If you’ve ever been confused about why your ILF recurve bow feels heavier or lighter than the limbs’ marked poundage, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions I get from traditional archers is how draw weight actually changes when you mix different riser lengths with various limb lengths. The truth is, those limbs marked as “40 pounds” might actually be anywhere from 36 to 58 pounds depending on your setup. In my latest YouTube video, I break down the math behind ILF limb and riser combinations, showing you exactly how riser length affects draw weight, why limb length matters, as well as your personal draw length. Whether you’re building a compact 58-inch hunting bow with a 17-inch riser or a smooth-drawing 70-inch target setup, understanding these calculations will save you from buying the wrong equipment.

The video includes a real-world practical application that walks you through the process of building a 40-pound hunting bow at a 27-inch draw length using a 19-inch riser—complete with the calculations you need to select the right limbs. I cover every common riser length from 17 to 25 inches, explain the differences between short, medium, and long limbs, and show you how to factor in your actual draw length to get precise results. No more guessing, no more frustration with limbs that are too heavy or too light. Watch the full video above to master ILF draw weight calculations and build your perfect traditional archery setup with confidence.

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