Archery Draw Weight for Game Calculator

Minimum draw weights for hunting are set to ensure adequate arrow energy for ethical, clean kills. Most US states regulate minimum draw weight for bowhunting.

Common state minimums (US):

• Small game: No minimum in most states
• White-tailed deer: 35–45 lb minimum (most states 40 lb)
• Elk: 45–50 lb minimum
• Bear: 45–50 lb minimum
• Large/dangerous game: 50–60 lb minimum

Draw weight and kinetic energy: At a typical 28-inch draw with a 400-grain arrow:

• 40 lb draw: ~34–38 ft-lbs (minimum for deer)
• 50 lb draw: ~42–48 ft-lbs (deer and elk)
• 60 lb draw: ~52–58 ft-lbs (good for elk, marginal for bear)
• 70 lb draw: ~62–68 ft-lbs (elk, moose, black bear)
• 80 lb draw: ~72–78 ft-lbs (all North American game)

Recommended minimums for ethical hunting:

• Small game (rabbit, grouse): 25 lb
• Wild turkey: 35 lb
• White-tailed deer: 40–45 lb
• Mule deer / antelope: 45 lb
• Black bear: 50 lb
• Elk: 55 lb
• Moose: 60 lb
• Grizzly bear: 70 lb minimum

Arrow weight effect: Heavier arrows (500+ grains) from a 50 lb bow may out-penetrate lighter arrows from a 70 lb bow. Total kinetic energy and momentum both matter.