add weight to the string.
Each deviation follows predictable rules of thumb. Understanding them lets you estimate the trade-offs before you ever change a component — and explains the gap between the number on the box and what your chronograph actually reads.
Most hunting setups lose this much from the advertised IBO rating once peep sights, D-loops, string silencers, and real draw parameters are factored in.
| Deviation from IBO Standard | Speed Effect | Why It Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Each inch of draw length below 30″ | −10 fps | Shorter power stroke stores less energy in the limbs. |
| Each inch of draw length above 30″ | +10 fps | Longer power stroke stores and releases more energy. |
| Each pound of draw weight below 70 lbs | −2 fps | Less force is stored in the bow limbs at full draw. |
| Each 3 grains of arrow weight above 350 | −1 fps | Heavier arrows absorb more energy but at lower velocity. |
| Each 3 grains of arrow weight below 350 | +1 fps | Lighter arrows leave the bow faster but carry less energy. |
| Each 3 grains of string accessory weight | −1 fps | Peep sights, D-loops, and silencers add mass the bow must accelerate. |
Archery Calculator Principles
The arrow speed calculator adjusts the IBO-rated speed based on four correction rules. Understanding these principles helps you tune your setup for optimal performance.
For every inch of draw length under 30″, subtract 10 ft/s from the IBO value. For every inch above 30″, add 10 ft/s.
For every 3 grains of total arrow weight above 5× the draw weight, subtract 1 ft/s from the IBO value.
For every 3 grains of additional weight on the bowstring, subtract 1 ft/s from the IBO value.
v = IBO + (L−30)×10 − W/3 + min(0, −(A−5D)/3)All corrections combined into one equation. Where L=draw length, W=string weight, A=arrow weight, D=draw weight.
IBO Speed Calculator — Using This as an FPS Bow Calculator
The arrow speed calculator at the top of this page is built around the four correction principles above, so it functions as an IBO speed calculator, an fps bow calculator, and a general archery speed calculator all in one tool. Whatever bow you shoot — compound, recurve, traditional longbow, or crossbow — the same input panel handles it: enter the bow's advertised IBO (or equivalent ASTM) rating in the Bow IBO Rating field, then fill in your actual draw length, draw weight, arrow weight, and any extra weight on the string. The calculator instantly returns three outputs: arrow speed (fps), arrow momentum, and arrow kinetic energy.
As an archery fps calculator the default output unit is feet per second, matching the IBO and ATA convention. Use the unit dropdown next to each result field to instantly switch to mph, m/s, km/h, knots, ft/min, cm/s, or mm/s — the value converts on the fly without re-entering your bow parameters. This makes the same tool useful for hunters comparing broadhead penetration (fps + ft-lbs), Olympic recurve archers working in m/s, and European crossbow shooters working in km/h.
Need the full formula derivation or the chronograph verification SOP? See the in-depth guide: How to Calculate Arrow Speed.
How Fast Does an Arrow Travel?
Arrow speed varies by bow type, draw weight, and arrow weight. Here's a general guide to what you can expect from different bow types.
| Bow Type | Speed (ft/s) | Speed (mph) | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longbow | 150–200 | 102–136 | Traditional, primitive |
| Recurve Bow | 200–225 | 136–153 | Olympic, target |
| Compound Bow (entry) | 260–290 | 177–198 | Hunting, recreational |
| Compound Bow (mid) | 290–320 | 198–218 | Hunting, 3D archery |
| Compound Bow (high) | 320–350 | 218–238 | Elite competition, speed bows |
| Crossbow (entry — flagship) | 380–450+ | 259–307+ | Crossbow hunting, target crossbow |
Actual speeds depend on draw weight, draw length, and arrow weight. Use the calculator above for a precise estimate based on your setup.
Compound Bow FPS — How Fast Is a Compound Bow in Feet per Second?
Compound bow fps is the single most searched archery speed number, and the answer always comes in three tiers. Entry-level hunting compounds ship in the 260–290 fps range; mid-range hunting and 3D bows sit at 290–320 fps; flagship speed bows reach 320–350 fps. These are realistic field numbers, not the advertised IBO speed — once a peep sight, D-loop, string silencer, and a 400+ grain hunting arrow are factored in, the typical real-world compound bow feet per second is 40–80 fps below the box number. The advertised IBO speed is measured at a 30-inch draw, 70-pound draw weight, with a 350-grain arrow and zero string accessories — conditions almost no hunter actually shoots. To get your exact compound bow fps, enter your bow's IBO rating in the calculator at the top of this page, then adjust draw length, draw weight, arrow weight, and string weight to match your real setup.
Quick reference — compound bow fps by class: Entry hunting 260–290 fps · Mid-range hunting 290–320 fps · Flagship speed bow 320–350 fps · Crossbow 380–450+ fps. For recurve bows the typical arrow speed is 200–225 fps, and traditional longbows 150–200 fps.
What Unit Is Arrow Speed Measured In?
Arrow speed is expressed in several units depending on context. The archery industry standard is feet per second (ft/s or fps) — the unit used in every IBO and ATA bow rating and the default output of this arrow speed calculator. Miles per hour (mph) is handy for comparing arrow speed to other projectiles or vehicles, while meters per second (m/s) and kilometers per hour (km/h) are preferred in regions using the metric system. The conversion factors between the four most common units are summarized below.
| From | To mph | To m/s | To km/h | To fps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 fps | 0.682 | 0.305 | 1.097 | 1.000 |
| 1 mph | 1.000 | 0.447 | 1.609 | 1.467 |
| 1 m/s | 2.237 | 1.000 | 3.600 | 3.281 |
| 1 km/h | 0.621 | 0.278 | 1.000 | 0.911 |
Beyond these four common units, this calculator also supports knots, feet per minute (ft/min), centimeters per second (cm/s), and millimeters per second (mm/s) for specialized applications. Use the dropdown next to the Arrow Speed result field to switch units — the value converts instantly without re-entering your bow parameters. The same unit-switching capability is available for the momentum and kinetic energy outputs, so you can work in whichever system matches your region or equipment specs.
How Fast Does an Arrow Travel? — In a Nutshell
Typical arrow speeds (and their mph equivalents) by bow type, using realistic field setups (not lab IBO conditions):
Traditional / Longbow
150–190 fps
≈ 102–129 mph
Recurve (Olympic style)
200–225 fps
≈ 136–153 mph
Hunting Compound
260–310 fps
≈ 177–211 mph
High-End Speed Bow
310–350 fps
≈ 211–238 mph
Crossbow
380–450+ fps
≈ 259–307+ mph
Rule of thumb: if you are shooting a hunting-weight compound, the real answer is usually 280–300 fps once peep, D-loop, stabilizer, and a 400+ grain hunting arrow are accounted for. Use the calculator at the top of the page to dial in your exact numbers.
What Affects Arrow Speed?
Arrow speed depends on far more than just draw weight and arrow weight. From the string material to the weather on hunt day, many variables shape the velocity that actually leaves your bow.
Bow String Weight
Heavier string accessories (peep sights, D-loops, silencers, serving) add mass the bow must accelerate, costing roughly 1 fps for every 3 grains added.
String Material & Length
Modern low-stretch materials like BCY X or 8190 transfer energy more efficiently than older fibers. String length and strand count also affect how much energy reaches the arrow.
Arrow Weight
The single biggest lever after draw weight. Heavier arrows absorb more energy but leave slower; lighter arrows fly faster but carry less momentum downrange.
Cam Design & Efficiency
Binary, hybrid, and single cams store and release energy differently. A well-tuned cam system converts more stored limb energy into arrow velocity.
Temperature & Humidity
Cold weather stiffens limbs and strings, reducing energy transfer. High humidity and rain increase air density and drag, slowing the arrow in flight.
Moisture & Rain
Wet conditions add weight to feathers and fletching, increase aerodynamic drag, and reduce speed — fast-flying arrows suffer less wind drift but more drag loss in rain.
Limb Age & Condition
Limbs lose a small amount of efficiency over time and with heavy use. Worn or delaminated limbs store less energy, reducing arrow speed measurably.
Arrow Spine & Tune
A poorly spined arrow flexes excessively around the riser, wasting energy. A properly tuned arrow flies straighter and retains more forward velocity.
Draw Length & Weight
Longer draw lengths and higher draw weights store more energy. Each inch of draw adds ~10 fps and each pound of weight adds ~2 fps, per IBO rules of thumb.
Key takeaway: Fast-flying arrows have flatter flight trajectories and less deviation from wind, but raw speed isn't everything. A heavier, slower arrow often delivers more kinetic energy and momentum for ethical penetration on game.
Kinetic Energy & Momentum for Hunting
Kinetic energy determines penetration on game animals — but momentum often predicts real-world performance through heavy bone and tissue better than KE alone. Use these benchmarks to match your setup to the game you pursue.
| Game Class | Min. KE (ft·lbs) | Typical Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Small Game | 25–40 | Rabbit, squirrel, target shooting |
| Medium Game | 40–65 | Whitetail deer, antelope, black bear |
| Large Game | 65–80 | Elk, moose, caribou, grizzly |
| Dangerous Game | 80+ (100+ ideal) | African dangerous game, cape buffalo |
Values are widely cited bowhunting guidelines, not legal minimums. Always check your state or country's draw-weight and equipment regulations.
Kinetic Energy (KE)
KE = ½ × m × v². Because velocity is squared, small speed gains produce large energy gains. KE measures the total energy of the moving arrow.
KE = A × v² / 2Momentum — the Penetration Predictor
Momentum = m × v. It's proportional to speed linearly, so it better predicts penetration through heavy bone and tissue. A heavy, slower arrow maintains its energy deeper than a light, fast arrow.
p = A × vWhy momentum matters: Kinetic energy rises with the square of speed, favoring light fast arrows. But momentum rises linearly with speed, favoring mass. For ethical kills on tough game, many seasoned bowhunters choose a heavier arrow that sacrifices a little speed for significantly more momentum and deeper penetration.
Foot-Pounds Energy Cheat Sheet — ft-lbs / Foot Pounds / Ballistic Energy Synonyms + Conversion
+
Same unit, different spellings — all mean arrow kinetic energy
- ft-lbs / ft lbs / ft·lb / ft·lbf / foot-pound / foot pounds — standard Imperial foot-pound of energy (weight-force × distance)
- ballistic energy / ballistics energy — any projectile KE; arrow ballistic energy is exactly arrow KE, so a ballistic energy calculator for bows outputs the same ft-lbs as this page's Kinetic Energy field
- kenetic energy calculator (misspelling) — extremely common typo; always resolve to the standard kinetic energy formula
| Convert 1 ft-lb to… | Equals | Use in archery |
|---|---|---|
| Joules (J) | 1.355 818 J | Metric hunters / European regulations |
| Calories (cal) | 0.323 832 cal | Lab / textbook thermodynamics reference |
| Watt-hours (Wh) | 0.000 376 616 Wh | Compare to battery / electrical energy scales |
| Newton-meters (N·m) | 1.355 818 N·m | Torque / mechanical work equivalence |
Quick ballpark: a 50 ft-lb arrow carries roughly 68 J of kinetic energy — comparable to a .22 rimfire round at the muzzle. Use the Kinetic Energy unit dropdown on the calculator above to toggle these on the fly.
Bow Efficiency & Corrected IBO
Not all IBO ratings are created equal. Bows gain efficiency differently as arrow weight moves away from the 5 grains-per-pound IBO baseline — and understanding this lets you calibrate the calculator to your real-world chronograph readings.
This calculator is based on average efficiency gains as arrow weight is increased from 5 grains per pound (the IBO standard). The most critical factor is the IBO speed you enter, since it's the starting point of every calculation.
Every bow gains efficiency a little differently. Bows 5–10 years old tend to gain efficiency faster than brand-new ones — the older bows were less efficient out of the box, so they naturally have more room for improvement. The average efficiency curve used here is based on bows from APA, Elite, Bowtech, Hoyt, and PSE ranging from 40 lbs up to 85 lbs, getting most bows within a few percent of real-world speeds.
For the most accurate results, use a known chronographed speed and a known arrow weight under 6 grains per pound to determine your "corrected" IBO value.
✓Corrected IBO Example
A 70# / 29" bow rated at 350 fps is chronographed at 315 fps with a 400-grain arrow:
- At the rated 350 fps IBO, the calculator should show 319 fps.
- The real reading (315 fps) is lower, so the IBO rating is slightly high.
- Reduce the IBO speed input until the calculator shows the verified 315 fps.
- In this case, the corrected IBO value is 346 fps.
Word of caution: Regardless of the numbers you get here, if you build an inefficient arrow, expect inefficient performance.
Key Formulas
Behind every arrow speed calculation is a set of proven formulas. Understanding them helps you verify results and tune your setup.
v = IBO + (L − 30) × 10 − W/3 + min(0, −(A − 5D)/3)Adjusts the IBO-rated speed based on your actual draw length, string weight, arrow weight, and draw weight. Each variable is corrected for deviations from the standard IBO test conditions.
p = A × vMomentum equals arrow mass (A, in grains) times velocity (v, in ft/s). Higher momentum means better penetration and resistance to wind drift.
KE = A × v² / 2Kinetic energy equals half the mass times velocity squared. Since velocity is squared, small increases in speed produce large gains in KE. Convert to ft·lbf by dividing by 225218.
Worked Example
Let's calculate the arrow speed for a common hunting setup to see how the formula works in practice.
How to Measure Arrow Speed
A calculator gives you a reliable estimate, but nothing beats a direct measurement. Here are the tools archers use to verify real-world arrow speed — plus a no-gear field method you can try at the range.
Optical Chronograph
The most common choice. The arrow breaks two light sensors a fixed distance apart, and the device computes speed from the time difference. Insensitive to shooting distance — but a stray shot can destroy it.
Doppler Chronograph
Uses radar to track the arrow in flight. Fast and easy to use, with no risk of shooting the device itself. Often measures speed at multiple distances for a full velocity profile.
Audio Applications
Laptop or phone-based apps estimate speed from the sound of the shot and the impact. Less precise than hardware options, but convenient and inexpensive for rough checks.
Estimating Speed Without a Chronograph
No chronograph? You can still estimate arrow speed with a pin-shift field test. Fire a group from 20 yards using the pin set for that distance and mark the center. Then move to 40 yards, shoot another group using the same 20-yard pin, mark the new center, and measure the distance between the two groups. Cross-reference the gap below to estimate your speed.
| Group Gap (inches) | Estimated Speed (fps) |
|---|---|
| 28.7 | 220 |
| 24.2 | 240 |
| 20.6 | 260 |
| 17.7 | 280 |
| 15.5 | 300 |
| 13.6 | 320 |
| 12.8 | 330 |
This method is less accurate than a chronograph but gives a useful ballpark figure for tuning and comparison.
Arrow Speed Use Cases
Arrow speed matters in different ways depending on what you do with a bow. Here's how hunters, target archers, and bow tuners each use these numbers.
Bowhunting
Arrow speed affects trajectory, kinetic energy, and how much you must compensate for distance at unknown ranges. A flatter trajectory means less pin gap and fewer guessing errors on game. Speed also drives the KE and momentum needed for ethical penetration.
Target Archery
Speed influences arrow drop at longer ranges like 3D archery or outdoor FITA competition. Target archers balance speed against forgiveness — faster arrows drop less but can be more sensitive to form errors and wind drift over 70–90 meters.
Bow Tuning & Setup
Understanding fps helps you dial in your compound bow setup and compare models from brands like Mathews, Hoyt, Bowtech, and PSE. Pair speed with spine deflection and draw-weight data to choose arrows that match your bow perfectly.
Key Archery Terminology
IBO Rating
International Bowhunting Organization standard speed rating, tested at 30-inch draw, 70-pound draw weight, with a 350-grain arrow.
Draw Length
The distance from the nocking point on the string to the throat of the bow grip at full draw, measured in inches. Standard draw length is 30 inches.
Draw Weight
The force required to hold the bow at full draw, measured in pounds. Typical compound bow draw weights range from 40 to 80 pounds.
Arrow Weight
The total weight of an arrow including shaft, broadhead, fletching, and nock, measured in grains (1/7000 lb). Typical hunting arrows weigh 350–450 grains.
String Weight
Additional weight added to the bowstring (e.g., string silencers, serving material). For every 3 grains of extra string weight, arrow speed decreases by about 1 fps.
Kinetic Energy (KE)
The energy of a moving arrow, calculated as KE = ½mv². Measured in foot-pounds (ft·lbf). Most states require at least 40 ft·lbf for big game hunting.
Momentum
The product of arrow mass and velocity. Higher momentum arrows penetrate better and are less affected by wind.
Tips for Accurate Arrow Speed & Tuning
Use a chronograph to verify your calculated speed — actual speed may differ due to bow efficiency and arrow aerodynamics.
Match arrow weight to draw weight: aim for 10–12 grains per pound of draw weight for optimal spine and penetration.
Keep your bowstrings well-maintained — frayed or worn strings reduce energy transfer to the arrow.
Test with different arrow weights to find the best balance of speed, momentum, and trajectory for your hunting or target needs.
Remember that speed isn't everything — a heavier arrow with more kinetic energy often penetrates better than a faster, lighter arrow.
Environmental factors like temperature and humidity can affect arrow speed and flight, especially at extreme ranges.
External Standards & Data Sources
The formulas behind this calculator rest on industry standards and manufacturer data. These are the authoritative sources archers rely on for IBO ratings, arrow spine, and component specifications.
ATA / IBO Speed Rating Standard
The Archery Trade Association and International Bowhunting Organization define the speed-rating standard used by every bow manufacturer. Ratings are measured at 30″ draw, 70 lbs draw weight, and a 350-grain arrow with no string accessories.
archerytrade.orgEaston Archery Arrow Selection
Easton's arrow selection charts and spine resources help match shaft stiffness to your draw weight and draw length — a critical companion to speed calculations for safe, accurate shooting.
eastonarchery.comGold Tip GPI & Component Specs
Gold Tip publishes grains-per-inch (GPI) data and component weights for every shaft, letting you build a total arrow weight that hits your target speed and momentum window.
goldtip.comVictory Archery Spine Charts
Victory Archery provides detailed spine charts and model data so you can verify that your chosen arrow flexes correctly for your bow's energy output and draw length.
victoryarchery.comPro tip: Always cross-reference your calculated speed with a chronograph reading and your manufacturer's spine chart. The IBO formula is an excellent estimator, but real-world efficiency varies by bow model, string condition, and arrow build.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IBO rating on a bow?+
How fast does an arrow travel?+
How does draw length affect arrow speed?+
How does draw weight affect arrow speed?+
How does arrow weight affect speed?+
What is kinetic energy in archery?+
What is momentum in archery?+
What grain arrow should I shoot?+
How do I measure arrow speed without a chronograph?+
What is a good arrow speed for hunting?+
Does arrow speed affect accuracy?+
What is the difference between grain and grams for arrow weight?+
How accurate is the arrow speed calculator?+
What device measures arrow speed?+
What factors affect arrow speed?+
Why is my actual arrow speed lower than the IBO rating?+
What is the difference between kinetic energy and momentum for hunting?+
What kinetic energy do I need for hunting different game?+
What unit is arrow speed measured in?+
What is a foot-pound (ft-lbs) of kinetic energy? Are ft-lbs energy, foot pounds, ft lbs, foot pound, and ballistic energy all the same unit?+
Is this a full archery calculator and arrow calculator suite? What separate arrow math calculators are included?+
What is IBO speed and how is it different from the IBO rating on a bow?+
How do I use this IBO speed calculator / fps bow calculator to estimate my arrow speed?+
How fast is a compound bow in fps / feet per second?+
How fast does a crossbow shoot in fps and is the IBO formula different for crossbows?+
Is this an archery fps calculator and archery speed calculator, or only a compound bow calculator?+
What is bow speed and how is bow and arrow speed measured in the field?+
How fast can a compound bow shoot, and what is the speed of compound bows at the ceiling?+
What is the fps of a 120 lb compound bow shooting an 800 grain arrow?+
Is there an arrow speed calculator app or software version, or does this tool only run in a browser?+
Standalone Arrow Calculators
The homepage tool needs five IBO inputs. These focused tools answer one question each with the fewest inputs possible — pick a spine from a brand chart, compute ft-lbs of energy, or measure your draw length.
Aluminum Arrow Spine Chart
Aluminum arrow spine chart: decode 4-digit codes (1716–2317) into diameter, wall, deflection and carbon equivalent, with recurve and crossbow picks.
Wood Arrow Spine Calculator
Wood arrow spine calculator: pick bow type, draw weight, arrow length and wood species to get the 55/70 two-number spine code with AMO deflection and tuning fixes.
Brand Spine Chart Decode
Decode spine charts for Blackout, Bloodsport, Beman, Sirius, Skylon and more: brand numbers to AMO deflection, the DIY 1.94 lb test, factory drift pitfalls.
500-1400 Spine Arrows
500 to 1400 spine arrows by draw weight: 500 spine for 40-50 lb recurve, 600-900 for youth and light bows, feathered traditional shafts, PSE Razorback.
400 Spine Arrows
400 spine arrows: fit windows for 45-60 lb compound and 40-55 lb recurve, when a 60 or 70 lb bow still shoots 400, 28-inch cut effects, budget vs premium picks.
Gold Tip Arrow Calculator
Calculate your exact Gold Tip arrow spine size or view the official spine chart. Fits Hunter, Traditional, Velocity & Triple series by draw weight & length.
Easton Arrow Selector
Free 2026 Easton arrow selector and shaft spine calculator. Instantly match shaft spine for Axis, 6.5 & FMJ based on your draw weight and length.
Compound Bow Arrow Chart
Official compound bow arrow spine chart. Quickly match arrow shafts and spine sizes to your draw weight (40-70+ lbs) and cam setup. Free selection tool.
Crossbow Ballistic Calculator
Crossbow ballistic calculator: bolt speed, drop and kinetic energy in one tool — covers crossbow ballistics, bolt trajectory and crossbow bolt speed calculator math.
Bow Draw Weight Calculator
Bow draw weight calculator by age, build, experience and game — get recommended poundage with deer, elk and bear minimums plus recurve vs compound methods.
Arrow Trajectory Calculator
Arrow trajectory calculator: enter arrow speed, weight, distance & angle to get parabolic drop, wind drift, apex height & flight time, plus a 20-70 yard sight-pin table. Free.
Arrow Weight Calculator
Arrow weight calculator: pick shaft GPI, cut length, point, insert, nock and vanes to get total grains with a component breakdown and IBO 5gr/lb safety check. Free.
Arrow FOC Calculator
Arrow FOC calculator: enter arrow length and component weights or balance point to get FOC% with target 10-15% and hunting 15-20% windows. Free archery tool.
Arrow Spine Calculator
Arrow spine calculator: enter bow type, draw weight, draw length, arrow length & point weight to get the recommended spine number with a stiffness warning. Free tool.
Bow Draw Length Calculator
Bow draw length calculator: enter wingspan to get draw length via the /2.5, AMO and wall methods, plus arrow length sizing by bow type. Free tool.
Arrow Kinetic Energy Calculator
Arrow kinetic energy calculator: enter arrow weight and speed to get KE in ft-lbs, joules & momentum with game-class hunting thresholds. Free tool.
Arrow Spine Chart
Free 2026 arrow spine chart and interactive calculator. Instantly match shaft spine sizes for Easton, Gold Tip, Victory & Black Eagle based on your setup.
Which tool do I need? If you are choosing arrows, use the Arrow Spine Chart to look up the right spine for your bow by brand. If you are checking whether your build is ethical for your target game, use the Arrow Kinetic Energy Calculator. If you do not yet know your draw length, use the Bow Draw Length Calculator — then come back here and run the full speed, momentum, and KE math on the homepage tool.
Bow & Brand-Specific Arrow Selectors
Brand-deep and bow-type-specific selector hubs — Easton shaft-by-shaft, Gold Tip spine chart & builder, compound-bow-specific arrow chart, crossbow ballistic calculator, and an interactive draw-weight picker by age and target species.
Bow Draw Weight Calculator
Bow draw weight calculator by age, build, experience and game — get recommended poundage with deer, elk and bear minimums plus recurve vs compound methods.
Crossbow Ballistic Calculator
Crossbow ballistic calculator: bolt speed, drop and kinetic energy in one tool — covers crossbow ballistics, bolt trajectory and crossbow bolt speed calculator math.
Compound Bow Arrow Chart
Official compound bow arrow spine chart. Quickly match arrow shafts and spine sizes to your draw weight (40-70+ lbs) and cam setup. Free selection tool.
Easton Arrow Selector
Free 2026 Easton arrow selector and shaft spine calculator. Instantly match shaft spine for Axis, 6.5 & FMJ based on your draw weight and length.
Gold Tip Arrow Calculator
Calculate your exact Gold Tip arrow spine size or view the official spine chart. Fits Hunter, Traditional, Velocity & Triple series by draw weight & length.
Selectors vs the Spine Chart: The general-purpose Arrow Spine Chart compares every brand side by side. The selector hubs above go brand-deep or bow-type-specific — Easton-only, Gold Tip-only, compound-only — for users who already know which brand or bow they are shopping for.
Spine-Grade Buyer's Guides: 400 to 1400
One cluster for every spine-grade shopping question — interactive fit tools for the 400 and 500 grades and a brand-chart decoder, plus in-depth buying guides for 400, 500, and the light 600-1400 shafts for youth and traditional bows.
400 Spine Arrows
400 spine arrows: fit windows for 45-60 lb compound and 40-55 lb recurve, when a 60 or 70 lb bow still shoots 400, 28-inch cut effects, budget vs premium picks.
500-1400 Spine Arrows
500 to 1400 spine arrows by draw weight: 500 spine for 40-50 lb recurve, 600-900 for youth and light bows, feathered traditional shafts, PSE Razorback.
Brand Spine Chart Decode
Decode spine charts for Blackout, Bloodsport, Beman, Sirius, Skylon and more: brand numbers to AMO deflection, the DIY 1.94 lb test, factory drift pitfalls.
400 Spine Arrows: The 55-65 lb Standard
Model-matrix buyer's guide to the 400 grade: Easton Axis, 6.5 and 5.0, Gold Tip Hunter, Carbon Express Maxima and Victory VAP 400 specs compared side by side, draw weight × draw length × point weight fit windows, the 70 lb to 340 correction, 28-inch cut effects, recurve and traditional uses, and speed vs durability picks.
500 Spine Arrows: Recurve, Traditional & Light Compound
Step-by-step 500 spine buying guide: fit-window derivation for 40-50 lb recurve and light compound bows, Easton 500 series and Gold Tip Traditional 500 model lists, carbon hunting vs target shaft matrix, and feathered traditional configurations.
600 & 700 Spine Arrows: Light Bows, Youth & Barebow
Scenario-card guide to the light grades: 600 vs 700 spine differences and conversion, feathered traditional configurations, youth bow spine chart from 700 to 1400, barebow entry shafts, and FAQ coverage of 800, 900, 1200 and 1400 spine.
Where do I start? Most compound shooters land on the 400 grade — start with the 400 Spine Arrows tool to check your draw weight window, then compare specific models in the 400 buying guide. Recurve, youth, and traditional shooters under 50 lb should map their bow on the 500–1400 Spine Arrows tool first. Shopping a big-box or import brand? Run the number through the Brand Spine Chart Decode before you order a dozen.
Archery Arrow Math Guides
In-depth guides that walk you through the exact formulas, measurement SOPs, and tuning workflows behind arrow speed, FOC balance, total weight, kinetic energy, spine, length, and trajectory calculations.
Recurve Arrow Spine: Recurve, Longbow & Horsebow Guide
Traditional-bow spine selection guide: finger-release dynamic spine physics, strike plate and center-cut effects, string material influence, Olympic recurve 90 cm and 550 spine, longbow and self bow and horsebow selection differences, and 20-70 lb draw-weight windows.
Weak vs Stiff Arrow Spine: Symptoms, Flight Signs & Fixes
Full diagnosis manual for weak vs stiff arrow spine: symptom comparison table by flight direction, paper tears and bare-shaft planing, over-spined vs under-spined matrix, the point-weight-to-cut-length fix ladder with quantified effects, and a 70 lb / 500 spine case study.
What Is Arrow Spine? Numbers, Ratings & Stiffness Explained
Concept pillar for arrow spine: the AMO 1.94 lb / 26 inch deflection definition, the smaller-number-is-stiffer rule, static vs dynamic spine, spine vs GPI vs straightness vs weight ratings, spine-diameter relationship, shaft label decoding, material modulus in GPA, and tapered-shaft history.
Do Arrows Spin in Flight? Arrow Rotation Physics Explained
Flight-physics explainer of arrow rotation: why bows add no rifling, offset and helical fletching spin rates in RPM, release torque, left-wing vs right-wing spin direction, clearance and accuracy effects, and spin in flight vs the straightness spin test.
600 & 700 Spine Arrows: Light Bows, Youth & Barebow
Scenario-card guide to the light grades: 600 vs 700 spine differences and conversion, feathered traditional configurations, youth bow spine chart from 700 to 1400, barebow entry shafts, and FAQ coverage of 800, 900, 1200 and 1400 spine.
500 Spine Arrows: Recurve, Traditional & Light Compound
Step-by-step 500 spine buying guide: fit-window derivation for 40-50 lb recurve and light compound bows, Easton 500 series and Gold Tip Traditional 500 model lists, carbon hunting vs target shaft matrix, and feathered traditional configurations.
400 Spine Arrows: The 55-65 lb Standard
Model-matrix buyer's guide to the 400 grade: Easton Axis, 6.5 and 5.0, Gold Tip Hunter, Carbon Express Maxima and Victory VAP 400 specs compared side by side, draw weight × draw length × point weight fit windows, the 70 lb to 340 correction, 28-inch cut effects, recurve and traditional uses, and speed vs durability picks.
340 & 350 Spine Arrows
Buyer's guide to the 60-70 lb hunting standard: 340 vs 350 spine conversion, 30-inch draw handling, model-by-model matrix (Easton Axis 5mm, Gold Tip Hunter, Victory VAP, Maxima Red 350), deer whitetail setup windows at 290-340 grains finished weight.
300 Spine Arrows
Heavy-shaft buyer's guide for 200/250/300 spine arrows: 65-90 lb compound pairings, elk and moose momentum builds, brand-by-brand 300 spine model lists (FMJ, PileDriver, Hunter), lightest options, and when aggressive cams plus 150 gr heads justify shooting stiff.
Arrow Spine Comparison
Pair-by-pair adjacent spine decision guide: 300 vs 340, 340 vs 400, 350 vs 400, 400 vs 500 crossover thresholds by draw weight, draw length and point weight, 320/330/450 intermediate spines decoded, and the 55-70 traditional two-number naming system.
Arrow Spine Tester
All-in-one measuring guide for arrow spine testers: AMO/ASTM 1.94 lb x 26 inch deflection SOP, commercial tester comparison (RAM, Arrow Inspector, digital), DIY PVC and wood-block rigs, deflection-to-spine conversion table, spine indexing, spin testing, and wood-arrow testers.
High FOC Arrows: Build, Tune & Penetration (Ashby Method)
Scenario-card build guide for high FOC arrows: Ashby penetration benchmarks, 12-22% FOC targets by game species, brass insert and outsert and collar setups, a 500-grain build recipe, FOC-spine retune table, crossbow adaptations, and flight-tuning trade-offs.
How to Calculate Arrow Trajectory: Drop, Drag & Wind
Empirical scenario-card analysis of arrow trajectory: parabolic drop d=½gt², drag force F=½ρv²CdA, wind drift, max range, apex height, and pin-sight compensation with 20–60 yd drop and drift reference tables.
How to Calculate Arrow Length: Draw Length & Sizing
First-principles derivation of arrow length: draw length measurement methods (wingspan÷2.5, wall, DL arrow), cut length vs nock-to-tip, spine & speed effects of cut-to-length, and bow-type sizing with over/under-length safety analysis.
How to Calculate Arrow Spine: Stiffness & Bow Matching
Step-by-step SOP for arrow spine calculation: static spine (1.94 lb / 26″ deflection), dynamic spine drivers, selection matrix by draw weight & length, manufacturer rating comparison, and cut-to-length tuning.
How to Calculate Arrow Kinetic Energy: KE & Momentum
Decision-dashboard trade-off matrix for arrow kinetic energy vs momentum: KE = ½mv², p = mv, ft-lbs game thresholds (25/40/65), force estimation, and bow potential-energy transfer efficiency.
How to Calculate Arrow Weight
Scenario-card deconstruction of arrow weight issues: GPI decoding, component weight summation, IBO 5-grains-per-pound standard verification, and common build-weight misdiagnosis pitfalls.
How to Calculate Arrow FOC
Step-by-step SOP guide for arrow FOC calculation: balance point measurement methods, FOC% formula application, target vs hunting optimal ranges, and hands-on brass insert tuning.
How to Calculate Arrow Speed
Multi-dimensional comparison of arrow speed calculation methods: IBO standard formula, chronograph measurement, no-chronograph field estimation, and crossbow-specific calculation with unit conversion matrix.
Suggested reading order for new builds: Start with the Arrow Speed guide to baseline your corrected IBO number against a real chronograph reading, then open the Arrow Weight guide to spec out every component grain-by-grain, and finish with the FOC guide to measure and tune the balance point until it lands in your target 10–20% window.