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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Texicles" data-source="post: 6228606" data-attributes="member: 6694608">Assuming the English longbow as the paradigm and considering varying historical accounts of its dimensions, draw length should be about 30" (~76 cm), brace height 6-6.5" (~15-16 cm) with an arrow length of 36" (~91 cm). In order for such a bow to reach its maximum velocity, the target must be greater than 30" away from the bow. Assuming a proper stance, with an anchor point roughly above the center of mass, that places the body of the archer 60" (or 5') from the target to fire the bow and have it successfully release the nock from the string (maximum velocity). It's worth mentioning that an arrow that impacts a target before it has left the bow is still more than capable of killing, but I'm not sure of the math and I'm not willing to risk injury or death, let alone my bows to test the minimum length of travel.It's not exactly easy either. Let's assume in these examples, you're using the longbow described above and your target moves through half his square (2.5') laterally to try not to get shot. At 5' you must move the bow ~7.5" to maintain your point of aim. At 10', it drops to 3.75" and at 15' it's 2.5" You must also rotate your upper body fast enough, but with enough control to keep from swinging past the target. I know 7.5" doesn't seem like a lot of movement to do precisely, but if some jerk is trying to lop off your dome, it is.This is why, in defensive pistol training, when someone is pointing a weapon at you, close distance, no cover, you side-step at the same time as you draw. Forcing them to arc their aim to track you does make a difference.</blockquote>

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