For years, experienced archers have advocated longer bows because of their stability. They are now re-thinking their position, because new technology has made short axle-to-axle bows very forgiving.

Let's talk stability this month. I used to dislike short axle-to-axle length bows, but as technology has improved, these bows have become increasingly more forgiving and accurate. I must admit I'm hunting with two short bows now -- a 32-inch Hoyt Katera and a 35-inch Hoyt Alphamax -- and they are remarkably forgiving. For all their improvements, however, no short bow will ever be as stable as a longer bow. With that said, all the advantages of today's shorter bows far outweigh a little more stability.

Here is a basic analogy that will clear up many misconceptions about short bow stability. Suppose you have to walk a tightrope over a busy street in New York City. You are going to have to walk 200 feet above the busy traffic. You are offered your choice of two aids: a 40-foot pole that weighs 20 pounds or a four-foot pole that weighs 17 pounds.

Of course you choose the longer pole, because it makes you more stable. Much more effort is required to rotate the longer pole than the shorter one, even though they weigh nearly the same.

Because of the added rotational inertia, the longer pole better helps maintain balance because it resists movement better. In an exaggerated way, that is exactly why longer bows are more unwavering throughout the shot than shorter bows. Short bows can never be as stable as long bows -- end of story. However, they can be stable enough if shot correctly.

Accuracy: It's In The Grip
If you've ever shot a slingshot, you know your pressure point on the grip is critical to consistency. Your hand position has to be perfect every time. Being off by even a small amount will throw your stone well wide of the mark.

The same is true of short bows. Because they don't have extended lever arms for stability, your grip becomes more critical. Your pressure point, the primary point of contact between the bow and your hand, has to be identical on every shot.