Let-Off Explained: What 80% Actually Means for Archers

Quick Answer

Let-off refers to the percentage of draw weight reduction a compound bow provides when you reach full draw. An 80% let-off means you hold only 20% of the bow’s peak draw weight at full draw, so on a 60-pound bow, you’d hold just 12 pounds while aiming. This mechanical advantage comes from the cam system and allows archers to hold steady aim longer with less fatigue, making 80% let-off one of the most popular configurations for hunting and recreational shooting in 2026.

Key Takeaways

• 80% let-off means you hold only 20% of peak draw weight at full draw (a 60 lb bow = 12 lb holding weight)
• Let-off is created by the cam system on compound bows, which stores energy in the limbs while reducing holding weight
• Higher let-off (80-90%) benefits hunters and beginners who need to hold at full draw for extended periods
• Lower let-off (65-70%) offers more control and feedback preferred by target archers and competition shooters
• Most modern compound bows offer 80% let-off as standard, with some models allowing adjustment between 65-85%
• Holding weight calculation is simple: Peak draw weight × (100% – let-off %) = holding weight
• Competition rules vary: some archery organizations restrict maximum let-off to 80% or lower
• Let-off doesn’t directly affect arrow speed, but it changes the feel and control during the shot cycle
• Common mistake: choosing maximum let-off without considering shooting style and accuracy needs
• You can adjust let-off on many bows by changing cam modules or rotating adjustable cams

What Does Let-Off Mean on a Compound Bow?

Let-off is the percentage reduction in draw weight you experience when a compound bow reaches full draw, created by the eccentric cam or wheel system. When you pull a compound bow back, the draw weight increases to a peak (typically around 65-75% of the draw cycle), then drops significantly as the cams rotate over their maximum leverage point, allowing you to hold much less weight while at full draw.

This mechanical advantage distinguishes compound bows from traditional recurve or longbows, where you must hold the full draw weight throughout your aim. The cam system stores energy in the bow’s limbs during the draw cycle, then releases it efficiently when you shoot, while simultaneously reducing the weight you must hold.

How the cam system creates let-off:

• Eccentric cams rotate as you draw, changing the leverage ratio
• At full draw, the string sits in the cam’s “valley” (lowest holding weight point)
• Limbs remain flexed and storing energy even though holding weight drops
• Cable system and cam design determine the exact let-off percentage
• Different cam shapes (single cam, hybrid cam, binary cam) achieve let-off differently

For archers transitioning from traditional bows, let-off feels almost magical, the bow suddenly becomes easier to hold right when you need to aim. This happens in a fraction of a second as the cams roll over, creating a distinct “wall” you feel when reaching full draw.

How Is Let-Off Percentage Calculated?

Let-off percentage is calculated by comparing the peak draw weight to the holding weight at full draw, using this formula: Let-off % = [(Peak Draw Weight – Holding Weight) ÷ Peak Draw Weight] × 100. Bow manufacturers measure this using a draw force curve, which plots the weight throughout the entire draw cycle from brace height to full draw.

Step-by-step calculation example:

1. Measure peak draw weight (highest point on draw curve): 60 pounds
2. Measure holding weight at full draw (weight in the valley): 12 pounds
3. Subtract holding weight from peak weight: 60 – 12 = 48 pounds
4. Divide the difference by peak weight: 48 ÷ 60 = 0.80
5. Multiply by 100 to get percentage: 0.80 × 100 = 80% let-off

Most archers don’t need to calculate this themselves, manufacturers specify let-off percentage in bow specifications. However, understanding the calculation helps when comparing bows or verifying specifications with a bow scale.

Important measurement considerations:

• Peak weight occurs before full draw, not at the beginning of the draw
• Holding weight is measured in the “valley” (the lowest point at full draw)
• Draw force curves show the entire weight profile, not just two points
• Let-off can vary slightly based on draw length settings
• Bow press adjustments or cam timing issues can affect actual let-off

How Much Weight Do You Hold at Full Draw with 80% Let-Off?

With 80% let-off, you hold exactly 20% of the bow’s peak draw weight at full draw. A 60-pound bow requires you to hold 12 pounds, a 70-pound bow drops to 14 pounds, and a 50-pound bow reduces to just 10 pounds at full draw.

Quick reference holding weights at 80% let-off:

Peak Draw Weight	Holding Weight at 80% Let-Off
40 pounds	8 pounds
50 pounds	10 pounds
60 pounds	12 pounds
70 pounds	14 pounds
80 pounds	16 pounds

This dramatic reduction allows most archers to hold at full draw for 30-60 seconds or longer without significant muscle fatigue, compared to just a few seconds with a traditional bow of the same draw weight. For hunting situations where you might wait for the perfect shot angle, this extended holding capacity proves invaluable.

Choose 80% let-off if you:

• Hunt from tree stands or ground blinds where you may hold at full draw
• Need time to range targets and adjust aim
• Have moderate upper body strength or are building archery muscles
• Shoot longer practice sessions without excessive fatigue
• Prefer a forgiving setup that allows focus on form and accuracy

Difference Between 80% Let-Off and 70% Let-Off

The difference between 80% and 70% let-off is 10 percentage points of holding weight, on a 60-pound bow, 70% let-off means holding 18 pounds versus 12 pounds at 80%. While this 6-pound difference seems small, it significantly affects how long you can hold at full draw and how the bow feels during the shot.

Lower let-off (70%) provides more “back tension” and feedback through the shot cycle, giving experienced archers better control over their release. The increased holding weight keeps your back muscles more engaged, which many target archers prefer for consistency. However, it also means less time to aim before fatigue sets in.

70% let-off advantages:

• More control and feel during the release
• Better back tension engagement for proper form
• Smoother transition through the valley
• Preferred by many target and 3D competition shooters
• Less “dead” feeling at full draw

80% let-off advantages:

• Significantly longer holding time before fatigue
• Easier to maintain steady aim on target
• Less physical strength required
• Better for hunting situations with unpredictable timing
• More forgiving for beginners learning proper form

The choice between 70% and 80% often comes down to shooting discipline. Target archers shooting at known distances with predictable timing often prefer 70%, while hunters dealing with live game and variable conditions typically choose 80% or higher.

Is 80% Let-Off Good for Beginners?

Yes, 80% let-off is excellent for beginners because it allows more time to focus on proper form, aiming, and release technique without fighting muscle fatigue. New archers can hold at full draw for 20-30 seconds or more, giving them adequate time to establish anchor points, align their sight, and execute a controlled release.

Beginners benefit from higher let-off because they’re simultaneously learning multiple skills: drawing smoothly, finding consistent anchor points, aligning their sight picture, controlling their breathing, and executing a surprise release. Lower holding weight removes one variable (muscle fatigue) from this complex learning process.

Why 80% let-off helps new archers:

• Allows focus on form rather than fighting holding weight
• Provides time to establish consistent anchor points
• Reduces risk of target panic from rushing shots
• Enables longer practice sessions without excessive fatigue
• Builds confidence before progressing to more demanding setups

Common beginner mistake: Starting with too much draw weight combined with lower let-off. A new archer struggling to hold 24 pounds (60 lb bow at 60% let-off) will develop bad habits like punching the trigger or collapsing their form. That same archer holding 12 pounds (60 lb bow at 80% let-off) can focus on proper technique.

As skills develop, some archers choose to experiment with lower let-off for specific disciplines, but 80% remains the most versatile choice for recreational shooting and hunting throughout an archer’s journey.

Best Let-Off Percentage for Hunting

For hunting, 80% let-off is the most popular choice because it provides the best balance of holding comfort during unpredictable shot opportunities while maintaining enough back tension for accurate shooting. Most hunting situations require holding at full draw for 10-45 seconds while waiting for game to move into the ideal shooting lane or turn broadside.

Hunting scenarios differ dramatically from target shooting, you might draw on a deer at 30 yards, then wait as it feeds behind a tree, steps forward, turns away, and finally presents a clean shot 40 seconds later. With 70% let-off, many hunters would need to let down and redraw, creating movement that could spook the animal. With 80% let-off, most hunters can comfortably maintain their draw through these situations.

Hunting scenarios that benefit from 80% let-off:

• Tree stand hunting where game approaches slowly
• Ground blind setups with limited shooting windows
• Spot-and-stalk hunting requiring extended holds
• Calling situations where animals pause before committing
• Cold weather hunting where muscle fatigue happens faster

Consider 85-90% let-off for hunting if you:

• Hunt exclusively from stands with long potential holds
• Have shoulder or back injuries limiting strength
• Hunt in extremely cold conditions
• Are older or have reduced upper body strength
• Prioritize maximum holding time above all else

Consider 70-75% let-off for hunting if you:

• Primarily shoot at known distances with quick shot opportunities
• Want maximum control for precision long-range shots
• Hunt from ground where you can easily let down and redraw
• Have competitive shooting background preferring more feedback

Most professional hunting bow manufacturers ship bows with 80% let-off as the standard configuration, reflecting its proven effectiveness across diverse hunting situations.

Can You Adjust Let-Off on a Compound Bow?

Yes, many compound bows allow let-off adjustment, though the method varies by bow design. Some bows use interchangeable cam modules that change let-off in 5% increments (typically 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%), while others feature rotating cam systems where you physically reposition the cam to alter let-off. However, some budget or specialized bows have fixed let-off that cannot be changed.

Methods for adjusting let-off:

• Modular cam systems: Replace the cam module (the removable piece on the cam) with a different let-off module from the manufacturer
• Rotating cams: Loosen set screws, rotate the cam to marked positions, and retighten (common on single-cam bows)
• Adjustable draw stop: Some bows let you move the draw stop position, slightly affecting let-off
• Cable system adjustment: Advanced tuning by a bow technician can fine-tune let-off by 1-2%

Important considerations before adjusting:

• Always consult your bow’s manual or a certified bow technician
• Changing let-off often requires a bow press for safe limb decompression
• Adjusting let-off may affect draw length slightly (typically ±0.25 inches)
• You’ll need to re-tune your bow after let-off changes
• Replacement modules typically cost $30-60 per cam

Not all bows offer adjustment, check your specific model’s specifications. Entry-level bows often have fixed let-off (usually 80%), while mid-range and premium bows typically offer 2-4 let-off options. If let-off adjustment is important to you, verify this feature before purchasing.

80% Let-Off vs 90% Let-Off: Which Is Better?

Neither 80% nor 90% let-off is universally better, the choice depends on your shooting style, physical needs, and intended use. 90% let-off reduces holding weight to just 10% of peak draw weight (6 pounds on a 60 lb bow), allowing extremely long holds but creating a very “dead” feeling at full draw that some archers find difficult to shoot accurately.

90% let-off advantages:

• Minimal holding weight (6 lbs on 60 lb bow)
• Can hold at full draw for several minutes if needed
• Excellent for archers with injuries or limited strength
• Ideal for extreme hunting situations requiring very long holds
• Reduces fatigue during all-day practice sessions

90% let-off disadvantages:

• Very little back tension or feedback during the shot
• Harder to maintain consistent form without muscle engagement
• Can feel “mushy” or imprecise at full draw
• May encourage lazy form habits
• Some archers struggle with consistent releases

80% let-off advantages:

• Good balance of holding comfort and control
• Maintains enough back tension for consistent form
• More feedback through the shot cycle
• Widely accepted in competitions
• Versatile for multiple shooting disciplines

80% let-off disadvantages:

• Requires more strength than 90% (12 lbs vs 6 lbs on 60 lb bow)
• Shorter maximum holding time before fatigue
• May be challenging in extreme cold weather

Choose 90% let-off if: You have specific physical limitations, hunt exclusively from stands with very long holds, or have tried 80% and consistently need more holding time. Choose 80% let-off if: You want versatility across hunting and target shooting, prefer more control and feedback, or are building a general-purpose setup.

Most archers find 80% let-off provides enough holding comfort for any realistic scenario while maintaining the control needed for accurate shooting. The jump to 90% solves a problem most archers don’t actually have.

Does Higher Let-Off Affect Accuracy?

Higher let-off doesn’t directly reduce accuracy, but it changes the feel and control at full draw, which can affect shooting consistency depending on your form and technique. Accuracy comes from consistent execution of proper form, and let-off influences how your muscles engage during the shot cycle, potentially helping or hindering that consistency.

How let-off influences accuracy factors:

• Back tension: Lower let-off keeps back muscles more engaged, promoting proper pull-through on the release
• Holding stability: Higher let-off reduces muscle fatigue, potentially improving aim steadiness during long holds
• Release execution: Some archers find surprise releases easier with more back tension (lower let-off)
• Form consistency: Higher let-off can mask form problems by reducing physical feedback
• Valley feel: Lower let-off provides a more defined “wall” that helps establish consistent draw length

Many target archers prefer 65-75% let-off because the increased holding weight keeps their form more engaged and consistent. The muscle tension provides feedback that helps them detect and correct form issues. However, hunters often shoot more accurately with 80% let-off because they can hold longer without fatigue-induced shaking or rushing the shot.

The accuracy equation:

• Proper form + consistent execution = accuracy
• Let-off affects how easily you can maintain proper form
• Your optimal let-off depends on your shooting style and physical conditioning
• Testing different let-offs with paper tuning and group shooting reveals your best option

If you’re shooting tight groups and feeling confident, your current let-off is working. If you’re experiencing inconsistency, the issue is more likely form, tuning, or equipment fit rather than let-off percentage alone.

What Are the Disadvantages of High Let-Off?

High let-off (85-90%) has several potential disadvantages: reduced back tension and muscle engagement can lead to inconsistent form, the very light holding weight provides less feedback during the shot cycle, some archers find the “dead” feeling at full draw makes it harder to execute clean releases, and certain archery competitions restrict maximum let-off to 80% or lower.

Specific disadvantages of 85-90% let-off:

• Loss of back tension: Minimal holding weight can allow shoulder and back muscles to disengage, leading to inconsistent anchor points
• Reduced shot feedback: Less muscle engagement means less tactile information about your form
• “Mushy” valley: The transition to full draw can feel less defined, making consistent draw length harder to achieve
• Release control issues: Some archers struggle with surprise releases when holding weight is too light
• Form degradation: The ease of holding can mask developing bad habits until they’re ingrained
• Competition restrictions: Many target archery organizations limit let-off to 80% maximum

Who should avoid very high let-off:

• Target archers focused on maximum precision and consistency
• Competitive shooters in disciplines with let-off restrictions
• Archers working to develop or maintain proper back tension technique
• Shooters who prefer more feedback and control through the shot cycle

Common problem scenario: An archer switches from 70% to 90% let-off and initially loves the easy holding, but over several months notices their groups opening up. The reduced muscle engagement has allowed their form to drift, they’re no longer pulling through the shot with their back, instead punching the release with their finger. The high let-off masked this degradation until it became a significant problem.

High let-off isn’t inherently bad, but it requires disciplined form maintenance. If you choose 85-90% let-off, focus extra attention on maintaining proper back tension and consistent anchor points.

Who Should Use 65% Let-Off Instead of 80%?

Competitive target archers, Olympic recurve shooters transitioning to compound, and experienced archers prioritizing maximum control and feedback should consider 65% let-off. This lower let-off keeps back muscles significantly engaged (holding 35% of peak weight, 21 pounds on a 60 lb bow), providing the muscle tension many precision shooters prefer for consistent execution.

Ideal candidates for 65-70% let-off:

• Target competitors: Shooting at known distances with predictable timing where holding time isn’t a limiting factor
• 3D competition shooters: Who value precise control for varying distance shots
• Former Olympic recurve archers: Transitioning to compound and preferring more traditional feel
• Spot shooters: Focusing on tiny targets where maximum control matters more than holding comfort
• Archers with excellent conditioning: Who can handle higher holding weight without fatigue

Shooting scenarios favoring lower let-off:

• Indoor target shooting at 18-20 meters with quick shot cycles
• Outdoor target rounds with timed shooting (30-40 seconds per arrow)
• 3D courses where you shoot within seconds of ranging
• Competition formats where you draw and shoot relatively quickly

Don’t choose 65% let-off if you:

• Hunt where you may need to hold at full draw for 30+ seconds
• Are building strength or new to archery
• Shoot long practice sessions (100+ arrows)
• Have any shoulder, back, or arm injuries
• Prioritize versatility over specialized performance

The difference between 65% and 80% let-off is substantial, on a 60-pound bow, you’re holding 21 pounds versus 12 pounds, a 75% increase in holding weight. This extra weight provides more control but demands significantly more strength and endurance.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Let-Off Percentage

The most common mistake when choosing let-off is selecting the highest available percentage without considering shooting style, discipline, and accuracy needs. Many archers assume “more let-off is always better” and jump to 90% let-off, only to discover their accuracy suffers from reduced back tension and form feedback.

Top let-off selection mistakes:

1. Choosing maximum let-off by default: Assuming higher is always better without testing different options
2. Ignoring shooting discipline: Selecting hunting-oriented let-off for target shooting or vice versa
3. Compensating for excessive draw weight: Using high let-off to manage a bow that’s too heavy instead of reducing draw weight
4. Following trends instead of personal needs: Copying what pros use without considering different shooting contexts
5. Not testing before committing: Buying modules or a new bow without shooting different let-offs first
6. Overlooking competition rules: Choosing 85% let-off then discovering your competition limits it to 80%
7. Prioritizing comfort over performance: Selecting let-off solely for easy holding without considering accuracy impact

Better approach to choosing let-off:

• Start with 80% as the versatile baseline for most shooting
• Test 70% if you’re focused on target shooting and want more control
• Try 85-90% only if you have specific needs (injuries, extreme hunting holds, physical limitations)
• Shoot 30-50 arrows at different let-offs before deciding
• Evaluate both comfort and group size, not just holding ease
• Consider your primary shooting discipline (hunting vs. target vs. 3D)
• Check competition rules if you plan to compete

Real-world example: An archer buys a new bow with 90% let-off because it feels amazing in the shop. After three months, his groups have opened from 2 inches to 4 inches at 40 yards. He switches to 75% let-off, relearns proper back tension, and his groups tighten back to 2 inches. The 90% let-off was masking poor form that developed from lack of muscle engagement.

Is 80% Let-Off Legal for Competition Archery?

Yes, 80% let-off is legal in most compound archery competitions, including USA Archery, World Archery Federation (WA), National Field Archery Association (NFAA), and most 3D archery organizations. However, some traditional and barebow divisions restrict or prohibit compound bows entirely, and a few specialized competitions may have different rules.

Competition let-off rules by organization:

• USA Archery / World Archery (WA): 80% maximum let-off for compound divisions
• NFAA (National Field Archery Association): 80% maximum let-off for most compound classes
• IBO (International Bowhunting Organization): 80% maximum let-off for most divisions
• ASA (Archery Shooters Association): 80% maximum let-off for most classes
• Indoor 3D leagues: Typically follow NFAA or local rules, usually 80% maximum

Important competition considerations:

• Always verify current rules for your specific competition and division
• Some “traditional” or “limited” divisions may restrict let-off to 65% or lower
• Rules can change annually, check the current rulebook before competition
• Bow inspection may include let-off verification with a draw scale
• If your bow has adjustable let-off, ensure it’s set within legal limits before competition

What happens if your let-off exceeds limits:

• Disqualification from that division or event
• Potential forfeiture of scores or rankings
• May be allowed to adjust and re-inspect before competition starts
• Repeated violations can result in suspension from some organizations

If you’re setting up a bow specifically for competition, 80% let-off is the safe choice that meets virtually all compound archery competition standards while providing excellent performance. If you prefer lower let-off (65-75%), you’ll always be within legal limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 80% let-off mean in simple terms?

80% let-off means you hold only 20% of the bow’s peak draw weight when at full draw. On a 60-pound bow, you hold just 12 pounds while aiming, making it much easier to hold steady and aim accurately compared to traditional bows where you hold the full weight.

Can you increase let-off on an existing compound bow?

Yes, if your bow has modular cams or adjustable cam systems. You can purchase replacement cam modules from the manufacturer or rotate adjustable cams to increase let-off, typically in 5% increments. This usually requires a bow press and should be done by a qualified bow technician.

Is 90% let-off better than 80% for hunting?

Not necessarily. While 90% let-off allows longer holds (6 lbs vs 12 lbs on a 60 lb bow), many hunters find 80% provides better control and back tension for accurate shooting. Choose 90% only if you consistently need extremely long holds or have physical limitations.

How do you calculate holding weight with 80% let-off?

Multiply the peak draw weight by 0.20 (which is 20%, the remaining weight after 80% reduction). For example: 60 lbs × 0.20 = 12 lbs holding weight. Or use the formula: Peak Weight × (100% – Let-off %) = Holding Weight.

Does let-off affect arrow speed?

No, let-off doesn’t directly affect arrow speed. Arrow speed depends on stored energy in the limbs, draw length, arrow weight, and efficiency of energy transfer. Two bows with identical specifications except let-off will shoot arrows at nearly identical speeds.

What let-off percentage do most hunters use?

Most hunters use 80% let-off because it balances comfortable holding time with good control and back tension. Some hunters with physical limitations or who hunt from stands with very long holds prefer 85-90%, while a smaller group of experienced hunters prefer 70-75% for maximum control.

Can beginners start with 80% let-off?

Yes, 80% let-off is excellent for beginners. It allows new archers to hold at full draw long enough to focus on proper form, aiming, and release technique without fighting muscle fatigue. This helps build good habits and confidence during the learning process.

What’s the difference between let-off and draw weight?

Draw weight is the maximum force required to pull the bow back (measured in pounds), while let-off is the percentage reduction in that weight when you reach full draw. A 60-pound bow with 80% let-off requires 60 pounds to draw but only 12 pounds to hold at full draw.

Is there a disadvantage to too much let-off?

Yes, very high let-off (85-90%) can reduce back tension and muscle engagement, potentially leading to inconsistent form and less control during the release. Some archers find it harder to execute clean, surprise releases when holding weight is too light, and it may mask developing form problems.

Do competition rules limit let-off percentage?

Yes, most major archery competitions limit compound bow let-off to 80% maximum. This includes USA Archery, World Archery Federation, NFAA, IBO, and ASA competitions. Always verify current rules for your specific competition and division before competing.

How long can you hold at full draw with 80% let-off?

Most archers can comfortably hold at full draw for 30-60 seconds with 80% let-off before experiencing significant fatigue, depending on draw weight and physical conditioning. Well-conditioned archers can hold for 1-2 minutes or longer if needed, making it suitable for virtually all hunting and target shooting scenarios.

What let-off is best for target archery?

Target archers typically prefer 65-75% let-off because the increased holding weight provides more back tension and feedback, promoting consistent form and precise releases. However, some target archers use 80% successfully, especially in disciplines requiring longer holds or when shooting high arrow volumes during practice.

Conclusion

Let-off explained: what 80% actually means comes down to a simple but powerful mechanical advantage that has revolutionized archery. When your compound bow offers 80% let-off, you’re holding just one-fifth of the peak draw weight at full draw, transforming a 60-pound bow into a manageable 12-pound hold that allows steady aiming and controlled releases.

For most archers in 2026, 80% let-off represents the sweet spot: enough reduction to enable comfortable holds during hunting situations or extended practice sessions, while maintaining sufficient back tension and feedback for accurate, consistent shooting. It’s versatile enough for beginners building skills and experienced archers pursuing game, making it the default choice on most modern compound bows.

Your next steps:

• If you’re buying a new bow, start with 80% let-off as your baseline, it works well for hunting, target shooting, and recreational archery
• If your current bow feels too difficult to hold or you’re rushing shots due to fatigue, explore increasing let-off to 85%
• If you’re focused on target competition and want maximum control, test 70-75% let-off to see if the added back tension improves your consistency
• Visit a pro shop to test different let-offs before committing, shoot 20-30 arrows at each setting and compare both comfort and group size
• Check competition rules if you plan to compete, ensuring your chosen let-off meets organizational requirements

Understanding let-off empowers you to make informed equipment choices based on your shooting style, physical capabilities, and archery goals rather than simply accepting default settings. Whether you ultimately choose 70%, 80%, or 90% let-off, the key is matching the equipment to your needs and shooting discipline for maximum accuracy and enjoyment.