I have this bow that I purchased new in the 60's. It has been "wall decoration" for over 30 years when I got my first compound. I keep thinking that I will revert back to my roots and try and use this bow again but I am afraid that the draw weight of only 40# is inadequate for deer unless my longer draw length substantially increases this measurement. My compound bow draw length is 31".
Can anyone tell me what the draw weight would be at 31" of draw on this bow or should I have it checked at my pro shop? Are not draw wgts on trads measured at 28"?
I just recently started visiting the Traditional Archery section of HNI and I have learned that there is a world of information that I have forgotten at my advanced age!
Thanks!

It seems to me that about 2# per inch past 28" gets added to the draw weight. However, chances are, your draw length will be reduced somewhat when drawing a recurve just because of the difference in style of shooting. I draw 30"with a compound and 29" with my recurve.

With a recurve, the bow will increase 3#'s per inch. Your draw length will most likely decrease with a recurve, at least 1-2 inches. A 40# bow is quite adequate to kill whitetail deer and game that size. Get the bow weighed at your draw length then set up your arrows to be at least 10grs per pound of bow weight. This is very important when shooting traditional bows to get good penetration at the slower speed of the bows.

If you're not sure about the bow you can send it to me and I'll test it out for you to make sure that it still will perform properly under hunting conditions.

I say check your State Laws to make sure it is legal and go for it. You have enough to kill a deer with. I'd suggest getting a new string and check for stress cracks and limb twist. I'd also suggest going with an arrow that is 10-12 grains per pound and using a two bladed COC head. Shot placement will also be critical.

Personally, I have a 52" Kodiak Mag that was made in the mid-60's and it stacks heavily with my 29" draw. It is very uncomfortable for me to shoot. When I get to anchor, it feels like I hitting a brick wall.

As a general rule for estimating draw weight for your draw length with a recurve, divide the marked draw weight by 20 to get how many pounds per inch to add/subtract. A 60 lb bow will lose/gain about 3 lbs per each inch over 28. A 40 lb bow will lose/gain about 2 lbs per inch.

So, assuming you'll draw 30", you'll be pulling it about 44 lbs. 46 lbs if you do the full 31". Point of interest, 45 lbs was far and away the most popular weight for a deer bow in the 60's.

At 40 lbs the bow is legal for hunting in Texas. You'll have to check in your state. Get close with a good, sharp cut on contact broadhead and put the arrow in the right spot.