An arrow speed calculator estimates how fast your arrow leaves the bow, in feet per second (FPS), based on your bow’s IBO speed rating, draw weight, draw length, arrow weight and string accessories. It also calculates kinetic energy and momentum, which matter for hunting and target archery.
Bows are rated using a standard IBO setup: a 30-inch draw length, 70-pound draw weight and a 350-grain arrow. Real-world speeds are usually lower. Common rules of thumb: subtract about 10 FPS for each inch of draw length under 30 inches, subtract about 1 FPS for every 3 grains of arrow weight above 5 grains per pound of draw weight, and subtract about 1 FPS for every 3 grains of accessories on the string, like a peep sight or nock loop.
Kinetic energy (KE) in foot-pounds = (arrow weight in grains × FPS²) ÷ 450,240. A 400-grain arrow at 280 FPS has about 69.7 foot-pounds of KE. Heavier arrows are slower but carry more momentum, which helps penetration when hunting.
Tips: use a chronograph to measure your actual arrow speed, since estimates can be off by several FPS. Check your state’s hunting regulations for minimum draw weight or energy requirements. Always use arrows with the correct spine for your bow, and never dry-fire a bow.
How to use the Arrow Speed Calculator on Minedit: enter your values in the fields, press calculate, and review the step-by-step breakdown under the result. If something looks off, change one input at a time to see how it affects the answer, which is also a great way to learn the math behind it.
Why use an online Arrow Speed Calculator: it saves time, avoids simple arithmetic mistakes and shows each step, so you can check your homework, plan a project or make a decision with confidence. Bookmark the page so it’s ready the next time you need it.
Learn more on Wikipedia’s archery article. Find 1/4 mile and RPM calculators on Minedit.