Matt, you got it right--and believe it or not, Art wasn't kidding (he's probably forgotten more than I'll ever know about the sport)! I have to stop and think about it myself sometimes.......the "back" and "front" are the same thing. Anything added to the front, especially on a selfbow, ELB, etc. is a backing. You can't put backing on the belly though....at least I don't think you can.

Some bows are built so the AMO draw length is the same as measuring tothe back (front) of the shelf, but like Chris said, the actual AMO draw length is measured from the deepest part of the grip plus 1.75". It can be confusing (and misleading) when someone starts talking about "true draw length"--a 28" "true draw" is 29.75" AMO draw length.

BD, mounting the limbs to the belly side of the riser is just another way of deflexing the riser. Draw length is measured the same either way.

Some bowyers measure brace to the back of the riser--really not sure why--maybe it's easier or more consistent for them, or maybe that's just the way they have always done it.

Chad