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Arrow Speed Calculator

Calculate the speed of your arrow based on bow specifications, arrow weight, and other factors to optimize your archery performance.

Enter the draw weight of your bow in pounds (lbs)
Enter your draw length in inches
Enter the total arrow weight in grains (including point, nock, fletching, etc.)
Different bow types have different efficiency ratings
Optional: Enter your bow's IBO speed rating in fps (leave blank to calculate without)

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter your bow's draw weight in pounds
  2. Enter your draw length in inches
  3. Enter the total weight of your arrow in grains
  4. Select your bow type from the efficiency dropdown
  5. Choose the atmospheric conditions you typically shoot in
  6. Optionally enter your bow's IBO rating if known
  7. Click Calculate Arrow Speed to see your results

Formula Used

Arrow Speed (fps) = IBO Rating - (Arrow Weight - 350) × 0.01 × IBO Rating - (Draw Length - 30) × 0.03 × IBO Rating
Estimated IBO = Draw Weight × 5 + Atmospheric Factor × Bow Efficiency

Where:

  • IBO Rating = Speed in feet per second (fps) with a 350 grain arrow at 30" draw length and 70 lb draw weight
  • Arrow Weight = Total weight of the arrow in grains
  • Draw Length = Length of bow draw in inches
  • Atmospheric Factor = Adjustment for atmospheric conditions
  • Bow Efficiency = Efficiency rating of the bow type

Example Calculation

Real-World Scenario:

An archer wants to calculate the speed of their arrow using a compound bow with 70 lbs draw weight, 28" draw length, and a 425 grain arrow.

Given:

  • Draw Weight = 70 lbs
  • Draw Length = 28 inches
  • Arrow Weight = 425 grains
  • Bow Type = Compound Bow (80% efficiency)
  • Atmospheric Conditions = Standard (1.00)

Calculation:

Estimated IBO = 70 × 5 + 1.00 × 0.80 = 350 + 0.80 = 350.8 fps

Arrow Speed = 350.8 - (425 - 350) × 0.01 × 350.8 - (28 - 30) × 0.03 × 350.8

Arrow Speed = 350.8 - 75 × 0.01 × 350.8 - (-2) × 0.03 × 350.8

Arrow Speed = 350.8 - 26.31 + 21.05 = 345.54 fps

Result: The estimated arrow speed is approximately 346 feet per second. This speed provides good kinetic energy for hunting applications while maintaining relatively flat trajectory.

Why This Calculation Matters

Practical Applications

  • Optimizing arrow selection for specific bow setups
  • Predicting arrow trajectory for better accuracy
  • Calculating kinetic energy for hunting effectiveness
  • Fine-tuning equipment for competitive archery

Key Benefits

  • Helps balance speed and kinetic energy for hunting
  • Enables better sight pin settings through trajectory prediction
  • Improves understanding of equipment performance
  • Saves time and money by optimizing setup before purchasing

Common Mistakes & Tips

Many archers only consider the arrow shaft weight without including the point, nock, insert, and fletching. This leads to inaccurate speed calculations. Always weigh your complete arrow with all components installed, or use the manufacturer's listed total arrow weight for the most accurate speed calculations.

Atmospheric conditions significantly affect arrow speed, yet many archers overlook this factor. Dense, humid air creates more drag than dry air, and high altitude reduces air resistance. For the most accurate results, consider the typical conditions you shoot in and adjust your expectations accordingly. A bow that shoots 300 fps at sea level might gain 5-10 fps at high altitude.

While arrow speed is important, many archers sacrifice accuracy and consistency for minimal speed gains. Remember that a slightly slower arrow that hits the mark consistently is far more effective than a faster arrow that's difficult to control. Focus on finding the optimal balance between speed, stability, and shootability for your specific application.

Frequently Asked Questions

IBO (International Bowhunters Organization) speed rating is a standardized measurement of arrow speed under specific conditions: a 350-grain arrow shot from a bow with 70 lbs draw weight and 30" draw length. This standardization allows for comparison between different bows. However, real-world speeds will vary based on your specific setup and conditions.

Arrow weight has a significant impact on speed. For every 5 grains of arrow weight increase, you can expect approximately 1-2 fps decrease in speed. However, heavier arrows retain more kinetic energy and momentum downrange, making them potentially more effective for hunting despite being slower. The optimal arrow weight balances speed and kinetic energy for your specific needs.

For hunting, a good arrow speed typically ranges from 260-300 fps for most game animals. While faster arrows have flatter trajectories, the key factor for ethical hunting is kinetic energy (KE), not just speed. Most experts recommend a minimum of 40 ft-lbs of KE for deer-sized game and 65 ft-lbs for larger game like elk. This calculator helps you find the right balance between speed and kinetic energy.

This calculator provides estimates based on industry-standard formulas and typically achieves accuracy within ±5 fps of actual measured speeds when all inputs are accurate. However, individual bow variations, string condition, release technique, and other factors can affect actual speed. For precise measurements, use a chronograph to verify your arrow speed after making adjustments.

References & Disclaimer

Sports & Recreation Disclaimer

This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes. Actual arrow speeds may vary based on numerous factors including bow condition, shooting technique, and environmental conditions. Always follow proper safety protocols when handling archery equipment and verify critical measurements with appropriate tools.

References

Accuracy Notice

This calculator provides estimates based on industry-standard formulas. Individual bow performance may vary due to manufacturing tolerances, string condition, cam timing, and other factors. For precise measurements, use a chronograph to verify actual arrow speeds. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and safety practices when adjusting or using archery equipment.

About the Author

Kumaravel Madhavan

Web developer and data researcher creating accurate, easy-to-use calculators across health, finance, education, and construction and more. Works with subject-matter experts to ensure formulas meet trusted standards like WHO, NIH, and ISO.

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