How Long Should Your Stabilizers Be? Making the Right Choice for Your Setup

Updated 5/9/2025

Seems like a simple enough question, right? Well... the answer is a little more complicated than you might think.

But before we dive in, let me save some of you a little time. If you shoot compound, here's the deal: almost every single compound shooter we sponsor at the World Cup level runs a 30” front rod with a 12” side bar—whether they’re small-framed or built like a tank. If you’re unsure what to do, just copy this setup. Chances are, you’ll be pretty darn happy with it.

I’ll be doing a deep dive into compound stabilization in another article, with insights from the pros to explain the "why" behind this setup. But for now, if you’re here to figure out stabilizer lengths for recurve, keep reading!

Why Does Stabilizer Length Matter?

Choosing the right stabilizer lengths is a big deal (unless you’re shooting barebow—then you get a free pass on this one). Your stabilization system needs to work with your shooting style, body mechanics, and the way you like your bow to feel and respond.

So how do you pick the best lengths for you? The best approach is to first determine your total system length, then fine-tune the side rods and accessories to create a setup that complements your shot and gives you rock-solid confidence—especially when the pressure is on.

Terms You Should Know

Before we dive into how to choose and set up your stabilizers, let’s get on the same page with some key terms we’ll be using.

Front System Length

This is the measurement from the stabilizer bushing to the very end of your stabilizer setup—not counting dampers or weights.

For example, let’s say an archer uses:

• A 3” extension,

• An adjustable V-bar (estimate 0.5”),

• A quick disconnect (estimate 1”), and

• A 27” front rod.

Their front system length would be 31.5 inches (3 + 0.5 + 1 + 27 = 31.5).

Shot Style

Shot style describes the way an archer completes their shot process. 

On one side of the spectrum we have a fast/rhythmic shot style which is characterized by quick rhythm and timing and uses momentum to move through the entire shot quickly, with little time spent on aiming and expansion through the clicker. This may be as quick as 3 seconds for quick shooters. 

On the other end we have the slow/methodical shot style which is characterized by longer holds, slower expansion through the clicker, and a greater emphasis on aiming. This can be 10 seconds or longer for slow shooters. 

Choosing Your Front System Length

When it comes to picking your total system length, you’ve got two options—one is crazy simple, and the other involves a little bit of basic math (don’t worry, it’s painless).

But before we get into the recommendations and calculations, let’s address the elephant in the room—most of the world doesn’t use freedom units (a.k.a. inches and feet). And that’s totally fine! Just Google a unit conversion, and everything works out the same.

The Simple Method

If you’re looking for a quick recommendation—whether you’re helping a new archer or setting up stabilizers for the first time—just use the chart below.

Measure your height in inches and find the category that fits you best. Boom, you’ve got a solid starting point for your total system length.

The Calculated Method

Oh, so you’re a special snowflake who needs a perfect, custom-fit recommendation? Alright, fine—here you go.

Take your height in inches and multiply it by 0.48. The result is your recommended total system length (in inches). Said another way, your front system length should be 48% of your height. 

Example:

If you’re 6 feet tall (72 inches), the math looks like this:
72 × 0.48 = 34.6 inches

Why This Works

We created this formula by analyzing the average stabilizer lengths used by the RamRods Archery Team. Most of our athletes fall within ±1 inch of this calculation.

That said, everyone is different. This method gets you close, but if you find a different setup works way better for you—awesome! Go with what feels right.

Below, you’ll find a chart breaking down how to calculate the right front system length for you.

You will notice that we have some variation here and you may find something slightly on the shorter or longer side is best for you. Shooting style and mass weight used are the most common factors that would cause an athlete to lean above or below the average. 

If you shoot really fast and use a lightweight setup you may try using .49 in your calculation. On the other hand if you have a slow and methodical shot process and use high mass weight you may find a shorter .47 factor works best for you. 

Selecting Side Rods & Accessories Based on Shooting Style

Alright, so we’ve nailed down your total stabilizer system length—a solid starting point. Now, let’s figure out side rod lengths and whether you should be using an extension. For our example let’s use a 68” archer with a recommended total system length of 32.5”.

As you can see in the chart below, we can control how much "jump" or "spin" the bow has by altering the accessories and rods used even with the same total system length.

The “American” Style Setup

If you lean toward a more controlled, steady shot with extra focus on aiming, your setup might look something like this:

• 15” side rods

• 30” long rod

• Optional 1” extension (or no extension at all)

This setup holds and aims super well, making it ideal for archers who prefer a slower, more methodical shot process.

The “Korean” Style Setup

On the other end of the spectrum, if you shoot with a fast, aggressive rhythm and want your bow to feel extra lively, try this:

• 12” side rods

• 27” long rod

• 4” extension

This setup is going to feel jumpy and explosive. It’s perfect for archers who rely on momentum through the shot and want a bow reaction with more jump and spin, encouraging a stronger follow-through.

Somewhere in the Middle?

Not sure where you fit? No problem—just split the difference:

• 13.5” side rods

• 28” long rod

• 3” extension

This setup lands between both extremes and will probably work great for most archers.

Final Thoughts

So, which shot style is the best?

Truth is, both styles have won major international events and set world records. There’s no single “right” answer—it all comes down to how you like to shoot and how you and your coach develop your shot to find what works best for you.

While we can’t tell you exactly which style will suit you best, we’re here to support you in becoming the best archer you can be. If you need help finding the perfect RamRods setup, check out our stabilizer fitting quiz HERE or send us a message—we’d love to help you dial in the perfect gear for YOU.