Frequently Asked Question

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the questions we receive most often from our customers, along with our recommendations and general guidelines.

If you have a question that is not covered below, please feel free to contact Old Mountain Archery. Our team will be happy to help you find the right bow and setup for your shooting needs.

BOWS

Q: What bow length should I choose?

A:

The right bow length depends primarily on your draw length, shooting style, and the specific bow model.

As a general guideline, bow length should be selected based on your draw length, measured to the far side of the bow shelf. However, more than one bow length may be suitable depending on the model and your personal shooting preference.

If you are unsure which length is right for you, please contact us with your draw length, intended use, and preferred bow model. We will be happy to recommend a suitable bow length.

Q: What draw weight should I choose?

A:

We recommend choosing a draw weight that you can draw smoothly, control comfortably, and shoot consistently.

If you are transitioning from a compound bow to traditional archery, we generally recommend starting with a lower draw weight than your compound bow's peak weight.

For new traditional archers, choosing a manageable draw weight is especially important. A bow that is too heavy can make it difficult to maintain proper form, control the bow, and achieve consistent accuracy.

For hunting applications, the appropriate draw weight depends on the type of game, local regulations, hunting conditions, arrow setup, and the shooter's ability. In many situations, 45–55 lbs is commonly used for small to medium-sized game, but local hunting regulations should always be followed.

Accuracy, control, and proper shooting form should come before draw weight.

If you provide us with your current bow weight, draw length, experience level, and intended use, we can help you choose an appropriate draw weight.

Q: Which Old Mountain Archery bow should I choose?

A:

OMA bows are designed for a variety of traditional archery applications, including:

  • Hunting

  • Target shooting

  • 3D archery

  • Recreational shooting

  • Traditional archery

Rather than designing each model for only one specific purpose, our goal is to develop bows that offer reliable performance across a variety of shooting environments.

The best model for you will depend on your preferred bow style, draw length, bow length, shooting technique, intended use, and personal preference.

If you are not sure which model is right for you, please contact us and let us know how you plan to use the bow. We will be happy to recommend a model that best fits your needs.

Q: What arrow speed can I expect from my OMA bow?

A:

Arrow speed depends on a number of factors, so there is no single speed that applies to every shooter or setup.

Actual arrow speed can vary depending on:

  • Draw length

  • Draw weight

  • Arrow weight

  • Arrow spine

  • Bowstring

  • Shooting form and release

  • Overall bow and arrow setup

A longer draw length can allow the bow to store more energy, which may increase arrow speed.

For traditional bows, we recommend focusing on the overall balance between arrow weight, spine, bow performance, and shooting stability, rather than speed alone.

As a general starting point, we recommend an arrow weight of approximately 9–11 grains per pound (GPP) of actual draw weight. This is a general guideline, and the appropriate arrow weight may vary depending on the bow and shooting setup.

If you provide us with your bow model, actual draw weight, draw length, arrow weight, and arrow spine, we can help you determine a suitable starting setup.

Q: Can I use FastFlight or DynaFLIGHT 97 strings on my OMA bow?

A:

Many OMA bows are compatible with FastFlight and DynaFLIGHT 97-type bowstrings, depending on the specific bow model and configuration.

Before changing your string material or string type, please confirm that it is appropriate for your specific OMA bow.

We also recommend inspecting your bowstring regularly and replacing it when you notice excessive wear, fraying, broken strands, or other signs of damage.

As a general maintenance guideline, regularly used strings may need to be replaced approximately once a year, although actual string life depends on shooting frequency, string material, and storage conditions.

If you are unsure which string is suitable for your bow, please contact OMA before replacing it.

Q: How often should I replace my bowstring?

A:

Bowstring life depends on several factors, including shooting frequency, string material, storage conditions, and overall string condition.

For regularly used bows, we recommend inspecting the string frequently and considering replacement approximately once a year as a general guideline.

Replace the string sooner if you notice:

  • Excessive stretching

  • Fraying

  • Broken or damaged strands

  • Significant serving wear

  • Changes in brace height

  • Unusual changes in shooting performance or sound

Regular inspection of the bowstring is an important part of proper bow maintenance.

If you are unsure whether your string should be replaced, please contact OMA or consult a qualified archery professional.

Q: My bow seems loud. How can I make it quieter?

A:

Bow noise and vibration can be caused by several factors, and the bow itself is not always the source of the problem.

Common causes include:

  • Incorrect brace height

  • Arrow weight that is too light

  • Incorrect arrow spine

  • Poor bow-and-arrow matching

  • Bowstring condition

  • Hand or bow-arm interference

  • Loose components

  • Insufficient string silencers

We recommend checking the brace height and arrow setup first and confirming that they are within the recommended range for your OMA model.

Appropriate string silencers can also help reduce vibration and noise.

Be sure to inspect the bowstring and other components as well. A worn string or loose component can contribute to increased vibration and noise.

If your bow suddenly becomes louder than usual, we recommend checking the complete bow and arrow setup rather than simply adding more silencers.

Q: What is the recommended brace height?

A:

Recommended brace height varies depending on the bow model, bow length, string, and overall shooting setup.

Please refer to the specifications provided for your specific OMA bow.

Brace height can affect:

  • Noise

  • Vibration

  • Arrow speed

  • Shooting feel

  • Bow stability

  • Arrow flight

If you are adjusting brace height, make small adjustments and evaluate the bow's shooting characteristics and arrow flight after each adjustment.

If you are unsure of the correct brace height for your OMA bow, please contact us with your bow model and bow length.

Q: What was the small "pop" or "cracking" sound when I first tightened the limb bolts on my take-down bow?

A:

A small “pop” or “crack” sound may occur when installing the limbs for the first time.

When the limbs are initially installed, the limb insert and mounting surfaces may not yet be completely seated. As the limb bolts are tightened, the components can settle into their proper position, which may produce a small sound.

In some cases, this can be normal.

However, if you hear a loud or repeated cracking sound, or if you notice any visible damage, cracks, unusual movement, or abnormal gaps, stop using the bow immediately and contact OMA for inspection.

Q: Can I change the draw weight of my OMA bow?

A:

For most traditional bows, draw weight is determined by the bow's construction, materials, limb design, and finished specifications.

The draw weight of a traditional bow should not be modified without proper evaluation by a qualified bow technician.

For take-down or ILF-style systems that are designed for interchangeable or adjustable limbs, draw weight may be changed by using compatible limbs or making the appropriate adjustment for that specific model.

Before making any modification, please contact us with your:

  • Bow model

  • Bow length

  • Current draw weight

  • Desired draw weight

We will help you determine the appropriate options for your bow.

Q: Can I use different limbs on my OMA take-down bow?

A:

This depends on the specific OMA model.

Take-down bows are designed around specific limb and riser configurations, so limbs are not necessarily interchangeable between all OMA models.

Before purchasing replacement or additional limbs, please provide us with your bow model and specifications. We will confirm compatibility for you.

Q: Can I order a custom OMA bow?

A:

Custom options may be available depending on the model, materials, specifications, and production requirements.

Please contact us with your desired:

  • Bow model

  • Bow length

  • Draw weight

  • Materials

  • Finish or color

  • Other special requirements

We will review your request and let you know what options are available.

Minimum order quantities and additional production requirements may apply to certain custom specifications.

Q: How long does it take to receive my OMA bow?

A:

Production and delivery times depend on the model, order quantity, availability, and production schedule.

For standard in-stock products, shipping may be available sooner. Custom orders and larger production orders generally require additional lead time.

For an accurate estimate, please contact us with your desired model and order quantity.

We will provide the estimated production and shipping schedule when confirming your order.

ARROWS

Q: What type of arrow should I use — Wood, Aluminum, or Carbon?

A:

There is no single arrow material that is best for every shooter. Each material has its own characteristics and advantages.

Wood

Traditional, natural, and popular among traditional archers. Wood arrows can provide an excellent shooting experience but generally require more attention to straightness, weight, and consistency.

Aluminum

Durable and relatively consistent, with a long history of use in traditional and target archery.

Carbon

Lightweight, durable, and highly consistent. Carbon arrows are widely used because they are available in a wide range of spine and weight options.

Regardless of material, the most important consideration is choosing an arrow that is properly matched to your bow, draw weight, draw length, and shooting setup.

Q: How much arrow weight should I use?

A:

For OMA traditional bows, we generally recommend starting around 9–11 grains per pound (GPP) of actual draw weight.

For example:

Actual Draw Weight Approximate Arrow Weight
40 lbs 360–440 grains
45 lbs 405–495 grains
50 lbs 450–550 grains
55 lbs 495–605 grains

These are general guidelines, not fixed requirements.

Actual arrow selection should also take into account:

  • Draw length

  • Arrow spine

  • Arrow length

  • Point weight

  • Arrow material

  • Shooting style

  • Bow design

For longer draw lengths or certain high-performance setups, a heavier arrow may be appropriate.

If you are unsure about your arrow weight, we recommend contacting OMA with your bow and shooting specifications.

Q: What arrow length should I use?

A:

Arrow length should be determined by several factors, including your draw length, bow design, arrow spine, point weight, and shooting style.

As a general starting point, many traditional archers use an arrow that extends approximately 1 inch beyond the bow shelf at full draw.

However, there is no universal arrow length that is suitable for every shooter.

The arrow should be long enough to provide an appropriate safety margin at full draw and should also be properly matched to the bow's dynamic spine.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting an experienced archery shop or contacting OMA with your bow and draw specifications before selecting or cutting your arrows.

Q: How do I measure arrow cut length?

A:

Arrow length is generally measured from the throat or valley of the nock, where the inside of the bowstring contacts the nock, to the specified cutting point.

The exact reference point may vary depending on the arrow type, insert, point system, or nock configuration.

For example:

Wood arrows:
Measurement may be taken to the back of the point or broadhead.

Aluminum arrows:
Measurement is generally referenced according to the insert and point system.

Carbon arrows:
Measurement is generally referenced according to the insert and point system.

When using a nock adapter, make sure its length is taken into account when determining the final arrow length.

If you are unsure how your arrows should be measured, please contact your arrow manufacturer or OMA before cutting.

Q: How do I choose the correct arrow spine?

A:

Arrow spine is one of the most important factors when matching arrows to a traditional bow.

The appropriate spine depends on several factors, including:

  • Actual draw weight

  • Draw length

  • Arrow length

  • Point weight

  • Arrow material

  • Bow design

  • Shooting style

For traditional bows, it is important to consider dynamic spine, rather than relying only on the static spine rating printed on the arrow.

Changes in arrow length, point weight, and draw length can significantly affect the arrow's dynamic spine.

If you provide us with your bow model, actual draw weight, draw length, arrow length, and point weight, we can help you determine a suitable starting spine.

Q: Why does my arrow fly poorly even though the arrow spine seems correct?

A:

Arrow flight can be affected by many factors besides static arrow spine.

Possible causes include:

  • Incorrect arrow length

  • Point weight

  • Nocking point height

  • Brace height

  • Bowstring condition

  • Shooting form

  • Release technique

  • Arrow weight

  • Bow-and-arrow compatibility

We recommend checking the entire bow and arrow setup rather than changing the arrow spine alone.

Small changes in arrow length, point weight, or brace height can significantly affect dynamic spine and arrow flight.

If you are having difficulty tuning your arrows, provide us with your bow and arrow specifications and we will help you identify a suitable starting point.

Q: What arrow setup do you recommend for hunting?

A:

For hunting applications, we recommend prioritizing reliable arrow flight, appropriate arrow weight, consistent accuracy, and a properly matched setup rather than maximum arrow speed.

Your hunting setup should be selected based on:

  • Actual draw weight

  • Draw length

  • Arrow spine

  • Total arrow weight

  • Broadhead weight

  • Bow performance

  • Shooting ability

  • Local hunting regulations

A properly matched arrow setup is essential for consistent performance.

Always select equipment appropriate for the intended game and follow all hunting and equipment regulations applicable to your location.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

Q: How should I store my OMA bow?

A:

Store your bow in a dry, temperature-controlled environment, away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and high humidity.

Avoid leaving your bow in a vehicle for extended periods, particularly in very hot or cold conditions.

For long-term storage, we recommend:

  • Unstringing the bow when appropriate for the specific bow design

  • Keeping the bow clean and dry

  • Storing it in a suitable bow case or protective environment

  • Avoiding pressure or heavy objects being placed on the limbs

  • Inspecting the bow and string before shooting again

Proper storage can help maintain the performance and service life of your bow.

Q: How often should I inspect my bow?

A:

We recommend inspecting your bow before every shooting session.

Pay particular attention to:

  • Limbs

  • Limb tips

  • Riser/handle

  • Limb bolts

  • String and serving

  • String grooves

  • Visible cracks or damage

  • Loose components

If you notice anything unusual, do not shoot the bow until it has been properly inspected.

Regular inspection is one of the simplest and most important ways to help maintain safe and reliable bow performance.

Q: What should I do if I notice a crack or damage on my bow?

A:

Stop shooting immediately.

Do not attempt to repair, sand, drill, glue, or otherwise modify the damaged area yourself.

Please take clear photographs of the affected area and contact OMA with the following information:

  • Bow model

  • Bow length

  • Draw weight

  • Serial number, if available

  • Description of the issue

  • Clear photographs of the damaged area

Our team will review the information and advise you on the appropriate next steps.

Q: Can I modify or customize my OMA bow myself?

A:

We do not recommend drilling, sanding, cutting, machining, or otherwise modifying the bow without proper technical evaluation.

Unauthorized modifications may affect the bow's performance, structural integrity, warranty coverage, or safety.

If you are considering a modification or customization, please contact OMA before making any changes. We will let you know whether the requested modification is suitable for your specific bow.

NEED MORE HELP?

Still not sure which bow, draw weight, or arrow setup is right for you?

Please contact Old Mountain Archery and provide as much of the following information as possible:

  • Draw length

  • Current bow and draw weight

  • Intended use

  • Preferred bow model

  • Bow length

  • Arrow length

  • Arrow weight

  • Arrow spine

  • Point weight

The more information you provide, the better we can understand your setup and recommend an appropriate starting point.

Our team is always happy to help you find the bow and setup that best matches your shooting style, experience, and intended use.

Old Mountain Archery — Built for Traditional Archers.