Can't say for long bows, but recurve strings are usually 4" shorter than the AMO length of the bow. That being said, when you buy one it should, and usually is marked the same length as the bow, but is made 4" shorter. In other words, if the bow is 62" AMO (marked on the side of the riser) then you get a 62" AMO DACRON string for the bow. I stress Dacron because older bows will not handle newer synthetic materials. There isn't enough stretch when shot which imparts too much shock which can damage or break the limbs.