is it the same as a compound? thanks.

I'm not 100% sure of the question.

Ask 3 people how to measure draw length on a traditional bow and you'll probably get 3 answers.

I usually measure it as the inside of the arrow nock, to the back of the longbow while at full draw.

Usually this is about 1-2" less then the draw of a compound.

No. You can expect to lose 1 1/2" to 2 " when measuring draw length on a longbow.