Which of the following describes the draw weight of a bow?

The draw weight of a bow specifically refers to the amount of force, typically measured in pounds, that is required to pull the bowstring back to a certain draw length. This measurement is crucial for archers because it directly affects how difficult it is to draw the bow and, consequently, how easily an archer can shoot accurately. A higher draw weight means that more force is needed, which can result in faster arrow speeds and potentially greater distance and impact but can also be physically demanding for the archer. Understanding draw weight is essential for selecting the appropriate bow for an individual archer’s strength and skill level.

The other options represent different aspects of archery equipment; for instance, the maximum draw length relates to how far back an archer can pull the bowstring, while the stiffness of the bow limbs affects the bow's performance and responsiveness but is not synonymous with draw weight. The weight of the arrows is also important for determining flight characteristics but does not define the bow's draw weight itself.