The best way to measure draw length is to take the actual bow you are going to buy and draw it to see how it fits you. If it is wrong have it changed before you take it home. Using a method of measuring your physical draw, be it the wing span method, or drawing a recurve with a marked fiber glass arrow in it is fine and dandy. It will get you close. The problem is not all bows are the same. Some can be as much as 1 inch off in either way from what they state they are.

If you measure your draw length and go by that and then order a bow at say 28 1/2 inches, when you get the bow the actual draw length may be close to 29 inches or bit more. No matter what the cam or spec sheet says. Also keep in mind that the design of the grip and the accessories you use can effect your percieved draw length. It will not change the physical draw length ie; power stroke. It will however change the relationship of your anchor points on your face if you use any. Even changing releases can effect this, as well as using a string loop or not.

You should really get to draw and shoot the bow you want the way you are going to shoot it (your release and the such) before you buy it. A good shop should have the equipment and parts to set the bow up so it fits you correctly before you sign the check. Buying one over the internet or mail order might get you close, but unless you know a fair amount about bows, especially that model and brand you may have a hard time fine tuning it to fit you right. It also helps to have someone there to watch you draw to make sure everything lines up good.

Sometimes it could mean the difference between shooting well and enjoying the sport and having nothing but problems and getting frustrated and giving up.

My advice is if you have a decent shop near you go there and see if they will work with you. Let them know the budget you are on and what you are looking for. Chances are they will let you shoot a few different bows and you may decide to just wait and save the money to get a better one. I think you will be much happier in the long run, even if you get a cheaper bow. At least you will have some sort of support if you have any questions or problems.

And if you go there and get measured, buy it on line and then take it back to get it set up you may not get treated very well. You will also most likely have to pay a fair amount for them to do the work. If a shop is willing to work with you and explain things I don't feel you should take the money away from them and buy it somewhere else. At least reward them with the sale, it may only be an extra 50 bucks or so, and the extra service will be well worth it in the long run.

Just my opinion any way.

Good luck with what ever you decide to do.

Paul